Research Articles (University of Pretoria)

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Distribution network time-based framework for PV DG and BESSs sizing and integration
(Elsevier, 2025-02) Van der Merwe, Carel Aron; Naidoo, Raj; Bansal, Ramesh C.
Traditional distribution network designs are based on single-value (static) yearly maximum demands, and do not consider the time-based nature of load-side DR (PV DG and/or BESS) installations. The increasing presence of high-penetration, private-sector driven renewable generation and energy storage systems installed within internal networks necessitates quasi-dynamic analysis to modernise and advance network design procedures. Distribution network design parameters affected by the capacity, capability, load-to-generation balancing, and power management of high-penetration load-side/private integrated PV DG and BESSs must be re-evaluated for optimal combined DR system sizing and shared external network integration acceptability. These initial performance parameters were analysed within the two distinctive distribution network load profile forms in a quasi-dynamic sizing and impact study. Other variables include TOU tariff structures, load diversity, demands, load factors, PV DG and BESS parameters, the combined DR system power control, voltage profiles, utilisation factors, reactive power requirements, and fault levels. By identifying operational parameters for PV DG and BESSs, a symbiotic approach to DR utilisation through power control is defined for a permanently reduced load-side maximum demand with lowering peak tariff period demands; benefiting both end-users and shared external networks. This is achieved by limiting bi-directional power flows within the private/internal network and maximising the overall DR system's capability, utilisation, and operational synergy as governed by hierarchical control adapting to a varying load profile. The time-based analysis, integration methodology, quasi-dynamic DR penetration limits, and the developed power flow control algorithm provide planners and developers a baseline for including DR integration impacts within service agreements. The approach also offers an alternative strategy for securing development approvals within remote or overloaded networks that would otherwise have been rejected. HIGHLIGHTS • Modernises distribution network design procedures through quasi-dynamic analysis • Provides a guideline for optimal PV DG and BESS sizing and hierarchical operation • Develops a synergetic TOU power algorithm to combine and enhance DR capabilities • Reduces network demands with a simplified PV DG, BESS, and control methodology • Assesses the impacts of DR penetration on quasi-dynamic network parameters
Validation of screening instruments for common mental disorders and suicide risk in South African primary care settings
(Elsevier, 2024-10) Stockton, Melissa A.; Mazinyo, Ernesha Webb; Mlanjeni, Lungelwa; Sweetland, Annika C.; Scharf, Jodi Y.; Nogemane, Kwanda; Ngcelwane, Nondumiso; Basaraba, Cale; Bezuidenhout, Charl; Sansbury, Griffin; Olivier, David; Grobler, Christoffel; Wall, Melanie M.; Medina-Marino, Andrew; Nobatyi, Phumza; Wainberg, Milton L.
INTRODUCTION : In South Africa, there is limited mental health infrastructure and resources. Valid screening tools are needed to facilitate identification and linkage to care. We evaluated the performance of Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Primary Care Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Screen for DSM-5 (PC-PTSD-5), and the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) among adults in South Africa against a diagnostic gold standard. METHODS : Adults present at healthcare facilities were screened with the PHQ-9, GAD-7, PC-PTSD-5, and the C-SSRS. Nurses used a structured diagnostic interview to identify depression, anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD and elevated suicide risk. We assessed the internal consistency, criterion validity, and the sensitivity and specificity of these tools. RESULTS : Of the 1885 participants, the prevalence of common mental disorders and suicide risk was 24.4 % and 14.9 %, respectively. The PHQ-9, GAD-7, and PC-PTSD-5 showed good internal consistency (0.80–0.89). All screeners demonstrated good criterion validity. For depression, a cut-off of ≥5 on the PHQ-9 yielded sensitivity of 84.24 %, while ≥10 yielded sensitivity of 48.77 %. For anxiety, the GAD-7 performed similarly. A cut-off of ≥4 on the PC-PTSD yielded sensitivity of 61.96 %. The C-SSRS yielded lower sensitivity than expected. LIMITATIONS : The prevalence data is not generalizable to the larger South African adult population given the use of a targeted, healthcare facility-based sampling and recruitment strategy. CONCLUSIONS : The performance of the PHQ-9, GAD-7, and PC-PTSD-5 demonstrated good internal consistency and criterion validity, though sensitivity and specificity trade-offs were enhanced with lower cut-offs. Further research into suicide risk screening is warranted. HIGHLIGHTS • The performance of PHQ-9, GAD-7, PC-PTSD-5 was acceptable among adults in South Africa. • Sensitivity and specificity trade-offs were enhanced using lower cut-offs. • The C-SSRS yielded lower sensitivity than expected.
