Research Articles (University of Pretoria)

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Insights into bloodstream infections in South African paediatric burn patients : implications for antimicrobial stewardship
(BioMed Central, 2025-03) Christie, Michael; Avenant, Theunis; Nembudani, Masindi; Mnqandi, Anelisa; Muller, Chris; De Villiers, Mariza; Bhikhoo, Zeenat; michael.christie@up.ac.za
INTRODUCTION : Bloodstream infections (BSIs) significantly contribute to the morbidity and mortality in paediatric burn patients from low- and middle-income countries; with common pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa frequently being multidrug resistant (MDR). Due to the growing prevalence of MDR BSIs, antimicrobial stewardship needs to be improved with perhaps more targeted initial antimicrobial use. The study describes the aetiology, and timing of burn-associated BSIs and MDR infections in paediatric burn patients admitted to two paediatric surgery units in Tshwane District, South Africa. METHODS : This multi-centre retrospective review analysed paediatric burn patients (ages 0–12 years) admitted between January 2020 and December 2022 to two public hospitals in Tshwane District, South Africa. Collected data was from patient records and the National Health Laboratory System TrakCare database. BSIs were defined according to the CDC criteria. RESULTS : Of 245 burn patients admitted, 18.8% (n = 46) developed BSIs. From 63 positive blood cultures, the most common isolates were S. aureus (n = 19; 30%), Acinetobacter baumannii (n = 18; 29%), and P. aeruginosa (n = 10; 16%). Collectively, gram negative bacteria were responsible for most BSIs (n = 41; 65%). Candida spp accounted for 9% (n = 5). Thirty-five pathogens (56%) were MDR; this included methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) (n = 7; 11%), carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (n = 16; 25%), and P. aeruginosa (n = 6; 10%). The median time to the first positive blood culture was 5 days (IQR: 3–12) (gram positive organisms: median: 5 days [IQR: 3–15}); gram negative organisms: median: 8 days [IQR: 4–20]; Fungal: median: 9 days [IQR: 8–27]; p-value 0.37). In the first week, S. aureus caused 32% of infections, including five MRSA cases. Gram negative bacteria dominated weeks two and three, with fungal and polymicrobial infections mainly in weeks two and four. CONCLUSION : Our findings show that as gram positive and gram negative infections predominantly occurred early in the admission period, while polymicrobial infections are more frequently observed later. Consequently, initial targeted narrow-spectrum antimicrobial use is not possible. Instead, antimicrobial de-escalation should be prioritized once culture results are available. Efforts should shift from a focus on treating BSIs to preventing them through wound care and infection control measures. Broad-spectrum antibiotics should be used judiciously and quickly de-escalated to minimise antimicrobial resistance development.
Antimicrobial resistance pattern of Acinetobacter baumannii clinical isolate in Ethiopia. A systematic review and meta-analysis
(BioMed Central, 2025-04) Asmare, Zelalem; Tamrat, Ephrem; Erkihun, Mulat; Endalamaw, Kirubel; Alelign, Dagninet; Getie, Molla; Sisay, Assefa; Gashaw, Yalewayker; Reta, Melese Abate
BACKGROUND : Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health threat. Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) emerged as one of the most concerning critical priority pathogens due to its ability to develop resistance to multiple antimicrobial agents. In Ethiopia, the public health impact of AMR is increasingly significant, with A. baumannii responsible for a variety of infections. Although A. baumannii causes a range of infections in Ethiopian patients, the drug resistance status of the clinical isolates has not been thoroughly assessed. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the country-wide AMR of A. baumannii. METHODS : This systematic review and meta-analysis followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We conducted a search of articles on PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, Scopes electronic databases, Google Scholar search engine, and institutional repositories/libraries for studies published between 2015 and 2024. Eligible studies on A. baumannii-related infections and AMR in Ethiopia were assessed for quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) criteria. Data on study characteristics were extracted, and statistical analyses, including heterogeneity (Invers of variance), publication bias (Eggers test), and subgroup analyses, were performed using STATA 17.0. A random effect model was used to compute the pooled prevalence of AMR. RESULTS : This systematic review and meta-analysis of 26 Ethiopian studies (26,539 participants) found an A. baumannii prevalence of 3.99% (95% CI: 3.01–4.98%) and 9.13% of all bacterial infections (95% CI: 6.73–11.54%). The most common infections were surgical site infections, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and sepsis. Pooled resistance to antibiotics varied, with amikacin showing the lowest resistance (20.27%) (95% CI: 11.51–29.03) and cefotaxime the highest (83.18) (95% CI: 71.87–94.48). A pooled multi-drug resistant (MDR) A. baumannii was found in 88.22% (95% CI: 82.28–94.15) of isolates, with regional and infection-type variations, particularly in higher prevalence in Oromia and Amhara regions and sepsis cases. CONCLUSION : This systematic review underscores the alarming rise of antimicrobial resistance in A. baumannii, particularly against carbapenems. The findings highlight a high prevalence of MDR A. baumannii and widespread extended-spectrum beta-lactamase production, with notable regional variations in resistance patterns. These high resistance rates reinforce A. baumannii as a critical global health threat, necessitating urgent interventions such as enhanced antimicrobial stewardship programs, improved infection control measures, and the development of alternative treatment strategies. Healthcare professionals, policymakers, and researchers must collaborate to mitigate the clinical and public health impact of this pathogen. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION : This systematic review and meta-analysis was registered on PROSPERO (Registration ID: CRD42024623927).
