Not Even Deadly Illness Could Halt Dr Baiyegunhi’s Momentum

Dr Omolara Olujimi Baiyegunhi who graduated with her Doctor of Philosophy degree in Immunology.

‘This is an amazing accomplishment. It was a very challenging endeavour but I’m excited that I was able to pull through and complete the degree.’

These were the sentiments of Dr Omolara Olujimi Baiyegunhi upon obtaining her Doctor of Philosophy degree in Immunology. Baiyegunhi completed her degree in the School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences (LMMS) in the HIV Pathogenesis Programme under the supervision of Dr Zaza Ndlovu.

The 39-year-old doctor studied Biochemistry as an undergraduate degree and graduated with a BSc Honors Biochemistry from Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, Nigeria. She completed her Master’s degree in Biochemistry at UKZN’s Pietermaritzburg campus. After completing her Master’s degree, she realised that she needed to focus on her passion which is biomedical research for translation into healthcare practices. With HIV/AIDS being a major global health challenge, Baiyegunhi wanted to contribute to the eradication of the disease.

‘I completed my Master’s degree and my doctoral degree at UKZN. I can say that it was a good experience. Overall, I had access to world-class facilities for my research and I think the calibre of academics in the Institution is also exceptional,’ she said.

Baiyegunhi’s unique PhD study investigated the function of immune cells called T follicular helper (Tfh) cells that help the body to fight HIV infection. Her study also investigated where HIV hides in the body of people who start taking antiretroviral drugs immediately after contracting the virus. Her study found that giving people antiretroviral therapy very early after contracting HIV helps preserve the function of Tfh cells and that it takes more than two years of taking the treatment for the virus to stop replicating in organs of the body such as lymph nodes where it hides. These findings are important for the care of HIV infected individuals to ensure that they continue to take their treatment consistently for a long time to prevent the virus from coming back. ‘Another implication is for people conducting vaccine studies, that they should not interrupt treatment until after two to three years because the virus still persists in the lymph nodes and can readily start replicating if treatment is stopped early,’ she said.

Whilst maintain laser-like focus on her PhD studies, Baiyegunhi would be severely tested. During the first-year of her studies, she was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness and was in and out of hospitals for over six months. Given the physical and emotional trauma she had experienced as a result of her illness, resuming her studies was challenging; a struggle she however met in her stride. ‘Every worthy endeavour will definitely come with its own challenges but the knowledge acquired from overcoming that challenge also contributes to one’s overall success as well as lessons learnt which are often invaluable. It has been three years since then and I have been able to do excellent work and some of my work has been published in international journals and I have also presented my work at international conferences,’ she said.

Baiyegunhi plans to continue engaging in HIV research in the future. She is also interested in cancer research and would love to study how immunotherapies in cancer can be applicable to HIV eradication. 

Words: Lihle Sosibo 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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Challenges No Match for Dr Sibanda’s Hunger for Success

Dr Edson Panganayi Sibanda who graduated with a PhD in Philosophy in Health Sciences.

The road to success is not easy to navigate, especially if you throw in a PhD; an often-lonely affair that requires focus and discipline, a circumstance which proved all too true for Dr Edson Panganayi Sibanda.

The 41-year-old is a Principal Research Scientist in a Biomedical Food and Biomedical Technology Institute called the Scientific and Industrial Research and Development Centre (SIRDC), Harare, Zimbabwe, graduated with his Doctoral degree in Philosophy in Health Sciences (Physiology) in the School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences.

Sibanda completed his BSc Hons Biochemistry in Zimbabwe in 2000; later obtaining his MSc Biotechnology at the University of Zimbabwe in 2003. He said studying at UKZN presented him with an opportunity to be trained under and mentored by accomplished researchers such as supervisors Professor Takafira Mduluza and Professor Musa Mabandla. He was drawn to UKZN due to the University’s attractive fee remission and postgraduate scholarship policies. UKZN ranks as one of the top 500 universities in the world with an excellent reputation and high research output productivity which also played a part in Sibanda’s decision to study at UKZN.

Titled: Fungal endophytes: isolation, identification and assessment of bioactive potential of their natural products, his PhD study investigated the diversity of endophytic fungi hosted by the plants Warburgia salutaris, Annona senegalensis, Kigelia africana and Vitex payos used in Zimbabwean traditional medicine and their potential to produce compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. The endophyte diversity findings from this study contribute to the general body of knowledge concerning fungal endophyte diversity and provides information that will assist in gaining a better understanding of the host range of fungal endophytes. Endophytic fungi from the studied medicinal plants have potential as sources of natural compounds with antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. However; further research is required to confirm and expand on the initial findings before products that can be commercialised are manufactured utilising the natural products.