Illustrated forensic pathology : necklacing
(Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, 2025-09) Blumenthal, Ryan; Maximilian, Robert; ryan.blumenthal@up.ac.za
In July 2024, we examined the charred remains of an unidentified adult male. Remnants of a burned tire were found to be wrapped around the neck and torso. According to the available history, the deceased had been “necklaced.”
Agreement between children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their primary caregivers on participation : attendance, involvement, and perceived important activities
(Taylor and Francis, 2025) Kang, Lin-Ju; Granlund, Mats; Huus, Karina; Dada, Shakila
PURPOSES : To investigate item-level agreement between children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) and their primary caregivers regarding perceived participation attendance and involvement, and identify differences in their selections of the important activities to children. MATERIALS AND METHODS : The participants included 143 children with NDD aged 6 to 12 years and their primary caregivers (n = 130). Each completed the Picture My Participation (PmP) separately. Weighted Kappa coefficients and absolute agreement/disagreement were calculated to assess agreement between child–primary caregiver dyads in attendance and involvement ratings. Frequencies of items selected as one of the three most important activities were analyzed. RESULTS : Slight to moderate agreement was found between children and primary caregivers in perceived attendance (κ = 0.10 − 0.47, p < 0.05) and involvement (κ = 0.12 − 0.48, p < 0.05) at the item level. Children more frequently identified social activities, caregiving for others or animals, personal care, and school learning as important compared to their primary caregivers. CONCLUSIONS : The relatively low agreement between children with NDD and their primary caregivers highlights the importance of including children’s perspectives in collaborative goal-setting. Clinicians should tailor tools and strategies to address children’s and caregivers’ differences in perceived participation and important activities to facilitate the co-construction of participation goals. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION • Clinical decision-making around participation primarily relates to specific activities. • Children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their primary caregivers had relatively low agreement in their perceived participation, particularly concerning children’s involvement in activities related to socialization, caregiving, personal care, and school learning. • Children’s perceptions of involvement and activity importance are essential to measure for the co-construction of participation goals, ensuring goals are grounded in the activities important to children. • Clinicians should implement tools and strategies to bridge the discrepancies in children’s and caregivers’ perceptions, tailoring interventions to address needs from both perspectives.
The garden city as a commons : social-ethical perspectives on the new housing question
(AOSIS, 2024-11-20) Meireis, Torsten; Johrendt, Lukas
Europe faces a severe shortage in affordable housing. Even though the situation is less dire than in many cities of the Global South, rising rents and real estate prices affect the poorest hardest. Faith-based organisations, especially Christian churches, have monitored and tackled this problem for more than six decades. INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : The paper discusses this issue from a social-ethical perspective featuring the example of Germany. It depicts the role of the churches, scrutinises the causes of the shortage, explains the situation as a problem of justice and presents an urban vision inspired by Christian tradition, namely the garden city as a commons. In a mixed motives approach, it presents concrete policy suggestions to improve the situation.
