Research Articles (University of Pretoria)

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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.

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Micro-macro decomposition of particle swarm optimization methods
(American Institute of Mathematical Sciences, 2026-02) Herty, Michael; Veneruso, Sara
Solving non-convex minimization problems using multi-particle metaheuristic derivative-free optimization methods is still an active area of research. Popular methods are Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) methods, that iteratively update a population of particles according to dynamics inspired by social interactions between individuals. We present a modification to include constrained minimization problems using exact penalization. Additionally, we utilize the hierarchical structure of PSO to introduce a micro-macro decomposition of the algorithm. The probability density of particles is written as a convex combination of microscopic and macroscopic contributions, and both parts are propagated separately. The decomposition is dynamically updated based on heuristic considerations. Numerical examples compare the results obtained using the algorithm in the microscopic scale, in the macroscopic scale, and using the new micro-macro decomposition.
Chemically mediated multitrophic interactions and their role in crop protection
(Elsevier, 2026-02) Torto, Baldwyn; Kihika-Opanda, Ruth; Khamis, Fathiya Mbarak
Agricultural production is primarily constrained by biotic stresses, with insect pests being the most significant contributors. Effective pest management is essential for sustainable crop protection and relies on understanding how plants interact with pests (herbivores), their natural enemies (predators and parasitoids), other plants, and beneficial organisms such as pollinators. These interactions, which are also frequently influenced by microorganisms, collectively referred to as multitrophic interactions, play a crucial role in shaping agroecosystems. Recent research highlights that in agricultural systems, multitrophic interactions are primarily mediated by volatile organic compounds and other specialized metabolites through microbial activity. A deeper understanding of these chemically mediated mechanisms in pest, natural enemy, and pollinator attraction/repellence, and plant defense priming, offers new opportunities for developing ecologically sustainable pest management strategies. This review aims to synthesize emerging evidence on the role of plant- and microbial-derived specialized metabolites in mediating multitrophic interactions and potential applications for crop protection. It also identifies knowledge gaps and explores how recent advances are shaping the development of innovative crop protection technologies. HIGHLIGHTS • Multitrophic interactions play a key role in agricultural systems and food productivity. • Plant volatiles and secondary metabolites contribute to shaping multitrophic interactions. • Microbial-mediated specialized metabolites also contribute to shaping multitrophic interactions. • Diverse chemical classes influence multitrophic interactions. • Understanding multitrophic interactions facilitates development of innovative crop protection technologies.
Mapping evidence on the regulations affecting the accessibility, availability, and management of snake antivenom globally : a scoping review
(MDPI, 2025-08) Majeed, Ramsha; Bester, Janette; Kgarosi, Kabelo; Strydom, Morné; morne.strydom@up.ac.za
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared snakebite envenoming (SBE) as a neglected tropical disease in 2017. Antivenom is the gold standard of treatment, but many healthcare barriers exist, and hence, affected populations are often unable to access it. The challenge is further perpetuated by the lack of attention from national health authorities, poor regulatory systems and policies, and mismanagement of antivenom. This study aims to map the evidence regarding snake antivenom regulations globally and identify gaps in the literature to inform future research and policy. This review was conducted using the original Arksey and O’Malley framework by three independent reviewers, and the results were reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). A search strategy was developed with assistance from a librarian, and six databases were searched: PubMed, SCOPUS, ProQuest Central, Africa Wide Web, Academic Search Output, and Web of Science. Screening was conducted independently by the reviewers, using Rayyan, and conflicts were resolved with discussions. A total of 84 articles were included for data extraction. The major themes that emerged from the included studies were regarding antivenom availability, accessibility, manufacturing, and regulations. The study revealed massive gaps in terms of policies governing antivenom management, especially in Asia and Africa. The literature does not offer sufficient evidence on management guidelines for antivenom in the endemic regions, despite identifying the challenges in supply. However, significant information from Latin America revealed self-sufficient production, involvement of national health bodies in establishing efficient regulations, effective distribution nationally and regionally, and technology sharing to reduce SBE-related mortality.
Consensus nomenclature for radionuclide therapy : initial recommendations from nuclear medicine global initiative
(Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, 2025-05) Al-Ibraheem, Akram; Scott-, Andrew M.; Abdlkadir, Ahmed Saad; Vrachimis, Alexis; Lamoureux, Francois; Trujillo, Patricia Bernal; Bailey, Dale L.; More, Stuart; Giammarile, Francesco; Kumar, Rakesh; Nonnekens, Julie; Cutler, Cathy S.; Urbain, Jean-Luc C.; Dibble, Elizabeth H.; Sathekge, Mike Machaba; Bomanji, Jamshed; Cerci, Juliano J.; Thomas, Elizabeth; Small, William; Louw, Lizette; Hyun, O. Joo; Lee, Sze Ting; Nadel, Helen; Jacene, Heather; Watabe, Tadashi; Bom, Henry Hee-Seung; Bouyoucef, Salah Eddine; Weston, Charlotte; Wadsley, Jonathan; Irwin, Andy G.; Croasdale, Jilly; Zanzonico, Pat; Paez, Diana; Ghesani, Munir
Since its inception in 2012, the Nuclear Medicine Global Initiative (NMGI) of the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging has played an important role in addressing significant challenges in the field of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging. The first 3 projects were dedicated to standardizing pediatric nuclear medicine practices, addressing the global challenges of radionuclide access and availability, and assessing the educational and training initiatives on theranostics across the globe. These efforts aimed to advance human health, foster worldwide educational collaboration, and standardize procedural guidelines to enhance quality and safety in nuclear medicine practice. In its latest project, NMGI aimed to develop a unified nomenclature for systemic radionuclide therapy in nuclear medicine, addressing the diverse terminology currently used. An online survey was distributed to NMGI member organizations, drawing participation from various geographical locations and disciplines. The survey anonymously collected responses from physicians, physicists, scientists, radiopharmacists, radiopharmaceutical scientists, dosimetrists, technologists, and nurse managers, totaling 240 responses from 30 countries. Findings revealed a prevailing use of the term targeted radionuclide therapy for radionuclide therapy, with 52% of respondents expressing a preference for this term. In contrast, approximately 37% favored “radiopharmaceutical therapy,” whereas 11% favored “molecular radionuclide therapy.” Other key terms under the umbrella of targeted radionuclide therapy were also discussed to achieve a consensus on terminology. NMGI efforts to standardize terminology in this dynamic and fluid field should improve communication within the field, better reflect the technology used, enable comparison of results, and ultimately lead to improved patient outcomes.
