Research Articles (University of Pretoria)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/121

This collection offers open access to the full text of research articles published by staff, students and affiliates of the University of Pretoria. These items are identical in content to their published counterparts. It is linked to the Research Information System and complements the Annual Research Report.

Access to the full text of UP theses and dissertations is available at UP Electronic Theses and Dissertations.

Information and guidelines for authors/ submitters available at http://www.ais.up.ac.za/openup/index.htm.

For inquiries regarding this collection or items in the collection, please contact : Hendriette Jansen van Vuuren
Tel.: +27 12 420 4712

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 39817

Growth analysis of pearl millet genotypes grown under different management practices
(MDPI, 2025-03) Ausiku, Petrus Ausiku; Annandale, John George; Steyn, Martin Joachim; Sanewe, Andrew; u14431786@tuks.co.za
Pearl millet is a cereal crop vital for food security in Africa and Asia. It is widely adapted for dual-purpose production, providing grain for human consumption and fodder for livestock, particularly during dry seasons. This study aimed to evaluate three dual-purpose pearl millet genotypes from Namibia and South Africa while exploring prospects for future production practices. Growth analysis is essential for quantitatively assessing crop growth, development, and production. A growth analysis study was conducted by collecting and evaluating weather data, water use efficiency, and crop growth parameters that are valuable for modelling, allowing for observing and quantifying strengths and weaknesses between varieties for food and fodder or as dual-purpose varieties. The analysis focused on water use, plant height, fractional radiation interception, panicle number, tiller number, flowering date, stem diameter, panicle length, dry matter distribution, harvest index, grain yield, and panicle diameter, under well-watered, supplementary irrigation, and rainfed conditions. The landrace achieved a higher yield under well-watered conditions than the hybrid and improved varieties. The hybrid pearl millet produced a greater fodder yield than the improved short variety in well-watered and water-limited treatments. The improved variety suits grain production, whereas the landrace and hybrid are more suitable for dual-purpose production. The landrace performed well in rainfed and irrigated situations across the three seasons. The landrace (Kantana) recorded the highest grain yield (1.01 kg m−2), followed by the hybrid (Agrigreen) (0.97 kg m−2), while the improved variety (Kangara) had the lowest grain yield (0.74 kg m−2).
Role of exposure in adoption and intensity of tree planting practices among smallholder households in Rwanda
(Springer, 2025-05) Kegode, Hilda; Jourdain, Damien; Woldeyohanes, Tesfaye; Hughes, Karl; Karuaihe, Selma Tuemumunu; u20487623@tuks.co.za
Agroforestry, widely promoted across Sub-Saharan Africa to restore degraded landscapes and improve livelihoods, has the potential to positively impact Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), specifically SDG15 (life on land) and contribute towards the achievement of SDG2 (food security) and other SDGs. However, despite substantial investment in agroforestry programs, evidence of program effectiveness in enhancing adoption is inadequate. This paper employed the augmented inverse probability weighting method to analyze the impact of exposure to agroforestry practices on the adoption and intensity of tree planting using panel household data from Eastern Rwanda. The findings show that exposure increased the probability of adoption by 7% (p = 0.03). A higher probability of adoption (15%, p = 0.01) was observed in households that were exposed both before and after the baseline period, suggesting cumulative effects of exposure over time. Exposure modestly enhanced the diversity of trees and the number of trees in cropping fields, but farmers tended to adopt more exotic than indigenous species. A higher probability of adoption and higher tree numbers were observed when male household members were exposed, and seedling provision enhanced tree numbers and species among adopters. Our findings underscore the need for continuous engagement of farmers and targeted gender-sensitive interventions. We also recommend a more structured approach to training and information dissemination, and a focus seedling availability and a suitable policy environment.