Sustainable development goals through the lens of local churches
(AOSIS, 2024-12-10) Msebi, Mawethu; Beukes, Jacques
This article reports on the findings of the local churches' involvement in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Tembisa in Gauteng province of South Africa. The article employed Richard Osmer's model of the four tasks of practical theological interpretation, focussing on narrating and examining the situation in the Tembisa community. The article relied on documentary analysis and in-depth semi-structured interviews. The study findings revealed that local churches could significantly promote the SDGs within their local communities. The study identified essential factors such as human rights, gender equality, peace and justice, and biodiversity conservation as crucial for achieving developmental outcomes. The challenges that local churches face in implementing the SDGs were also discussed. INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : The study outlined principles for ensuring improved quality of life for all through effective implementation of the SDGs. Additionally, the study recommended further empirical research on the role of local churches in promoting SDGs, as well as similar studies in different regions or sectors.
Revisiting women’s role in world Christianity : a theological analysis of John 4:1–42
(AOSIS, 2025-03) Gharbin, Godibert Kelly; Van Eck, Ernest
A recent study reveals that women predominantly make up global Christian congregations. However, because of religio-cultural influences – common to both the contemporary and New Testament worlds – the contributions of women often go unrealised. For instance, John 4:1–42 illustrates how Christ’s response to the Samaritan woman prevented the suppression of her contributions to Christianity. This study utilises Osborne’s theological analysis to examine John’s proposed solutions to these challenges, as it explores how the theological and dynamic dimensions of narratives convey theological ideas. This approach enables readers to reconstruct John’s theological perspective on women’s roles in global Christianity. The findings suggest that an encounter with Jesus must transcend religio-cultural barriers that marginalise women, thereby enabling them to fulfil their divinely appointed roles within global Christianity. INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : The characterisation of the Samaritan woman’s encounter with Jesus challenges gender-based marginalisation and redefines gendered roles in global Christianity. Therefore, the research intersects with missiology, sociology and anthropology.
Re-reading Genesis 24:55b–60 in the context of marriage by proxy in Awkunanaw, Enugu State
(AOSIS, 2024-11-06) Ugwuewo, Chisom S.; Obiorah, Mary Jerome; Odo, Damian O.; damian.odo@tuks.co.za
Genesis 24:55-60 takes cognisance of the right of a damsel in marriage arrangement. The study aims to examine Genesis 24:55-60 in the context of marriage by proxy in Awkunanaw, Enugu State, Nigeria. The methodology employed in this study is narrative analysis. The findings of the research indicate that marriage by proxy has been a longstanding practice in ancient Awkunanaw. The approach to this practice has evolved between ancient Awkunanaw and contemporary Awkunanaw. The study also reveals that damsels were granted the right to choose their life partners within the socio-cultural context of Genesis 24:55-60. The Hebrew phrase supporting this claim is niqrä' lanna'árä, meaning 'we will call to the girl'. This suggests that Rebekah, the damsel in the text, consented to the marriage made on her behalf. Therefore, the study recommends that parents and guardians in contemporary Awkunanaw should adopt the socio-cultural practices of Laban's society, as indicated in the study, to help curb the state of chaos within families in Awkunanaw. INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : This study emphasises the need to advocate for the rights of young women in Awkunanaw concerning marriage by proxy. It indicates that allowing a woman to choose her marriage partner would help reduce domestic violence and other marital crises in Nigeria, particularly in Awkunanaw.
Prokhanov’s missiology : a forerunner to Bosch’s emerging paradigm
(AOSIS, 2024-11-13) Knoetze, Johannes Jacobus; Lazuta, Dzmitry; johannes.knoetze@up.ac.za
This article examines the hypothesis proposed by missiologist Johannes Reimer that Ivan Prokhanov, the founder of the missionary movement in Russia in the early 20th century, anticipated and, to some extent, embodied the emerging missional paradigm articulated by David Bosch in 1991, approximately 60-70 years later. The article argues that Reimer's intuition was largely correct, as Prokhanov significantly aligned with at least 9 of the 13 elements identified by Bosch. Furthermore, it suggests that the correlation between the views of Prokhanov and Bosch can be explained by their shared epistemological orientation towards the New Testament missional paradigm, particularly the paradigm of Matthew, Luke and Paul, as described by Bosch. INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : According to this hypothesis, Bosch's analysis of the historical development of missional theology traces the deviation from the apostolic paradigm established by these New Testament authors, with the emerging missional paradigm representing a partial return to that original framework. For Prokhanov, New Testament missiology was the foundational basis of his mission theology.