Antibiotic resistance profiles and mutations that might affect drug susceptibility in metagenome-assembled genomes of Legionella pneumophila and Aeromonas species from municipal wastewater
(BioMed Central, 2025-04) Poopedi, Evida; Pierneef, Rian Ewald; Singh, Tanusha; Gomba, Annancietar
Please read abstract in the article.
A scoping review on the contribution of interprofessional collaborative practices on preventing and managing post-partum haemorrhage in the health care system
(BioMed Central, 2025-04) Zenani, Nombulelo Esme; Tulelo, Patience Mashudu; Netshisaulu, Khathutshelo Grace; Sepeng, Nombulelo Veronica; Musie, Maurine Rofhiwa; Gundo, Rudwell; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis
BACKGROUND : Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is a complication associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Effective management of PPH relies on the interdependent roles of various healthcare professions to ensure safe, high quality outcomes. This scoping review aims to explore and synthesise literature of the contribution of interprofessional collaboration in preventing and managing postpartum haemorrhage. DESIGN : The review adopted a scoping review methodology underpinned by Arksey and O’Malley’s five stage framework. Four databases (CINHAL, Scopus, PubMed, and Medline) were searched for sources. The inclusion criteria consisted of full-text articles published in English between 2000 and 2024, across various research designs. RESULTS : The review demonstrates that effective interprofessional collaboration has the potential to ensure prompt diagnosis and management of PPH, while also promoting positive patient and team dynamics outcomes. Moreover, interprofessional collaboration optimises resource utilisation and team synergy, with an awareness of each healthcare professional’s role, mutual trust and respect, and shared leadership. CONCLUSION : Preventing and managing PPH depends on highly effective interprofessional collaboration. To promote safe healthcare delivery during PPH emergencies, strengthening interprofessional collaboration practices is encouraged through various measures. These include interprofessional collaborative quality improvement initiatives, team-based PPH protocols, interprofessional situ simulation training, and PPH mock drills. These strategies provide healthcare systems with structures for better preparedness and swift interprofessional collaborative intervention to prevent complications of postpartum haemorrhage.
The challenging road to sustainable kangaroo mother care practice and service : reflections from a South African health district
(BioMed Central, 2025-03) Bergh, Anne-Marie; Van Rooyen, Elise; Kritzinger, Alta M. (Aletta Margaretha); Skhosana, Maria Rinah; Tshukudu, Mphailele; Feucht, Ute Dagmar; anne-marie.bergh@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : Kangaroo mother care (KMC) was introduced in the Tshwane Health District in South Africa in 1999. After more than two decades of the expansion of KMC services, we describe the KMC implementation trajectory in the district. METHODS : A group of district clinical specialists, clinicians and academics involved in KMC implementation wrote a reflection on the status of KMC in Tshwane District and lessons for sustaining KMC services and practice. RESULTS : The KMC implementation trajectory is described according to three phases: (1) a slow start (1999–2012); (2) consolidation (2012–2023); and (3) sustaining KMC beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. The Tshwane KMC programme activities are interpreted using a 10-component model for scaling up care for small and/or sick newborns at the district level. Major lessons for the sustainability of KMC practice and service include embedding system-wide supportive supervision in the health system’s budget, encouraging multidisciplinary teamwork, conducting regular KMC refresher activities, and working on improving data to enable meaningful action. CONCLUSION : Despite great strides in KMC implementation and ongoing services in the Tshwane Health District, the road to continued sustainability remains challenging.
