Faculty of Health Sciences (Research Outputs)

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A biostatistical support system in health sciences is this sustainable in a resourcerestricted environment
Libhaber, Elena ; Chirwa, Tobias ; Kramer, Beverley
Background: Training in biostatistics is important for strengthening capacity in health research. This is particularly true for Africa, where research output in the health sciences has been low. Training initiatives for the continent are therefore essential. The aim of the present study was to analyse the quality and financial sustainability of the expanded biostatistical support system at a South African health sciences institution between 2013 and 2017. Methods: A cross-sectional investigation of the initiatives created between the years 2013 and 2017 in the University of the Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences Research Office was undertaken. An assessment of the one-on-one consultations carried out by postgraduate students and staff, financial costs of the support system and the number of postgraduate student graduations were analysed. Results: The number of statistical consultations increased over the period examined. The consultations were highly recommended by the postgraduate students and staff (consulters). A clear rise in the number of Masters and PhD student graduates and an increase in research units were observed from 2013 to 2017, although these cannot be solely associated with the biostatistical support system. The finances for maintaining the support system are cost effective as the number of graduates increases. The total cost to the Research Office is US$ 225 per graduate per annum. Conclusions: The expansion of the biostatistical support system has indirectly contributed to an increased number of graduates and research publication units in the institution. While the current finances support the system, any increases in enrolments or growth in diversification of biostatistical requirements may place a strain on the financial sustainability. This service is of value to developed and developing countries.
A histopathological snapshot of bladder cancer: a Johannesburg experience of 1480 histopathology reports
(Springer, 2025-03) Jonosky, Jaclyn; Adam, Ahmed
Purpose: To evaluate the histopathological characteristics of bladder cancer in patients presenting to Johannesburg hospitals over a13-year period (2010–2023). Methods: Following ethical clearance, a retrospective observational, descriptive review of histopathological reports over 13 years was conducted in Johannesburg. Inclusion criteria was bladder biopsies, TURBT specimens, and radical cystectomy (RC) specimens positive for bladder cancer. Exclusion criteria was non-primary bladder cancers (prostate, cervical, colon) and urothelial carcinoma of upper tract origin (N=970). Of the initial specimens N=2450), 1480 met the inclusion criteria, representing 858 patients, owing to multiple transurethral resections of bladder tumours (TURBT). Categorical variables were summarised as counts and percentages, while numerical variables were reported as means with standard deviations or medians with interquartile ranges, depending on data distribution and tested via the Shapiro‒Wilk test. Statistical comparisons were performed using Fisher’s exact test (sex), one-way ANOVA, or the Kruskal‒Wallis test (age). Statistical signifi cance was set at p<0.05. Results: Urothelial carcinoma accounted for 88.8% of bladder cancer, squamous cell carcinoma (7.7%), adenocarcinoma (1.5%), and other malignancies (2%). High-grade urothelial carcinoma was predominant at 75%. Non-muscle invasive disease accounted for 72% of these cases, while 28% were muscle invasive. Data from radical cystectomies showed a high proportion of aggressive and advanced disease. Conclusions: The study highlights the predominance of high-grade non-muscle invasive bladder cancer in Johannesburg, consistent with global trends. The findings suggest a shift in bladder cancer trends in Johannesburg away from assumed squamous cell carcinoma towards urothelial carcinoma.
A long walk to freedom: the epidemiology of penetrating trauma in South Africa- analysis of 4 697 patients over a six year period at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital
Bhana, Malini; Fru, Pascaline; Plani, Franco
Background: Despite the city of Johannesburg having one of the highest rates of crime in the world, no national databank for trauma exists. This study profiles the victims of penetrating trauma and identifies geographical areas in which it occurs, while describing the outcomes and patterns of injury. Methods: A retrospective study including penetrating trauma patients triaged as Priority 1, presenting at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital's (CHBAH) trauma department over a six-year period (2011-2016). Results: A total of 4 697 patients were included. The majority of victims were Black African males (92.1%) between the ages of 29-40 years, and stabbings were the most common mechanism of injury (71.8%), followed by gunshots. The commonest body area affected was the thorax, with a consequent haemothorax the most likely result. Weekends accounted for over 48% of all presentations - the last weekend of the month being the busiest. Region D was the area in Johannesburg with the highest trauma incidence (51.9%), with the oldest townships in Soweto found to be "hot spots". Conclusion: Penetrating trauma is inherently linked to alcohol abuse and interpersonal violence in South Africa,1 primarily affecting its young economic, working-class citizens. The data provided some insight into the burden, structure and challenges of our trauma system. These should be regarded as opportunities to implement change and improve our surveillance and prevention, beginning with a national trauma databank
A qualitative analysis of community health worker perspectives on the implementation of the preconception and pregnancy phases of the Bukhali randomised controlled trial
(Public Library of Science, 2024) Norris, Shane A.; Soepnel, Larske M.; Mabetha, Khuthala; Motlhatlhedi, Molebogeng; Nkosi, Nokuthula; Lye, Stephen; Draper, Catherine E.
