Research Articles (Department of Library Services)

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Mapping evidence on the regulations affecting accessibility, availability and management of snake antivenom globally : a scoping review protocol
(BMJ Publishing Group, 2024-12) Majeed, Ramsha; Bester, Janette; Kgarosi, Kabelo; Strydom, Morné
INTRODUCTION: Snakebite envenomation has been declared a neglected tropical disease by the WHO since 2017. The disease is endemic in affected areas due to the lack of availability and access to antivenom, despite it being the standard treatment for snakebites. This challenge is perpetuated by the shortcomings of the regulatory systems and policies governing the management of antivenoms. This study aims to map the evidence about regulations of snake antivenom globally and identify gaps in the literature. This protocol provides an overview of the methodology and analysis which will be used to conduct the scoping review. METHOD AND ANALYSIS: The scoping review follows the guidelines from the Arksey and O’Malley framework for scoping reviews and will be reported using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. A search strategy was developed with assistance from a health sciences librarian, and the search was done using six relevant databases. The databases used are PubMed, SCOPUS, ProQuest Central, Africa Wide Web, Academic Search Output and Web of Science. Articles in the English language and between 2009 and 2023 were included. The search results were collated, duplicates were removed and results were exported to Rayyan (https://www.rayyan.ai/) for screening. The initial screening for titles and abstracts is currently in progress, and thereafter the second round of screening will be done for full texts. Data extraction will be done using Google Forms. The results of the review will be synthesised using quantitative and qualitative tools. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This review will provide guidance for studies investigating regulatory gaps globally and inform future policies governing antivenom management. Ethics approval for the complete postgraduate project was obtained from the University of Pretoria Research Ethics Committee. The review will be published in a scientific journal, and findings will also be disseminated using conference presentations. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This review has been registered on Open Science Framework (OSF): https://osf.io/54zja.
Effectiveness of a physiotherapy self-management programme for adult patients with chronic non-specific low back pain in low- and middle-income countries : protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
(BMJ Publishing Group, 2024-07) Motha, Sergant Given; Naidoo, Niri; Moyo-Chilufya, Maureen; Musekiwa, Alfred; Kgarosi, Kabelo; Mostert, Karien; u98201612@tuks.co.za
INTRODUCTION: Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP) is among the most common musculoskeletal system conditions reported worldwide; however, few studies are available from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Self-management is a set of tasks performed by the patient aiming at managing their symptoms and interference in activities, mood and relationships due to pain. A physiotherapy-guided self-management programme (SMP) following a biopsychosocial approach has been reported as effective and affordable in the management of CNLBP in high-income countries. The objective of this systematic review is to determine the overall effectiveness of SMPs for adults with CNLBP in LMICs. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: In this systematic review, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-Protocol (PRISMA-P) guidelines will be followed. A three-step search strategy will be used to search the electronic databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus, Scopus and CINAHL, Academic Search Complete and PEDro) for randomised controlled trials assessing the effectiveness of physiotherapy-guided self-management for CNLBP among adult participants in LMICs. The processes of screening search results for eligible studies, extracting data from included studies and appraising will be done independently by at least two review authors. Random effects meta-analysis will be used to synthesise results and heterogeneity will be assessed using the I2 test statistic and χ2 test. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethics clearance was obtained for the broader PhD study on the development of a physiotherapy-guided SMP for adult people with CNLBP in Limpopo Province, South Africa. The results of the manuscript for this protocol will be published in peer-reviewed journals and also presented at conferences, symposia, and congresses. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42023399572.
Evidence of community health workers’ delivery of physical rehabilitation services in sub-Saharan Africa : a scoping review
(BMJ Publishing Group, 2024-05) Mapulanga, Miriam; Kgarosi, Kabelo; Maluleke, Kuhlula; Hlongwa, Mbuzeleni; Dlungwane, Thembelihle
OBJECTIVES: To map the evidence and scope of physical rehabilitation services delivered by community health workers (CHWs) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). DESIGN: Scoping review DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Central and databases within the EBSCOhost platform. We also searched other literature sources including reference lists, conference presentations and organisational websites such as WHO, Ministries of Health and non-governmental organisations in SSA. ELIGIBILIY CRITERIA FPR SELECTION OF STUDIES: Articles presenting evidence on CHWs’ delivery of physical rehabilitation services in SSA from September 1978 to June 2023. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Screening was conducted by two reviewers and was guided by the inclusion criteria. Thematic content analysis of data was employed. The results are presented according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis extension for scoping reviews. RESULTS: A total of 6996 articles were identified through various databases, with only 20 studies qualifying for data extraction. Evidence was presented by Eritrea, Ethiopia, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, South Africa and Uganda. Assessments, case management, health education, community liaison with support, health systems linkage and administration were the CHWs’ scope of practice identified. The review identified home-based, community-based, community and facility-based, home and community-based and facility-based as modes of delivery. The barriers experienced are resources, societal and community attitudes, governance, geographical barriers and delivery capacity, while proximity to the community, positive job attitude and support with collaboration facilitated service delivery. CONCLUSION: Training and integrating CHWs in national health care systems, with careful selection of existing CHWs, would minimise the barriers faced.