Constraints to healthy eating guide food choices in an emerging economy
(Elsevier, 2026-02) Dlamini, Nomzamo N.; Tuorila, Hely; De Kock, Henrietta Letitia; u13034929@tuks.co.za
The 31-item food choice questionnaire (FCQ-EE), developed by Dlamini et al. (2024), accounts for seven motives relevant to people living in emerging economies: Healthy eating constraints (HEC); Meat appeal (MA); Emotional eating (EE); Quality seeking (QS); Weather (WE); Frugality (FR); and Cooking constraints (CC). In an online survey, their predictive ability was tested in a forced choice between 10 paired products. Three pairs had sorghum-based foods (sorghum represents the more sustainable option) as choice options. One pair contrasted a meat-based product with a plant-based alternative. Other pairs targeted choices related to healthfulness, cooking constraints and weather suitability. Each pair was displayed on screen visually and by names, and the eating context was defined. Demographic traits: age groups in years 18–35 (42 %), 36–45 (29 %), and 46–65+ (29 %) of the population (n = 814); income (low, middle, high) and gender: 69 % women, were also included as potential predictors. HEC was the most prominent predictor of choices as it informed the selection of the generally less healthy option in nine of 10 product pairs. EE was the second most important predictor in four of the 10 food pairs. QS consistently predicted the choice for the more sustainable option. Demographic traits, especially age, contributed to the selection for three pairs. Overall, all motives identified in the FCQ-EE predicted at least one choice, suggesting the usefulness of this tool in the prediction of food choice in an emerging economy. HIGHLIGHTS • People rated items describing food choice motives using a food choice questionnaire for emerging economies (FCQ-EE). • They were tasked to select an option in a forced choice between 10 product pairs and indicate their age, income and gender. • Healthy Eating Constraints (HEC) was the most prominent predictor of food selection, followed by Emotional Eating (EE). • The more sustainable options were mainly predicted by Quality Seeking (QS). • Age contributed to the selection between three pairs.
Native plant species screening for phytogeochemical exploration in the Zambian Copperbelt
(Elsevier, 2026-01) Mukube, Pumulo; Syampungani, Stephen; Machogo-Phao, Lerato; Hitzman, Murray W.
Trace element analysis of plant tissues can aid mineral exploration for sediment hosted Cu-Co deposits in the Zambian Copperbelt (ZCB). This study was conducted at the Mitumba prospect, an area in the ZCB known to have copper minerals but no historical mining activities, to identify native plant species and their tissues that are most indicative of mineralized zones. Field inventory and ecological analysis identified 22 native plant species from 12 different families, of which Fabaceae (36.4%) was dominant. At species level and based on the coating index, we identified several predominant species, among them, Haumaniastrum katangense (Lamiaceae), Aframomum angustifolium (Zingiberaceae), Brachystegia boehmii (Fabaceae), and Diplorynchus condilocarpon (Apocynaceae). Sampling was undertaken of soils and plant organs above the known mineralized zone and at control points outside of the mineralized area. Most species translocated Cu from the roots to the aboveground biomass as indicated by translocation factors (TF) > 1 but only three species, namely, Haumaniastrum katangense, Aframomum angustifolium and Diplorynchus condilocarpon can both translocate and bioconcentrate (BCF > 1) bioavailable Cu from the rhizosphere, making them ideal candidates for phytogeochemical exploration. Only Haumaniastrum katangense and Aframomum angustifolium accumulated Co. Plant roots and leaves demonstrate significant Cu anomalism and show a wider population of anomalous values compared to the soils. Statistical and machine learning techniques both indicate significant relationships between soil Cu concentration and the content of Cu in plant roots and leaves highlighting soil pH, organic matter and clay content as the major physicochemical variables influencing metal bioavailability in soil-plant systems. HIGHLIGHTS • Trace element analysis of plant tissues can aid locating orebodies. • Haumaniastrum katangense, Aframomum angustifolium and Diploryhncus condilocarpon are copper indicators. • Haumanastrum katangense and Aframomum angustifolium also accumulate cobalt. • Machine learning algorithms effectively elucidate soil-plant relationships. • Soil pH, organic matter and clay content influences metal bioavailability.
Evaluation of microstructural evolution of glassy carbon induced by helium implantation and annealing
(Elsevier, 2026-01) Maepa, Charity E.; Njoroge, Eric Gitau; Ismail, Mahjoub Yagoub Abdalla; Dickinson, Calum; Abdalla, Zaki Adam Yousif; Abdelbagi, Hesham Abdelbagi Ali; Ngongo, S.; Maphiri, Vusani M.; Li, Bingsheng; Hlatshwayo, Thulani Thokozani
Please read abstract in the article.