Sustainable food systems through livestock–pasture integration
(MDPI, 2025-05) Rapiya, Monde; Mndela, Mthunzi; Ramoelo, Abel
The world’s population is projected to rise significantly, which poses challenges for global food security due to increased demand for food, especially from livestock products. As incomes grow in lower-income countries, there is a shift towards more diverse diets that include meat and dairy, stressing our agricultural systems. Livestock plays a crucial role in food production, contributing about 16% of dietary energy, and effective pasture management is vital for enhancing livestock productivity. This review explores how integrating pasture and livestock management can create sustainable food systems and improve nutrition and livelihoods. It assesses the economic viability of pasture-based livestock systems and examines how climate change affects both pasture productivity and livestock performance. The review also identifies innovative practices, such as improved grazing management and technological advancements, that can improve pasture health and livestock output. The findings underscore the importance of well-managed pastures, which can restore degraded lands, improve animal welfare, and support food security. It also highlights that adaptation strategies are necessary to address the challenges posed by climate change, ensuring that livestock systems remain sustainable. By focusing on innovative practices and better management, we can meet the growing demand for animal products while preserving ecosystems and promoting economic stability. Overall, this review emphasizes the need for a holistic understanding of how livestock and pasture management can work together to enhance food security in a changing world.
Empowering a Limpopo rural community to integrate Ubuntu in caring for PLWHIV/AIDS or TB
(AOISIS, 2024-12-03) Ramavhoya, Irene Thifhelimbilu; Kgatla, Nancy Mamoeng; Rasweswe, Melitah Molatelo; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; mavis.mulaudzi@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : Globally, few studies were conducted mostly in Africa on Ubuntu and human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS). These studies did not incorporate empowering communities on integrating Ubuntu HIV/AIDS or tuberculosis (TB). As such, this study used empowerment as a tool to raise awareness in the community about how they can integrate Ubuntu when caring for people living with HIV (PLWHIV)/AIDS or TB. OBJECTIVES : This study aimed to empower community members to use Ubuntu philosophy when caring for PLWHIV/AIDS or TB in the rural community of Limpopo province. METHOD : An integrative qualitative research design was used in which data were collected through a workshop with participants. The population was unemployed matriculants, traditional health professionals and community healthcare workers who were purposefully sampled and divided into eight groups. Data were collected through a focus group discussion and analysed using content analysis. Ethical considerations and measures to ensure trustworthiness were followed. RESULTS : Integrating Ubuntu philosophy can reduce stigma, discrimination and lack of disclosure. This might be achieved through humanity, attitude changing and formation of a support group. CONCLUSION : The principles of Ubuntu (caring, sharing, support, humility, attitude change) came up strongly in preventing stigma and discrimination in the care of PLWHIV/AIDS or TB. Contribution: Community empowerment and integration of Ubuntu philosophical values might have a positive impact on improving the social status of PLWHIV or TB, their families and the community at large.
Antimicrobial resistance profile of Pseudomonas aeruginosa clinical isolates from healthcare-associated infections in Ethiopia : a systematic review and meta-analysis
(Public Library of Science, 2024-08-13) Asmare, Zelalem; Reta, Melese Abate; Gashaw, Yalewayker; Sisay, Assefa; Gashaw, Muluken; Tamrat, Ephrem; Abebe, Wagaw; Misganaw, Tadesse; Ashagre, Agenagnew; Dejazmach, Zelalem; Kumie, Getinet; Nigatie, Marye; Ayana, Sisay; Jemal, Abdu; Gedfie, Solomon; Kassahun, Woldeteklehaymanot; Kassa, Mulat Awoke; Tadesse, Selamyhun; Abate, Biruk Beletew
