Research Articles [LISBE]

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The potential of Amaranth Grain-Based Flour in Complementary Feeding: A Community-Based Approach in Kongwa District, Tanzania.
(Nutr Food Sci, 2025-07) KAYANDA ,ROSEMARY; MOGHA2 ,NEEMA; MAKORI ,NYABASI; KASSIM ,NEEMA
Complementary feeding is critical for child development, yet inadequate nutrient intake remains a significant challenge in low-income countries, including Tanzania. The selection of appropriate complementary foods that meet dietary diversity is key to child growth and development. This study was done to unleash the potential of amaranth grain in complementary feeding in the Kongwa district, to provide an alternative to maize-based complementary feeding that is low in nutrients and highly susceptible to mycotoxins contamination. Amaranth grain-based flour for complementary feeding was formulated from a mixture of amaranth grain, millet, and pumpkin seeds at 4:1:1 (w/w/w). Kjeldahl method and atomic absorption spectrometry were used to quantify nutrients, while High-Performance Liquid Chromatography was used to determine aflatoxin contamination. Recipe trials involved focus group discussions with 48 mothers of children 6-24 months. Furthermore, sensory evaluation using a 9 hedonic scale technique was adopted to assess the acceptability of the Porridge made from Amaranth grain-based flour. Amaranth grain-based flour presented high nutritive value: Energy 485.50 kcal/100g, protein 14.76 g/100g, Lipids 14.22 g/100g, and iron 15.36 g/100g, zinc 16.8 mg/100g, calcium 301.19 mg/100g, and vitamin A 402.34 ug/100g portion of flour. The nutritive composition of five nutrients met the WHO-RNI recommendation except lipid and calcium, that was low, 30 and 32% below RNI, despite the statistical insignificance (p = 0.815). The maximum aflatoxin contamination of the flour was 0.5 μg/kg, which was below the maximum tolerable limit of 10 μg/kg for total aflatoxin in food, harmonized by the East African Community and adopted by the Tanzania Bureau of Standards. Porridge made from flour was highly accepted by mothers, with a 9 hedonic scale result of 9.3 out of 10. Amaranth grain-based flour is a nutrient-dense, safe, and culturally acceptable option for complementary feeding in the Kongwa District. Its adoption may address nutritional deficiencies in children.
Evaluation of variability in applicator position and organs at risk dose in fractionated intracavitary brachytherapy for cervical cancer
(Elsevier, 2025-08-21) Kazoba, Francis; Sauli, Elingarami; Nyanza, Elias; Amasi, Aloyce
Background Cervical cancer remains a major cause of mortality in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Intracavitary brachytherapy (ICBT) is critical for curative radiotherapy; however, inter-fractional variability in applicator positioning may compromise treatment reproducibility and organ-at-risk (OAR) sparing. Objective This study assessed inter-fractional applicator positional stability and its dosimetric impact on OARs during fractionated ICBT for cervical cancer. Materials and methods A prospective analysis of 60 treatment plans from 20 patients receiving three ICBT fractions was conducted. Applicator shifts along the X, Y, and Z axes and corresponding bladder and rectal doses were evaluated. Descriptive statistics and repeated measures ANOVA determined positional reproducibility and dose variability, while correlation analysis examined associations between applicator displacement and OAR dose changes. Results Applicator positioning was reproducible across fractions, with no significant differences in any axis p > 0.05). Bladder dose, however, demonstrated significant variation (p = 0.027), progressively increasing across fractions. Moderate correlations (r ≈ 0.39) were observed between bladder dose escalation and applicator shifts along the X and Y axes, especially in the Y-axis. Rectal dose remained stable (p = 0.776). Conclusion Although applicator positioning was geometrically stable, significant bladder dose variability occurred. Adaptive replanning and real-time imaging are recommended to optimize treatment precision in fractionated ICBT.
A case of schistosomiasis and healthcare seeking in Mwanza, Tanzania
(Trends in Parasitology, 2025-10-01) Mahalila ,Moses; Angelo ,Teckla; Kinung’hi ,Safari; Civitello ,David
This article explores the cultural practices and diagnostic challenges surrounding schistosomiasis in Tanzania’s Lake Zone. Mr Ezekiel's son endured years of misdiagnosis and ineffective treatments until the correct identification and treatment of his chronic urinary schistosomiasis, highlighting the need for improved healthcare access and awareness in rural African communities.