Minimal information for studies of extracellular vesicles (MISEV2023) : fom basic to advanced approaches
(Elsevier, 2024-02) Welsh, Joshua A.; Goberdhan, Deborah C.I.; O’Driscoll, Lorraine; Buzas, Edit I.; Blenkiron, Cherie; Bussolati, Benedetta; Cai, Houjian; Di Vizio, Dolores; Driedonks, Tom A.P.; Erdbrügger, Uta; Falcon-Perez, Juan M.; Fu, Qing-Ling; Hill, Andrew F.; Lenassi, Metka; Lim, Sai Kiang; Mahoney, My G.; Mohanty, Sujata; Möller, Andreas; Nieuwland, Rienk; Ochiya, Takahiro; Sahoo, Susmita; Torrecilhas, Ana C.; Zheng, Lei; Zijlstra, Andries; Abuelreich, Sarah; Bagabas, Reem; Bergese, Paolo; Bridges, Esther M.; Brucale, Marco; Burger, Dylan; Carney, Randy P.; Cocucci, Emanuele; Colombo, Federico; Crescitelli, Rossella; Hanser, Edveena; Harris, Adrian L.; Haughey, Norman J.; Hendrix, An; Ivanov, Alexander R.; Jovanovic-Talisman, Tijana; Kruh-Garcia, Nicole A.; Faustino, Vroniqa Ku’ulei-Lyn; Kyburz, Diego; Lässer, Cecilia; Lennon, Kathleen M.; Lötvall, Jan; Maddox, Adam L.; Martens-Uzunova, Elena S.; Mizenko, Rachel R.; Newman, Lauren A.; Ridolfi, Andrea; Rohde, Eva; Rojalin, Tatu; Rowland, Andrew; Saftics, Andras; Sandau, Ursula S.; Saugstad, Julie A.; Shekari, Faezeh; Swift, Simon; Ter-Ovanesyan, Dmitry; Tosar, Juan P.; Useckaite, Zivile; Valle, Francesco; Varga, Zoltan; Van der Pol, Edwin; Van Herwijnen, Martijn J.C.; Wehman, Ann M.; Williams, Sarah; Zendrini, Andrea; Zimmerman, Alan J.; MISEV Consortium Clotilde Théry; Witwer, Kenneth W.; Abuelreich, Sarah; Ahmad, Samar; Ahmed, Dina Ak.; Ahmed, Sarah H.; Aikawa, Elena; Akbar, Naveed; Akiyoshi, Kazunari; Al-Adra, David P.; Al-Masawa, Maimonah E; Albanese, Manuel; Alberro, Ainhoa; Alcaraz, María José; Alexander-Brett, Jen; Alexander, Kimberley L.; Ali, Nilufar; Alibhai, Faisal J.; Allelein, Susann; Allenby, Mark C.; Almeida, Fausto; Almousa, Sameh W.; Altan-Bonnet, Nihal; Altei, Wanessa F.; Alvarez-Llamas, Gloria; Alvarez, Cora L.; An, Hyo Jung; Anand, Krishnan; Anderson, Johnathon D.; Andriantsitohaina, Ramaroson; Ansari, Khairul I.; Anselmo, Achille; Antoniou, Anna; Aqil, Farrukh; Arab, Tanina; Archer, Fabienne; Arif, Syrine; Armstrong, David A.; Arntz, Onno J.; Arsène, Pierre; Arteaga-Blanco, Luis; Asokan, Nandini; Aspelin, Trude; Atkin-Smith, Georgia K.; Aubert, Dimitri; Ayyar, Kanchana K.; Azlan, Maryam; Azoidis, Ioannis; Bécot, Anaïs; Bach, Jean-Marie; Bachurski, Daniel; Bae, Seoyoon; Bagabas, Reem; Baj-Krzyworzeka, Monika; Balaj, Leonora; Van Balkom, Bas Wm .; ABallal, bhijna R.; Bano, Afsareen; Banzet, Sébastien; Bare, Yonis; Barile, Lucio; Barman, Bahnisikha; Barranco, Isabel; Barreca, Valeria; Bart, Geneviève; Barteneva, Natasha S.; Basso, Manuela; Batish, Mona; Bauer, Natalie R.; Baxter, Amy A.; Bazié, Wilfried W.; Bazzan, Erica; Beaumont, Joel Ej.; Bebawy, Mary; Bebelman, Maarten P.; Bedina-Zavec, Apolonija; Beetler, Danielle J.; Beke-Somfai, Tamás; Belleannée, Clémence; Benedikter, Birke J.; Benediktsdóttir, Berglind E.; Berardi, Anna C.; Bergamelli, Mathilde; Bergese, Paolo; Bertolini, Irene; Bhattacharyya, Asima; Bhattacharyya, Suvendra N.; Biller, Steven J.; Billottet, Clotilde; Bissler, John J.; Blanc-Brude, Olivier; Blenkiron, Cherie; Blijdorp, Charles J.; Bobis-Wozowicz, Sylwia; Bodart-Santos, Victor; Bodnár, Bernadett R.; Boilard, Eric; Boireau, Wilfrid; Bokun, Vladimir; Bollard, Stephanie M.; Bollini, Sveva; Bongiovanni, Antonella; Bongiovanni, Laura; Bonifay, Amandine; Boppart, Marni D.; Borràs, Francesc E.; Bosch, Steffi; Boselli, Daniela; Bottini, Massimo; Bouffard, Jeff; Boulanger, Chantal M.; Boutros, Paul C.; Boyadjian, Oscar; Boysen, Anders T.; Bozkurt, Batuhan T.; Bramich, Kyle P.; Braun, Fabian; Bravo-Miana, Rocío Del Carmen; Breakefield, Xandra O.; Brenna, Santra; Brennan, Kieran; Brennan, Meadhbh Á.; Breyne, Koen; Bridges, Esther M.; Brigstock, David R.; Brisson, Alain R.; Brodie, Chaya; Brucale, Marco; Bruno, Katelyn A.; Bucci, Cecilia; Buch, Shilpa; Buck, Amy H.; Bukva, Mátyás; Bulte, Jeff Wm.; Buratta, Sandra; Burger, Dylan; Burgy, Olivier; Burnier, Julia V.; Burrows, Kaiping; Busatto, Sara; Bussolati, Benedetta; Buzas, Edit I.; Buzas, Krisztina; Byrd, J. Brian; Cáceres-Verschae, Albano; Cai, Houjian; Caires, Hugo R.; Campos-Silva, Carmen; Camussi, Giovanni; de Candia, Paola; Carceller, Carmen; Fernandez-Becerra, Carmen; Carney, Randy P.; Carrasco, Alexis G. Murillo; Carter, David Rf.; Cavallaro, Sara; Cavallero, Serena; Cavallero, Sophie; Cerda-Troncoso, Cristóbal; Chahwan, Richard; Chalupská, Renata; Chamley, Lawrence W.; Chandra, Partha K.; Chang, Wen-Wei; Charest, A.l.; Chen, Chihchen; Chen, Hao; Chen, Qiang; Chen, Shuai; Chen; Chen, Yunxi; Cheng, Lesley; Chernyshev, Vasiliy S.; Chetty, Venkatesh Kumar; Chitti, Sai V.; Cho, Ssang-Goo; Cho, Yoon-Kyoung; Choi, Byeong Hyeon; Chutipongtanate, Somchai; Cicardi, Maria Elena; Cifuentes-Rius, Anna; Ciullo, Alessandra; Clayton, Aled; Cleary, Jacob A.; Cocozza, Federico; Cocucci, Emanuele; Coffey, Robert