Research Publications (Health Sciences)
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Item In vitro antioxidant, mineral analysis and antimicrobial activities of extract and fractions from the aerial part of Heterotis rotundifolia (Sm.) Jacq. Fel(2024-09-01) Enin, Godwin N.; Adegoke, Anthony A.; Ita, Basil N.; Udosen, Christiana I.; Inyang, Victor F.; Onuaha, Ebuka C.; Antia, Bassey S.Heterotis rountidifolia (Sm.) Jacq. Fel, is employed in Nigeria traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases. The study investigated the antioxidant, mineral composition and antimicrobial activities of aerial part of Heterotis rotundifolia using standard procedures. The proximate composition on dry matter basis showed high carbohydrate (48.41%) and low lipid (0.77%) contents while mineral content revealed that sodium (5.68 mg/100 g) and zinc (4.64 mg/100 g) were the highest. The total caloric value per 100 g was 260.93 kcal. Methanol (ME) fraction exhibited the highest radical scavenging (EC50 = 59.36 µg/mL) and reducing (EC50 = 76.54 µg/mL) activity. Contents of total flavonoids and phenolics were highest in ME and ethyl acetate (EAE) fractions (39.2 mg GAE/g and 183.5 mg RE/g, respectively), while hexane (HE) fraction showed the lowest radical scavenging, ferric reducing and nitric oxide assay (EC50 = 268.56, 87.86, and 98.30 µg/mL, respectively). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal/fungicidal concentration (MBC/MFC) against various bacterial and fungal strains using tube dilution method showed strong activity at MIC of 50 mg/mL depicted by n-HE fraction, though lower MBC of 37.5 mg/mL by ME fraction made the ME fraction of better potentials. Gas chromatography-mass spectrum (GC-MS) analysis of the ME fraction revealed 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (16.87%), Methyl 6-O-[1-methylpropyl]-β-D-galactopyranoside (16.07%), 4H-Pyran-4-one,2,3-dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy- (8.28%), 6-methyl-β-D-glucopyranose, 1,6-anhydro- (6.56%), 2-heptanol (6.82%), stigmastan-3,5-diene (4.32%) amongst others. This research demonstrates that extract and fractions from aerial part of H. rotundifolia possesses antioxidant, antimicrobial and nutritive potentials, albeit with generally weak antifungal activity and, may be attributed to the presence of its phytochemical constituents.Keywords:
Item Catabolic gene indices of hydrocarbon diminution in Ultisol treated with cropped Bacillus altitudinis-amendments(Elsevier BV, 2024-09) Fatunla, Opeyemi K.; Adegoke, Anthony A.; Offiong, Nnanake-Abasi O.; Ofon, Utibe A.; Shaibu, Solomon E.; Inam, Edu J.; Reddy, P.; Essien, Joseph P.This study evaluated catabolic gene expression as an index of hydrocarbon breakdown in ultisol treated with Bacillus altitudinis-Cropped Biofertilizers derived from Biosolid and Brewer Spent Grain (BSG) using phenotypic and molecular methods. We observed significant reductions in Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH) concentrations with both amendments, albeit the biosolid based amendment was markedly more effective. Concurrently, there was a substantial increase in hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria. Notably, the bulk of Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) in biosolid (95.77 %) and BSG (93.00 %) amended Ultisol were Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Planctomycetes, which are key players in hydrocarbon bioremediation. We observed the presence of eleven hydrocarbon-degrading genes through M5nr analysis. These genes encompass essential catalysts for aliphatic hydrocarbon degradation and hydrocarbon desulfurization. Notably, these enzymes/genes include Bacterial Flavin-bound Monooxygenase (AlmA), Alkane Monooxygenase (AlkM), Alpha Ketoglutarate Dependent Dioxygenase (alkB), Propane Monooxygenase (PrM), Cytochrome P450 (cP450), Methane Monooxygenase/Ammonia Monooxygenase (MMO/AMO) subunits A, B, and C, Alkane Sulfonate Monooxygenase (ssuD), Alkane Sulfonates Transport System Permease Protein (ssuC), Dibenzothiophene Monooxygenase (dszC), Dibenzothiophene-Sulfone Monooxygenase (dszA), and Dibenzothiophene-5,5-Dioxide Monooxygenase (dszB). These genes play pivotal roles in the degradation of aliphatic hydrocarbons and hydrocarbon desulfurization. Interestingly, unique gene expression patterns were observed for each amendment, with Actinomycetales and Bulkhoderiales orders expressing the majority of identified genes. These findings have revealed the amendment-specific microbial and genetic alterations and, the diversity and potential of the annotated genes induced by the Bacillus altitudinis-Cropped Biofertilizers (biosolid and BSG amendments) for effective remediation of hydrocarbon-contaminated soils.Item Academic integrity in the information age : insights from health sciences students at a South African University(Emerald, 2024-01-01) Kell, Colette Melissa; Thandar, Yasmeen; Bhundoo, Adelle Kemlall; Haffejee, Firoza; Mbhele, Bongiwe; Ducray, JenniferPurpose Academic integrity is vital to the success and sustainability of the academic project and particularly critical in the training of ethical and informed health professionals. Yet studies have found that cheating in online exams was commonplace during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the increased use of online and blended learning post-COVID-19, an understanding of student cheating dynamics is essential for developing effective strategies to combat academic dishonesty in the rapidly changing educational landscape.Design/methodology/approachThis study explored