Perspectives of men and women working in vector control in Africa regarding barriers and opportunities for achieving gender inclusivity
(Malar J, 2025-05-11) Ampuriire ,Patience; Bofu ,Ramadhani; Msugupakulya ,Betwel; Mponzi ,Winifrida; Matoke‑Muhia ,Damaris; Finda ,Marceline; Okum, Fredros
Gender-inclusive strategies are crucial for tackling vector-borne diseases in Africa, but most programs still overlook the lived experiences of local practitioners regarding cultural norms, power imbalances, gender stereotypes, and workplace dynamics. This study investigated the gender-related perspectives of men and women working in vector control in Africa and their recommendations for effective gender inclusivity.
Stakeholders' perspectives on seagrass ecosystem services and their threats vary across Zanzibar archipelago, Tanzania
(ELSEVIER, 2025) Nyangoko, Baraka; Chauka, Leonard; Meysick, Lukas; Rohde, Sven; Adams, Janine; Schupp, Peter
Recognizing the ecosystem functions and services provided by seagrass meadows and their vulnerability to different environmental and anthropogenic stressors is crucial for effective decision-making, especially in resource-dependent regions. This study explored how stakeholders (local communities) living in proximity to three distinct seagrass meadows in Zanzibar (Chwaka, Jambiani, and Stone Town) perceive and rely on seagrass ecosystem services (SES), their threats and factors influencing on their perception. Data were collected through a combination of methods, including participatory rural appraisal, household questionnaire surveys and field observations. Results revealed that local communities across these sites had mixed perceptions regarding SES. Provisioning services (e.g., fish provision) were the mostly identified SES, followed by regulating services (e.g., coastal protection), supporting services (e.g., fish nursery grounds), and cultural services (e.g., ecotourism). Fish provision, nursery habitats, and coastal protection were ranked as the most important SES for sustaining local well-being. Among all predictors analyzed, proximity to the shore, the main occupation of respondents, and residence time were significant factors that influenced the local communities' awareness of all SES. Unregulated fishing practices, overgrazing by sea urchins, and seaweed farming were perceived as the primary causes of seagrass loss in Chwaka and Jambiani, while in Stone Town, seagrass degradation was attributed to increased wave activity and changing tidal regimes, unregulated tourism (boat anchoring), and pollution. The study concludes that the perceived importance of SES and the drivers impacting seagrass ecosystems vary depending on context-specific factors. This strongly emphasizes the need for conservation actors to increase awareness of the multiple benefits generated by seagrasses, restore degraded areas, and devise solutions tailored to specific threats for sustainable management of seagrass meadows.
Population Patterns and Environmental Determinants of Warburgia ugandensis (Sprague) in Northern Tanzania
(John Wiley & Sons Ltd, 2025-09-15) Mollel, Letan; Munishi, Linus; Giliba, Richard
Warburgia ugandensis is a valuable medicinal tree native to East Africa, yet its populations are declining due to unsustainable harvesting and habitat degradation. Despite its ecological and socio‐economic importance, there is limited information on its current population status and the environmental factors shaping its distribution across different landscapes in northern Tanzania. This study assessed the population density and distribution patterns of W. ugandensis across selected mountainous regions (Mt. Kilimanjaro, Mt. Ketumbeine, Mt. Monduli, Mt. Gelai, and Mt. Longido) in northern Tanzania, and determined how these are affected by land use, elevation gradients, and environmental factors. Data collection involved stratified random sampling across elevation ranges (1000–2500 m a.s.l), encompassing diverse land‐use types (national parks, forest reserves, croplands, grazing lands, and settlements). Population density significantly varied among land‐use types, with forest reserves showing the highest densities (6.485 ± 1.628 stems/ha), significantly higher than grazing lands (1.833 ± 1.369 stems/ha). Elevation positively correlated with density, where the highest elevations (2001–2500 m a.s.l) supported the greatest density (6.937 ± 1.837 stems/ha). GLM analysis highlighted that elevation, temperature, soil organic carbon, soil pH, and nitrogen significantly influenced W. ugandensis densities. Spatial mapping revealed population hotspots around Mt. Kitumbeine and Mt. Kilimanjaro, highlighting these as priority areas for conservation. Management strategies should prioritise high‐elevation forest reserves, considering the critical environmental and soil parameters influencing W. ugandensis distribution.