Community health workers (CHWs) play an important role in health systems in low- and middle- income countries, including South Africa. Bukhali is a CHW-delivered intervention as part of a randomised controlled trial, to improve the health trajectories of young women in Soweto, South Africa. This study aimed to qualitatively explore factors influencing implementation of the preconception and pregnancy phases of Bukhali, from the perspective of the CHWs (Health Helpers, HHs) delivering the intervention. As part of the Bukhali trial process evaluation, three focus group discussions were conducted with the 13 HHs employed by the trial. A thematic approach was used to analyse the data, drawing on elements of a reflexive thematic and codebook approach. The following six themes were developed, representing factors impacting implementation of the HH roles: interaction with the existing public healthcare sector; participant perceptions of health; health literacy and language barriers; participants’ socioeconomic constraints; family, partner, and community views of trial components; and the HH-participant relationship. HHs reported uses of several trial-based tools to overcome implementation challenges, increasing their ability to implement their roles as planned. The relationship of trust between the HH and participants seemed to function as one important mechanism for impact. The findings supported a number of adaptations to the implementation of Bukhali, such as intensified trial-based follow-up of referrals that do not receive management at clinics, continued HH training and community engagement parallel to trial implementation, with an increased emphasis on health-related stigma and education. HH perspectives on intervention implementation highlighted adaptations across three broad strategic areas: navigating and bridging healthcare systems, adaptability to individual participant needs, and navigating stigma around disease. These findings provide recommendations for the next phases of Bukhali, for other CHW-delivered preconception and pregnancy trials, and for the strengthening of CHW roles in clinical settings with similar implementation challenges.
A qualitative exploration of the reasons and infuencing factors for pregnancy termination among young women in Soweto, South Africa: a Socio-ecological perspective
(BioMed Central (BMC), 2024) Norris, Shane A.; Mabetha, Khuthala; Soepnel, Larske M.; Sewanyana, Derrick; Draper, Catherine E.; Lye, Stephen
Background: Pregnancy termination is an essential component of reproductive healthcare. In Southern Africa, an estimated 23% of all pregnancies end in termination of pregnancy, against a backdrop of high rates of unintended pregnancies and unsafe pregnancy terminations, which contributes to maternal morbidity and mortality. Understanding the reasons for pregnancy termination may remain incomplete if seen in isolation of interpersonal (including family, peer, and partner), community, institutional, and public policy factors. This study therefore aimed to use a socio-ecological framework to qualitatively explore, in Soweto, South Africa, i) reasons for pregnancy termination amongst women aged 18-28 years, and ii) factors characterising the decision to terminate. Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted between February to March 2022 with ten participants of varying parity, who underwent a termination of pregnancy since being enrolled in the Bukhali trial, set in Soweto, South Africa. A semi-structured, in-depth interview guide, based on the socioecological domains, was used. The data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, and a deductive approach. Results: An application of the socio-ecological framework indicated that the direct reasons to terminate a pregnancy fell into the individual and interpersonal domains of the socioecological framework. Key reasons included financial dependence and insecurity, feeling unready to have a child (again), and a lack of support from family and partners for the participant and their pregnancy. In addition to these reasons, Factors that characterised the participants' decision experience were identified across all socio-ecological domains and included the availability of social support and (lack of) accessibility to termination services. The COVID-19 pandemic and resultant lockdown policies also indirectly impacted participants' decisions through detrimental changes in interpersonal support and financial situation. Conclusions: Amongst the South African women included in this study, the decision to terminate a pregnancy was made within a complex structural and social context. Insight into the reasons why women choose to terminate helps to better align legal termination services with women's needs across multiple sectors, for example by reducing judgement within healthcare settings and improving access to social and mental health support.