academic integrity and reasons for dishonesty from the perspective of health sciences students at a South African University of Technology (UOT) via the Fraud Diamond. To gain an in-depth understanding of the topic, a qualitative method was employed, and data were collected via focus group discussions with nine student class representatives. These data were analysed thematically using the Clarke and Braun approach.FindingsCheating during online assessment was common and innovative, with students manipulating others and exploiting friendships to facilitate dishonest practices. Student motivations for dishonesty included a lack of consequences and pressure due to a lack of time management, engagement and preparation.Practical implicationsThis study underscores the need for institutions to adopt an adaptable, multi-faceted approach that addresses student cheating opportunity, motivation and normalisation of dishonest practices whilst strengthening academic integrity policies and enforcement thereof.Originality/valueThe findings contribute valuable insights into the ongoing academic integrity crisis in higher education in the South African context.Item Factors that influence the high staff turnover of the millennial generation of medical technologists in a private pathology laboratory setting(2024) Pillay, Michelle; Mbatha, Joyce Nonhlanhla; Orton, Penelope MargaretIntroduction This study was motivated by the fact that Lancet Laboratories has recorded a high staff turnover of millennial medical technologists in recent years. It is crucial to retain suitably trained and competent medical technologists to provide quality patient care, and lower recruitment and training of new employees. It has been estimated that by the year 2025, millennials will comprise 75% of the workforce hence emphasis should be placed on millennial retention for organisations to remain profitable and reduce further operating expenses (Hamilton 2020). Aim The aim of this study was to investigate factors of job satisfaction which have an influence on high employee turnover of millennial medical technologists, with the objective of recommending a solution in the form of retention strategies. The objectives of the study were: 1. To investigate the factors of the high staff turnover rate of millennial medical technologists. 2. To determine the job satisfaction needs and expectations of medical technologists belonging to the millennial generation. 3. To formulate and recommend retention strategies based on the study finding which will be made available to Lancet Laboratories Human Resources Department to implement and review. Methodology An exploratory descriptive qualitative approach was used for this study because of the desire to understand millennial employee experience which have led to turnover or retention and to explore the high turnover of millennials from the millennials’ perspective. Semi-structured interviews were conducted by the researcher to gather information from the participants. This study’s population was limited to HPCSA registered medical technologists between the ages of 19-39 years (millennial generation), currently or previously employed at Lancet Laboratories in KwaZulu Natal. Content was analysed using Nvivo 11 qualitative analysis software. Findings The overall findings of this study supported the motivation and hygiene constructs of Herzberg’s (1964) two factor theory. The motivation factors derived from this study included career advancement, significant work contribution, opportunities for growth, positions of responsibility, job recognition, and positive achievements in the workplace. The hygiene factors derived from this study included poor interpersonal relationships, low salary, inappropriate company policies, inept supervision, and undesirable working conditions. Conclusion This research study revealed the factors influencing millennial medical technologist turnover and job satisfaction, and recommended possible retention strategies. Additionally, the findings may benefit organisations and managers in understanding the needs and expectations of the millennial generation in an effort to improve job satisfaction, reduce turnover, and increase retention in the workplaceItem Provision of HIV testing services and its impact on the HIV positivity rate in the public health sector in KwaZulu-Natal : a ten-year review(Informa UK Limited, 2024-12) Desai, Rizwana; Onwubu, Stanley; Lutge, Elizabeth; Buthelezi, Nondumiso Patience; Moodley, Nirvasha; Haffejee, Firoza; Segobe, Bontle; Krishna, Suresh Babu Naidu; Sibiya, Maureen Nokuthula; Jinabhai, Champaklal ChhaganlalSouth Africa has been rated as having the most severe HIV epidemic in the world since it has one of the largest populations of people living with HIV (PLHIV). KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is the epicentre of the HIV epidemic. The HIV test and treat services in the public health sector are critical to managing the epidemic and responding to the increase in HIV infections. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health (DOH) commissioned a review of the provision of HIV testing services in the province and aimed to investigate its impact on the HIV positivity rate over a ten-year period. The study was an ecological study design using data extracted from the Department's District Health Information System (DHIS). Descriptive analysis was conducted in addition to ANOVA and multiple regression analysis. The results of this study have shown that the total number of HIV tests conducted over the ten-year period in the province has increased with the highest number of HIV tests being conducted in the 2018/2019 MTEF year. ANOVA analysis indicates that there was a statistically significant difference in the total number of HIV tests conducted and the number of HIV tests per 100 000 population across the province's 11 districts (p < 0.001). Statistically significant differences were observed in the HIV testing rate and in the HIV positivity rate over the period (p < 0.001). Results from multiple regression analysis showed that the HIV testing rate per 100 000 population was the strongest predictor of the HIV positivity rate. HIV positivity among clients correlated negatively with the number of HIV tests conducted per 100 000 population (r = -0.823; p < 0.001) and the HIV testing rate (r = -0.324; p < 0.01). This study has found that HIV testing could have an impact on reducing the positivity rate of HIV in the province and is therefore an effective strategy in curbing the HIV epidemic. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health should ensure that strategies for implementing and maintaining HIV testing and treating services should continue at an accelerated rate in order to achieve the first 95 of the UNAIDS 2025 SDG target.Item Allopathic medicine practitioners' experiences with non-disclosure of traditional medicine use(AOSIS, 2024-01-31) Gumede, Lindiwe; Nkosi, Pauline B.; Sibiya, Maureen NokuthulaA pertinent issue impacting patient treatment outcomes is the nondisclosure of traditional medicine (TM) use to Allopathic medicine practitioners (AMPs). For years, TM has been a controversial practice, with patients often using it alongside allopathic medicine without disclosing their use. It is imperitive to learn and understand the experiences of AMPs regarding the disclosure of TM use in Gauteng province to enable them to provide the best possible treatment outcomes for patients who use TM.Aim
This study aimed to explore the experiences of AMPs regarding non-disclosure of TM use in Gauteng province.Setting
This study was conducted in four district hospitals where outpatient care and services are rendered in Gauteng Province.Methods
An interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) design was followed. Fourteen purposefully sampled AMPs participated in face-to-face, one-on-one, and semi-structured interviews. Interpretive phenomenological analysis in Atlas.ti was conducted.Results
Three themes emerged: bedside manner of AMPs; stigmatising TM use; and individual belief systems. The belief of patients' disclosure hesitancy because of fear of judgment by the AMPs underpinned these themes.Conclusion
Allopathic medicine practitioners are aware that patients who use TM could feel guilty and stigmatised. They acknowledged that patients use TM because of cultural and ethnic reasons, which should not be disregarded.Contribution
The study highlighted that patients do not disclose their TM use because of AMPs' attitudes, stigmatising TM use, and their prejudices against the cultural beliefs of patients. Allopathic medicine practitioners should establish good communication with patients by providing patient-centred communication to facilitate disclosure of TM use.Item Determinants and acceptability of HIV self-testing among vulnerable groups in sub-Saharan Africa : a scoping review protocol(BMJ, 2024-01-29) Anyiam, Felix Emeka; Sibiya, Maureen Nokuthula; Oladimeji, OlanrewajuHIV self-testing (HIVST) is where individuals collect their specimens and perform the HIV test privately. HIVST has improved testing uptake and coverage, especially among vulnerable groups of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Vulnerable groups include key populations such as men who have sex with men, sex workers, people who inject drugs, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons and young women. However, little is known about the determinants and acceptability of HIVST among these groups in SSA. Therefore, this scoping review aims to explore the determinants and acceptability of HIVST among vulnerable groups in SSA.Methods
A scoping review will be conducted using the Arksey and O'Malley framework and further refined by Levac framework. The review will follow a six-step approach: (1) identifying the research question, (2) identifying relevant studies, (3) study selection eligibility, (4) charting the data, (5) collating, summarising and reporting the results and (6) consultation. A comprehensive search strategy will be developed, and the following electronic databases will be searched: MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health and the Cochrane Library. Grey literature will also be searched, including conference abstracts and reports. Eligibility criteria will include studies conducted in SSA, published between 2010 and 2023, focusing on vulnerable groups and exploring the determinants and acceptability of HIVST. Two independent reviewers will screen identified studies' titles, abstracts and full texts. Any disagreements will be resolved through discussion or consultation with a third reviewer. Data extraction will be conducted using a standardised form.Ethics and dissemination