Parenting, family guidance and spiritual education : Proverbs 1:8–9 and its wisdom ethos for children’s moral development
(AOSIS, 2024-11-15) Boloje, Blessing Onoriode
This article seeks to provide a wisdom domain moral analysis of Proverbs 1:8–9 on the role of parents in conveying the significance of parental instruction and the development of wisdom in children. As a process through which young individuals acquire and cultivate essential qualities and values that shape their behavior and moral outlook, children character development encompasses various aspects, including moral, social, emotional, and cognitive dimensions, and it is influenced by a range of factors, including familial upbringing, social interactions, cultural influences, education, and personal experiences. Whilst the origin of parents as agents of moral guardian is not explicitly stated in the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament (HB/OT), Proverbs 1:8–9 is one of those key passages whose themes underscore the profound significance of family structure and system, and parental responsibility. The verses highlight the spiritual and moral dimensions of family life, promoting a sense of dignity, submission, and personal development within the context of a supportive family structure. The incisive prescriptions of the text offer a journey into self-understanding, self-development, and self-actualization, by reaffirming the family as a pivotal social institution while balancing the roles and responsibilities of parents and children. INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : This article brings together biblical and theological insights from the parental rhetoric of Proverbs 1:8–9 to bear on and help shape the oversight function of parents as agents of children moral development and healthy family life. The verses bridge spiritual wisdom with scientific understanding, presenting a holistic view of how a child grows intellectually, emotionally, and morally.
Teologie van hoop vir die NG Kerk : 'n vergete versugting?
(AOSIS, 2024-06-07) Kruger, Pieter
During Prof. Piet Meiring’s discussion of the Dutch Reformed Church’s ‘Year of Hope’ in 2001, he argued that the societal issues of reconciliation, poverty and moral regeneration on which the church focused that year, necessitated a theology of hope towards which theologians of different disciplines should contribute. In this article is explored whether to pursue such an endeavour more than two decades since the Year of Hope. Therefore, from a church historiographic viewpoint, aspects of Jürgen Moltmann’s ideas on a theology of hope within a context of injustices are revisited to assert their current relevance. In addition, more recent theological developments concerning the horizontal dimension of Christological hope within society are considered as well. In this regard reference is made to relevant ideas of the Emergent Church movement and its historical continuance. Reflecting on the current South African context and its socio-political, economic and environmental challenges, the need for a theology of hope is considered relevant to the church in order to establish credible relationships and engage strategically with society in need of hope itself. INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : This article contains reviewed material of historical relevance and is, therefore, conducted within the field of Church Historiography. In further consideration of a Theology of Hope the opportunity arises for interdisciplinary collaboration of theological disciplines such as Systematic Theology and Practical Theology.
Kerklike tug : verleentheid of nuwe geleentheid?
(AOSIS, 2024-05-10) Van der Merwe, J.M. (Johan Matthys); Van Graan, Bianca R.; johan.vdmerwe@up.ac.za
In 2004, 2007 and 2011 the General Synod of the Dutch Reformed Church decided that the way in which church discipline functions in the church, should be researched and investigated. This article is based on the doctoral study of the co-author, who tragically died of COVID-19 during the pandemic of 2020-2021. She investigated the development of church discipline in the Dutch Reformed Church from 1652 to the present day, to determine why church discipline has become an embarrassment to the church. This article is based on a part of the outcome of her research. The article discusses the purpose, nature of and need for church discipline, and states that the way in which members of the church understand discipline in the church, should change. The authors emphasise that church discipline must be built on the foundation of brotherly love within the framework of tolerant care. This will not only help to change the understanding of informal and formal church discipline but will also challenge the church to create a safe space for confession, forgiveness, and reconciliation. By doing so, church discipline as tolerant care will become part of the spiritual journey of members of the church. As such, it will change from being an embarrassment to becoming a huge opportunity for spiritual growth. INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : The article focuses on church discipline as tolerant care. In doing so, church discipline does not only function as part of the study field of Church Polity, but it also incorporates Practical Theology. The most important implication is that discipline is understood as care.