A survey of knowledge and attitudes relating to cervical and breast cancer among women in Ethiopia
(BioMed Central, 2018-08) Chaka, Bekele; Sayed, Abdul-Rauf; Goeieman, Bridgette; Rayne, Sarah
Background: Breast cancer and cervical cancer are the two leading cancers among women in Ethiopia. This study investigated knowledge and attitudes related to these two types of cancer among women in 4 zones of Ethiopia. This is the first study employing a validated questionnaire to investigate knowledge and attitudes relating to breast and cervical cancer in Ethiopia. Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted from September to November 2015 in the North Shewa zone (Amhara region), Gamo Gofa zone (Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples’ region) and zones 1 and 3 (Afar region) of Ethiopia. A total of 799 women aged 18 years and older participated in the survey. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the association of possible predictors with breast and cervical cancer knowledge. Results: A total of 799 women aged 18 years and older participated in the survey. Of the women interviewed, 63.0% had heard of breast cancer and 42.2% had heard of cervical cancer. Among those who had heard of breast cancer, 21.3% (107/503) had heard of breast cancer screening and 1.4% of women aged 40 years and older had undergone at least one breast screening examination. Fewer than half of the participants provided the correct response to questions related to risk factors for breast and cervical cancer. Among those who had heard of cervical cancer, 41.5% (140/337) had heard of cervical cancer screening and 3.3% had undergone at least one cervical cancer screening examination. Women with primary and higher levels of education were more likely to have heard of breast cancers (OR = 3.0; 95% CI: 2.1–4.2; p < 0.001) and cervical cancer (OR = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.4–2.6; p < 0.001). From the overall attitude score, the majority of the women were found to have negative attitudes towards breast cancer (67.4%) and cervical cancer (70.6%). Conclusions: This study found that the overall knowledge of risk factors for breast cancer and cervical cancer among women was low. Lack of cancer awareness, and lack of education in general, are the most potent barriers to access and care, and should be addressed through multi-faceted strategies including peer-education, mass media and other community-based interventions.
ABBV744 as a potential inhibitor of SARSCoV2 main protease enzyme against COVID19
(Nature Research) Zeynab Fakhar; Shama Khan; Afrah Alkhuriji; Suliman Y. AlOmar; Aijaz Ahmad
A new pathogen severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) has spread worldwide and become pandemic with thousands new deaths and infected cases globally. To address coronavirus disease (COVID‑19), currently no effective drug or vaccine is available. This necessity motivated us to explore potential lead compounds by considering drug repurposing approach targeting main protease (Mpro) enzyme of SARS‑CoV‑2. This enzyme considered to be an attractive drug target as it contributes significantly in mediating viral replication and transcription. Herein, comprehensive computational investigations were performed to identify potential inhibitors of SARS‑CoV‑2 Mpro enzyme. The structure‑based pharmacophore modeling was developed based on the co‑crystallized structure of the enzyme with its biological active inhibitor. The generated hypotheses were applied for virtual screening based PhaseScore. Docking based virtual screening workflow was used to generate hit compounds using HTVS, SP and XP based Glide GScore. The pharmacological and physicochemical properties of the selected lead compounds were characterized using ADMET. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to explore the binding affinities of the considered lead compounds. Binding energies revealed that compound ABBV‑744 binds to the Mpro with strong affinity (ΔGbind −45.43 kcal/mol), and the complex is more stable in comparison with other protein–ligand complexes. Our study classified three best compounds which could be considered as promising inhibitors against main protease SARS‑CoV‑2 virus
Adult mortality in sub-Saharan Africa using 2001—2009 census data: does estimation method matter?
(Springer Open, 2018-08) Odimegwu, Clifford; Chisumpa, Vesper H.; Somefun, Oluwaseyi Dolapo
Adult mortality is an important development and public health issue that continues to attract the attention of demographers and public health researchers. Controversies exist about the accurate level of adult mortality in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), due to different data sources and errors in data collection. To address this shortcoming, methods have been developed to accurately estimate levels of adult mortality. Using three different methods (orphanhood, widowhood, and siblinghood) of indirect estimation and the direct siblinghood method of adult mortality, we examined the levels of adult mortality in 10 countries in SSA using 2001–2009 census and survey data. Results from the different methods vary. Estimates from the orphanhood data show that adult mortality rates for males are in decline in South Africa and West African countries, whilst there is an increase in adult mortality in the East African countries, for the period examined. The widowhood estimates were the lowest and reveal a marked increase in female adult mortality rates compared to male. A notable difference was observed in adult mortality estimates derived from the direct and indirect siblinghood methods. The method of estimation, therefore, matters in establishing the level of adult mortality in SSA.