BACKGROUND : Antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacterial infection is a significant global threat to the healthcare systems. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the leading infectious agent in the healthcare setting is now one of the major threats due to AMR. A comprehensive understanding of the magnitude of AMR, particularly highly public health important pathogens such as P. aeruginosa, is necessary for the management of infections based on local information. OBJECTIVE : This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the country-wide AMR of P. aeruginosa. METHODS : Systematic searches were performed to retrieve articles from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect electronic databases, Google Scholar search engine, and repository registrars from 2015 to 31st December 2023. Twenty-three studies that provided important data on AMR in P. aeruginosa were systematically reviewed and analyzed to determine the country-wide magnitude of P. aeruginosa AMR profile from healthcare-associated infections. AMR of P. aeruginosa to 10 different antibiotics were extracted separately into Microsoft Excel and analyzed using STATA 17.0. Cohen’s kappa was computed to determine the agreement between reviewers, the Inverse of variance (I2) was used to evaluate heterogeneity across studies, and Egger’s test to identify publication bias. A random effect model was used to determine the pooled resistance to each antibiotic. Subgroup analysis was performed by infection type and year of publication. RESULTS : This systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that the pooled prevalence of P. aeruginosa in clinical specimens associated with HAI was 4.38%(95%CI: 3.00–5.76). The pooled prevalence of AMR in P. aeruginosa for different antibiotics varies, ranging from 20.9% (95%CI: 6.2–35.8) for amikacin to 98.72% (95%CI: 96.39–101.4) for ceftriaxone. The pooled resistance was higher for ceftriaxone (98.72%), Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (75.41), and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (91.2). In contrast relatively lower AMR were observed for amikacin (20.9%) and meropenem (28.64%). The pooled multi-drug resistance (MDR) in P. aeruginosa was 80.5% (95%CI: 66.25–93.84). Upon subgroup analysis by infection types and year of publication, P. aeruginosa isolated from healthcare-associated infections exhibited higher resistance to ceftazidime (94.72%) compared to isolates from mixed types of healthcare-associated infections (70.84%) and surgical site infections (57.84%). Antimicrobial resistance in gentamicin was higher during the periods of 2018–2020 (73.96%), while comparatively lower during 2021–2023 (42.69%) and 2015–2017 (29.82%) CONCLUSIONS : Significantly high AMR and MDR were observed from this systematic review and meta-analysis. AMR obtained from this systematic review and meta-analysis urges the need for improved infection control, antimicrobial stewardship practices, and strengthened surveillance systems to control the spread of AMR and ensure effective treatment of P. aeruginosa infections.
Calcium and phosphorus digestibility in broilers as affected by varying phytate concentrations from corn
(Elsevier, 2024-11) Venter, Kyle M.; Li, W.; Angel, R.; Plumstead, P.W.; Proszkowiec-Weglarz, M.; Enting, H.; Ellestad, L.E.
Dietary phytate P (PP) concentration impacts Ca and P digestibility in broilers. Research was conducted to determine the impact of increasing concentration of dietary PP, with and without phytase, on broiler standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of Ca and P. Digestible (Dig) Ca and P were calculated by multiplying SID and the analyzed dietary Ca and P concentrations. The experiment was a factorial arrangement of 2 phytase (0 and 1,000 U/kg) and 4 PP (0.16, 0.23, 0.29, and 0.34%) concentrations. Treatments were fed for 36 h from 20 to 22 d of age (4 b/pen, n ≥ 7 replicate pens/treatment). Different ratios of corn and corn germ were used to achieve the desired PP concentrations. A limestone with 800 µm geometric mean diameter was used as the sole Ca source to achieve 0.7% Ca in the final diets (96% Ca from limestone). An additional diet was fed that was N, Ca- and P-free, for the determination of endogenous losses of each nutrient. Distal ileal digesta were pooled from all birds in a pen. There were no interactions between PP and phytase on SID Ca or Dig Ca from limestone. Irrespective of phytase inclusion, increasing PP from 0.16 to 0.34% decreased SID Ca from 53.8 to 38.1% (P < 0.05). The SID Ca averaged 41.5 and 51.4% in diets containing 0 and 1000 U phytase/kg, respectively, across all PP concentrations (P < 0.05). Interactions were seen between PP and phytase on SID and Dig P (P < 0.05) with SID P of 31.1, 24.0, 20.1, and 16.3% for broilers fed 0.16, 0.23, 0.29, and 0.34% PP diets without phytase, respectively. When phytase was included at 1000 U/kg, SID P was 89.9, 87.5, 73.9 and 60.4% for diets containing 0.16, 0.23, 0.29 and 0.34% PP, respectively (P < 0.05). Overall, phytase improved SID Ca and P independent of PP concentration. However, with increasing PP concentration, both SID Ca and P were negatively affected.