Does a waiting room increase same-day treatment for sexually transmitted infections among pregnant women? A quality improvement study at South African primary healthcare facilities
(BioMed Central, 2025-04) Gigi, Ranjana M.S.; Mdingi, Mandisa M.; Butikofer, Lukas; Babalola, Chibuzor M.; Klausner, Jeffrey D.; Medina-Marino, Andrew; Muzny, Christina A.; Taylor, Christopher M.; Van de Wijgert, Janneke H.H.M.; Peters, Remco P.H.; Low, Nicola
BACKGROUND : Same-day testing and treatment of curable sexually transmitted infections (STI) is a strategy to reduce infection duration and onward transmission. South African primary healthcare facilities often lack sufficient waiting spaces. This study aimed to assess the proportion of, and factors influencing, pregnant women waiting for on-site STI test results before and after the installation of clinic-based waiting rooms. METHODS : We conducted an observational quality improvement study at 5 public primary healthcare facilities in South Africa from March 2021 to May 2023. The intervention was the installation of a waiting room in two clinics. Three clinics were used as comparators: two already had a waiting room in an existing building and one had access to a shared waiting area. The outcome was the percentage of women who waited for their STI test results. We conducted univariable and multivariable analyses and report marginal risk differences (with 95% confidence intervals, CI) of the proportions of women who waited for results. A subset of women answered structured questions about factors influencing their decision to wait for results. RESULTS : We analysed data from 624 women across the 5 facilities. Overall, 36% (95% CI 31 to 40) waited for their test results (range 7 to 89%). In the two intervention clinics, 17% (95% CI 11 to 24) waited for results before the introduction of a waiting room and 10% (95% CI 5 to 18) after (crude absolute difference − 7% (95% CI -16 to + 3), adjusted difference, -6% (95% CI -17 to + 5)). The percentages of pregnant women waiting for STI test results were higher throughout the study period in 2 clinics which always had a dedicated waiting room than in 2 clinics where a waiting room was installed, or in 1 clinic, which only had access to a shared waiting area. Most women reported before testing that they did not intend to wait and none of the suggested factors would change their decision. CONCLUSIONS : Introduction of a waiting room did not increase the proportion of women who waited for their results in this observational study. Future studies should investigate infrastructure, individual and test-based factors that affect same-day STI testing and treatment.
Pan-genome analysis of the Enterobacter hormaechei complex highlights its genomic flexibility and pertinence as a multidrug resistant pathogen
(BioMed Central, 2025-04) De Maayer, Pieter; Green, Teigra; Jordan, Sara; Smits, Theo H.M.; Coutinho, Teresa A.
BACKGROUND : Enterobacter hormaechei is of increasing concern as both an opportunistic and nosocomial pathogen, exacerbated by its evolving multidrug resistance. However, its taxonomy remains contentious, and little is known about its pathogenesis and the broader context of its resistome. In this study, a comprehensive comparative genomic analysis was undertaken to address these issues. RESULTS : Phylogenomic analysis revealed that E. hormaechei represents a complex, comprising three predicted species, E. hormaechei, E. hoffmannii and E. xiangfangensis, with the latter putatively comprising three distinct subspecies, namely oharae, steigerwaltii and xiangfangensis. The species and subspecies all display open and distinct pan-genomes, with diversification driven by an array of mobile genetic elements including numerous plasmid replicons and prophages, integrative conjugative elements (ICE) and transposable elements. These elements have given rise to a broad, relatively conserved set of pathogenicity determinants, but also a variable set of secretion systems. The E. hormaechei complex displays a highly mutable resistome, with most taxa being multidrug resistant. CONCLUSIONS : This study addressed key issues pertaining to the taxonomy of the E. hormaechei complex, which may contribute towards more accurate identification of strains belonging to this species complex in the clinical setting. The pathogenicity determinants identified in this study could serve as a basis for a deeper understanding of E. hormaechei complex pathogenesis and virulence. The extensive nature of multidrug resistance among E. hormaechei complex strains highlights the need for responsible antibiotic stewardship to ensure effective treatment of these emerging pathogens.
The potential of various phenotypic traits to predict feedlot production in cattle - a systematic review
(CSIRO Publishing, 2025-05) Hentzen, Andreas H.R.; Holm, Dietmar Erik; dietmar.holm@up.ac.za
CONTEXT : Visual evaluation of phenotypic traits is an old and still practiced management tool in the beef industry. Beef production has improved because of the constant visual re-evaluation of phenotypic traits that are associated with production. Current data exposed the need to put all existing knowledge together in context. AIMS : This literature review is to determine the value of individual predictor variables based on existing knowledge, with the view of further improving, expanding, and refining the measured traits. METHODS : This systematic literature review focused on phenotypic traits and their potential associations with production. The traits needed to be predictive in nature. We particularly focused on studies involving intensive production systems, such as feedlots. A search of keywords related to the topic was performed on published articles and textbooks. This included textbooks from the seed stock industry. KEY RESULTS : Several, but not all, studies have demonstrated a positive association between phenotypic cattle traits and subsequent feedlot performance. The sensitivity of the measurement varied. The phenotypic traits investigated were either visually appraised and/or linearly measured. Studies focused on muscle and skeletal development because of their contribution to growth. Specific phenotypic traits were investigated, rather than a more holistic approach and/or combination thereof. For example, two different studies evaluated the predictive ability of dimensions of the cannon bone: one investigating the circumference and another the length. CONCLUSION : The consulted literature revealed limited evidence that phenotypic traits of incoming feeder calves can predict feedlot production. The current information needs more structure and refinement in measurement and reporting to find its application in a beef feedlot operation. IMPLICATIONS : A structured phenotypic evaluation before onset of the feeding phase in beef feedlots carries numerous advantages in beef production. The potential of precision feeding calves to phenotypically established production-related profiles can result from this study.