Assessing the role of community involvement and capacity building in larviciding applications for malaria control in Africa: A scoping review
(Elsevier, 2025-08-14) Shirima, GloriaSalome; Masserey, Thiery; Gervas, Hamenyimana; Chitnis, Nakul; Kiware, Samson; Mirau, Silas
Larviciding offers a supplementary approach in malaria vector control, particularly when applied through community engagement and capacity building. A scoping review was performed to evaluate existing larviciding delivery mechanisms and their impacts on African malaria control. A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The search strategy utilized Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and free-text terms related to “malaria”, “larvicide”, “community engagement” and “mosquito control”. The databases PubMed, Scopus, and Embase were searched for relevant literature published until December 2024. Inclusion criteria focused on studies addressing community engagement in delivering larviciding within African settings. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 32 papers were ultimately included in the analysis. The studies spanned 13 African countries, primarily in sub-Saharan regions, with findings indicating that larviciding significantly reduced mosquito density and, in some cases, malaria incidence. Community engagement strategies varied, with workshops and participatory meetings targeting various stakeholders to enhance awareness and ownership of larviciding programmes. Community engagement and capacity building were critical to success- fully implementing larviciding programmes. While challenges, such as logistical barriers, lack of awareness, and financial constraints, persist, integrating technological innovations and strengthening monitoring systems can enhance the sustainability of these efforts.
Beneficial Spillover Effects of Antipredation Interventions Support Human–Carnivore Coexistence
(Wiley Periodicals, 2025-01-20) Salerno, Jonathan; Warrier, Rekha; Breck, Stewart; Carter, Neil; Berger, Joel; Barrett, Brendan; Lukumay, Justine; Kaduma, Joseph; Grau, Ana; Dickman, Amy; Crooks, Kevin
Reducing human–wildlife conflict is critical for global biodiversity conservation and supporting livelihoods in landscapes where people and wildlife co-occur. Interventions intended to reduce conflicts and their negative outcomes are diverse and widespread, yet there is often a dearth of empirical evidence regarding effectiveness, particularly at appropriate spatiotemporal scales. We investigate an underappreciated question relevant to large carnivore–livestock systems globally regarding spillover effects of anti- conflict interventions: Do fortified livestock enclosures modify carnivore predation on livestock for neighbors who lack such interventions? We use ca. 25,000 monthly reports from agropastoralists in an East African landscape critical for large carnivore conservation. Results from Bayesian multilevel statistical models demonstrate robust effects of fortified livestock enclosures in reducing reported predation not only in target households, but also in neighboring households that lack such fortification—a beneficial spillover effect. Results provide empirical evidence for policy and practice regarding tools to reduce large carnivore conflicts while pointing to the important role of complex-systems processes in determining coexistence outcomes.
Factors Contributing to Retention in Care and Treatment Adherence Among People Living With HIV Returning to Care in South-Eastern Tanzania: A Qualitative Study
(HIV/AIDS - Research and Palliative Care, 2025-02-25) Matimbwa, Hassan; LoloSarah; Matoy,Leila
Globally, 84.2 million people have been infected with HIV/AIDS since the pandemic began more than three decades ago.1 According to the UNAIDS Global Report of 2023 currently 39 million people are living with HIV (PLHIV), while more than 40 million have died from HIV-related diseases.2 Sub-Saharan Africa remains the region hit hardest with 3.4% of adults living with HIV, accounting for approximately two-thirds of all cases globally.3 In Tanzania, one person with HIV lives in 11.8% of urban and 8.7% of rural households.4 The Tanzania HIV impact survey 2022–23 reported an HIV prevalence of 4.4% with 1,548,000 adult PLHIV, higher in women (5.6%) compared to men (3.0%).5 Of 1.5 million adult PLHIV in Tanzania, 82% know their status, 98% receive treatment, and 94% are virally suppressed.5 Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the most effective strategy