Filling the gaps : herpetological checklist of Mayombe National Park and Cabinda Province (Angola) shed light on one of the most unexplored74 corners of tropical Central Africa
(Taylor and Francis, 2025) Lobon-Rovira, Javier; Baptista, Ninda L.; Clark, Tyron; Verburgt, Luke; Jongsma, Greg; Conradie, Werner; Verissimo, Luis; Vaz Pinto, Pedro
The global environmental crisis has reinforced the importance of improving the documentation of the geographical distributions of extant species. With this aim, species inventories of specific locations or regions are a high priority, especially so in poorly explored areas. Cabinda Province, an Angolan enclave located between the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), represents one of the most enigmatic and poorly explored areas in Africa. No detailed species inventories within its protected areas (namely, Mayombe National Park) exist. Furthermore, this region presents some of the better preserved remanent of primary moist rainforest in West Africa. Although these forests are severely threatened by logging and by the rapid social growth in the area. Therefore, we provide here the first herpetological checklist of Mayombe National Park and Cabinda Province, Angola, to shed light on this underexplored corner of Africa. To obtain the most accurate species identification, we performed detailed morphological examinations and DNA barcoding identifications. As a result, we recorded a total of 76 species of amphibians and reptiles in the area, including four new genera, 19 new distribution records for Angola, and 13 candidate species. This work also provides novel topotypic genetic material from three reptile species (i.e., Agama congica, Panaspis cabindae and Atractaspis congica), that may contribute to revise and solve taxonomic inconsistencies in these different groups. Finally, we identified areas of high species richness, as well as areas with a high number of habitat specialists, thus indicating species more vulnerable to extinction. Therefore, our study allowed us to identify areas that are of special interest for conservation of reptiles and amphibians, primarily focus on species vulnerable to extinction, but also to identify some knowledge gaps that still need further investigation. To conclude, this work not only contributes to an improved understanding of Angolan herpetofauna, but also highlights the importance of the western slope of Central Africa as an important biodiversity hotspot, centre of endemism and potential source of diversification for this group of land vertebrates.
Constraints to the value chain activities of bambara groundnut, cowpeas and orange-fleshed sweet potatoes in Mpumalanga, South Africa
(African Scholarly Science Communications Trust, 2025-04) Oloyede, Waliyat O.; Jordaan, D.; u16273720@tuks.co.za
There is a renewed interest in integrating underutilized crops (UC) into the food market to ensure access to nutritious and affordable food. Underutilized crop species are still recognized in the local, national and international communities. Still, they are out of reach due to challenges facing the value chain activities of the crops. Current research in South Africa has mainly been at the production level with limited focus on constraints to the value chain activities of underutilized crops. There is enough literature on the qualitative perceptions of the challenges along the value chain activities of underutilized crops. The quantitative understanding of challenges facing value chain activities of underutilized crops in South Africa remains unknown. This study analysed the constraints to value chain activities of underutilized crops (Bambara groundnut, cowpeas and Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSP)) in Mpumalanga, South Africa. One hundred and fifteen (115) value chain actors were selected for the study using the snowballing technique. The study employed the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to identify important constraints facing the value chain activities of the selected underutilized crops. The PCA results revealed that the most critical constraints to Bambara groundnut, cowpeas and OFSP production were low-quality inputs, storage facilities and adverse weather conditions. The PCA results showed that farmers' most important constraints to UC marketing were poor storage and processing techniques, high cost of processing, high cost of transportation and lack of contractual agreement. The PCA results for constraints to Bambara groundnut, cowpeas and OFSP marketing by traders were improper stall structures, lack of vehicular access to the market, poor marketing channels and irregular/insufficient crop produce. These constraints were evident in the fragmented nature of the selected underutilized crop value chain activities. The absence of other actors like processors and distributors made the constraints obvious, and there is a need for all relevant stakeholders to address these barriers to the value chain activities of the underutilized crops. District, provincial and national governments should invest in raising awareness and promoting the usage of underutilized crops to address food insecurity in the country. Farmers and other value chain actors are encouraged to form cooperatives to strengthen their bargaining power, enhance access to credit and improve their influence on government policies.