The latitudinal biotic interaction hypothesis revisited : contrasting latitudinal richness gradients in actively vs. passively accumulated interaction partners of honey bees
(BioMed Central, 2025-03) Cirtwill, Alyssa R.; Roslin, Tomas; Pena-Aguilera, Pablo; Agboto, Agathe; Berce, William; Bondarchuk, Svetlana N.; Brodschneider, Robert; Heidari, Behzad; Kaizirege, Camara; Nyaga, Justine Muhoro; Ekpah, Ojonugwa; Gomez, Gonzalo Ossa; Paz, Claudia; Pirk, Christian Walter Werner; Salehi-Najafabadi, Amir; Salonen, Anneli; Soloniaina, Chantal; Wirta, Helena
BACKGROUND : Contrasting hypotheses suggest that the number of biotic interactions per species could either increase towards the equator due to the increasing richness of potential interaction partners (Neutral theory), or decrease in the tropics due to increased biotic competition (Latitudinal Biotic Interaction Hypothesis). Empirical testing of these hypotheses remains limited due to practical limitations, differences in methodology, and species turnover across latitudes. Here, we focus on a single species with a worldwide distribution, the honey bee (Apis mellifera L.), to assess how the number of different types of interactions vary across latitudes. Foraging honey bees interact with many organisms in their local environment, including plants they actively select to visit and microbes that they largely encounter passively (i.e., unintentionally and more or less randomly). Tissue pieces and spores of these organisms are carried to the hive by foraging honey bees and end up preserved within honey, providing a rich record of the species honey bees encounter in nature. RESULTS : Using honey samples from around the globe, we show that while honey bees visit more plant taxa at higher latitudes, they encounter more bacteria in the tropics. CONCLUSIONS : These different components of honey bees’ biotic niche support the latitudinal biotic interaction hypothesis for actively-chosen interactions, but are more consistent with neutral theory (assuming greater bacterial richness in the tropics) for unintentional interactions.
Quorum sensing inhibition by South African medicinal plants species : an in vitro and an untargeted metabolomics study
(BioMed Central, 2025-04) Moyo, Phanankosi; Bodede, Olusola; Wooding, Madelien; Famuyide, Ibukun Michael; Makhubu, Fikile Nelly; Khorommbi, Ndivhuwo Kevin; Ofori, Michael; Danquah, Cynthia A.; McGaw, Lyndy Joy; Maharaj, Vinesh J.
BACKGROUND : The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is imperiling global health, hence, the need to remedy this challenge by discovering new therapeutic strategies and agents. Quorum sensing inhibition (QSI) is opined as a potential novel strategic approach in the fight against AMR by abrogation of bacterial virulence and pathogenicity. Currently, there are no clinically approved QSI drugs. Based on this, this study evaluated the QSI properties of South African plant species. METHODS : Twenty-nine extracts and their corresponding 203 fractions generated using solid phase extraction were screened for QSI activity in vitro against Chromobacterium violaceum ATCC 12472. Active and inactive fractions of the most potent plant species were analysed using UPLC-HRMS. The acquired mass spectral data was subjected to chemometric analysis. RESULTS : From the QSI assays, three plant species showed remarkable QSI activity, measured by dose-dependent inhibition of violacein production (IVP), at sublethal concentrations. Terminalia phanerophlebia emerged as the most active species, with the extract and five of its fractions showing good activity in IVP (IVP IC50 ≤ 0.1 mg/mL). This was closely followed by Momordica cardiospermoides whose crude extract and two of its corresponding fractions showed good activity (IVP IC50 ≤ 0.1 mg/mL). Three fractions of Helichrysum odoratissimum also had good activity (IVP IC50 ≤ 0.1 mg/mL) marking it one of the most potent selected species. Chemometric analysis identified five compounds including olivetol and hydroxytyrosol as chemical markers positively associated with the QSI activity of T. phanerophlebia. CONCLUSION : In conclusion, the findings of our study provided insight into the QSI properties of South African plant species. Further studies will focus on the isolation of the putative active compounds and the in vitro evaluation of their QSI activity.