Alcohol industry involvement in the delayed South Africa Draft Liquor Amendment Bill 2016: a case study based on freedom of information requests
(BioMed Central, 2025-03) Goldstein, Susan; Mitchell, Gemma; Siwela, Pfumelani; Diedericks, Aadielah Maker
Background South Africa is reported to have one of the highest per capita rates of alcohol consumption among drinkers globally, with alcohol harms exacerbating socio-economic inequalities in the country. The Draft Liquor Amendment Bill 2016 proposed new restrictions on alcohol advertising, availability, and liability of retailers and manufacturers for harm related to any contravention of the regulations. To date, the Bill has not progressed through the legislative process. The alcohol industry is known to use a diverse set of strategies to delay evidence-based policies globally. Methods We aimed to explore Bill-related activity by industry within the National Economic and Development Labour Council, a multi-stakeholder forum that assesses socio-economic policies before they reach parliament. On 06 July 2023 we made a Request for Access to Record, using form two of the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA), no. 2 of 2000 to the National Economic and Development Labour Council for access to minutes of all meetings, reports, and any other publications related to the Bill between January 2016 and December 2022. Informed by Ulucanlar et al’s (2023) model and taxonomies of corporate political activity, we extracted data on industry Bill-related activity and thematically analysed key events, presented here as a narrative synthesis. Results We identified activity by 14 alcohol industry organisations related to the Bill between 2016 and 2022. Industry representation on five National Economic and Development Labour Council-related committees identified between 2017 and 2021 facilitated their involvement in Bill-related discussions and supported access to other government departments. Community representation was low in all committees compared to industry, labour, and government. Industry funded two socio-economic assessments of the Bill in 2017 and 2022, despite an independent socio-economic impact assessment having already been completed. The 2017 report delayed progress of the Bill, and the 2022 ‘re-evaluation’ was more critical of the proposed measures, with the differing conclusions attributed to different methodologies. During the covid-19 pandemic, industry used a ‘carrot and stick’ approach of legal threats and donations to attempt to move towards self-regulation via a social compact. The National Economic and Development Labour Council confirmed in 2023 that the social compact was unsuccessful. Conclusions Early ‘regulatory capture’ gave the alcohol industry the opportunity to shape assessment of the Bill within the National Economic and Development Labour Council. Our findings are in line with previous studies on corporate influence on policy globally, and support calls for a reassessment of the role and proportion of industry representation within the National Economic and Development Labour Council locally.
Alcohol use and optimal chronic diseases’ treatment outcomes among adults aged 40 years and above in rural South Africa
(Nature Research, 2025-03) Mupfuti, Rumbidzai; Kabudula, Chodziwadziwa. W.; Francis, Joel Msafiri
Chronic diseases are significant problems in South Africa. Chronic diseases’ treatment outcomes are critical to the reduction of morbidity and mortality. There is limited data in South Africa on alcohol use and treatment outcomes of chronic diseases in older people. Understanding the association between alcohol use and chronic diseases treatment outcomes would inform potential interventions to address the duo. We analysed data from wave 1 of the Health and Ageing in Africa-a longitudinal Study in an INDEPTH community (HAALSI) study. We performed descriptive analysis to determine the prevalence of optimal chronic diseases’ treatment outcomes (suppressed HIV viral load, normal blood pressure and normal blood sugar- euglycemia) and applied modified Poisson regression to determine the association between alcohol use and chronic diseases’ treatment outcomes. The prevalence of optimal treatment outcomes was 87.4% suppressed viral load for those living with HIV, 42.7% normal blood pressure for hypertensives, 53.6% with euglycemia among diabetics and 52.4% with normal outcome parameters among those with multimorbidity. Alcohol use did not negatively impact the optimal treatment outcomes for HIV (aRR = 1.00, 95%CI 0.93–1.09), hypertension (aRR = 0.88, 95%CI 0.68–1.14), diabetes mellitus (aRR = 0.73, 95%CI 0.44–1.22), and multimorbidity (aRR = 1.00, 95%CI 0.93–1.09). Alcohol use was not significantly associated with treatment outcomes possibly due to underreporting of alcohol use. There is need to incorporate objective alcohol measurements and alcohol interventions in chronic diseases care settings. Furthermore, there is urgent need to strengthen the management of hypertension and diabetes, by adopting the strategies deployed for HIV management.