Mobile-linked point-of-care diagnostics in community-based healthcare : a scoping review of user experiences
(BioMed Central Ltd, 2024-08) Nxele, Siphesihle R.; Moetlhoa, Boitumelo; Dlangalala, Thobeka Nomzamo; Maluleke, Kuhlula; Kgarosi, Kabelo; Theberge, Ashleigh B.; Mashamba‑Thompson, Tivani Phosa; nxele@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND: While mobile-linked point-of-care diagnostics may circumvent geographical and temporal barriers to efficient communication, the use of such technology in community settings will depend on user experience. We conducted a scoping review to systematically map evidence on user experiences of mobile-linked point-of-care diagnostics in community healthcare settings published from the year 2016 up to the year 2022. METHODOLOGY: We conducted a comprehensive search of the following electronic databases: Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCOhost (Medline, CINAHL, Africa-wide, Academic Search Complete). The inter-reviewer agreement was determined using Cohen’s kappa statistic. Data quality was appraised using the mixed method appraisal tool version 2018, and the results were reported according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). RESULTS: Following the abstract and full article screening, nine articles were found eligible for inclusion in data extraction. Following the quality appraisal, one study scored 72.5%, one study scored 95%, and the remaining seven studies scored 100%. Inter-rater agreement was 83.54% (Kappa statistic=0.51, p<0.05). Three themes emerged from the articles: approaches to implementing mobile-linked point-of-care diagnostics, user engagement in community based healthcare settings, and limited user experiences in mobile-linked point-of-care diagnostics. User experiences are key to the sustainable implementation of mobile-linked point-of-care diagnostics. User experiences have been evaluated in small community healthcare settings. There is limited evidence of research aimed at evaluating the usability of mobile-linked diagnostics at the community level. CONCLUSION: More studies are needed to assess the user experience of mobile-linked diagnostics in larger communities. This scoping review revealed gaps that need to be addressed to improve user experiences of mobile linked diagnostics, including language barriers, privacy issues, and clear instructions.
A scoping review protocol on integration of mobile-linked POC diagnostics in community-based healthcare : user experience
(Public Library of Science, 2023-02-08) Nxele, Siphesihle R.; Moetlhoa, Boitumelo; Kgarosi, Kabelo; Mashamba‑Thompson, Tivani Phosa; sr.nxele@up.ac.za
Background Mobile-linked point-of-care diagnostics forms an integral part of diagnostic health services for efficient communication between patients and healthcare professionals despite geographical location and time of diagnosis. The efficiency of this technology lies in the user experience which means that the interaction of the user with the implemented technology needs to be simple, convenient, and consistent. Having a well-structured user experience of these devices in community-based healthcare will aid in sustainable implementation. Herein, we propose to conduct a literature search to systematically map out evidence based on mobilelinked POC diagnostics user experience at a community level in resource-limited settings. Methodology The proposed scoping review will be guided by the advanced Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework and further advanced by Levac et al. A comprehensive search will be conducted to find relevant published literature from the following electronic databases: Scopus, Web of Science, EBSCOhost (Medline, CINAHL, Africa-wide, Academic Search Complete). Grey literature will also be searched, including reports from government and international organizations such as World Health Organization (WHO), Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Two independent reviewers will screen the relevant studies and the degree of the agreement will be determined by calculating Cohen’s kappa statistic. The quality of eligible data will also be appraised using the mixed method appraisal tool version 2018. Discussion We anticipate that the planned scoping review will present useful evidence to inform stakeholders on the integration of mobile-linked diagnostic devices in community-based healthcare which will guide further research on the subject.