J.; Collino, Federica; Colombo, Federico; Colosetti, Pascal; Compañ-Bertomeu, Alvaro; Constanzo, Julie; Corbeil, Denis; Cordeiro-da-Silva, Anabela; Costa, Júlia; Couch, Yvonne; Courageux, Yvan; Coutant, Kelly; Coyle, Beth; Crescitelli, Rossella; Cretich, Marina; Cronemberger-Andrade, André; Crossland, Rachel E.; Cucher, Marcela A.; Czystowska-Kuzmicz, Malgorzata; D'Acunzo, Pasquale; D'Agnano, Igea; D'Agostino, Vito G.; D'Angelo, Gisela; D'Arrigo, Daniele; D'Souza-Schorey, Crislyn; Dagur, Raghubendra S.; Danielson, Kirsty M.; Das, Saumya; Dauphin, Thibaud; Davidson, Sean M.; Davies, Owen G.; Davis, Chelsea N.; Deep, Gagan; Degosserie, Jonathan; Van Delen, Mats; Deliwala, Vatsal; Dellar, Elizabeth R.; Van Deun, Jan; Dev, Apurba; Deville, Sarah; Devitt, Andrew; Dhondt, Bert; Dieterich, Lothar C.; Dittmer, Dirk P.; Dobosh, Brian; Dobra, Gabriella; Dogra, Navneet; Dohi, Eisuke; Dolo, Vincenza; Domashevich, Timothy V.; Dominici, Massimo; Dong, Liang; Doré, Etienne; Dragovic, Rebecca A.; Driedonks, Tom Ap.; Drittanti, Lila; Droste, Marvin; Duan, Wei; Durmaz, Esmahan; Dutta, Suman; Eguchi, Takanori; Eichenberger, Ramon M.; Eitan, Erez; Ekström, Karin; El Andaloussi, Samir; Eldh, Maria; Elie-Caille, Celine; Enciso-Martinez, Agustin; Erdbrügger, Uta; Esmaeili, Rezvan; Ettelaie, Camille; Försönits, András I.; Fabbri, Muller; Falasca, Marco; Falcon-Perez, Juan M.; Fan, Hongkuan; Fatima, Farah; Faustino, Vroniqa Ku'ulei-Lyn; Fazeli, Alireza; Fernández-Rhodes, María; Fernandez-Prada, Christopher; Ferraro, Mariola J.; Ferreira, Joao N.; Ferreira, Rafaela F.; Figueroa-Hall, Leandra K.; Figueroa-Valdés, Aliosha I.; Fioretti, Paolo V.; Flenady, Sabine; Flores-Bellver, Miguel; Fok, Ellis K.; Fonseka, Pamali; Ford, Verity J.; Fornaguera, Cristina; Forte, Dorian; Forte, Stefano; Fortunato, Orazio; Franklin, Jeffrey L; Freitas, Daniela; Frelet-Barrand, Annie; Fu, Qing-Ling; Fujita, Yu; Gärtner, Kathrin; Görgens, André; Gabriel, Áurea M.; Gabrielli, Martina; Gabrielsson, Susanne; Galinsoga, Alicia; Galisova, Andrea; Gamage, Teena Kjb; Gao, Yingtang; Garcia-Contreras, Marta; Garcia Garcia, M. Madhy; Garcia, Maria Noé; Gargiulo, Ernesto; Mc Gee, Margaret M.; Genard, Géraldine C.; Geraci, Fabiana; Ghanam, Jamal; Ghatak, Subhadip; Ghavami, Mahlegha; Ghebosu, Raluca E.; Gho, Yong Song; Ghosal, Sayam; Giamas, Georgios; Giebel, Bernd; Gilbert, Caroline; Gimona, Mario; Girão, Henrique; Giusti, Ilaria; Gizzie, Evan A.; Glamočlija, Sofija; Glass, Sarah E.; Gobbo, Jessica; Goberdhan, Deborah Ci; Godbole, Nihar; Goetz, Jacky G.; Gomez-Florit, Manuel; Goncalves, Jenifer Pendiuk; González-King Garibotti, Hernán; Gorgun, Cansu; Gori, Alessandro; Gorska, Sabina; Graner, Michael W.; Grau, Georges E.; Grech, Laura; Greening, David W.; Groß, Rüdiger M.; Gross, Julia C.; Gruber, Jens; Gualerzi, Alice; Guanzon, Dominic; Gudbergsson, Johann M.; Guerin, Coralie L.; Guerra, Flora; Guillén, Maria I.; Gujar, Vikramsingh; Guo, Wei; Gupta, Veer Bala; Gupta, Vivek Kumar; Gustafson, Dakota; Gyukity-Sebestyén, Edina; Hölker, Patrick; Hade, Mangesh D.; Hagey, Daniel W.; Han, Chungmin; Han, Pingping; Hanayama, Rikinari; Handberg, Aase; Hanser, Edveena; Harada, Masako; Harmati, Maria; Harris, Adrian L.; Harrison, Paul; Harrison, Rane A.; Haughey, Norman J.; Haynes, Paul A; He, Mei; Hegyesi, Hargita; Hendrix, An; Van Herwijnen, Martijn J.; Hill, Andrew F.; Hisey, Colin L.; Hochberg, Fred H.; Hoen, Esther Nm Nolte-'t; Holcar, Marija; Holder, Beth; Holnthoner, Wolfgang; Holthofer, Harry; Hooper, D. Craig; Hosseini-Behesht, Elham; Hosseinkhani, Baharak; Howard, Jane; Howe, Kathryn L.; Hoyle, Nicholas R.; Hrdy, Jiri; Hu, Guoku; Huang, Yiyao; Huber, Veronica; Hudoklin, Samo; Hufnagel, Antonia; Hulett, Mark D.; Hunt, Stuart; Hyenne, Vincent; Ianni, Emilio Di; Iannotta, Dalila; Ibrahim, Ahmed Ge; Ibrahim, Sherif A.; Ikezu, Seiko; Ikezu, Tsuneya; Im, Hyungsoon; Inal, Jameel M; Inic-Kanada, Aleksandra; Inngjerdingen, Marit; Inoshima, Yasuo; Ivanov, Alexander R.; Ivanova, Alena; Izquierdo, Elena; Jørgensen, Malene Møller; Jackson, Hannah K.; Jacobsen, Soren; Jadue, Fernanda; Javeed, Naureen; Jay, Steven M.; Jayachandran, Muthuvel; Jayasinghe, Migara K.; Jenster, Guido; Jeppesen, Dennis K.; Jerónimo, Carmen; Jiang, Linglei; Jin, Jing; Jingushi, Kentaro; Jo, Dong-Gyu; Joerger-Messerli, Marianne S.; Jones, Jennifer C.; de Jong, Olivier G.; Jovanovic-Talisman, Tijana; Ferrante Jr, Anthony W.; Coleman Jr, Leon G.; Juncker, David; Jung, Stephanie; Jurek, Benjamin; Jurga, Marcin; Justilien, Verline; Kabani, Mehdi; Kalluri, Raghu; Kamali-Moghaddam, Masood; Kanada, Masamitsu; Kang, Taeyoung; Kano, Shin-Ichi; Kaparakis-Liaskos, Maria; Karnas, Elżbieta; Karoichan, Antoine; Kashanchi, Fatah; Kashani, Sara Assar; Kashyap, Namita N.; Katsur, Miroslava; Kau-Strebinger, Silvio; Kauffman, Amy C.; Kaur, Sukhbir; Kehoe, Oksana; Kelwick, Richard Jr; Kenari, Amirmohammad Nasiri; Kestecher, Brachyahu M.; Keulers, Tom G.; Van Keuren-Jensen, Kendall R.; Khalajx, Kasra; Khamari, Delaram; Khanabdali, Ramin; Khomyakova, Elena; Khoo, Amanda; Kim, Daniel H.; Kim, Dongin; Kim, Han Sang; Kim, In-San; Kim, Soo; Kim, Yohan; Kima, Peter E.; Kislinger, Thomas; Klingeborn, Mikael; Komuro, Hiroaki; Koncz, Anna; Konstantinou, Timothea; Van