Size and the good life : tiny houses, social housing and the role of social imaginaries
(AOSIS, 2024-11-20) Wabel, Thomas
Among the key figures of global housing inequality is the average living space per person. Thus, it comes as no surprise that during the past decade, tiny houses have become an attractive option for some who want to set an example in an affluent society of the global north: free-standing, two-storey building with a total floor space of less than 30 m2. At the same time, in many countries of the global south, people are confined to a similar floorspace – not out of choice but out of need. In bringing together these two very different contexts, I am arguing that from a perspective of capability justice, the concept of home is more than just the need for shelter. In order to enable people to participate in societal life, housing solutions require processes of urban transformation, as well as careful planning and design for social housing. Even in a situation of hardship, living in a small-scale house can be a step towards a realisation of concepts of the good life within the given circumstances. Taking up Charles Taylor’s concept of social imaginaries and presenting architectural examples from the Mexican context (Apan housing laboratory and work done by Tatiana Bilbao), I am drawing some unlikely parallels between the effects that tiny houses, on the one hand, and suggestions for social housing, on the other hand, might have within their respective societies. In this, the concept of social imaginaries helps to see parallels between architecture as a medium of the social and the role of religion. INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : The article argues that in questions of housing justice, architectural solutions can fruitfully supplement considerations of justice.
The epidemiology of malaria in four districts in southern Mozambique receiving indoor residual spray as part of a cross-border initiative
(BioMed Central, 2025-01) Maharaj, Rajendra; Abdelatif, Nada; Maquina, Mara; Seocharan, Ishen; Lakan, Vishan; Paaijmans, Krijn; Maartens, Francois; Aide, Pedro; Saute, Francisco
BACKGROUND : Imported malaria from southern Mozambique drives low levels of disease transmission in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Therefore, the South African Department of Health funded implementation of indoor residual spraying (IRS) in Mozambiquan districts identified as sources of malaria infection for border communities in KwaZulu-Natal. IRS was initiated in districts of Guija, Inharrime, Panda and Zavala. To determine impact of spraying on malaria transmission in these districts, data relating to incidence and prevalence was collected before spraying (2018) and before the second round of spraying was completed (2023). Implementation of IRS was also monitored to ensure optimal spray coverage was achieved. METHODS : The study was a cross-sectional survey conducted in 6 sentinel sites in each of the four afore-mentioned districts, focusing on children 6 months to < 15 years from selected households. There was a baseline and an endline cross-sectional survey. Baseline prevalence took place during March–April 2022 whereas the endline surveys occurred during February–March 2023. One hundred and twenty children from each sentinel site were tested for malaria using rapid diagnostic tests. Monthly malaria cases were obtained from health facilities in each study district. Spray data was obtained from LSDI2 initiative who implemented IRS in the targeted districts. RESULTS : The study showed a definite impact of IRS on malaria prevalence in the targeted districts. Prevalence for sentinel sites in Guija district indicated that the prevalence of malaria increased slightly from baseline to endline in all sentinel sites in Guija. Overall, there was no significant change in prevalence in Zavala, from baseline to endline (p-value = 0.611). Panda’s overall malaria prevalence decreased from 19.20% to 10.82% (p-value < 0.001) whereas overall prevalence in Inharrime, decreased from 27.68% to 19.50% (p-value < 0.001). Malaria prevalence in children younger than 5 years decreased significantly in all four districts. In Panda there was a decrease in numbers of males and females being infected between surveys (p < 0.001), whereas for Inharrime the decrease was significant in females (p < 0.001). High coverage with IRS (> 95%) resulted in greater population protection. CONCLUSION : The study revealed that IRS implementation decreased malaria prevalence in Inharrime and Panda but not in Guija and Zavala. To ensure that cross-border movement of people does not result in increased malaria transmission, targeting areas identified as source of infection in travelers is paramount to reaching elimination.