Experiences and perspectives regarding human papillomavirus self-sampling in sub-Saharan Africa : a systematic review of qualitative evidence
(Elsevier, 2024-06) Dzobo, Mathias; Dzinamarira, Tafadzwa; Jaya, Ziningi Nobuhle; Kgarosi, Kabelo; Mashamba‑Thompson, Tivani Phosa; u22002279@tuks.co.za
INTRODUCTION : Cervical cancer screening coverage remains low in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) due to limited access and low uptake of available services by women. The use of HPV-based self-sampling intervention for cervical cancer screening has the potential to increase screening coverage in the region. This study aimed to analyse qualitative evidence on the experiences and perspectives of women, healthcare workers, and policymakers regarding HPV self-sampling. METHODS : We reviewed qualitative studies from January 2011 to March 2023 in PubMed, Scopus, Medline Ovid, Cochrane, and WEB of Science databases for articles with qualitative data on HPV self-sampling from different countries in SSA. The socio-ecological model was used to guide data analysis and the study findings. RESULTS : Thirteen qualitative studies were included for analysis, and they revealed themes under the intrapersonal, interpersonal, community, and health systems constructs of the Socio-ecological model. Intrapersonal themes included the acceptability of self-sampling, self-efficacy, and the perceived value of self-sampling. The interpersonal construct had themes such as women's spousal relationships, peer support, and the health worker's relationship with the women. The community construct had two themes: social stigma and misinformation, and the influence of cultural norms and religion. Finally, the health systems construct had themes such as the setting for self-sampling, follow-up availability of treatment services and education and awareness. CONCLUSION : This study highlights the factors influencing the acceptability and uptake of an HPV-based self-sampling intervention for cervical cancer screening in SSA. Considering these findings when designing interventions in SSA is crucial to ensure acceptance and demand among end-users. Self-sampling interventions offer the potential to reach many unscreened women and increase cervical cancer screening coverage in SSA, which is an essential strategy towards achieving the World Health Organisation's cervical cancer elimination targets by the close of the century.
Linking faculty research output and activities to sustainable development goals : opportunities for metadata specialists
(Emerald, 2024-08) Nel, Marguerite; Makhera, Pfano; Moreana, Mabjala; Maritz, Marinda; marguerite.nel@up.ac.za
PURPOSE : Although universities have extensive research and initiatives in place that align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), there is still a significant gap in documenting and assessing these efforts. This paper aims to discuss how academic libraries can apply their information management skills and open-access platforms, to facilitate the discoverability and retrieval of evidence on SDGs. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH : Introduced by a brief literature review on the role of libraries in contributing to the SDGs in general, the authors draw on their personal experiences as metadata specialists, participating in a project aimed at linking their university’s research output to the SDGs. A case study, from the University of Pretoria’s Veterinary Science Library, is used as an example to demonstrate the benefits of resourceful metadata in organising, communicating and raising awareness about the SDGs in the field of veterinary science. FINDINGS : Through practical examples and recommended workflows, this paper illustrates that metadata specialists are perfectly positioned to apply their information management skills and library platforms to facilitate the discoverability and retrieval of evidence on SDGs. ORIGINALITY/VALUE : Although there are increasing reports on the contributions of libraries to support the successful implementation of the SDGs, limited information exists on the role of metadata specialists, as well as those with a practical focus.
Melasma in people with darker skin types : a scoping review protocol on prevalence, treatment options for melasma and impact on quality of life
(BMC, 2023-08-10) Mpofana, Nomakhosi; Chibi, Buyisile; Gqaleni, Nceba; Hussein, Ahmed; Finlayson, Avenal Jane; Kgarosi, Kabelo; Dlova, Ncoza Cordelia
BACKGROUND : Melasma is one of the most encountered dermatoses in dermatology and skin care clinics. It is a challenging chronic, recurrent condition associated with hyperpigmentation. Its aetiology is poorly understood. Melasma affects all races and gender but is more prevalent in women with darker skin types. Being a facial lesion, melasma has a severe impact on quality of life due to its disfigurement. While many modalities of treatment for melasma exists, unfortunately, effectiveness and safety remain a huge concern. Treatment modalities are variable and often unsatisfactory. The objective of this scoping review is to systemically map available evidence from literature regarding melasma on people with darker skin types, garner insight as to how melasma affects the quality of life and begin to investigate and gain understanding on effectiveness of different treatments used for melasma. METHODS : A scoping review guided by Arksey and O’Malley’s framework, the enhancements and recommendations of Levac, Colquhoun and O’Brien, Daudt and associates and the 2015 Johanna Briggs Institute’s guidelines will be conducted. Systematic electronic searches of databases and search engines will include Scopus, PubMed, CINAHL Complete, Cochrane, Science Direct, and Web of Science which will be conducted to attain published peer reviewed articles of all study designs excluding reviews and grey literature. All literature that meets the inclusion criteria, research question and sub-question will be included in this review. All the retrieved literature will be exported to an Endnote X20 library. Quality appraisal of the included articles will be conducted using the mixed methods appraisal tool (MMAT) 2018 version. DISCUSSION : We anticipate mapping relevant literature on the melasma, investigating the effectiveness of treatment options of melasma as well as evaluating its association with quality of life in people with darker skin types. This study is likely to reveal research gaps, which could guide future implementation research on melasma treatment interventions. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION : This protocol has been registered a priori with OSF and is accessible on this link: https:// osf. io/ ru3jc/.