Characteristics of women on opioid substitution therapy in primary healthcare in Tshwane (South Africa) : a retrospective observational study
(Royal College of General Practitioners, 2025-04) Goeieman, Daniela S.; Mash, Robert; Gloeck, Natasha R.; Scheibe, Andrew
BACKGROUND : Women who use drugs face specific challenges compared with men such as higher rates of HIV infection, unsafe injecting practices, and intimate partner violence (IPV). However, this population’s access to drug dependence treatment and gender-sensitive interventions remains limited, leading to unmet needs and increased vulnerability. AIM : To investigate the characteristics of and associations with retention in care among women on opioid substitution therapy (OST) in a community-based primary care setting. DESIGN & SETTING : A descriptive observational study within the Community Orientated Substance Use Programme in Tshwane, South Africa. METHOD : Data from 199 women (aged >18 years) on OST was extracted from an electronic database and paper-based files. Data were analysed descriptively, and inferential analysis looked for association of variables with retention on OST for ≥6 months. RESULTS : The majority of participants were unemployed, with 44.3% aged 20–29 years. During the initiation and course of OST, 39.2% of women had an intimate partner of which 37.2% reported IPV, and 19.2% were pregnant. Retention on OST was significantly associated with increasing age at initiation (P = 0.047), knowledge of HIV status (P = 0.029), an increase in the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) score (P = 0.023), and methadone dose (P<0.001). Factors such as race, employment status, health-system level, pregnancy, intimate partner using substances, IPV, route of administering opioids, and having tuberculosis and/or hepatitis C exposure did not show a significant relationship with retention on OST (P>0.05). CONCUSION : This study reveals specific vulnerabilities in women receiving OST, emphasising the need for the integration of interventions to address reproductive health, violence mitigation, infectious disease, and polydrug use into care.
Revisiting concepts of thermal physiology : understanding negative feedback and set-point in mammals, birds, and lizards
(Wiley, 2025-06) Mitchell, Duncan; Fuller, Andrea; Snelling, Edward P.; Tattersall, Glenn J.; Hetem, Robyn S.; Maloney, Shane K.
The thermoregulatory system of homeothermic endotherms operates to attain thermal equilibrium, that is no net loss or gain of heat, where possible, under a thermal challenge, and not to attain a set-point or any other target body temperature. The concept of a set-point in homeothermic temperature regulation has been widely misinterpreted, resulting in such confusion that some thermoregulation specialists have recommended that it be abandoned. But the set-point concept has enjoyed a resurgence in a different domain, lizard microclimate selection. We review the principles of thermoregulation in homeotherms, endorse a negative feedback system with independent set-points for individual thermo-effectors as its core mechanism, and address the misconceptions about homeothermic set-point. We also explore the concept of set-point range in lizard microclimate selection and conclude that there is substantial convergence between that concept and the set-points of homeothermic thermo-effectors, as thresholds. In neither homeothermic nor lizard thermoregulation is the concept of a unitary set-point appropriate. We review the problems of measuring the set-points for lizard microclimate selection. We do not believe that the set-point concept in thermoregulation should be abandoned just because it has been misinterpreted by some users. It is a valid concept, identifying the threshold body temperatures at which regulatory thermo-effectors will be activated, to aid in attaining thermal equilibrium.
Apokaliptiek en veerkragtigheid
(LitNet, 2024) Venter, P.M. (Pieter Michiel), 1947-
Katastrofes van wêreldomvang word met verskillende terme beskryf. In die sekulêre wêreld word dit ’n apokalips genoem. Danksy die inherent menslike vermoë van veerkragtigheid word sulke gebeure as oorkombaar gesien. In fundamentalistiese godsdienskringe word dit gesien as finale gebeure wat volgens een of ander dispensasionalistiese skema die einde van die wêreld inlui. Verantwoordbare akademiese eksegese verstaan die apokalipse in die Bybel volgens die literatuursoort daarvan as verkondiging van God en sy oppergesag oor tyd en ewigheid. Veerkragtigheid wat uit geloof in God gebore is kan die Bybelleser in staat stel om katastrofale gebeure te oorleef.