Strengthening local capacity for mathematical modelling in low- and middle-income countries : the process and lessons learnt in implementing the first cohort of Nigeria malaria modelling fellowships
(BioMed Central, 2025-04) Kaduru, Chijioke; Ibe, Uche; Aladeshawe, Shina; Eche-George, Adaeze; Eshikhena, Ganiyat; Aadum, Dumale; Okon, Bassey; Iorkase, Emmanuel D.; Leghemo, Kesiye; Ogunbode, Oladipo; Okoronkwo, Chukwu; Okoro, Onyebuchi; Igumbor, Ehimario Uche; Oyeyemi, Abisoye; Uhomoibhi, Perpetua; Babatunde, Seye
BACKGROUND : Mathematical modelling plays a crucial role in understanding malaria epidemiology and evaluating anti-malarial interventions. In sub-Saharan Africa, National Malaria Control Programs are increasingly collaborating with modellers to optimize impact within constrained fiscal environments and evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing malaria control efforts. Despite Nigeria’s National Malaria Elimination Program soliciting modelling expertise, there remains a significant capacity gap in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including Nigeria. To address this, the Nigerian Malaria Modelling Fellowship (MMF) adopts a one-health approach within the Nigerian Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program. METHODS : The MMF aims to enhance mathematical modelling capacity among Nigerian public health professionals by increasing the number of doctoral and postdoctoral graduates proficient in using modelling for planning, program evaluation, and outcome assessment. This paper highlights the initiative’s innovative aspects and shares initial implementation insights. RESULTS : Implemented using a human-centred design, MMF is a collaborative effort involving multiple public health stakeholders. The curriculum spans four courses—Malaria, Mathematical Modelling, Evidence Translation, and Project Management—each with targeted modules. The first cohort recruitment attracted 2173 applications, rigorously screened through a five-step process, selecting 33 Fellows from all geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The cohort applies a one-health lens and includes 48% female representation. Key findings highlight the importance of government leadership, gender mainstreaming, stakeholder co-creation, leveraging existing investments, adopting best practices, and expanding engagement to meet national needs. CONCLUSION : MMF demonstrates a collaborative effort to build modelling capacity among epidemiologists and healthcare professionals in LMICs, particularly for malaria. The rigorous recruitment process underscores a strong interest in mathematical modelling. The human-centred approach has fostered government leadership, multi-stakeholder engagement, and national ownership. This paper recommends increased commitments to local capacity strengthening in LMICs and advocates for evaluating the project, including assessing Fellows’ competencies post-training to ensure effective capacity development.