An all-oral 6-month regimen for multidrug resistant Tuberculosis: A multicenter randomized controlled clinical trial (the Next Study)
Esmail, Aliasgar ; Oelofse, Suzette ; Lombard, Carl ; Perumal, Rubeshan ; Variava, Ebrahim ; Martinson, Neil
Rationale: Improving treatment outcomes while reducing drug toxicity and shortening the treatment duration to 6 months remains an aspirational goal for the treatment of multi drug resistant /rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis(MDR/RR-TB). Objectives: To conduct a multicenter randomized controlled trial in adults with MDR/RR-TB(i.e., without resistance to fluoroquinolones or aminoglycosides) . Methods: Participants were randomly assigned(1:1ratio)to a 6 month all-oral regimen that included levofloxacin, bed aquiline, and linezolid or the standard-of-care(SOC)>9-month World Health Organization(WHO)-approved injectable-based regimen. The primary endpoint was a favorable WHO-defined treatment outcome (which mandates that prespecified drugs substitution is counted as an unfavorable outcome)24 months after treatment initiation. The trial was stopped prematurely when bed aquiline-based therapy became the standard of care in South Africa. Measurements and Main Results: In total,93 of 111 randomized participants(44 in the comparator arm and 49 in the intervention alarm) were included in the modified intention-to-treatanalysis;51(55%)were HIV coinfected(medianCD4count,158cells/ml).Participants in the intervention arm were 2.2 times more likely to experience a favorable 24-month outcome than participants in the SOC arm(51%[25of49]vs. 22.7%[10of44];riskratio,2.2[1.2–4.1];P=0.006).Toxicity-related drug substitution occurred more frequently in the SOC arm(65.9%[29of44] vs.34.7%[17of49];P=0.001)],82.8%(24of29)owing to kanamycin (mainly hearing loss; replaced by bed aquiline) in the SOC arm, and 64.7% (11of17) owing to fluoroquinolones or aminoglycosides (mainly anemia) in the intervention alarm. Adverse event–related treatment discontinuation in the safety population was more common in the SOC arm(56.4%[31of55]vs.32.1%[17of 56];P=0.007).However, grade 3 adverse events were more common in the intervention alarm(55.4%[31of56]vs.32.7[18of55];P=0.022). Culture conversion was significantly better in the intervention arm (hazardratio,2.6[1.4–4.9];P=0.003)after censoring those with bed aquiline replacement in the SOC arm(and this pattern remained consistent after censoring for drug replacement in both arms ;P=0.01). Conclusions: Compared with traditional injectable-containing regimens, an all-oral 6-month levofloxacin, bed aquiline, and linezolid–containing MDR/RR-TB regimen was associated with a significantly improved 24-month WHO-defined treatment outcome (predominantly owing to toxicity-related drugs substitution).However, drug toxicity occurred frequently in both arms. These findings form strategies to develop future regimens for MDR/RR-TB. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02454205).
Analysis of surgical mortalities using the fishbone model for quality improvement in surgical disciplines
Moeng, Maeyane S.; Luvhengo, Thifhelimbilu E.
Background: The healthcare industry is complex and prone to the occurrence of preventable patient safety incidents. Most serious patient safety events in surgery are preventable. Aim: This study was conducted to determine the rate of occurrence of preventable mortalities and to use the fishbone model to establish the main contributing factors. Methods: We reviewed the records of patients who died following admission to the surgical wards. Data regarding their demography, diagnosis, acuity, comorbidities, categorization of death and contributing factors were extracted from the Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) database. Factors which contributed to preventable and potentially preventable mortalities were collated. The fishbone model was used for root cause analysis. The study received prior ethical clearance (M190122). Results: Records of 859 mortalities were found, of which 65.7% (564/859) were males. The median age of the patients who died was 49 years (IQR: 33–64 years). The median length of hospital stay before death was three days (IQR: 1–11 days). Twenty-four percent (24.1%) of the deaths were from gastrointestinal (GIT) emergencies, 18.4% followed head injury and 17.0% from GIT cancers. Overall, 5.4% of the mortalities were preventable, and 41.1% were considered potentially preventable. The error of judgment and training issues accounted for 46% of mortalities. Conclusion: Most surgical mortalities involve males, and around 46% are either potentially preventable or preventable. The majority of the mortality were associated with GIT emergencies, head injury and advanced malignancies of the GIT. The leading contributing factors to preventable and potentially preventable mortalities were the error of judgment, inadequate training and shortage of resources.