Abrahamitiese eskatologie en die bekragtiging van godsdienstige identiteite
(LitNet, 2024) Schlebusch, Jan Adriaan
Eskatologiese narratiewe, veral gegewe hul kenmerkende apokaliptiese fokus, dien as kragtige retoriese instrumente om godsdiensgemeenskappe te mobiliseer, veral in krisistye. Hierdie studie beklemtoon die rol wat eskatologiese narratiewe in die monoteïstiese Abrahamitiese godsdienstige tradisies speel met betrekking tot die vorming, bekragtiging en handhawing van godsdienstige identiteit te midde van sosiogodsdienstige veranderings en uitdagings. Daar word in hierdie verband gekyk na drie Abrahamitiese kanonieke tekste: Daniël 2:37–45 uit die Hebreeuse kanon, Openbaring 14 uit die Nuwe Testament, en Soera 81 uit die Koran. By wyse van David Carr se fenomenologies-narratiewe benadering word die retoriese waarde van hierdie eskatologiese narratiewe geanaliseer met betrekking tot die manier waarop hulle gelowiges oproep tot aktiewe deelname in die een goddelike plan en die uiteindelike vervulling daarvan. In Daniël 2:37–45 word die opkoms en val van wêreldryke beskryf, wat die geloofsgemeenskap herinner aan die verbygaande aard van menslike mag en die uiteindelike koms van die ewige koninkryk van God. Openbaring 14 bied aan die vroeë Christelike gemeenskap ’n visie van kosmiese verlossing en oordeel, wat hierdie gemeenskap versterk tot volharding in hul geloof. Soera 81 in die Koran gebruik dramatiese apokaliptiese beelde om lesers te konfronteer met die onafwendbare koms van die oordeel van die eindtyd, waardeur die Islamitiese geloofsgemeenskap aangespoor word tot gehoorsaamheid aan Allah. Die studie toon hoe hierdie eskatologiese narratiewe nie net uitdagings van ’n bepaalde historiese konteks aanroer nie, maar ook ’n blywende retoriese impak op gelowiges het deur ’n gemeenskaplike toekomsvisie te bied wat godsdiensgemeenskappe oor geslagte heen saambind. By wyse van hul unieke kognitiewe appèl, help hierdie narratiewe om ’n kollektiewe godsdienstige identiteit te bekragtig en te versterk. Veral die monoteïstiese klem op die goddelike voorsienigheid en belofte van eskatologiese verlossing kenmerkend van hierdie narratiewe bied hoop en rigting aan Abrahamitiese godsdiensgemeenskappe en verbind hul tot ’n gemeenskaplike missie.
Holistic epistemology and prospects for design in the philosophy of information
(Johns Hopkins University Press, 2024-08) Dick, Archie L.
The discipline of library and information science (LIS), conceived narrowly as applied philosophy of information, overlooks a rich tradition of debate and discussion about its holistic epistemological features. For the LIS profession to deliver services that safeguard social values such as equality of access, intellectual freedom, and diversity, its discipline should reconnect information with knowledge and with epistemology as the theory of knowledge. This article critiques conceptions of information not bound to the core features of the LIS profession and its discipline. It evaluates some early and recent conceptions of information connecting it to the profession’s remitof activities and services. LIS theorists’ ideas about holistic epistemology and perspectivism are discussed and evaluated as prospects for design and development.
Evaluation of the performance of Fe3O4-NPs/PVDF nanocomposite membrane for removal of BTEX from contaminated water
(Elsevier, 2024-03-25) Enemuo, Ngozi; Richards, Heidi; Daramola, Michael Olawale; michael.daramola@up.ac.za
With the increase in reported cases of toxic organic contaminants such as b in the aquatic environment, membrane technology offers a viable option for removing BTEX from wastewater. However, hydrophilic modification of the membranes is vital to reduce the rapid accumulation of the BTEX organic contaminants and maintain improved membrane performance in BTEX removal. In this study, biogenically-synthesized Fe3O4-NPs were embedded into a PVDF membrane to endow the membrane with hydrophilicity, which necessitates the reduction in BTEX accumulation on the membrane, consequently maintaining improved membrane performance towards BTEX removal. Different Fe3O4-NPs loadings (0 wt% to 5 wt%) were used for the PVDF modification to establish the optimum blending amount of the Fe3O4-NPs required to achieve the most effective membrane. The water contact angle was reduced from 84.2° (pristine PVDF) to 52° for the membrane modified with 1 wt% of the Fe3O4-NPs. Other membrane features such as porosity, surface roughness, and mechanical strength were also enhanced. Performance evaluation of the membranes revealed that the flux and BTEX rejection of the Fe3O4-NPs/PVDF membrane were improved. The antifouling test results showed a reduction in the total fouling from 52.1 % (pristine membrane) to 36.3 % for the membrane modified with 1 wt% of the Fe3O4-NPs. Our findings provide a strategy utilizing biogenically synthesized Fe3O4-NPs to enhance PVDF membranes' performance for removing BTEX from wastewater.