Factors influencing person-centred care : speech-language pathologists and audiologists perspective
(AOSIS, 2025-03) Mahomed-Asmail, Faheema; Metcalfe, Louise; Graham, Marien Alet; Eccles, Renata
BACKGROUND : Person-centred care (PCC) is a fundamental aspect of healthcare, and its implementation is primarily based on clinicians’ initiation and sustained efforts and the availability of resources. Recent PCC literature has primarily focused on high-income settings, raising concerns about the feasibility of PCC implementation in low- and middle-income countries. OBJECTIVES : This study examined speech-language pathologists’ (SLPs) and audiologists’ (AUDs) perceptions of barriers and facilitators towards implementing PCC in the diverse South African context, particularly how their demographic factors influence these perceptions. METHODS : A national cross-sectional e-survey pooled 103 clinicians who were providing speech-language pathology and audiological services in South Africa. The e-survey included questions on participants’ demographics, working environment and a seven-point Likert scale rating 10 components that influence PCC. RESULTS : Clinicians scored personal factors (64.7%), followed by their relationships with different professionals (54.9%) as the most facilitating factors for achieving PCC. The most significant perceived barrier was resources, including time and finances (59.8%), followed by the client perspectives (53.9%). Significant associations were found between the components influencing PCC and clinicians’ qualifications, work sectors and populations served. CONCLUSION : The collective findings of this study highlighted the multifaceted nature of PCC implementation within a diverse healthcare context. Client perspectives need to be considered while leveraging clinician attributes and fostering supportive workplace environments for the successful adoption of PCC. CONTRIBUTION : This study contributes to literature of PCC implementation and has captured how the perceptions of speech-language therapists (SLPs) and AUDs call for tailored approaches in diverse healthcare contexts.
Does financial literacy enhance banking transactions among rural people with access to bank accounts? Insights from a field experiment in Ghana
(Routledge, 2025-03) Osei, Yaa Afi; Barnard, Helena; Derban, William; Essuman, Dominic; barnardh@gibs.co.za
Bank account usage is a fundamental indicator of financial inclusion. Across sub-Saharan Africa, various stakeholders actively work to improve access to banking. This study uses motivation, opportunity and ability theory, with self-efficacy as a boundary condition, to theorize the relationship between financial literacy and usage of a mobile-based, zero-cost bank account. In a field experiment with young adults in rural Ghana – a typical population for such interventions – multi-wave data from 142 individuals show that neither financial literacy nor its interaction with self-efficacy improves bank account usage. Follow-up surveys and interviews reveal other motivation- and ability-enhancing factors (i.e. income, and the need for bank accounts) that condition the causal relationship tested in the study. The study’s findings clarify the boundaries of the existing literature on the link between financial literacy and financial inclusion, while offering policymakers valuable insights into the conditions necessary for financial inclusion interventions to achieve the desired outcomes.
Digestible calcium in broiler production
(Plaas Media, 2025-01) Jacobs, Kean; u19167424@tuks.co.za
The broiler industry is facing a severe problem related to the increased incidence of skeletal abnormalities. This not only raises concerns for animal health and welfare, but impacts growth performance and subsequently broiler operation profitability.
Bring the objects out of the basement! : the Wellcome African collection at Manchester Museum
(Massachusetts Institute of Technology Press, 2025-03) Chipangura, Njabulo; Everest, Sophie; Hawkins, Abigail; Chipangura, Patricia; Mashizha, Raymond
Manchester Museum (MM), like most museums caring for works from Africa, includes objects with some provenance, but many others that have no collection information at all. MM holdings include more than 300 anthropological objects from Africa that came from the Wellcome Historical Medical Museum (WHMM) dispersal in 1982. The museum is part of the University of Manchester and contains approximately 15,000 African cultural heritage objects that were collected at the height of colonization and wholly connected to the expansion of the British empire to Africa. Further, there are more than 1,000 objects from Africa that are not provenanced. These unprovenanced objects do not have any contextual information on where they were collected, apart from labels that only indicate “Africa?” The accompanying question mark on these labels is problematic—and is testament to absent provenance information. Typically, this shows colonial appropriating practices in which collectors did not prioritize context and communities of origin where these objects were made.