Checklists for interpreting chest radiographs : a scoping review
(Elsevier, 2023-12) Sethole, Khethiwe Margaret; Mshunqane, Nombeko; Maluleke, Kuhlula; Kekana, Mable; Mbonambi, Linda; margaret.sethole@up.ac.za
INTRODUCTION : Checklists reduce time to comprehensive radiographic reports, improve quality and consistency of abnormality detection on chest radiographs. AIM : The aim of this review was to examine and survey the scope of published research on checklists for the interpretation of chest radiographs. METHOD : We conducted a search of CINAHL, Scopus, Medline Ovid, Web of Science, ProQuest, and gray literature using search terms: chest radiographs, checklist, and image interpretation. Data were extracted from 16 articles. Data was analyzed numerically and thematically. RESULTS : The selected studies were conducted in the United States (37.5%), the United Kingdom (25%), Australia (12%), South Africa (12%), Turkey (6%), and Israel (6%). The codes were grouped into five categories related to the use of checklists, in chest interpretation. CONCLUSION : In the selected studies, reports showed that there was no checklist for chest interpretation in South Africa and no evidence supporting checklists as an interprofessional communication tool for chest interpretation. The authors of this study recommended a chest interpretation checklist should be developed for use by health care professionals practicing in resource-limited settings where radiologists are not on site.
A systematic review of the mental health risks and resilience among pollution-exposed adolescents
(Elsevier, 2022-02) Theron, Linda C.; Abreu-Villaca, Yael; Augusto-Oliveira, Marcus; Brennan, Caroline; Crespo-Lopez, Maria Elena; Arrifano, Gabriela de Paula; Glazer, Lilah; Gwata, Netsai; Lin, Liyuan; Mareschal, Isabelle; Mermelstein, Shiri; Sartori, Luke; Stieger, Liesl; Trotta, Andres; Hadfield, Kristin; linda.theron@up.ac.za
Pollution is harmful to human physical health and wellbeing. What is less well established is the relationship between adolescent mental health – a growing public health concern – and pollution. In response, we systematically reviewed studies documenting associations between pollution and mental health in adolescents. We searched Africa Wide, Medline, PsycArticles, PsycInfo, PubMed, CINAHL, ERIC, SciELO, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection for studies published up to 10 April 2020 that investigated exposure to any pollutant and symptoms of anxiety; depression; disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders; neurodevelopmental disorders; psychosis; or substance abuse in 10–24-year-olds (i.e., adolescents as per expanded and more inclusive definition of adolescence). This identified 2291 records and we assessed 128 papers for inclusion. We used a narrative synthesis to coalesce the studies’ findings. This review is registered on PROSPERO, CRD42020176664. Seventeen studies from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America were included. Air and water pollution exposure was associated with elevated symptoms of depression, generalised anxiety, psychosis, and/or disruptive, impulse control and conduct disorder. Exposure to lead and solvents was associated with neurodevelopmental impairments. Most studies neglected factors that could have supported the mental health resilience of adolescents exposed to pollution. Notwithstanding the limited quality of most reviewed studies, results suggest that pollution exposure is a risk to adolescent mental health. High-quality research is urgently required, including the factors and processes that protect the mental health of pollution-exposed adolescents. Studies with adolescents living in low- and lower middle-income countries and the southern hemisphere must be prioritized.
