Africa & Middle East
Africa & Middle East News
Study links gut bacteria to bloodstream infections in newborns within sub-Saharan Africa for the first time
New research has shown gut and bloodstream infections are caused by the same bacteria giving hope of better prevention and diagnosis of deadly neonatal sepsis.
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Persistent antibiotic resistance of cholera-causing bacteria in Africa revealed
In 2024, representatives from 14 African countries came together for a five-day intensive workshop on a whole-genome sequencing method called Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) aimed at strengthening cholera surveillance capabilities across the continent.
Cloves and miswak: Antimicrobial effects of Syzygium aromaticum and Salvadora persica against common pathogens in vitro
Clove essential oil (CEO) derived from Syzygium aromaticum and miswak (Salvadora persica) contains bioactive compounds with antimicrobial properties. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of CEO, miswak, and their combination against key peri-implantitis pathogens.
AFYREN and ESSE Skincare begin partnership to offer 100% natural cosmetic solutions with enhanced skincare performance
AFYREN, a greentech company offering manufacturers biobased, low-carbon ingredients through a unique fermentation technology, and South Africa-based Esse Skincare, a leader in microbiome skincare science, are partnering to introduce the world’s first bio-based propionic acid for the skincare industry.
Enhancing Nigerian fermented foods for nutrition, health and sustainability
Fermented foods are integral to Nigerian cuisine and culture, providing sustenance, health benefits, and cultural heritage. These foods owe their unique flavours, textures, and health benefits to fermentation, a process driven by a diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria, yeasts, and moulds.
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What is eating my rocks? A possible novel biological niche inside limestone
“It seems something biological has once lived inside rocks in Namibia.” Read the story of this unusual discovery…
The threat of porcine circovirus in Nigerian pig farms
AMI New Lecturer Research Grant recipient explores the need for surveillance and mitigation of PCV2 in agricultural settings.
Ethiopian fermented beverages as sources of probiotics
Sub-Saharan African societies have a wealth of knowledge on cereal fermentation as a means of food processing and preservation.
Cholera: vaccination or better infrastructure?
Vibrio cholerae continues to challenge public health systems worldwide. Should we prioritize vaccination or infrastructure improvements?
Is climate change driving an increase in cases of anthrax?
The anthrax outbreak in Africa could be a harbinger of more to come, with climate change creating opportunities for the emergence of more cross-over strains capable of causing anthrax-like infections.
How AI gives us food for thought
Michael Ukwuru reveals the many ways in which artificial intelligence could address global food safety challenges.
Summer studentship: Taiwo uncovers native strains for mycotoxin control in stored nuts
Taiwo Boluwatife Omowunmi reports back on her AMI-sponsored summer studentship which assessed native microbial strains for mycotoxin biocontrol in stored nuts.
AMI prizewinner Raquel Peixoto reveals how coral symbionts are key to tolerating rising temperatures
Marking World Coral Reef Day on June 1, AMI’s Rachel Carson Prize winner Professor Raquel Peixoto reveals how the ability of corals to tolerate rising temperatures is determined by the type of microorganisms that live inside them.
Summer studentship: Ojewale finds novel Actinomycetes offer rare antimicrobial metabolites
Ojewale Ifeoluwa Florence reports back on her AMI-sponsored summer studentship which focused on the investigation of Actinobacteria found in local freshwater environments in Ogun State, Nigeria, under supervisor Dr. Amina Badmos.
Connecting with microbiologists and presenting research: Oluwole Owoyemi reports back from ASM 2024
Medical microbiologist Oluwole Owoyemi of Achievers University Owo and Federal University of Technology, Akure, reports back from ASM MICROBE 2024 after being awarded a Scientific Event Travel Grant by Applied Microbiology International.
Endophytic fungi yield vivid colours and vital bioactive compounds
Endophytic fungi from the forests of Poland are yielding up a treasure trove of compounds that could revolutionize the pharmaceutical and biotechnological industries, according to Applied Microbiology International member Dr El-Sayed R El-Sayed.
Exploring ACEWATER Laboratory
Through pioneering research and visionary leadership, ACEWATER is shaping the future of our environment and our health.