During the first year of his PhD journey, Sibanda would however face challenges in meeting some of the application deadlines. He failed to meet the deadline to apply for the postgraduate research grant partly because he was conducting components of his research in Zimbabwe since he was not based in South Africa full-time. Missing the deadline for the research grant pushed him to be proactive in seeking relevant information and this principle has helped him to keep ahead. Being a full-time PhD student who was not fully based in South Africa presented another challenge as it made him ineligible for a student stipend, leaving him financially dependent on his spouse to see him through his studies.

Sibanda would however rise above his challenges and earn himself a PhD. ‘This degree has equipped me with all the necessary knowledge and skills to further my goal of contributing to the discovery of new bioactive natural products that can be used to address some of the unmet human needs. I plan to apply the gained knowledge and skills in bioprospecting for useful natural compounds in the unique environments found in Africa and Zimbabwe in particular.’

Words: Lihle Sosibo 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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Mistakes Essential for Development, Says Biochemistry Researcher

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences graduate, Dr Nikita Naicker.

‘Completing this degree has sparked a multitude of feelings. I am proud of my triumph; one which bared both struggle and success,’ so said Dr Nikita Naicker upon completion of her Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences (Medical Biochemistry) in the School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences.

Naicker, who is a Post-doctoral Research Fellow at CAPRISA, was drawn into and enthralled by the field medical biochemistry as she believed it would afford her an opportunity to study different types of molecules and biochemical processes and hopefully contribute in improving technology and medicine.

Her PhD research, which she believes is a novel study, was titled: An Investigation of the Anti-Hyperglycaemic, Biochemical and Molecular Effects of 4-Hydroxyisoleucine and Fenugreek Seed Extract in Comparison to Metformin In Vitro and In Vivo.The study focused on investigating the molecular and biochemical pathways of a plant extract (fenugreek) and its active compound (4-hydroxyisoleucine) as alternate therapy for the treatment of type two diabetes mellitus.

The study found that the active compound of the plant significantly improved the biochemical changes occurring during type two diabetes. This has great importance in socio-economically challenged communities where type two diabetes mellitus is a common disorder, access to healthcare facilities is limited, and plants serve as sources of easily accessible treatments.

The 27-year-old describes herself as a consistent, diligent and dedicated individual. ‘I firmly believe that mistakes have been an integral part of my development as a researcher,’ she concluded.

With her accomplishment, she would like to thank her family and supervisor, UKZN’s Professor Anil Chuturgoon who have provided unwavering support, perseverance and commitment along her PhD journey. In addition to her accomplishments, she is proud of her sister who recently graduated with Honours in Physics summa cum laude and currently holds a fellowship with CERN, Switzerland.

Words: Lihle Sosibo 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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PhD Study Seeks to Improve Postnatal Outcomes

Dr Pragalathan Naidoo graduated with a PhD in Philosophy in Health Sciences.

‘I feel ecstatic because it was always my dream to obtain a PhD qualification in Health Sciences. I am truly grateful and blessed to have such amazing, kind and humble parents who made major sacrifices to educate me and who instilled in me the importance of hard work and perseverance.’

These were the sentiments of Dr Pragalathan Naidoo on obtaining his Philosophy in Health Sciences (Medical Biochemistry) Doctoral degree at the School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences.

Naidoo is currently a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Discipline of Medical Biochemistry and Chemical Pathology at UKZN. Prior to that, he has worked as a student lecturer, teaching assistant and senior tutor. He also attended several workshops focusing on genetics/epigenetics, HIV/AIDS, data analysis using statistical software packages as well as biological instrumentation usage.

Born in Umkomaas, south of Durban, Naidoo obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and Microbiology, Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Biochemistry, Master of Science degree in Biochemistry, and now Doctor of Philosophy degree in Health Sciences (Medical Biochemistry) from UKZN.

Titled: The Influence of Maternal Genetic and microRNA variations and Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) Pollution Exposure in Adverse Birth Outcomes in Pregnant Women in the Mother and Child in the Environment (MACE) Birth Cohort in Durban, his study investigated whether maternal HIV/AIDS and exposure to ambient and indoor air pollution throughout pregnancy play a role in adverse birth outcomes and adverse respiratory health outcomes amongst children of the cohort as they mature in age.