Between-and within-socioeconomic groups temporal inequality in the uptake of malaria prevention strategies among pregnant women and under-five children in Ghana (2003-2022)
(BioMed Central, 2025-08) Okova, Denis; Lukwa, Akim Tafadzwa; Edusei, Marian; Bodzo, Paidamoyo; Atta-Obeng, Christian; Chiwire, Plaxcedes; Hongoro, Charles
BACKGROUND : Malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among pregnant women and children under five in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite over two decades of efforts including insecticide-treated net (ITN) distribution and intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp), universal and equitable coverage has not been achieved. In Ghana, coverage disparities persist, particularly along socioeconomic and geographic lines. This study investigates temporal trends and decomposes both within-group and between-group socioeconomic inequalities in ITN use and IPTp coverage among children and pregnant women in Ghana. METHODS : This study analysed nationally representative data from the Ghana Demographic and Health Surveys (2003, 2008, 2014, and 2022), focusing on ITN use among pregnant women and children under five, and IPTp uptake. Inequality was assessed using the Erreygers normalized concentration index (ENCI) and the Theil index (GE 2). Theil indices were then decomposed to quantify within- and between-group contributions by socioeconomic status (SES) and residence (urban versus. rural). RESULTS : ITN use among under-five children increased modestly from 58.1% (2003) to 62.9% (2022); among pregnant women, usage fluctuated but returned to 60% in 2022. IPTp coverage rose markedly from 0.85% (2003) to 60% (2022). ENCI values showed that ITN use was consistently pro-poor, becoming more concentrated among the poor over time (e.g., ENCI for pregnant women: − 0.04 in 2003 to − 0.32 in 2022). In contrast, IPTp coverage shifted to a pro-rich distribution from 2008 onwards. Theil decomposition revealed that most observed inequalities were driven by within-group disparities (e.g., within SES or residence categories), though between-group inequality increased over time particularly for IPTp. For example, in 2022, 85% of ITN inequality among pregnant women was within SES groups, while 18% was attributable to between-group differences. CONCLUSION : Despite overall improvements in malaria prevention uptake, substantial socioeconomic inequalities persist especially within social and geographic subgroups. Equity-focused strategies must complement national-level efforts by addressing barriers specific to underserved populations, including informal urban settlements and remote rural communities. Policymakers must prioritize targeted, locally responsive interventions to reduce both within- and between-group disparities and achieve Ghana’s malaria elimination and health equity goals.
Assessing Anopheles species collection techniques in a low malaria transmission area: implications for vector surveillance and control
(BioMed Central, 2025-07) Mashatola, Thabo; Tshikae, Power; Govere, John; Mazarire, Theresa T.; Brooke, Basil; Munhenga, Givemore
BACKGROUND : Effective entomological surveillance is crucial for malaria control, especially in low transmission settings. This study aimed to compare the performance of three mosquito collection methods (clay pots, carbon dioxide (CO2)-baited tents, and human landing catches (HLC)) for malaria vector surveillance in the low transmission area of Nkomazi, South Africa. METHODS : From March 2019 to March 2020, adult mosquitoes were collected monthly from three different sites over five consecutive nights and mornings. Each collection method was used at each site to capture both outdoor resting and host-seeking mosquitoes. The collected mosquitoes were morphologically identified to the Anopheles genus and species, followed by confirmation using molecular PCR assays. The species composition, relative abundance, and diversity were evaluated, and statistical tests, including Kruskal–Wallis and ANOVA, were used to assess differences in abundance and diversity across collection sites and methods. A Generalized Linear Mixed Model was applied to assess the impact of various factors on species abundance. RESULTS : A total of 1337 Anopheles mosquitoes were collected, with 98.5% being females. CO2-baited tents yielded the highest number of mosquitoes (57.6%), followed by HLC (39.1%) and clay pots (3.3%). Species composition included 52.4% of the Anopheles gambiae complex and 13.6% of the Anopheles funestus group. While species richness varied significantly between collection methods, with CO2-baited tents showing the highest richness, no significant differences were observed in abundance across sites or methods. The clay pot method was associated with significantly lower species abundance compared to HLC and CO2-baited tents. Species abundance fluctuated across months, with February and November showing a higher record. Males were less prevalent than females. Additionally, species abundance was lower in Block C and Vlakbult compared to Block A. CONCLUSIONS : This study highlights the importance of choosing appropriate mosquito collection methods based on specific entomological indicators and transmission dynamics. While CO2-baited tents provided the highest species richness, clay pots, despite yielding fewer mosquitoes, are effective for capturing outdoor resting malaria vectors. These findings suggest that a combination of collection methods is essential for inclusive malaria vector surveillance, facilitating tailored strategies for effective malaria control and resource optimization.