for the prevention and treatment of HIV. The use of ART has resulted in a significant decrease in HIV-associated comorbidities and risk of HIV-related death.6–8 In addition, proper use of ART improves HIV patients’ well-being, suppresses viral load, and reduces HIV transmission risk, thus serving as a key prevention strategy9,10 A significant challenge is patient attrition on ART, which increases the risk of adverse health outcomes and hinders global HIV control.10,11 Retention in care is critical to ensure ART adherence, viral suppression, and prevention of HIV drug resistance.12–14 Several associated factors influence PLHIV to remain in care, including clinical, sociocultural, economic, and health systems aspects, as well as geographical and other contextual factors.15,16 Other factors contribute to poor treatment adherence and care, including fear of side effects, alcohol and substance abuse, stigma, distance from the clinic, and poverty.6,14,17–20 Experiences from the Kilombero and Ulanga Antiretroviral Cohort (KIULARCO) show the complex care cascade in a rural setting in South-eastern Tanzania21,22 with periods with poor drug adherence contributing to poor treatment outcomes.23 Efforts to improve HIV treatment adherence such as training communication skills among healthcare providers as been shown to improve treatment outcomes.22 However, attrition to care remains a major challenge15 with a high loss to follow-up (LTFU) rate of 21%-41%, whereby half of LTFU participants return to care at a later time point.24 Patients returning to care are an important group, as we can learn from them the reasons for dropping out and returning to care, as well as reasons for interrupting drug intake.25,26 Knowing these factors allows for the design of effective interventions that can improve retention in care and drug adherence27 and can be addressed by qualitative research.28 Re-engagement programs successfully led to the return of patients lost to follow-up.29,30 The role of family or treatment supporters is to support PLHIV to adhere to treatment and retention in care through emotional, social, and practical support.31,32 In this study, we explored factors associated with dropping out from and returning to care, remaining in care, and treatment adherence among PLHIV, who returned to care after missing clinical visits for more than 3 months and with an irregular ART intake since the last clinical visit in South-eastern Tanzania. In addition, we interviewed participants’ treatment supporters and healthcare workers (HCWs) involved in their care.
A Study on Phytochemical and Nutrient Profile of Six Inedible Seaweed Species Found on the Coasts of Tanzania
(John Wiley & Sons Lt, 2025-08-29) Manga, Shengelo; Msuya, Flower; Mbega, Ernest; Moirana, Ruth
Coastal accumulation of inedible seaweeds generates substantial biomass that remains largely underutilized despite its agronomic potential. Tis study characterized six inedible seaweed species (Sargassum spp., Ulva spp., Enteromorpha spp., Hypnea spp., Padina spp., and Laurencia spp.) collected from the Tanzanian coastline to evaluate their suitability as inputs for organic fertilizer production. Samples were analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, ash content, macro- and micronutrients, and phytohormones. Ulva spp. exhibited the highest organic carbon (24.1%), indole-3-acetic acid (6.29 ± 0.53 mg/kg), and naph- thaleneacetic acid (7 ± 0.50 mg/kg). Sargassum spp. exhibited the highest potassium (78,667 mg/kg), gibberellic acid (14.78 ± 0.70 mg/kg), and kinetin (20.82 ± 6.12 mg/kg) levels, indicating its potential value in promoting shoot growth. Padina spp. were richest in calcium (218,567 mg/kg) and magnesium (17,350 mg/kg). Enteromorpha spp. showed substantial organic carbon (22.53%) and high calcium (190,967 mg/kg). Hypnea spp. had the highest phosphorus content (1697 mg/kg) and exceptionally high sodium contents (52,933 mg/kg), while Laurencia spp. had higher iron contents (5373 mg/kg) and alkaline pH (7.88). Tese fndings confrm that underutilized coastal seaweeds are valuable sources of nutrients and plant hormones and can be converted into organic fertilizers to restore soil fertility and support sustainable agriculture.
Effect of physical activity and multi‑micronutrient supplementation on body composition among Tanzanian schoolchildren: secondary outcomes from the KaziAfya cluster‑randomized controlled trial
(BMC Public Health, 2025-07-03) Minja, Elihaika.; Mrimi, Emmanuel.; Mponzi, Winfrida .
Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern [1]. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that in 2022, approximately 390 million children and adolescents aged 5–19 years were overweight or obese, with the prevalence more than doubling from 8% in 1990 to 20% in 2022 [2]. Although undernutrition has historically been the main concern in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), a rising trend in childhood overweight and obesity is now evident, driven by rapid transitions in lifestyle and diet [3, 4]. In some African countries such as South Africa, Ghana and Tunisia, the prevalence of overweight and obesity has surpassed 20% [5–7]. In Tanzania, national studies reported rates between 9 and 23% depending on the region [8–12]. These figures highlight a growing burden alongside persistent infectious diseases [13]. Overweight in childhood often persists in adulthood, increasing the risk of non-communicable diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease [14, 15]. Psychosocial consequences, including low self-esteem and stigma, are also common. However, cultural perceptions in parts of sub-Saharan Africa may view larger body sizes positively, which complicates health messaging [16, 17]. Nonetheless, rising obesity remains a concern due to its link with urbanization, reduced physical activity and poor dietary habits [4, 18]. Additionally, children recovering from malnutrition may gain disproportionate fat mass (FM) during catch-up growth, which enhances the long-term risk of obesity [19, 20]. Micronutrient deficiencies are common in this age group and may contribute to excess fat accumulation and poor metabolic outcomes [21–25]. Evidence from animal and human studies suggests that adequate micronutrient intake may support lean mass development and fat metabolism [26, 27]. School-based interventions targeting physical activity (PA) and multi-micronutrient supplementation (MMNS) have been proposed as effective strategies to address body composition in children [28, 29]. For instance, the KaziAfya study in South Africa reported improved fa tfree mass (FFM) and reduced fat mass (FM) following PA and MMNS interventions [28]. Similarly, the Disease, Activity and Schoolchildren’s Health (DASH) project found reduced obesity and hypertension risk with increased PA in under-resourced schools [30]. The current study assessed the effect of PA and MMNS interventions on body composition among children in Tanzania who were longitudinally enrolled in a school based cluster-randomized controlled trial as part of the KaziAfya study. The research specifically examined whether the individual and combined PA and MMNS interventions were associated with changes in overall and truncal estimates of FM and FFM among participants. These effects were also evaluated separately by sex to determine whether boys and girls respond differently to the interventions. It is important to investigate these body composition measures in parallel to determine how interventions may alter their relative balance, and hence, reduce the risk of obesity. The results can inform the development of more effective community specific interventions that have the potential to reduce the burden of childhood obesity and long-term metabolic diseases in sub-Saharan countries that are undergoing rapid urbanization.
Controlled human malaria infection: overview and potential application in the evaluation of transmission‑blocking interventions in malaria‑endemic areas
(Malar J, 2025-02-01) Kessy, Enock; Olotu, Ally
Controlled human malaria infection (CHMI) involves the intentional infection of healthy individuals with malaria parasites, close observation of the volunteers, and clearance of the parasite at a predetermined endpoint. Depending on the need, CHMI can be initiated by either sporozoites or the administration of parasite-infected erythrocytes, with each of the two systems offering different advantages and caveats. Among other uses, CHMI has proven to be a useful tool for the evaluation of new malaria interventions, particularly vaccines and drugs. The majority of CHMI studies have been conducted in Europe, the USA and Australia, with only a handful of studies conducted in malariaendemic countries. The slow adoption of CHMI in malaria-endemic countries may be attributed to a lack of infrastructure and expertise to conduct studies in malaria-endemic countries and the risk of undue influence and coercion as a result of volunteers’ vulnerability due to a lack of education and financial situation. With the need to generate results relevant to the target populations, there has recently been an increase in CHMI studies that are being conducted in malaria-endemic countries. The use of CHMI models for the evaluation of preerythrocytic and bloodstage malaria interventions has been attempted in malaria-endemic countries with great success. There is a need for the adoption of a CHMI model for the evaluation of transmission-blocking interventions in malaria-endemic countries. The establishment of such a model in malaria-endemic countries will facilitate the selection of potential transmission-blocking intervention (TBI) candidates and accelerate their development. Here is an overview of CHMI, key challenges and ethical considerations in adopting CHMI for the evaluation of malaria transmission-blocking interventions in malaria-endemic countries
Modeling maize aflatoxins and fumonisins in a Tanzanian smallholder system: Accounting for diverse risk factors improves mycotoxin models
(PLOS One, 2025-01-13) Stafstrom, William; Ngure, Francis; Mshanga, John; Wells, Henry; Nelson, Rebecca; Mischler, John
Human exposure to mycotoxins is common and often severe in underregulated maize-based food systems. This study explored how monitoring of these systems could help to identify when and where outbreaks occur and inform potential mitigation efforts. Within a maize smallholder system in Kongwa District, Tanzania, we performed two food surveys of mycotoxin contamination at local grain mills, documenting high levels of aflatoxins and fumonisins in maize destined for human consumption. A farmer questionnaire documented diverse pre-harvest and post-harvest practices among smallholder farmers. We modeled maize aflatoxins and fumonisins as a function of diverse indicators of mycotoxin risk based on survey data, high-resolution geospatial environmental data (normalized difference vegetation index and soil quality), and proximal near-infrared spectroscopy. Interestingly, mixed linear models revealed that all data types explained some portion of variance in aflatoxin and fumonisin concentrations. Including all covariates, 2015 models explained 27.6% and 20.6% of variation in aflatoxin and fumonisin, and 2019 models explained 39.4% and 40.0% of variation in aflatoxin and fumonisin. This study demonstrates the value of using low-cost risk factors to model mycotoxins and provides a framework for designing and implementing mycotoxin monitoring within smallholder settings.
Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte burden in a Tanzanian heterogeneous transmission setting
(Springer Nature, 2025-02-21) Mulamba, Charles; Odufuwa, Olukayode; Kweyamba, Prisca; Lazaro, Linda; Chabo, Muhamed; Kamage, Janeth; Kreppel, Katharina; Olotu, Ally; Williams, Chris
Background Malaria transmission depends on the presence of gametocytes in the peripheral blood of infected human hosts. Understanding malaria infectious reservoirs enables transmission-blocking interventions to target the most important hosts for the disease. This study characterized the distribution of gametocyte carriage as a base- line for the clinical evaluation of a Pfs25-based transmission-blocking vaccine candidate in Bagamoyo, Tanzania. Methods A malaria survey was conducted in five locations from May to August 2022. A total of 467 partici- pants—192 children (5–12 years), 65 adolescents (13–17 years) and 210 adults (18–45 years)—were enrolled. Malaria was detected using three methods: rapid diagnostic tests, light microscopy and quantitative polymerase chain reac- tion. The geometric mean of the gametocyte density, and weighted arithmetic mean of the gametocytes sex ratio were estimated. Results Overall, 23.5% (110/467) of the participants tested positive for malaria parasites, with the majority of posi- tives (> 92%) being Plasmodium falciparum. The overall gametocytaemia was 5.6%, with a percent positivity of 6.8% (13/192), 6.2% (4/65) and 4.3% (9/210), in children, adolescents, and adults, respectively. The geometric mean gameto- cyte density (gametocytes/μL) was greater in adults (124.6) than in children (71.7) and adolescents (50.5). Regression analysis revealed that gametocytes were more likely to be present among male participants than among female par- ticipants [ORa: 2.79 (95% CI: 1.19 – 6.59) p = 0.019]. The gametocyte sex ratio in children and adult gametocyte carriers was similar but greater than that in adolescents. Conclusion The observed gametocyte densities and distribution across age groups suggest the need for malaria transmission-blocking interventions to target all populations in heterogeneous transmission settings. The implication of targeting only children may leave residual malaria transmission and reinfection from the left-out groups
Pesticidal and Medicinal Value of Turmeric and Ginger in Tanzania and Their Antifungal Activity against Phytopathogens
(Scientific research an academic publisher, 2025-02) Lengai, Geraldin; Mbega, Ernest; Muthomi, James
Use of synthetic pesticides to manage crop pests has had a toll on human health, environmental safety and farmer’s income creating a need for alterna- tive crop protection strategies. Botanical pesticides have been reported to be effective in managing crop pests, and a number of them have been formulated and commercialized. This study was conducted in North-Eastern Tanzania to establish the pesticidal and medicinal value of turmeric ( Curcuma longa) and ginger ( Zingiber officinale). Purposive sampling was adopted to select and in- terview 167 respondents drawn from farmers, traders, pharmaceutical shops, agro-shop operators and consumers of turmeric and ginger. Ginger and tur- meric rhizomes were also collected for extraction, antifungal assay and bio- chemical analysis. Results showed that majority of the respondents were aware of the medicinal value of ginger and turmeric, with 59.5% having used the plants to treat respiratory related infections and healing skin surface and in- ternal wounds. About 14% of farmers were aware of and had used aqueous botanical preparations from neem, moringa and Tephrosia to manage insect pests. Only 2.7% of farmers had used ginger powder as a protective insecticide on stored grains. Ginger and turmeric rhizome extracts showed high antifun- gal activity against Pythium (83% - 95%), Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycoper- sici (34% - 52%) and Alternaria solani (38% - 53%). A GC-MS analysis of gin- ger and turmeric extracts showed presence of α-zingiberene, β-sesquiphellan- drene, α-farnesene, ar-curcumene, α-copaene, ar-tumerone and curlone. This study recommends that ginger and turmeric extracts be considered for devel- opment of a botanical pesticide and especially for management of damping off diseases.