Mapping evidence of self-sampling to diagnose sexually transmitted infections in women : a scoping review
(MDPI, 2022-07-26) Jaya, Ziningi Nobuhle; Mapanga, Witness; Van Niekerk, Brian; Dlangalala, Thobeka Nomzamo; Kgarosi, Kabelo; Dzobo, Mathias; Mulqueeny, Delarise; Mashamba‑Thompson, Tivani Phosa; tivani.mashamba-thompson@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major global healthcare burden, disproportionately affecting women. Self-sampling interventions for diagnostic purposes have the potential to improve STI healthcare management and expand STI services. However, there is currently no published evidence of the global use of self-sampling interventions to diagnose STIs in women. The main aim of this scoping review was to map evidence on the use of self-sampling interventions to diagnose STIs in women. METHODOLOGY : The methodology of this scoping review was guided by Arksey and O’Malley and Levac. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Medline (EBSCO), ProQuest, and Cochrane. For grey literature, a search was conducted in Open Grey, World Health Organization, Google, and conference proceedings and dissertations. All search results were screened and assessed for eligibility. Thereafter data from eligible studies was extracted and analysed. The quality of these studies was appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool 2018 version. RESULTS : A total of 770 articles were retrieved from databases and grey literature sources. A total of 44 studies were eligible for data extraction following title, abstract and full-text screening. Of the included studies, 63% presented evidence of research conducted in high-income countries and 37% presented evidence in low- and middle-income countries. Studies presented evidence on the following: feasibility of self-sampling in remote areas; acceptance and ease of use of self-sampling interventions; types of self-sampled specimens; pooled samples for diagnosing STIs; laboratory diagnostic assays for STI using self-sampled specimens; and self-testing of self-sampled specimens. CONCLUSIONS : Self-sampling interventions are feasible and easy to use and, therefore, can improve STI management and treatment in women across various age groups and various access levels to good-quality healthcare. Despite this, there is a lack of evidence of self-sampling interventions designed according to user preferences. We recommend studies to collaborate with women to co-develop user-friendly self-sampling interventions to diagnose STIs in women.
Mapping evidence on the burden of breast, cervical, and prostate cancers in Sub-Saharan Africa : a scoping review
(Frontiers Media S.A., 2022-06-16) Musekiwa, Alfred; Moyo, Maureen; Mohammed, Mohanad; Matsena-Zingoni, Zvifadzo; Twabi, Halima Sumayya; Batidzira, Jesca Mercy; Singini, Geoffrey Chiyuzga; Kgarosi, Kabelo; Mchunu, Nobuhle; Nevhungoni, Portia; Silinda, Patricia; Ekwomadu, Theodora; Maposa, Innocent; alfred.musekiwa@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : Cancer remains a major public health problem, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) where the provision of health care is poor. This scoping review mapped evidence in the literature regarding the burden of cervical, breast and prostate cancers in SSA. METHODS : We conducted this scoping review using the Arksey and O’Malley framework, with five steps: identifying the research question; searching for relevant studies; selecting studies; charting the data; and collating, summarizing, and reporting the data. We performed all the steps independently and resolved disagreements through discussion. We used Endnote software to manage references and the Rayyan software to screen studies. RESULTS : We found 138 studies that met our inclusion criteria from 2,751 studies identified through the electronic databases. The majority were retrospective studies of mostly registries and patient files (n = 77, 55.8%), followed by cross-sectional studies (n = 51, 36.9%). We included studies published from 1990 to 2021, with a sharp increase from 2010 to 2021. The quality of studies was overall satisfactory. Most studies were done in South Africa (n = 20) and Nigeria (n = 17). The majority were on cervical cancer (n = 93, 67.4%), followed by breast cancer (67, 48.6%) and the least were on prostate cancer (48, 34.8%). Concerning the burden of cancer, most reported prevalence and incidence. We also found a few studies investigating mortality, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and years of life lost (YLL). CONCLUSIONS : We found many retrospective record review cross-sectional studies, mainly in South Africa and Nigeria, reporting the prevalence and incidence of cervical, breast and prostate cancer in SSA. There were a few systematic and scoping reviews. There is a scarcity of cervical, breast and prostate cancer burden studies in several SSA countries. The findings in this study can inform policy on improving the public health systems and therefore reduce cancer incidence and mortality in SSA.