der Koog, Luke; Kooijmans, Sander Aa; Kornek, Miroslaw T.; Kosanović, Maja; Kostallari, Enis; Koukoulis, Tiana F.; Kourembanas, Stella; Krämer-Albers, Eva-Maria; Kralj-Iglic, Veronika; Krasemann, Susanne; Krasnodembskaya, Anna D.; Krawczynska, Natalia J.; Kreft, Mateja E.; Kruh-Garcia, Nicole A.; Kuehn, Meta J.; Kuipers, Marije E.; Kulaj, Konxhe; Kuligowski, Julia; Kumagai, Yumi; Kumar, Ashish; Kumar, Saroj; Kumar, Sharad; Kumari, Meena; Kundrotas, Gabrielis; Kurochkin, Igor V.; Kuroda, Masahiko; Kurzawa-Akanbi, Marzena; Kweskin, Sasha J.; Kyburz, Diego; Lázaro-Ibáñez, Elisa; Lässer, Cecilia; Lötvall, Jan; Lőrincz, Ákos M.; Lai, Andrew; Lai, Charles P.; Laitinen, Saara; Landreville, Solange; Lange, Sigrun; Langevin, Scott M.; Langlois, Marc-André; Languino, Lucia R.; Lannigan, Joanne; Lark, Daniel S.; Larregina, Adriana T.; Laurent, Louise C.; Laurin, David; Lavieu, Gregory; Lawson, Charlotte; Lay, Soazig Le; Leandrox, Kevin; Ledreux, Aurélie; Lee, Changjin; Lee, Dong-Sup; Lee, Hakho; Lee, Heon-Jin; Lee, Sun Young; Lee, Tae Ryong; Lee, Wai-Leng; Lefterov, Iliya; Lei, Xinhua; Leivo, Janne; Lemaire, Quentin; Leme, Adriana F Paes; Lemon, Stanley M.; Lenassi, Metka; Lennon, Kathleen M.; Lenzini, Stephen; Leor, Jonathan; Levy, Efrat; Li, Guoping; Li, Jiao Jiao; Li, Qiubai; Li, Xinlei; Liang, Xiuming; Lim, Rebecca; Lim, Sai Kiang; Limongi, Tania; Linē, Aija; Lins, Paula Pincela; Lippens, Lien; Liu, Guanshu; Llorente, Alicia; Longjohn, Modeline N.; de Loo, Fons Aj van; Lorenowicz, Magdalena J.; Lorico, Aurelio; Loudig, Olivier; Loyer, Xavier; Lozano-Andrés, Estefanía; Lu, Biao; Lu, Quan; Lubart, Quentin; Lucien, Fabrice; Lunavat, Taral R.; Lundberg, Ludwig Ermann; Lundy, David J.; Luoto, Jens C.; Lyden, David C.; Möller, Andreas; Müller, Janis A.; MacPhee, Daniel J.; Maddox, Adam L.; Madec, Elise; Magaña, Setty M.; Mahairaki, Vasiliki; Mahoney, Mỹ G.; Malhi, Harmeet; Malnou, Cécile E.; Mamand, Doste R.; Man, Kenny; Manno, Mauro; Mantel, Pierre-Yves; Marangon, Tecla; Marbán, Eduardo; Marcilla, Antonio; Maremanda, Krishna P.; Margolis, Leonid; Mariñas-Pardo, Luis; Marić, Ivica; Martín, Silvia Sánchez; Martínez-Martínez, Eduardo; Martel, Catherine; Martens-Uzunova, Elena S; Martin-Duque, Pilar; Martin-Jaular, Lorena; Martinez-Murillo, Paola A.; Martinez-Pacheco, Sarai; Martins-Marques, Tania; Mary, Benjamin; Marzan, Akbar L.; Matamoros-Angles, Andreu; Mathivanan, Suresh; Matsuzaki, Juntaro; Mayan, Maria D.; Mazzeo, Carla; Mbengue, Mariama; McCann, Mark J.; McIlvenna, Luke C.; McVey, Mark J.; Meisner-Kober, Nicole; Mellergaard, Maiken; Melli, Giorgia; Menck, Kerstin; Menjivar, Nico G.; Menon, Ramkumar; Mentkowski, Kyle I.; Miklavcic, John J.; Miklosi, Andras G.; Milutinovic, Bojana; Minciacchi, Valentina R.; Mirzaei, Mehdi; Mishra, Shalini; Mitchell, Megan I.; Mizenko, Rachel R.; Mladenović, Danilo; Mohamadi, Eqbal; Mohanty, Sujata; Momen-Heravi, Fatemeh; Mondal, Sujan K.; Monguió-Tortajada, Marta; Moon, Jisook; Morandi, Mattia I.; Moreau, Violaine; Morelli, Adrian E.; Mori, Marcelo A.; Morimoto, Masahiro; Mosser, Mathilde; Motaung, Thabiso Eric; Moussay, Etienne; Mugoni, Vera; Mullier, Francois; Muraca, Maurizio; Mullier, Francois
Extracellular vesicles (EVs), through their complex cargo, can reflect the state of their cell of origin and change the functions and phenotypes of other cells. These features indicate strong biomarker and therapeutic potential and have generated broad interest, as evidenced by the steady year-on-year increase in the numbers of scientific publications about EVs. Important advances have been made in EV metrology and in understanding and applying EV biology. However, hurdles remain to realising the potential of EVs in domains ranging from basic biology to clinical applications due to challenges in EVnomenclature, separation from non-vesicular extracellular particles, characterisation and functional studies. To address the challenges and opportunities in this rapidly evolving field, the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV) updates its ‘Minimal Information for Studies of Extracellular Vesicles’, which was first published in 2014 and then in 2018 as MISEV2014 and MISEV2018, respectively. The goal of the current document, MISEV2023, is to provide researchers with an updated snapshot of available approaches and their advantages and limitations for production, separation and characterisation of EVs from multiple sources, including cell culture, body fluids and solid tissues. In addition to presenting the latest state of the art in basic principles of EV research, this document also covers advanced techniques and approaches that are currently expanding the boundaries of the field. MISEV2023 also includes new sections on EV release and uptake and a brief discussion of in vivo approaches to study EVs. Compiling feedback from ISEV expert task forces and more than 1000 researchers, this document conveys the current state of EV research to facilitate robust scientific discoveries and move the field forward even more rapidly.