Antiplatelet Therapy Combined with Anastrozole Induces Features of Partial EMT in Breast Cancer Cells and Fails to Mitigate Breast-Cancer Induced Hypercoagulation
(MDPI, 2021-04-16) Xulu, Kutlwano R.; Augustine, Tanya N.
Thromboembolic complications are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in cancer patients. Cancer patients often present with an increased risk for thrombosis including hypercoagulation, so the application of antiplatelet strategies to oncology warrants further investigation. This study investigated the effects of anastrozole and antiplatelet therapy (aspirin/clopidogrel cocktail or atopaxar) treatment on the tumour responses of luminal phenotype breast cancer cells and induced hypercoagulation. Ethical clearance was obtained (M150263). Blood was co-cultured with breast cancer cell lines (MCF7 and T47D) pre-treated with anastrozole and/or antiplatelet drugs for 24 h. Hypercoagulation was indicated by thrombin production and platelet activation (morphological and molecular). Gene expression associated with the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was assessed in breast cancer cells, and secreted cytokines associated with tumour progression were evaluated. Data were analysed with the PAST3 software. Our findings showed that antiplatelet therapies (aspirin/clopidogrel cocktail and atopaxar) combined with anastrozole failed to prevent hypercoagulation and induced evidence of a partial EMT. Differences in tumour responses that modulate tumour aggression were noted between breast cancer cell lines, and this may be an important consideration in the clinical management of subphenotypes of luminal phenotype breast cancer. Further investigation is needed before this treatment modality (combined hormone and antiplatelet therapy) can be considered for managing tumour associated-thromboembolic disorder.
Aphallia: a review to standardize management
(2018-04) Gabler, Tarryn; Charlton, Robyn; Loveland, Jerome; Mapunda, Ellen
Congenital aphallia is a rare anomaly with little supporting literature and controversial management. The aim of this review is to assess the most recent literature with a focus on staged management of these cases. We performed a PubMed search of all English literature in the past 10 years using the term aphallia. Twenty-three articles were identified of which six were excluded. A further three papers meeting our criteria were found in the references to papers initially identified. We found that management can be staged in three phases: short, intermediate and long-term. We conclude that optimal short-term management centers on resuscitation and urinary diversion as necessary, intermediate-term management entails urethrorectal fistula division, urethrostomy and neophallus creation and long-term management results in successful neophalloplasty, urethroplasty, prosthetic implant and continued protection of the upper urinary tracts with a Mitrofanoff. All this within a multidisciplinary team ensuring shared decision-making with the patient and their family
Aqueous extract of moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaf (AEMOL) on the growth, sensory and histology parameters of broiler chickens
(ALÖKI Kft, 2020-07) Mbajiorgu, Ejikeme F.; Alabi, O. J.; Ng’Ambi, J. W.
A completely randomized design experiment was used to determine the effects of aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaf (AEMOL) on growth, sensory and histology parameters of broiler chickens. Treatment 1 served as the control (antibiotics), Treatment two was given ordinary water (AEMOL0). Treatments 3, 4, 5 and 6 contained 30, 60, 90 and 120 ml of AEMOL per litre of water per day, respectively. Data obtained were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and mean separation was done using Duncan’s test for multiple comparisons. Results showed that the extract influenced (P < 0.05) the feed intake and water intake at the broiler starter phase WHILE birds on the control diet had higher values. Finisher phase results showed that final weight, weight gain, feed intake, FCR and water intake were influenced (P < 0.05) by the extract with birds treated with 60 ml/l of AEMOL doing better for most parameters except the FCR. All the digestibility and sensory parameters measured were also influenced (P < 0.05) by the extract. However, histological parameters measured were not affected (P > 0.05) by the extract. It could be concluded that the extract inclusion levels up to 90 ml/l can be used to replace antibiotic growth promoter without compromising the advantages of antibiotic growth promoter.