A scoping review of supply chain management systems for point of care diagnostic services : optimising COVID-19 testing capacity in resource-limited settings
(MDPI, 2021-12-08) Maluleke, Kuhlula; Musekiwa, Alfred; Kgarosi, Kabelo; Gregor, Emily Mac; Dlangalala, Thobeka Nomzamo; Nkambule, Sphamandla; Mashamba‑Thompson, Tivani Phosa; u15266304@tuks.co.za
BACKGROUND : Point of care (POC) testing has enabled rapid coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) diagnosis in resource-limited settings with limited laboratory infrastructure and high disease burden. However, the accessibility of the tests is not optimal in these settings. This scoping review mapped evidence on supply chain management (SCM) systems for POC diagnostic services to reveal evidence that can help guide future research and inform the improved implementation of SARS-CoV-2 POC diagnostics in resource-limited settings. METHODOLOGY : This scoping review was guided by an adapted version of the Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework. We searched the following electronic databases: Medline Ovid, Medline EBSCO, Scopus, PubMed, PsychInfo, Web of Science and EBSCOHost. We also searched grey literature in the form of dissertations/theses, conference proceedings, websites of international organisations such as the World Health Organisation and government reports. A search summary table was used to test the efficacy of the search strategy. The quality of the included studies was appraised using the mixed method appraisal tool (MMAT) version 2018. RESULTS : We retrieved 1206 articles (databases n = 1192, grey literature n = 14). Of these, 31 articles were included following abstract and full-text screening. Fifteen were primary studies conducted in LMICs, and 16 were reviews. The following themes emerged from the included articles: availability and accessibility of POC diagnostic services; reasons for stockouts of POC diagnostic tests (procurement, storage, distribution, inventory management and quality assurance) and human resources capacity in POC diagnostic services. Of the 31 eligible articles, 15 underwent methodological quality appraisal with scores between 90% and 100%. CONCLUSIONS : Our findings revealed limited published research on SCM systems for POC diagnostic services globally. We recommend primary studies aimed at investigating the barriers and enablers of SCMsystems for POC diagnostic services for highly infectious pathogens such SARS-CoV-2 in high disease-burdened settings with limited laboratory infrastructures.
Evidence of TB services at primary healthcare level during COVID-19 : a scoping review
(MDPI, 2021-11-27) Dlangalala, Thobeka Nomzamo; Musekiwa, Alfred; Brits, Alecia; Maluleke, Kuhlula; Jaya, Ziningi Nobuhle; Kgarosi, Kabelo; Mashamba‑Thompson, Tivani Phosa; u1025120@tuks.co.za
Tuberculosis (TB) is still a major public health concern, despite the availability of preventative and curative therapies. Significant progress has been made in the past decade towards its control. However, the emergence of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has disrupted numerous essential health services, including those for TB. This scoping review maps the available evidence on TB services at the primary healthcare (PHC) level during the COVID-19 period. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed,Web of Science, Medline OVID, Medline EBSCO, and Scopus. A total of 820 articles were retrieved from the databases and 21 met the eligibility criteria and were used for data extraction. The emerging themes were the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on TB services, patient and provider experiences, recommendations for TB services during the COVID-19 period, and the implementation of the recommendations. The review found that the mitigation strategies, as well as fear and stigma experienced at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic may have led to TB cases potentially going undetected, which may threaten TB treatment outcomes. Therefore, efforts must be directed at finding these missing cases and ensuring that PHC facilities are equipped to adequately diagnose and treat them.
Human papillomavirus self-sampling for cervical cancer screening among women in sub-Saharan Africa : a scoping review protocol
(BMJ Publishing Group, 2022-05) Dzobo, Mathias; Dzinamarira, Tafadzwa; Kgarosi, Kabelo; Mashamba‑Thompson, Tivani Phosa
INTRODUCTION: Evidence shows that women in sub-Saharan Africa have high rates of cervical cancer (CC) mortality compared with women in high-income countries. Effective screening programs have significantly reduced the burden of CC in high-income countries. Self-sampling for human papillomavirus testing (HPVSS) has been reported to increase the participation and engagement of women in CC screening. Before HPVSS can be introduced for CC screening there is a need to establish its acceptability among end-users to ensure the increase in CC screening rates. Here, we outline a protocol for a scoping review aimed at mapping literature on the use and acceptability of HPVSS for screening CC in sub-Saharan Africa to reveal gaps to guide future research and practice. METHOD: The scoping review protocol was developed according to Arksey and O'Malley and Levac et al, and guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews. We will search Scopus, PubMed, Medline Ovid, Cochrane and Web of Science databases for evidence on the use and acceptability of HPVSS published between January 2011 and July 2021. We will also search grey literature in the form of dissertations/theses, conference proceedings, websites of international organisations such as the WHO, and relevant government reports reporting evidence on HPVSS programmes for screening CC among women in sub-Saharan Africa. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: No ethical approval is needed for the study as it will not include animals or human participants. The results of the proposed scoping review will be disseminated electronically in peer-reviewed journals, in print and through conference presentations.