Reliability, validity and dimensionality of the 12-Item General Health Questionnaire among South African healthcare workers
(AOSIS, 2024-10) Kufe, Nyuyki Clement; Bernstein, Colleen; Wilson, Kerry Sidwell
Healthcare workers (HCWs) were among the high-risk groups for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and suffer a high burden of challenges with mental health including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, avoidance and burnout. The 12-Item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) has shown the best fit in both a one-factor structure and a multidimensional structure for the screening of common mental disorders and psychiatric well-being. The aim was to test for reliability and validity and ascertain the factor structure of the GHQ-12 in a South African HCW population. Data were collected from 832 public hospital and clinic staff during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Gauteng, South Africa. The factor structure of the GHQ-12 in this professional population was examined by exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to identify factors, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) for construct validity and structural equation modelling (SEM) to establish model fit. The GHQ-12 median score was higher (n = 25) in women than in men (n = 24), p = 0.044. The assumptions for inferential statistics were tested: the determinant for the correlation matrix was 0.034, Bartlett’s test of sphericity was p < 0.001, Chi-square 2262.171 and the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) of sampling adequacy was 0.877. The four factors identified were labelled as social dysfunction (37.8%), anxiety depression (35.4%), capable (24.9%) and self-efficacy (22.7%). The sample had a Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s Omega coefficient of 0.85. CONTRIBUTION : The study highlighted the gaps in the use of GHQ-12. The findings affirm the validity and reliability of the GHQ-12 in this group of professionals and the multidimensional structure for screening for psychological distress.
The struggles of imanyano yamadodana as a movement for evangelism : a case study of the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa
(AOSIS, 2025-09) Buqa, Wonke
Imanyano yamadodana [fellowship of men {FOM}] was both an evangelistic movement and a sodality within the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa (UPCSA), established to evangelise and reach out to black people within their cultural context. This study aims to examine struggles that emerged within the FOM following the 1999 union between the black Reformed Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa and the predominantly white-dominated Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Drawing on primary sources from the UPCSA, a literature review, and academic articles, the study investigates these struggles as premised on former denominational lines. It argues that the incessant struggles within the FOM stem from the instability of the UPCSA union, a condition of spiritual acedia, and a crisis of black consciousness. Ultimately, the argument raised a challenge about the traditional values of the evangelistic movement and highlights the need to equip the contemporary generation of amadodana [men]. CONTRIBUTION : This study contributes to the mission of the UPCSA by calling imanyano yamadodana to re-centre African ecclesial identity and to reconstruct the evangelistic movement. It advocates for revitalising the black church’s mission through black consciousness and spiritual revival [imvuselelo].
Proverbs 28:20-22 and avarice among youths in the Enugu metropolis, Nigeria
(AOSIS, 2025-07) Ugwuewo, Chisom S.; Nweze, Stanley N.
The strong desire to amass wealth and make money in every possible way is not a recent phenomenon; however, it is particularly intensified in contemporary times, especially among young people in the Enugu metropolis. Recent studies indicate that the average young person in Nigeria in general, and in the Enugu metropolis specifically, will seize any opportunity to acquire money, regardless of whether the means are licit or illicit, humane or inhumane. This study aims to address this social ill in the Enugu State by analysing Proverbs 28:20–22 for its relevance to the youth in the Enugu. The sapiential corpus in Proverbs 28:20–22 warns against such exorbitant desire, highlighting the eventual consequences of avarice. The text asserts that those guilty of avarice cannot expect lasting prosperity; rather, misery is inevitable. This study employs a rhetorical analytical method. Data were collected and analysed qualitatively. It is evident that the avarice of young people in Nigeria and in the Enugu metropolis has contributed to kidnapping, cybercrime (including yahoo and yahoo plus fraud), commercial male and female prostitution, moral laxity, human ritual sacrifice, rape, wasteful expenditure, sudden death, and related vices. These issues have rendered society vulnerable to crisis, thereby creating an urgent need for intervention. Despite numerous studies on crime in society, few have focused on theft and related crimes among youth in the Enugu metropolis. Moreover, none of the existing literature addresses cybercrime among young people in Igboland in general, and the Enugu metropolis specifically, from the perspective of Proverbs 28:20–22. The researchers posit that proper knowledge and application of this passage could provide a viable solution to the consequences of avarice in the Enugu metropolis. CONTRIBUTION : Proverbs 28:20–22 is one of the Old Testament texts particularly relevant to addressing the problem of avarice in any given human context. A thorough exposition of the passage and its appropriate application could curb the inordinate desire to acquire wealth, thereby reducing its negative impact on individuals and society, especially in the Enugu metropolis. It could also revitalise interest in skill acquisition among the youth.
Reflections on proposed law reforms for unfair dismissal
(Juta Law Journals, 2025-10) Van Eck, B.P.S. (Stefan); Newaj, Kamalesh; Mashele, Zwivhuya
The NEDLAC social partners have been engaged in a process of formulating amendments to a number of key pieces of labour legislation and their accompanying codes. In an attempt to foster job creation, policymakers have, among others, published proposals with the view to relaxing the seemingly onerous requirements in respect of unfair dismissal law. Although the negotiating parties have not reached consensus on key aspects of the amendments, significant suggestions have been placed on the table regarding amendments to the Code of Good Practice: Dismissal, as well as important provisions of the Labour Relations Act. The proposed amendments seek to relax unfair dismissal provisions in respect of small employers; they exclude unfair dismissal protection during probation; they recognise incompatibility as a separate ground of dismissal; and they place a cap on the maximum compensation which higher earning employees might be eligible to claim. This contribution analyses these proposed amendments, focusing on their projected effects on the regulatory landscape of unfair dismissal in South Africa.
Contributions of a community health worker program in improving district health system performance in South Africa, using routine health service variables in a quasi-experimental study design
(BioMed Central, 2025-08) Thomas, Leena Susan; Jordaan, Joyce; Pillay, Yogan; Buch, Eric; leena.thomas@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : Globally low- and middle-income countries are investing in community health worker (CHW) programs. These programs are viewed as fundamental to ensuring universal health coverage for all. Where CHW programs are doing what they should be doing and doing it adequately, they should make a difference in population health outcomes, reflecting health system changes. However, there are not many studies exploring the contributions and effectiveness of large-scale, comprehensive community health worker programs on health system performance. METHODS : This study takes place in the Ekurhuleni health district, in urban South Africa. A before (pre) and after (post) intervention study (quasi-experimental) using routine health service variables (secondary data) from district clinics over nine years was conducted. Performance of intervention clinics with community health worker teams that had more than 60% population coverage were compared to similar control clinics that had no teams or teams with less than 30% coverage. RESULTS : Both groups of clinics generally improved over time for routine health service variables for maternal, child health, infectious diseases, and cervical cancer programmes. Over nine years, intervention clinics showed more improved performance, statistically significant, in six health variables while controls improved in four. But importantly, intervention clinics improved proportionately better pre to post in seven of the nine (78%) variables studied compared to controls, demonstrating reduced diarrhoeal disease and pneumonia in children, better Vitamin A coverage, fewer severely malnourished children, better testing for HIV, and better screening for Tuberculosis and cervical cancer. Illustrating the comprehensive range of services provided by CHWs, the seven routine health service variables represented maternal, child health, infectious and non-communicable diseases. We also observed less uncontrolled hypertensive and diabetics in intervention clinics compared to control clinics. CONCLUSION : Large-scale, sustained and comprehensive community health worker programs adequately covering populations contributed to improved urban district health system performance in Ekurhuleni, demonstrating their effectiveness. This was explored through improvements in health system performance over time. These findings, using routine health service variables, have policy implications for financial and other resource allocations in health districts in low- and middle-income countries.