Assessing runs of Homozygosity: a comparison of SNP Array and whole genome sequence low coverage data
(BMC, 2018-01) Ceballos, Francisco C.; Hazelhurst, Scott; Ramsay, Michèle
Background: Runs of Homozygosity (ROH) are genomic regions where identical haplotypes are inherited from each parent. Since their first detection due to technological advances in the late 1990s, ROHs have been shedding light on human population history and deciphering the genetic basis of monogenic and complex traits and diseases. ROH studies have predominantly exploited SNP array data, but are gradually moving to whole genome sequence (WGS) data as it becomes available. WGS data, covering more genetic variability, can add value to ROH studies, but require additional considerations during analysis. Results: Using SNP array and low coverage WGS data from 1885 individuals from 20 world populations, our aims were to compare ROH from the two datasets and to establish software conditions to get comparable results, thus providing guidelines for combining disparate datasets in joint ROH analyses. By allowing heterozygous SNPs per window, using the PLINK homozygosity function and non-parametric analysis, we were able to obtain non-significant differences in number ROH, mean ROH size and total sum of ROH between data sets using the different technologies for almost all populations. Conclusions: By allowing 3 heterozygous SNPs per ROH when dealing with WGS low coverage data, it is possible to establish meaningful comparisons between data using SNP array and WGS low coverage technologies
Assessment of adolescent and youth friendly services in primary healthcare facilities in two provinces in South Africa
(BioMed Central, 2018) James, Shamagonam; Pisa, Pedro T.; Imrie, John; Beery, Moira P.; Martin, Catherine; Skosana, Catherine; Delany-Moretlwe, Sinead
Background: Health services for adolescents are increasingly recognised as a priority in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The Adolescent and Youth Friendly Service (AYFS) approach has been promoted in South Africa by the National Department of Health and partners, as a means of standardising the quality of adolescent health services in the country. The objective of this paper is to detail the evaluation of AYFS against defined standards to inform initiatives for strengthening these services. Methods: A cross-sectional assessment of AYFS was carried out in 14 healthcare facilities in a sub-district of Gauteng Province and 16 in a sub-district in North West Province, South Africa. Data on adolescent care and service management systems were collected through interviews with healthcare providers, non-clinical staff and document review. Responses were scored using a tool based on national and World Health Organisation criteria for ten AYFS standards. Results: Mean scores for the ten standards showed substantial variation across facilities in the two sub-Districts, with Gauteng Province scoring lower than the North West for 9 standards. The sub-district median for Gauteng was 38% and the North West 48%. In both provinces standards related to the general service delivery, such as Standards 4 and 5, scored above 75%. Assessment of services specifically addressing sexual, reproductive and mental health (Standard 3) showed that almost all these services were scored above 50%. Exploration of services related to psycho-social and physical assessments (Standard 8) demonstrated differences in the healthcare facilities’ management of adolescents’ presenting complaints and their comprehensive management including psycho-social status and risk profile. Additionally, none of the facilities in either sub-district was able to meet the minimum criteria for the five standards required for AYFS recognition. Conclusion: Facilities had the essential components for general service delivery in place, but adolescent-specific service provision was lacking. AYFS is a government priority, but additional support for facilities is needed to achieve the agreed standards. Meeting these standards could make a major contribution to securing adolescents’ health, especially in preventing unintended pregnancies and HIV as well as improving psycho-social management
Association between internal migration and epidemic dynamics: an analysis of cause-specific mortality in Kenya and South Africa using health and demographic surveillance data
(BioMed Central, 2018-07) Ginsburg, Carren; Bocquier, Philippe; Kahn, Kathleen; Collinson, Mark A.; Béguy, Donatien; Afolabi, Sulaimon; Obor, David; Tanser, Frank; Tomita, Andrew; Wamukoya, Marylene
Background: Many low- and middle-income countries are facing a double burden of disease with persisting high levels of infectious disease, and an increasing prevalence of non-communicable disease (NCD). Within these settings, complex processes and transitions concerning health and population are underway, altering population dynamics and patterns of disease. Understanding the mechanisms through which changing socioeconomic and environmental contexts may influence health is central to developing appropriate public health policy. Migration, which involves a change in environment and health exposure, is one such mechanism. Methods: This study uses Competing Risk Models to examine the relationship between internal migration and premature mortality from AIDS/TB and NCDs. The analysis employs 9 to 14 years of longitudinal data from four Health and Demographic Surveillance Systems (HDSS) of the INDEPTH Network located in Kenya and South Africa (populations ranging from 71 to 223 thousand). The study tests whether the mortality of migrants converges to that of non-migrants over the period of observation, controlling for age, sex and education level. Results: In all four HDSS, AIDS/TB has a strong influence on overall deaths. However, in all sites the probability of premature death (45q15) due to AIDS/TB is declining in recent periods, having exceeded 0.39 in the South African sites and 0.18 in the Kenyan sites in earlier years. In general, the migration effect presents similar patterns in relation to both AIDS/TB and NCD mortality, and shows a migrant mortality disadvantage with no convergence between migrants and non-migrants over the period of observation. Return migrants to the Agincourt HDSS (South Africa) are on average four times more likely to die of AIDS/TB or NCDs than are non-migrants. In the Africa Health Research Institute (South Africa) female return migrants have approximately twice the risk of dying from AIDS/TB from the year 2004 onwards, while there is a divergence to higher AIDS/TB mortality risk amongst female migrants to the Nairobi HDSS from 2010. Conclusion: Results suggest that structural socioeconomic issues, rather than epidemic dynamics are likely to be associated with differences in mortality risk by migrant status. Interventions aimed at improving recent migrant’s access to treatment may mitigate risk.