Navigating passports and borders : the complex realities of Zimbabwean migrants in South Africa
(University of the Western Cape, 2025-04) Chekero, Tamuka; Bhanye, Johannes; Mushonga, Rufaro Hamish; Nyamwanza, Owen; tamuka.chekero@up.ac.za
The acquisition and maintenance of valid passports present complex challenges for many migrants. The complexity arises from many factors including political, economic, and administrative. Employing a multi-sited ethnographic approach, this study scrutinizes the hurdles encountered by Zimbabwean migrants in South Africa when obtaining and renewing passports, visas, and permits. Moreover, the study investigates the far-reaching repercussions of passport-related complexities on the daily existence and welfare of these migrants. The socio-political dynamics shaping the passport experiences of Zimbabwean migrants offer valuable insights into fostering more inclusive migration policies and procedures. Consequently, these challenges significantly impact migrants’ daily lives and overall well-being, impeding their pursuit of a better life in South Africa. In response, migrants resort to “nimble-footed strategies,” such as using ephemeral stamps, to navigate their circumstances. However, these strategies also leave migrants vulnerable to exploitation and a lack of state protection. In essence, this study contributes to understanding the contemporary challenges faced by migrants amidst evolving global crises, particularly in the post-COVID-19 era marked by increased regulation and restriction of migrants. This study traverses diverse geographical and political contexts, by shedding light on the ongoing militarization and contraction of borders and the rights of migrants.
Progress toward stable organic solar cells
(Wiley, 2025-02) Tegegne, Newayemedhin A.; Nchinda, Leonato Tambua; Kruger, T.P.J. (Tjaart); tjaart.kruger@up.ac.za
Organic solar cells (OSCs) are suitable candidates for next-generation renewable energy sources due to their low cost of production and flexibility. Their power conversion efficiency has improved significantly to about 20% in both single- and multi-junction devices due to the tremendous work in optimizing the synthesis of novel active-layer materials while improving device fabrication. Despite a few reports predicting a 20-year lifetime for OSC devices, their stability currently lags behind their commercialization. This Review discusses the issues that impair OSC stability and how to mitigate them. While emphasizing the importance of the International Summit on Organic Photovoltaic Stability (ISOS) protocols, an overview of recent advancements in OSC power conversion efficiency (PCE) and lifetime is provided. Finally, fundamental challenges to developing high-performance and stable OSCs are discussed along with general recommendations for improving the stability of OSCs.
Suicide ideation in emerging adulthood : contributions of depressive symptoms, religiosity, parenting styles and social support
(Elsevier, 2025-06) Ogba, Kalu T.U.; Chukwuma, Onyekachi Gift; Ituma, Ezichi A.; Ugwu, Collins I.; Ngele, Omaka K.; Obayi, Lovely; Ugwu, Chukwuma F.; Obi-Keguna, Christy; Emeh, Ikechukwu E.
Suicide, especially among emerging adults, has continued to be a global phenomenon, demanding more in-depth empirical attention. Emerging adulthood is a probable suicidal ideation predisposing period that has received less scholarly attention. We examined the contributions of depression, religiosity, parenting styles, and social support to suicidal ideation among emerging adults. We conveniently sampled 1007 undergraduates comprising 496 (49.2 %) males and 511 (50.8 %) females whose ages ranged from 18 to 30 years with a mean age of 24 years (SD = 2.18). Results of the hierarchical multiple regression analysis showed that while depression significantly predicted suicidal ideation, preoccupation and conviction for religiosity did not; guidance and emotional involvement negatively predicted suicidal ideation. Parenting styles (mother and father) were not significant predictors of suicidal ideation. However, support from family, friends, and significant others negatively predicted suicidal ideation. We adopted the Three-Step Theory (3ST) to explain our findings that illustrate the need for government and educational institutions to make governance and educational curriculum less stressful and depressive such that the complimentary religious knowledge, parental teachings, and support from other family members, friends, and significant others can help improve abilities to achieve important (academic) life goals that promote quality of life and healthy living.