Roles, barriers, and recommendations for community health workers providing community-based HIV care in Sub-Saharan Africa : a review
(Mary Ann Liebert, 2022-04) Ngcobo, Sanele; Scheepers, Susan; Mbatha, Nothando; Grobler, Estelle; Rossouw, Theresa M.; sanele.ngcobo@up.ac.za
While the impact of Community Health Workers (CHWs) on home-based human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care has been documented, barriers and recommendations have not been systematically reviewed. Following the reporting requirements of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we used an aggregative narrative synthesis approach to summarize the results of qualitative studies published between January 1, 2000, and November 6, 2020 in the following databases: PubMed, CINAHL, PsychINFO, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. In total, 17 studies met the selection criteria and were included in the analysis. They reported on a range of roles played by CHWs in HIV care, including education and health promotion; HIV-specific care (HIV testing services; screening for opportunistic infections and acute illness); medication delivery; tracing persons who had defaulted from care; and support (treatment support; referral; home-based care; and psychosocial support). Many different barriers to community-based HIV care were reported and centered on the following themes: Stigma and nondisclosure; inadequate support (lack of resources, inadequate training, inadequate funding, and inadequate monitoring); and health system challenges (patients' preference for more frequent visits and poor integration of CHWs in the wider health care system). Recommendations to mitigate these barriers included: addressing HIV-related stigma; introducing updated and relevant CHW training; strengthening the supervision of CHWs; coordinating care between the home and facilities; incorporating patient-centered mHealth approaches; and committing to the funding and resources needed for successful community-based care. In summary, CHWs are providing a variety of important community-based HIV services but face challenges with regards to training, resources, and supervision.
Effects of pollution on adolescent mental health : a systematic review protocol
(Springer, 2021-03) Theron, Linda C.; Abreu-Villaça, Yael; Augusto-Oliveira, Marcus; Brennan, Caroline H.; Crespo-Lopez, Maria Elena; De Paula Arrifano, Gabriela; Glazer, Lilah; Lin, Liyuan; Mareschal, Isabelle; Sartori, Luke; Stieger, Liesl; Trotta, Andres; Hadfield, Kristin; linda.theron@up.ac.za; linda.theron@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : Whilst there is little uncertainty about the deleterious impact of pollution on human and planetary health, pollution’s impact on adolescent mental health is less well understood. This is particularly true for young people in underdeveloped and developing world contexts, about whom research is generally lacking. Furthermore, although adolescent resilience continues to be a research priority, little attention has been paid to adolescent pathways of resilience in the face or aftermath of pollution exposure. The objective of this study will be to examine the associations between pollution and mental health in 10- to 24-year-olds (i.e. adolescents). METHODS : We designed and registered a study protocol for a systematic review of studies which link pollution and mental health in adolescents. We will include observational studies (e.g. cohort, case-control, time series analyses) that assess the associations between exposure to any form of pollution and the mental health of 10- to 24-year-olds. The primary outcome will be symptoms associated with neurodevelopmental disorders; disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders; depressive disorders; anxiety disorders; substance disorders; and schizophrenia. No secondary outcomes will be considered. Literature searches will be conducted in multiple electronic databases (from inception onwards), including PubMed, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, SciELO, ERIC, and Africa-Wide. Two investigators will independently screen all citations, full-text articles, and abstract data. The methodological quality (or bias) of included studies will be appraised using appropriate tools. We will provide a narrative synthesis of the evidence. DISCUSSION : This systematic review will evaluate the evidence on the associations between pollution and the mental health of 10- to 24-year-olds. Our findings will be of potential interest to multiple audiences (including adolescent patients/clients, their families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, scientists, and policy makers) and could be used to develop prevention and intervention strategies as well as focus future research. Results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.
Maintaining student engagement : the digital shift during the coronavirus pandemic a case of the library at the University of Pretoria
(Routledge, 2021) Matizirofa, Lazarus; Soyizwapi, Lindiwe; Siwela, Anna; Khosie, Modisa; lazarus.matizirofa@up.ac.za
The South African Higher Education Institution (HEI) sector had to move to ‘emergency’ online learning during the covid-19 pandemic, and they embraced a humanistic approach underpinned by the need to complete the academic year in 2020 and support all students. Because this emergency online learning accelerated the digital shift, evidence of pre-existing disparities and inequalities have been magnified, such as the digital divide, infrastructure, connectivity, access to data, digital literacies, vastly different learning environments, software and hardware tools, and others. The Department of Library Services (DLS) is aligned to the University of Pretoria’s shift to online learning and to reimaging its service offerings and innovation readiness. It deliberately adopted a responsive engagement strategy for students, staff, senior management and service providers. Therefore, the DLS now offers a mix of services and programmes, with more reliance on virtual services to support and sustain the academic agenda. This paper provides real-life case study experiences of student engagement during the covid-19 pandemic, with reference to the relevant student engagement with literature. It also reflects on how the DLS previously applied attributes of service innovation, such as ‘employing’ a client-service robot at an HEI library in Africa, this being in keeping with the UP’s innovation culture.