Associations between nutrition knowledge and obesity-related attitudes and physical activity among young adults from Kenya, South Africa, and the United Kingdom
(National Inquiry Services Centre (NISC) & Taylor and Francis Group, 2024) Norris, Shane A.; Dlamini, Siphiwe N.; Mtintsilana, Asanda; Mapanga, Witness; Craig, Ashleigh
This study’s aim was to test associations between nutrition knowledge and obesity-related attitudes and physical activity (PA) among 3000 18–35-year-old men and women from Kenya, South Africa (SA), and the United Kingdom (UK).Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in April 2022. To estimate nutrition knowledge, dietary recommendation knowledge score was computed using the standard General Nutrition Knowledge questionnaire. Obesity-related attitudes were from the British Social Attitudes Survey. Self-reported days of vigorous and moderate PAs and walking were used. Ordinal logistic regression was employed to test all associations, while adjusting for age group, gender and a household asset score. Using simple mediation, testing was also done to ascertain whether obesity-related attitudes mediated associations between nutrition knowledge and PA. Results: Consistently, better nutrition knowledge was associated with disagreeing that ‘There is no reason to worry about obesity’ (ORs ≥ 1.09), but lower odds of being against ‘Providing free weight management courses’ and ‘Creating/improving cycle paths and pavements to encourage PA’ (ORs ≤ 0.90). Better nutrition knowledge was also associated with higher vigorous PA in SA (OR = 1.09), and moderate PA (OR = 1.04) and walking (OR = 1.12) in the UK. In the combined sample, associations of nutrition knowledge with vigorous PA were fully mediated by believing that ‘Obesity results from not exercising enough’ (11.1% mediated). Likewise, associations of nutrition knowledge with moderate PA were fully mediated by attitude towards ‘Creating or improving cycle paths and pavements to encourage PA’ in the UK (38.9% mediated).Conclusions: Nutrition knowledge is associated with obesity-related attitudes and PA among young adults, but some relationships are country-specific. Interventions based on findings from high-income countries should be evaluated before being implemented in low-resource settings.
Blood pressure measurements in the ankle are not equivalent to blood pressure measurements in the arm
(2014-12) Goldstein, L.N.; Wells, M.; Sliwa, K.
Background. Blood pressure (BP) is often measured on the ankle in the emergency department (ED), but this has never been shown to be an acceptable alternative to measurements performed on the arm. Objective. To establish whether the differences between arm and ankle non-invasive BP measurements were clinically relevant (i.e. a difference of ≥10 mmHg). Methods. This was a prospective cross-sectional study in an urban ED making use of a convenience sample of 201 patients (18 - 50 years of age) who were not in need of emergency medical treatment. BP was measured in the supine position on both arms and ankles with the correct size cuff according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. The arm and ankle BP measurements were compared. Results. There was a clinically and statistically significant difference between arm and ankle systolic BP (SBP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) (–13 mmHg, 95% confidence interval (CI) –28 - 1 mmHg and –5 mmHg, 95% CI –13 - 4 mmHg, respectively), with less difference in diastolic BP (DBP) (2 mmHg, 95% CI –7 - 10 mmHg). Only 37% of SBP measurements and 83% of MAP measurements were within an error range of 10 mmHg, while 95% of DBP measurements agreed within 10 mmHg. While the average differences (or the bias) were generally not large, large variations in individual patients (indicating poor precision) made the prediction of arm BP from ankle measurements unreliable. Conclusion. Ankle BP cannot be used as a substitute for arm BP in the ED.