HIV-1 infection recency among individuals newly diagnosed with HIV in Greater Gaborone, Botswana
(Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, 2025) Moraka, Natasha O.; Ralegoreng, Charity; Lemogang, Goitseone M.; Makwakwa, Richard; Pema, Marea N.; Mokgethi, Patrick T.; Choga, Ontlametse T.; Gobe, Irene; Mokomane, Margaret; Maruapula, Dorcas; Moutswi, Salang T.; Rabatoko, Laone; Leteemane, Queen; Strachan-Amaro, Vanessa; Sabone, Phenyo; Mohammed, Terence; Moyo, Sikhulile; Gaseitsiwe, Simani
OBJECTIVE : We characterized individuals with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) recent infection using a two-step recent infection testing algorithm (RITA) in recently diagnosed, antiretroviral therapy (ART) naive individuals within the Greater Gaborone area in Botswana. DESIGN : Plasma samples from a prospective longitudinal cohort study of individuals recently diagnosed with HIV within the Greater Gaborone area (2023 – 2024), the Tekodiso study, were used. METHODS : Recent infection classification was determined using Limiting Antigen Avidity (LAg-Avidity), as well as HIV viral load (VL) > 1000 copies/mL. LAg-normalized optical density (ODn) ≤ 1·5 represented a recency window of within 130 days post-infection. HIV VL in plasma was quantified by Abbott m2000sp/Abbott m2000rt. RESULTS : A total of 157 participants were included in this analysis. Median age at enrolment was 34 years (Q1, Q3: 27, 41) and majority 102 (65%) were female. The median log10 HIV VL was 4.6 copies/mL (Q1, Q3: 3.9, 5.2). A total of 12/157: 7.6% (95% CI 4.0: 13.0) individuals were classified as having a recent infection. Recent infection was not associated with age, employment status, or nationality. We observed a lower likelihood of recent HIV infection with secondary or higher education level (OR = 0.1; 95% CI: 0.1– 0.9). CONCLUSIONS : We report a 7.6% rate of HIV recent infection by LAg-based RITA in recently diagnosed ART naïve individuals in Botswana. Our results highlight the need for continued HIV infection surveillance to improve targeted interventions for the prevention of HIV acquisition within the country.
Twice-yearly Lenacapavir or daily F/TAF for HIV prevention in cisgender women
(Massachusetts Medical Society, 2024-10) Bekker, Linda-Gail; Das, Moupali; Karim, Quarraisha Abdool; Ahmed, Khatija; Batting, Joanne; Brumskine, William; Gill, Katherine; Harkoo, Ishana; Jaggernath, Manjeetha; Kigozi, Godfrey; Kiwanuka, Noah; Kotze, Philip; Lebina, Limakatso; Louw, Cheryl E.; Malahleha, Moelo; Manentsa, Mmatsie; Mansoor, Leila E.; Moodley, Dhayendre; Naicker, Vimla; Naidoo, Logashvari; Naidoo, Megeshinee; Nair, Gonasagrie; Ndlovu, Nkosiphile; Palanee-Phillips, Thesla; Panchia, Ravindre; Pillay, Saresha; Potloane, Disebo; Selepe, Pearl; Singh, Nishanta; Singh, Yashna; Spooner, Elizabeth; Ward, Amy M.; Zwane, Zwelethu; Ebrahimi, Ramin; Zhao, Yang; Kintu, Alexander; Deaton, Chris; Carter, Christoph C.; Baeten, Jared M.; Kiweewa, Flavia Matovu
BACKGROUND : There are gaps in uptake of, adherence to, and persistence in the use of preexposure prophylaxis for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention among cisgender women. METHODS : We conducted a phase 3, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial involving adolescent girls and young women in South Africa and Uganda. Participants were assigned in a 2:2:1 ratio to receive subcutaneous lenacapavir every 26 weeks, daily oral emtricitabine–tenofovir alafenamide (F/TAF), or daily oral emtricitabine–tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (F/TDF; active control); all participants also received the alternate subcutaneous or oral placebo. We assessed the efficacy of lenacapavir and F/TAF by comparing the incidence of HIV infection with the estimated background incidence in the screened population and evaluated relative efficacy as compared with F/TDF. RESULTS : Among 5338 participants who were initially HIV-negative, 55 incident HIV infections were observed: 0 infections among 2134 participants in the lenacapavir group (0 per 100 person-years; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.00 to 0.19), 39 infections among 2136 participants in the F/TAF group (2.02 per 100 person-years; 95% CI, 1.44 to 2.76), and 16 infections among 1068 participants in the F/TDF group (1.69 per 100 person-years; 95% CI, 0.96 to 2.74). Background HIV incidence in the screened population (8094 participants) was 2.41 per 100 person-years (95% CI, 1.82 to 3.19). HIV incidence with lenacapavir was significantly lower than background HIV incidence (incidence rate ratio, 0.00; 95% CI, 0.00 to 0.04; P<0.001) and than HIV incidence with F/TDF (incidence rate ratio, 0.00; 95% CI, 0.00 to 0.10; P<0.001). HIV incidence with F/TAF did not differ significantly from background HIV incidence (incidence rate ratio, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.55 to 1.28; P=0.21), and no evidence of a meaningful difference in HIV incidence was observed between F/TAF and F/TDF (incidence rate ratio, 1.20; 95% CI, 0.67 to 2.14). Adherence to F/TAF and F/TDF was low. No safety concerns were found. Injection-site reactions were more common in the lenacapavir group (68.8%) than in the placebo injection group (F/TAF and F/TDF combined) (34.9%); 4 participants in the lenacapavir group (0.2%) discontinued the trial regimen owing to injection-site reactions. CONCLUSIONS : No participants receiving twice-yearly lenacapavir acquired HIV infection. HIV incidence with lenacapavir was significantly lower than background HIV incidence and HIV incidence with F/TDF.