The effect of semiorganic iodine-containing compounds on the antibiotic susceptibility of pathogenic microorganisms
(MDPI, 2025-08) Kenesheva, Sabina T.; Turganbay, Seitzhan; Jumagaziyeva, Ardak B.; Askhatkyzy, Gaukhar; Askarova, Dana A.; Azembayev, Amir A.; Ilin, Alexandr I.; Reva, Oleg N.; Karpenyuk, Tatyana A.; oleg.reva@up.ac.za
OBJECTIVES : The global rise in multidrug resistance underscores the urgent need for the development of novel and effective antimicrobial agents. Semi-organic iodine-containing complexes, owing to their unique properties, low likelihood of resistance development, and stability under various conditions, represent a promising avenue for the design of new therapeutic strategies. This study describes the synthesis of semi-organic iodine-containing complexes and the in vitro evaluation of their impact on antibiotic susceptibility modulation in the multidrug-resistant pathogenic microorganisms S. aureus and E. coli. METHODS: The physicochemical properties of the semiorganic compounds were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, potentiometric, and titrimetric methods. Evaluation of antimicrobial activity was obtained according to CLSI protocols. The impact of semiorganic compounds on the in vitro susceptibility of MDR strains was evaluated by the disk diffusion method. RESULTS : This study evaluated the effects of iodine-containing complexes KC-270 and KC-271 on the antibiotic susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus BAA-39 and Escherichia coli BAA-196. The most pronounced effect was observed with KC-270 applied during the lag phase, which enhanced the activity of several antibiotics and, in some cases, restored susceptibility. KC-271 exhibited a weaker and more limited impact. The findings suggest that KC-270 has potential as a modulator of antibiotic susceptibility, particularly when administered at early stages of bacterial growth. CONCLUSIONS : The results support the ability of amino acid-based iodine coordination compounds to influence the antibiotic susceptibility of pathogenic bacteria, highlighting their potential as adjuvant agents to improve the effectiveness of current antimicrobial therapies. However, although changes in susceptibility were detected, neither compound fully eliminated resistance in the multidrug-resistant strains, indicating the necessity for further research into their mechanisms of action and possible synergistic interactions with antibiotics.
In vitro photoprotective and skin aging-related enzyme in-hibitory activities of Cylindrospermum alatosporum (NR125682) and Loriellopsis cavernicola (NR117881) extracts
(MDPI, 2025-09) Sithole, Siphesihle Z.; Ikhane, Albert O.; Osunsanmi, Foluso Oluwagbemiga; Mosa, Rebamang Anthony; Opoku, Andrew Rowland; rebamang.mosa@up.ac.za
The use of cyanobacteria has gained considerable interest in many industries, including the cosmetic industry, due to its rich array of bioactive metabolites. This study evaluates the in vitro photoprotective properties and the effect of Cylindrospermum alatosporum (NR125682) and Loriellopsis cavernicola (NR117881) extracts on slowing down the enzymes associated with skin aging. Various crude extracts were prepared using hexane, dichloromethane, and ethanol solvents. The resulting crude extract solvents were completely distilled to obtain their bioactive compounds, based on selected polarities. The sulfhydryl content of the crude extracts was determined and the aging-associated enzymes’ activity (collagenase, elastase, hyaluronidase, and tyrosinase) in the crude extracts was investigated. Furthermore, the in vitro photoprotective activity of the extracts was assessed by measuring UVA and UVB photoprotection. Most of the extracts contained varying amounts of sulfhydryl compounds (10.88–78.15 mg/g). All of the extracts demonstrated in vitro inhibitory activity against tyrosinase, hyaluronidase (IC50 6 µg/mL), and collagenase (IC50 50–70 µg/mL); weak elastase inhibitory activities were also observed. The crude extracts also showed appreciable UVA and UVB photoprotective activity. Meanwhile, L. cavernicola extracts demonstrated the highest UVB photoprotective activity (SPF 14.67–78.96). It is noteworthy that the crude extracts possessed anti-skin-aging potency with notable photoprotective capability.
Oligochitosan conjugates of the antimalarials dihydroartemisinin and lumefantrine : synthesis, stability, cell viability, and antiplasmodial studies
(Wiley, 2025-10) Matshe, William; Mvango, Sindisiwe; Malabi, Rudzani; Tantoh, Asongwe; Andraos, Charlene; Famuyide, Ibukun Michael; McGaw, Lyndy Joy; Baijnath, Sooraj; Pilcher, Lynne A.; Balogun, Mohammed; mohammedbalogun@tuks.co.za
Malaria is treatable with several combinations of drugs, the most well-known and currently most effective being artemisinin-based therapies. Gastrointestinal absorption of these drugs can be poor and erratic if not taken with a fatty meal. Nausea and the loss of appetite, common symptoms of even mild malaria, can therefore jeopardize the effectiveness of the treatment. To enhance the bioavailability of artemisinin-based combination therapies, several lipid-based formulations and delivery systems have been investigated. In this study, we synthesized oligochitosan conjugates of the antimalarial drugs dihydroartemisinin and lumefantrine and examined their physical stability and biological activities. The hydrodynamic properties of both conjugates varied unpredictably under pH conditions like those found at different stages along the gastrointestinal tract and in plasma. The viability of Caco-2 cells exposed to the conjugates was also investigated in comparison to the free drugs. Both conjugates demonstrated significantly lower cytotoxicity compared to the free drugs at concentrations up to 0.5 mg/mL, particularly during the first 24 h of exposure. Despite this, they retained their antiplasmodial effect against Plasmodium falciparum in an in vitro assay at 1 µg/mL and 5 µg/mL. These new chitosan biomaterials hold great potential for further development into oral therapeutics that would not require fatty meal intake due to the intrinsic mucoadhesiveness of chitosan.