Epidemiology of injury and illness among trail runners : a systematic review
(Springer, 2021-05) Viljoen, Carel Thomas; Janse van Rensburg, Dina Christina; Verhagen, Evert; Van Mechelen, Willem; Tomas, Rita; Schoeman, Marlene; Scheepers, Susan; Korkie, Elzette; carel.viljoen@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : Trail running is characterised by large elevation gains/losses and uneven varying running surfaces. Limited information is available on injury and illness among trail runners to help guide injury and illness prevention strategies. OBJECTIVE : The primary aim of this review was to describe the epidemiology of injury and illness among trail runners. METHODS : Eight electronic databases were systematically searched (MEDLINE Ovid, PubMed, Scopus, SportsDiscus, CINAHL, Health Source: Nursing/Academic, Health Source: Consumer Ed., and Cochrane) from inception to November 2020. The search was conducted according to the PRISMA statement and the study was registered on PROSPERO international prospective register of systematic reviews (CRD42019135933). Full-text English and French studies that investigated injury and/or illness among trail runners participating in training/racing were included. The main outcome measurements included: trail running injury (incidence, prevalence, anatomical site, tissue type, pathology-type/specific diagnosis, severity), and illness (incidence, prevalence, symptoms, specific diagnosis, organ system, severity). The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using an adapted Downs and Black assessment tool. RESULTS : Sixteen studies with 8644 participants were included. Thirteen studies investigated race-related injury and/or illness and three studies included training-related injuries. The overall incidence range was 1.6–4285.0 injuries per 1000 h of running and 65.0–6676.6 illnesses per 1000 h of running. The foot was the most common anatomical site of trail running injury followed by the knee, lower leg, thigh, and ankle. Skin lacerations/abrasions were the most common injury diagnoses followed by skin blisters, muscle strains, muscle cramping, and ligament sprains. The most common trail running illnesses reported related to the gastro-intestinal tract (GIT), followed by the metabolic, and cardiovascular systems. Symptoms of nausea and vomiting related to GIT distress and dehydration were commonly reported. CONCLUSION : Current trail running literature consists mainly of injury and illness outcomes specifically in relation to single-day race participation events. Limited evidence is available on training-related injury and illness in trail running. Our review showed that injury and illness are common among trail runners, but certain studies included in this review only focused on dermatological injuries (e.g. large number of feet blisters) and GIT symptoms. Specific areas for future research were identified that could improve the management of trail running injury and illness.
Identifying and implementing relevant research data management services for the library at the University of Dodoma, Tanzania
(Ubiquity Press, 2020-01-03) Mushi, Gilbert Exaud; Pienaar, Heila; Van Deventer, Martha Johanna
Research Data Management (RDM) services are increasingly becoming a subject of interest for academic and research libraries globally – this is also the case in developing countries. The interest is motivated by a need to support research activities through data sharing and collaboration both locally and internationally. Many institutions, especially in the developed countries, have implemented RDM services to accelerate research and innovation through e-Research but extensive RDM is not so common in developing countries. In reality many African universities and research institutions are yet to implement the most basic of data management services. We believe that the absence of political will and national government mandates on data management often hold back the development and implementation of RDM services. Similarly, research funding agencies are not yet applying sufficient pressure to ensure that Africa complies with the requirement to deposit research data in trusted repositories. While the context was acknowledged the University of Dodoma library staff realized that it is urgent to prepare for the inevitable – the time when RDM will be a requirement for research funding support. This paper presents the results of research conducted at the University of Dodoma, Tanzania. The purpose of the research was to identify and report on relevant RDM services that need to be implemented so that researchers and university management could collaborate and make our research data accessible to the international community. This paper presents findings on important issues for consideration when planning to develop and implement RDM services at a developing country academic institution. The paper also mentions the requirements for the sustainability of these initiatives.

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