Larvicidal and antiplasmodial studies of Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Myrtaceae) leaf
(Springer, 2024-12) Adesida, Stephen A.; Oguntimehin, Samuel A.; Famuyiwa, Funmilayo G.; Faloye, Kolade O.; Ogundele, Seun B.; Bello, Oyenike I.; Oladiran, Oluyemi J.; Olusola, Ayobami J.; Adewole, Adetola Henry; Adebayo, Praise A.; Oredola, Maryam O.
Eucalyptus camaldulensis is a medicinal plant used as insect repellant and antimalarial agent in ethnomedicine. This study examined the antiplasmodial and larvicidal potential of E. camaldulensis leaf extract and also identified the plant extract's most active fraction(s). The acute oral toxicity test of the methanol extract was evaluated using Lorke’s method. The larvicidal assay was performed on the extract and partitioned fractions according to the 2005 World Health Organization guidelines, while the 4-day chemosuppressive and curative antimalarial assays were carried out against Plasmodium bergei bergei. Endosulphan and chloroquine (10 mg/kg) was used as the positive controls for the larvicidal and antiplasmodial assays, respectively, while tween 80 in normal saline (1%) was the negative control. The methanol leaf extract of EC showed good larvicidal activity across all tested concentrations (LC50 3.79 ± 0.64 mg/mL), while the aqueous fraction with LC50 of 2.80 ± 0.14 mg/mL was the most active. Its acute toxicity test showed it was safe up to 5000 mg/kg. The extract significantly increased dose-dependent antiplasmodial activity for the chemosuppressive and curative models (p < 0.05) than the negative control. At 800 mg/kg, EC gave chemosuppressive (53.69 ± 1.62%) and curative (81.26 ± 1.87%) activities, which was significantly lower than that of 10 mg/kg chloroquine (82.00 ± 0.57% and 92.51 ± 0.22% respectively). The aqueous partitioned fraction gave the highest chemosuppression (73.84 ± 2.73%) at 80 mg/kg, which was comparable to the positive control. The methanol extract of E. camaldulensis leaf is a promising larvicidal and antimalarial agent that could proffer a solution to vector control and the prevalence of malaria.
Exploring the philosophy and practice of AI literacy in higher education in the global south
(Cybrarians, 2024) Van Wyk, Brenda; brenda.vanwyk@up.ac.za
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at the top of the agendas of higher education and educationleaders are required to give direction in educating the next generation of students and citizens. AI holds positive answers to technological innovations, but the potential for continued inequities, exclusion and divides must not be ignored. As a relatively new concept, AI literacy is often viewed as a complex concept requiring more detailed conceptualisation. Furthermore, with the recent hype around generative AI (GenAI), discussions and explorations around what AI literacy is, are now being deliberated. Historically AI was the domain of mathematicians and computer scientists. This is changing as the wider implication of AI permeates all aspects of society, in particular the ethical and informed use of AI and GenAI is paramount. This leaves higher education with the dilemma of deciding who is responsible in teaching and facilitation AI literacy. Keeping in mind that there is an abundance of new literacies in academia. This problem is particularly pronounced in the Global South countries, where digital exclusions and social injustice are becoming more complex. This scoping review evaluated 40 screened and eligible peer reviewed articles and conference proceedings published between 2020-2024 on AI literacy in higher education in the Global South. The aim of the study was to gauge the extant research on AI literacy and its subsequent ethical implications in higher education in the Global South. The study further explored which philosophies and frameworks inform and guide AI literacy research and support in higher education within the selected region. Findings are that while the disciplines of education are engaging in research, other disciplines such as Information Science are interdisciplinary actors in teaching and facilitating AI literacy, but that there is a pronounced paucity in research being conducted.

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