PrEP awareness and willingness to use oral PrEP among males ≥ 18 years attending VMMC services in Gauteng, South Africa
(Springer, 2025) Shangase, Nosipho; Tobaiwa, Ocean; Cutler, Ewalde; Singh, Beverley; Brukwe, Zinhle; Pillay, Erushka; Dorrell, Philip; Moyo, Khumbulani; Zondi, Lindokuhle; Pillay, Yogan; Patrick, Sean Mark; Puren, Adrian; Kufa, Tendesayi
Integration of voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) with pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) services may increase access to and/or uptake of combination HIV prevention strategies. We examined awareness of and willingness to use oral PrEP among adult males attending VMMC services in Gauteng province, South Africa. A cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV-negative males aged ≥ 18 years seeking healthcare at one of six high-volume public VMMC clinics from June-October 2021. Participants provided written informed consent, completed an interviewer-administered questionnaire (covering demographics, clinical history, sexual behavioural and risk perception, PrEP eligibility, PrEP awareness and PrEP willingness), and underwent a rapid dual HIV/syphilis test. Logistic regression models (adjusted for education, age and sexual debut) were used to determine factors associated with PrEP awareness and PrEP willingness. Among the participants, 40% were at substantial risk of HIV and thus eligible for PrEP, 45% were aware of PrEP and 80% were likely/highly likely to use oral PrEP. Awareness of PrEP was lower among males who reported being at substantial risk of HIV than males not at substantial risk (aOR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.41–0.86). PrEP willingness was higher in males who reported: (1) not being married, separated or widowed compared to married males (aOR = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.14–4.54); (2) being aware of PrEP (aOR = 1.91, 95% CI: 1.19–3.08) than those who were not aware of PrEP; and (3) having high/very high self-perceived HIV risk compared to those with lower self-perceived HIV risk (aOR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.01–3.73). Considering the significant proportion of males attending VMMC who are at risk of HIV, integrating PrEP and VMMC services can significantly impact HIV prevention efforts by increasing awareness and uptake. Programs should prioritize PrEP awareness campaigns and highlight the combined benefits of VMMC and PrEP.
Injury and illness epidemiology in elite athletes during the Olympic, Youth Olympic and Paralympic Games : a systematic review and meta-analysis
(BMJ Publishing Group, 2025-09) Torvaldsson, Kalle; Fagher, Kristina; Derman, Wayne; Engebretsen, Lars; Lindblom, Hanna; Lopes, Alexandre Dias; Runciman, Phoebe; Schwellnus, Martin Peter; Soligard, Torbjorn; Sonesson, Sofi; Steffen, Kathrin; Hagglund, Martin
OBJECTIVE : To systematically review and synthesise the incidence and characteristics of injuries and illnesses among athletes participating in the Olympic, Youth Olympic and Paralympic Games. DESIGN : Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES : PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus and Web of Science were searched up to 2 July 2024, and Google Scholar, ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform up to 12 December 2023. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES : Cohort studies conducted during the Games reporting injuries and illnesses among athletes. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool for prevalence studies, and certainty of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation framework. RESULTS : 27 articles were included (10 Olympic, 4 Youth Olympic and 13 Paralympic Games). 23 articles had low, 3 moderate and 1 high risk of bias. Certainty of evidence was high to moderate for Olympic, high to low for Youth Olympic and low for Paralympic Games. Injury incidences per 1000 athlete-days were 6.5 (95% CI 5.9 to 7.2) during Olympic, 10.5 (95% CI 9.4 to 11.8) during Youth Olympic and 14.3 (95% CI 9.9 to 20.7) during Paralympic Games. Illness incidences per 1000 athlete-days were 3.6 (95% CI 2.8 to 4.7), 6.9 (95% CI 6.1 to 7.8) and 9.7 (95% CI 6.5 to 14.4), respectively. Lower limb injuries were frequent during Olympic and Youth Olympic Games, upper limb injuries during Paralympic Games and respiratory illnesses across all Games cohorts. CONCLUSIONS : Injury and illness incidences were highest in Paralympic Games, followed by Youth Olympic and Olympic Games. Incidences and patterns of injury and illness were sport and context specific, which could inform future prevention strategies.
Shape and variability of the normal medial coronoid process by computed tomography in young adult labrador retrievers
(Wiley, 2025-11) Van der Laan, Luzanne; Kirberger, Robert M.; Fosgate, Geoffrey Theodore; Le Roux, Christelle
Medial coronoid process disease (MCPD) is the most frequently observed cause of elbow dysplasia, resulting in lameness in young, fast‐growing large‐breed dogs, including Labrador Retrievers (LRs). Computed tomography (CT) is the diagnostic imaging modality of choice for evaluating the medial coronoid process (MCP), as it is noninvasive and eliminates superimposition of the process by the radial head. This retrospective descriptive study aimed to describe the shape of the normal MCP on CT, to assess its variability within the LR breed, and to determine the normal Hounsfield units (HUs) of the MCP, medial radial head (MRH), and lateral radial head (LRH). Normal elbow CT studies of 51 South African guide dog LRs were reviewed. Using a repeatable imaging alignment technique, three principal MCP shapes were identified: ovoid, triangular, and softly pointed and were found to be dependent on the level of assessment. Males had significantly lower mean MCP HU compared to females. The mean HU of the MRH was consistently higher than the LRH and was also greater in attenuation on subjective assessment. Measuring MCP and radial head HU too proximally was suboptimal, as volume averaging was frequently encountered. The results of this study showed that although different alignment techniques may result in HU variations, they will not affect the HU to such an extent that the MCP would be misclassified as abnormal.
Echocardiographic examination of 16 eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) and one red kangaroo (Osphranter rufus)
(Wiley, 2025-09) Carstens, Ann; Dutton, Geoffrey J.; Stannard, Hayley J.; Birckhead, Alice; Barkman, William D.; Connolly, Joanne H.
Habitat loss, road trauma, predation, disease, and natural disasters impact the health and survival of the family Macropodidae, including kangaroos. Cardiac disease has been reported, including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), nutritional myodegeneration, valvular pathology, cardiovascular parasites, toxoplasmosis, and toxicities. Human research has evaluated macropod pericardium and aortic valves as possible bioprostheses. The goals of this prospective anatomic study were to echocardiographically evaluate opportunistically presented kangaroos: 14 clinically normal eastern grey kangaroos (EGK-Macropus giganteus), two sick EGKs, and one sick red kangaroo (RK, Osphranter rufus). Similar techniques as described in the dog were used. Standard B-mode images, M-mode mensuration, and Doppler measurements were attained; values were descriptively compared with published normal values. The clinically normal animals' M-mode values were similar to the closest weight-related kangaroo values. Most of the animals showed thicker-than-expected left ventricular and interventricular septal walls, and relative wall thickness (RWT) of 0.5 and 0.6; this may be the norm for macropods, but since an RWT>0.45 may indicate human HCM, this should be considered in the kangaroo. The sick animals were euthanized. Necropsy revealed highly suspect HCM in one EGK, and myxomatous mitral valve degeneration with suspect DCM in the other EGK and RK. In conclusion, there are weight-related similarities between previously published kangaroo values. More work is required on a larger number of weight and age cohorts of kangaroos. Subclinical HCM may be present in apparently normal animals. Findings can be used during clinical health assessments and for further research into macropod cardiac conditions.

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