This review, not requiring ethical approval, aims to inform policy and intervention design to boost HIV testing adoption within vulnerable communities. We plan to disseminate our findings via a peer-reviewed journal, policy briefs, conference presentations and stakeholder engagement.Item Factors predisposing emergency medical technicians to workplace violence: a cross sectional study(SAGE Publications, 2024) Khoza, Tshikani Lewis; Sibiya, Maureen Nokuthula; Mshunqane, NombekoEmergency medical technicians (EMT) are at high risk of workplace violence as they often care for patients in uncontrolled and often hostile emergency settings. Gauteng Province, the most populous province in South Africa, caters for 75% of the total population which is dependant on state funded health care. Public sector EMTs' have been robbed with aggravated circumstances, assaulted with intent to do grievous bodily harm, raped and even murdered whilst on duty. Despite this, comprehensive studies investigating the factors that predispose public sector EMTs' to workplace violence in Gauteng Province are lacking. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the factors that predispose public service EMTs' to workplace violence in Gauteng Province. Data were collected using questionnaires. A total of 413 questionnaires were returned by community members of Gauteng who met the inclusion criteria. Descriptive statistics and binomial tests were used to analyze data. The results of this study revealed that workplace violence toward public service EMTs' in Gauteng is attributed to the high rates of crime, the widening gap of inequality, economic deprivation of basic rights to previously disadvantaged communities by government, vulnerability of EMTs' when responding to the ill and injured within low- and middle-income communities and a lack of consequence for disorderly behavior within the communities. An understanding of the community factors that predispose EMTs' to workplace violence may improve the understanding of the phenomenon of workplace violence and developing prevention programs within the communities.Item Allopathic medicine practitioners' perspectives on facilitating disclosure of traditional medicine use in Gauteng, South Africa : a qualitative study(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2023-12-12) Gumede, Lindiwe; Nkosi, Pauline B.; Sibiya, Maureen N.Traditional medicine (TM) plays a key role in maintaining health in many societies. Given the requirement for TM disclosure, Allopathic Medicine Practitioners (AMPs) must encourage open communication with patients to persuade those who use TM to disclose. Addressing patient non-disclosure of TM requires this dialogue to be facilitated. We sought to understand and describe how South African AMPs facilitate disclosure of TM use during a consultation with patients who use both TM and allopathic medicine (AM) and how it influences the patients' willingness to disclose TM use.Methods
This qualitative exploratory descriptive study on AMPs at Gauteng district public hospitals in South Africa was conducted between 2021 and 2022. Non-probability purposive sampling was employed to select a sample of 14 AMPs. Individual participants were encouraged to share their unique experiences and interpretations of the phenomenon concerning TM use disclosure. The raw transcribed textual data were processed using ATLAS.ti, and inductive content analysis was undertaken following the coding of the content to identify categories.Results
The data revealed four major categories: 'providing a suitable atmosphere for disclosure,' 'encouraging patients to disclose TM usage to AMPs,' 'patient autonomy,' and 'AMP training'. During a consultation with patients who use both TM and AM, participants expressed their experiences and perceptions of TM nondisclosure. They also discussed several methods for encouraging patients to disclose their TM usage, particularly when TM is used concurrently with AM.Conclusion
This study expands on previously reported findings by describing how South African AMPs facilitate the disclosure of TM use during consultation. Many AMPs struggle to initiate TM conversations with their patients which results in non-disclosure. This study revealed that integrating TM into AM training programmes, promoting cross-practice, and creating a safe environment is necessary for the development and application of the most appropriate approaches that would assist in facilitating disclosure.Item Exploring the lived experiences of vulnerable females from a low-resource setting during the COVID-19 pandemic(MDPI AG, 2023-11-09) Haffejee, Firoza; Maharajh, Rivesh; Sibiya, Maureen NokuthulaThe onset of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected the mental health and well-being of women in vulnerable settings. Currently, there is limited evidence that explores the wellness of elderly women under the associated restrictions. This study explores the lived experiences of elderly women in a vulnerable community in Durban, South Africa. A face-to-face, in-depth qualitative approach was implemented to interview 12 women aged 50 years and over. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The findings suggest that social interactions, the effect of a high death rate, and financial strain predominantly affect stress and anxiety levels. Despite the women being in receipt of pensions and/or other grants, their supplementary income was reduced. This, together with the additional expenses incurred during the lockdown, resulted in anxiety over finances. The lack of social interaction, with limits on visiting family and other loved ones when they were ill, along with the limit on the number of people attending the funerals of loved ones were also stressful. This study also reports on the resulting coping mechanisms, which included using hobbies such as baking and sewing as a means of self-care. Religious beliefs also relieved stress while home remedies were used as preventative measures during the lockdown restrictions due to COVID-19.