Contrasting vector competence of three main East African Anopheles malaria vector mosquitoes for Plasmodium falciparum
(Scientific reports, 2025-01-17) Kweyamba, Prisca; Hofer, Lorenz; Kibondo, Ummi; Mwanga, Rehema; Sayi, Rajabu; Matwewe, Fatuma; Lwetoijera, Dickson; Tambwe, Mgeni; Moore, Sarah
There are three Anopheles mosquito species in East Africa that are responsible for the majority of malaria transmission, posing a significant public health concern. Understanding the vector competence of different mosquito species is crucial for targeted and cost-effective malaria control strategies. This study investigated the vector competence of laboratory reared strains of East African An. gambiae sensu stricto, An. funestus s.s., and An. arabiensis mosquitoes towards local isolates of Plasmodium falciparum infection. Mosquito feeding assays using gametocytaemic blood from local donors revealed significant differences in both prevalence and intensity of oocyst and sporozoite infections among the three vectors. An. funestus mosquitoes presented the highest sporozoite prevalence 23.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) 17.5–29.6) and intensity of infection 6-58138 sporozoites. Relative to An. funestus, the odds ratio for sporozoites prevalence were 0.46 (95% CI 0.25–0.85) in An. gambiae and 0.19 (95% CI 0.07–0.51) in An. arabiensis, while the incidence rate ratio for sporozoite intensity was 0.31 (95% CI 0.14–0.69) in An. gambiae and 0.66 (95% CI 0.16–2.60) in An. arabiensis. Our findings indicate that all three malaria vector species may contribute to malaria transmission in East Africa, with An. funestus demonstrating superior vector competence. In conclusion, there is a need for comprehensive malaria control strategies targeting major malaria vector species, an update of malaria transmission models to consider vector competence and evaluation of malaria transmission blocking interventions in assays that include An. funestus mosquitoes.
Magnetic Nanoparticles: Advances in Synthesis, Sensing, and Theragnostic Applications
(MDPI, 2025-01-26) Adeeyo, Adeyemi; Alabi, Mercy; Oyetade, Joshua; Oladipo, Adewale; Makungo, Rachel; Nkambule, Thabo; Msagati, Titus
The synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) via the chemical, biological, and physical routes has been reported on along with advantages and attendant limitations. This study focuses on the sensing and emerging theragnostic applications of this category of nanoparticles (NPs) in clinical sciences by unveiling the unique performance of these NPs in the biological sensing of bacteria and nucleotide sequencing. Also, in terms of medicine and clinical science, this review analyzes the emerging theragnostic applications of NPs in drug delivery, bone tissue engineering, deep brain stimulation, therapeutic hyperthermia, tumor detection, magnetic imaging and cell tracking, lymph node visualization, blood purification, and COVID-19 detection. This review presents succinct surface functionalization and unique surface coating techniques to confer less toxicity and biocompatibility during synthesis, which are often identified as limitations in medical applications. This study also indicates that these surface improvement techniques are useful for refining the selective activity of MNPs during their use as sensors and biomarkers. In addition, this study unveils attendant limitations, especially toxicological impacts on biomolecules, and suggests that future research should pay attention to the mitigation of the biotoxicity of MNPs. Thus, this study presents a proficient approach for the synthesis of high-performance MNPs fit for proficient medicine in the detection of microorganisms, better diagnosis, and treatment in medicine.