Dental anxiety and empathy among undergraduate oral health students in Norway, South Africa and Namibia
(Medical Journals Sweden, 2025-04) Kimmie-Dhansay, Faheema; Hoyvik, Ann Catrin; Bhayat, Ahmed; Hussain, Faezah; Karunakaran, Arannikah; Kaya, Besime; Motloba, Pagollang; Malau, Cathrine; Rutabanzibwa, John; Singh, Shenuka; Wilson, Vivienne; Brusevold, Ingvild Johnsen
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES : Dental anxiety is a common type of fear that can complicate dental treatment. The dental practitioner is crucial in both treating dental fear and anxiety as well as prevent it from arising. The ability to feel empathy is important in that matter. The dental practitioner’s own level of dental anxiety can possibly affect his or her ability to treat patients in an empathetic manner. The aim of this study was to assess and examine the relationship between level of empathy and dental anxiety in undergraduate oral healthcare students from Namibia, South Africa and Norway. MATERIAL AND METHODS : A cross-sectional study was performed. Questionnaires were distributed, and responses were analyzed anonymously. Dental anxiety was assessed using Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS), and empathy level was assessed using Toronto Empathy Questionnaire (TEQ). Data were presented as means or medians and analyzed using a linear regression model in STATA with a 5% level of significance. RESULTS : The response rate was 16.0%, and 298 completed questionnaires were received. MDAS was low in all groups (medians 7–10), however, significantly lower in Norway compared to Namibia and South Africa. The mean TEQ score was 46.8 in Namibia, 47.5 in South Africa and 50.4 in Norway, all above average empathy levels but significantly higher in Norway than in Namibia and South Africa. CONCLUSIONS : Oral healthcare students in Africa and Norway showed high empathy and low dental anxiety, which is reassuring for future oral health care professionals.
Editorial : Why is the world at war
(University of the Free State, 2024-12) Vale, Peter Christopher Julius; Maré, Gerhard
We, the editors of this Platform, were born while a strain of ‘world order’ was being birthed. It lasted for over seventy years but is said to be collapsing in the face of war and the talk of war. It took form in the years following World War II. Although it has shaped our lives, we were too young to understand the establishment of institutions and ideas.
Letter to the editor : “Oral health research in the WHO African region : a scoping review”
(Sage, 2025) Foláyan, M.O.; Bhayat, Ahmed; El Tantawi, M.
We commend the authors of “Oral Health Research in the WHO African Region: A Scoping Review” for addressing oral health research in Africa (Labarca et al. 2024). However, we express concern about 2 aspects. First, of the 28 authors, only 2 are affiliated with institutions in Africa. The poor representation of African researchers on this study raises concerns about equitable researcher representation in a study about Africa. Including more African scholars could have ensured that findings more accurately reflected African perspectives about the health care systems and challenges faced. The poor representation of African scholars may reflect the external “foreign gaze” in global health narratives (Abimbola 2019).
Towards building interventions in climate and health
(Springer, 2025) Ghosh, Arnab K.; Keenan, Olivia J.; Wright, Caradee Yael
Climate-amplified extreme weather events are on the rise. In the United States, 2023 represented the highest number of billion-dollar disasters according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It is clear that the widespread impacts of anthropogenic climate change to the health of millions of Americans and those across the globe can no longer be ignored. Evidence that can be used to build, test, and adapt to climate-relevant interventions is urgently required.
Identifying globally relevant learnings from Africa’s challenges and solutions to climate change and air pollutionrelated health impacts : a data science scoping review protocol
(BMJ Publishing Group, 2024-05-20) Wright, Caradee Yael; Jaca, Anelisa; Kapwata, Thandi; Naidoo, Natasha; Awokola, Babatunde; Bainomugisha, Engineer; Berhane, Kiros; Blesic, Suzana; Kehbila, Anderson Gwanyebit; Naidoo, Rajen N.; Nemukula, Bono; Nyarko, Benjamin Kofi; Okekunle, Akinkunmi Paul; Oni, Tolu; Quansah, Reginald; Thaim, Sokhna; Zakari, Ibhrahim Sidi; Beyene, Negussie
INTRODUCTION : Leveraging data science could significantly advance the understanding of the health impacts of climate change and air pollution to meet health systems’ needs and improve public health in Africa. This scoping review will aim to identify and synthesise evidence on the use of data science as an intervention to address climate change and air pollution-related health challenges in Africa. METHODS AND ANALYSIS : The search strategy will be developed, and the search will be conducted in the Web of Science, Scopus, CAB Abstracts, MEDLINE and EMBASE electronic databases. We will also search the reference lists of eligible articles for additional records. We will screen titles, technical reports, abstracts and full texts and select studies reporting the use of data science in relation to the health effects and interventions associated with climate change and air pollution in Africa. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION : There are no formal ethics requirements as we are not collecting primary data. Results, once published, will be disseminated via conferences and shared with policy-makers and public health, air pollution and climate change key stakeholders in Africa.

Browse

Recent Submissions