Anopheles arabiensis larval habitats characterization and Anopheles species diversity in water bodies from Jozini, KwaZulu-Natal Province
(BioMed Central, 2025-02) Marubini, Elliot; Musekiwa, Alfred; Maposa, Innocent; Mazarire, Theresa; Sekgele, Windy; Mabaso, Nondumiso; Dlamini, Dumsani; Mdose, Hetani; Kuonza, Lazarus R.; Munhenga, Givemore
BACKGROUND : The South African government is now implementing winter larviciding as a supplementary vector control tool. To achieve effective larviciding programme there is a need to understand the distribution of the breeding sites of vectors and their corresponding ecology. This study aimed to determine larval breeding sites of anophelines and characterize the physicochemical properties of water that promote the proliferation of Anopheles arabiensis immature stages. METHODS : A desktop survey of water bodies was carried out followed by a physical search of potential Anopheles breeding sites. Anopheline larvae were sampled from breeding sites in January and April 2021. At each breeding site, physicochemical characteristics of the water, including pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, salinity and turbidity, were measured. The collected Anopheles larvae were reared to adults and identified to genus and species level using morphological and molecular techniques. Factors associated with the presence of An. arabiensis larvae in the breeding sites were determined. RESULTS : Out of the 72 water bodies identified using desktop survey only 53% (n = 38/72) were identified through physical search. Of these 84% (n = 32/38) were positive for Anopheles larvae. A total of 598 Anopheles larvae were collected, of which 59.4% (n = 355/598) emerged into adults. Morphological identification of these adults, showed that the Anopheles gambiae complex accounted for 70% (n = 250/355) of the collections. From the 250 An. gambiae complex collected, 94% (235/250) were identified to species level by PCR and 6% (n = 15/250) failed to amplify. Of the 235 An. gambiae complex that were identified to species level, 62.5% (n = 147/235) were from January collections and 37.4% (n = 88/235) were from April collections. Molecular identification of the An. gambiae complex to species level showed predominance of An. arabiensis in April, 91% (n = 80/88). All physicochemical parameters differed significantly between the breeding site classes (p < 0.05 in all instances), except for electrical conductivity (p = 0.07). The aquatic habitats surveyed showed that the impermanency of the water bodies, neutral to alkaline pH, moderate salinity and low total dissolved solids were associated with the occurrence of An. arabiensis larvae. CONCLUSION : This study showed that An. arabiensis primarily breed in small temporary water bodies characterized by neutral pH.
Melt processing of cellulose acetate for controlled release applications - a review
(Wiley, 2025) Mphateng, Thabang N.; Mapossa, António Benjamim; Mokhena, Teboho; Ray, Suprakas Sinha; Sundararaj, Uttandaraman
Cellulose acetate (CA) has garnered considerable industrial and research interest due to its sustainable properties, such as biodegradability and biocompatibility. Despite these attractive properties, CA is difficult to process using traditional melt processing techniques. This is due to its high crystallinity and a glass transition temperature that exceeds the thermal degradation temperature. Therefore, different additives have been explored to overcome these issues. This review explores recent trends in the use of melt-processed CA materials for encapsulating and controlling the release of active compounds. It highlights the advancements made over the past decade in processing CA-based materials using thermoplastic techniques. Additionally, the review discusses the properties of these materials, including biodegradation, photodegradation, and solubility, which are important for delivering active agents. Finally, it provides an overview of the challenges and prospects for CA-based materials processed through thermoplastic processing methods.
Effect of cowpea lignocellulosic fibers as a low-value reinforcing filler on the properties of poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate) bio-composite foams
(Wiley, 2025-07) Masanabo, Mondli Abednicko; Keranen, Janne T.; Ray, Suprakas Sinha; Emmambux, Mohammad Naushad; naushad.emmambux@up.ac.za
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