The potential therapeutic effects of coenzyme Q10 on the sciatic nerve regeneration following short- and long-term injury
(Exploration of Neuroprotective Therapy, 2025-01-26) Mead, Ahmed; Altunkaynak, Berrin; Kaplan, Süleyman
Aim: This study aims to investigate the effects of administering coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) after both short term and long-term sciatic nerve damage. Methods: Six groups of adult male Wistar albino rats were used. Sciatic nerve injury was performed on the rats in the short-term injury (STI) and long-term injury (LTI) groups for 15 and 60 s. For 21 days, the rats in the CoQ10, STI + CoQ10, and LTI + CoQ10 groups were also administered CoQ10 orally at a dose of 10 mg/kg of body weight; the control (Cont) group received no treatment. The nerve samples were evaluated by electrophysiology, the sciatic functional index (SFI), stereological investigations, and light and electron microscopic methods. Results: The number of myelinated axons was higher in the LTI group according to the Cont and the sham groups. The numbers of axons in the LTI and LTI + CoQ10 groups were higher than that in the STI and STI + CoQ10 groups. Latency and amplitude levels were significantly changed following STI and LTI treatment and CoQ10 treatment significantly improved the results following the injuries. SFI results showed highly significant differences between the Cont and STI, Cont and LTI, Cont and STI + CoQ10, STI + CoQ10 and LTI + CoQ10, and Cont and LTI + CoQ10 groups. Microscopic examinations indicated that LTI produced a significant change in the nerve structure than STI. CoQ10 ameliorated the degree of injury. Conclusions: Treatment with CoQ10 following sciatic nerve damage was more successful in the LTI than the STI group, and it may, therefore, effectively improve peripheral nerve regeneration, especially following LTI.
A framework for managing infectious diseases in rural areas in low- and middle-income countries in the face of climate change—East Africa as a case study
(PLOS Glob Public Health, 2025-01-30) Worsley-Tonks, Katherine; Angwenyi, Shaleen; Carlson, Colin; Guéladio Cissé,; Deem, Sharon; Ferguson, Adam; Fèvre, Eric; Kimaro, Esther; Kimiti, David; Martins, Dino; Merbold, Lutz; Mottet, Anne; Murray, Suzan; Muturi, Mathew; Potter, Teddie; Prasad, Shailendra; Wild, Hannah; Hassell, James
Climate change is having unprecedented impacts on human health, including increasing infectious disease risk. Despite this, health systems across the world are currently not prepared for novel disease scenarios anticipated with climate change. While the need for health systems to develop climate change adaptation strategies has been stressed in the past, there is no clear consensus on how this can be achieved, especially in rural areas in low- and middle-income countries that experience high disease burdens and climate change impacts simultaneously. Here, we highlight the need to put health systems in the context of climate change and demonstrate how this can be achieved by taking into account all aspects of infectious disease risk (i.e., pathogen hazards, and exposure and vulnerability to these pathogen hazards). The framework focuses on rural communities in East Africa since communities in this region experience climate change impacts, present specific vulnerabilities and exposure to climate-related hazards, and have regular exposure to a high burden of infectious diseases. Implementing the outlined approach can help make health systems climate adapted and avoid slowing momentum towards achieving global health grand challenge targets.
How much to cut? Finding an optimal thinning intensity of encroaching woody species for the herbaceous community in an East African savanna
(Frontiers, 2025-01-06) Abate, Teshome; Abebe, Tesfaye; Treydte, Anna
Globally, bush encroachment poses a great threat to the conservation of biodiversity and rangeland productivity. However, control methods of encroaching woody species have rarely been experimentally quantified. We assessed the impact of tree thinning intensities on tree mortality, and the herbaceous community in Borana rangelands, an Ethiopian savannah ecosystem. At two 1.4 ha areas of mono-specific Vachellia drepanolobium stands, we set up 20 m x 10 m experimental plots with four tree-thinning treatments (0%, 33%, 67%, and 100% tree removal), with three replications in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) across two sites. The 0% plot was left uncleared and used as control. Over two growing periods, we monitored resulting tree mortality, coppicing, seedling mortality, and recruitment as well as herbaceous layer attributes (diversity, biomass) and the rangeland conditions. Tree thinning intensity significantly increased abundance of the dominant desirable grass species. Total herbaceous and grass species richness, diversity and biomass were significantly improved under high (100%) and moderate (67%) tree removal intensity. We conclude that tree thinning at moderate intensity (67%) was most effective in enhancing mortality of encroached trees, and improving grass diversity, and herbaceous biomass. We stress that effective tree thinning requires post-thinning management and repeated bush control measures. Our findings contribute to development of recommendations on controlling bush encroachment, species restoration, and rangeland productivity in Ethiopian rangelands.

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