To date, the majority of such studies were conducted in Caucasian and Asian populations, however, such studies in an African population are scarce. In South Africa, HIV/AIDS, poverty, malnutrition and unhealthy living conditions (ambient and indoor air pollution exposure and poor sanitary conditions) deeply affect the Black African population; thus Naidoo’s study.

‘Findings to this study highlight the dire need of simple cost-effective intervention programs to educate women on the harmful effects of tobacco smoke exposure and alcohol use as well as the importance of proper hygiene, nutrition, weight control and antenatal care during pregnancy in order to minimise the risk of adverse birth outcomes and postnatal deaths, especially in Black African women from poor demographic and socioeconomic backgrounds. It is also important to promote proper health intervention programmes to routinely test women for sexually transmitted infections (HIV, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis and syphilis) and tuberculosis before and during pregnancy so that necessary therapeutic steps can be taken to prevent perinatal infant mortality and adverse birth outcomes,’ said Naidoo, who has already published five research publications and has presented his research projects at local and international conferences.

He was awarded a full Travel Grant Award from the International Society for Environmental Epidemiology (ISEE) to present his PhD research project at the 28th annual ISEE conference held in Italy. Recently, he was awarded a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship from the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa under the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) where he is affiliated with UKZN’s renowned researcher, Professor Thumbi Ndung’u, who is also the UKZN Systems Biology of HIV/AIDS Chairperman.

‘My study experience at UKZN has been fruitful. I owe my accomplishments thus far to Professor Anil Chuturgoon and Professor Rajen Naidoo who are my PhD and Postdoctoral supervisors, and Professor Shahidul Islam my Honours and Master’s supervisor for believing in my research capabilities and constantly motivating me to strive for academic excellence,’ he said.

Words: Lihle Sosibo 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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Communication in Healthcare Vital: PhD Study Finds

Dr Margaret Glynnis Matthews who graduated with a PhD which emphasised the importance of communication in healthcare.

A concern with regards to communication in healthcare- whilst being included now as a graduate competency in health professions education- being somewhat neglected in South Africa was the basis upon Dr Margaret Glynnis Matthews built her PhD study.

‘I am delighted to have completed my PhD by publication. I hope that my work will place emphasis on communication in healthcare in the South African context,’ said Matthews upon receiving her Philosophy in Medicine Doctoral degree.

Matthews has a great interest in the humanistic side of medicine and feels that good communication is important to improve the lived experience of patients. She believes that communication is where the art and science of medicine meet.

‘The work was challenging and time-consuming. Setting targets and time management is key,’ she said.

Under the supervision of her mentor, Dr Jacqueline Van Wyk, Matthews’ study looked at communication in the healthcare context in KwaZulu-Natal where 77.8 % of patients speak isiZulu on a first language basis. The study aimed to improve the teaching of communication to medical and other health professional students in the South African context, in particular in KwaZulu-Natal, by the inclusion of teaching communication that is socially responsive to the contexts doctors work in.

While the topic of communication in healthcare has been somewhat neglected in South Africa, considerable emphasis is placed on the communication of healthcare providers in international contexts. Matthews’ study emphasises its importance in clinical competence and in providing effective healthcare. The study will pave the way for future research. ‘My grandfather came to South Africa from Ireland, where his sister, one of few women studying Medicine at the time, died from TB during her undergraduate medical studies. My grandfather spoke isiZulu fluently and was well-loved by his patients. In the course of working in hospitals and private practice in KwaZulu-Natal, I also learnt isiZulu for clinical communication and found this invaluable in my work,’ she shared.

Matthews did her first year BSc as an undergraduate at the then University of Natal (now UKZN) in Pietermaritzburg, after which she completed her MBChB at the University of Cape Town (UCT). Later, she returned to UKZN as Head of Clinical Skills at the Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine.

Words: Lihle Sosibo 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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PhD Study Focuses On HIV-Neurological Comorbidity

Dr Abdul Yakasai is conferred with his PhD degree at the Health Sciences Graduation ceremony.

A UKZN PhD study conducted by Dr Abdul Yakasai looked at the most common HIV-neurological comorbidity that affects both functions and quality of life.

Titled: Progressive resisted and aerobic exercises for the rehabilitation of patients with HIV-Related distal symmetrical polyneuropathy and their quality of life, the study earned Yakasai, who hails from Nigeria, a PhD degree in Physiotherapy under the supervision of Dr Sunil Maharaj. The study aimed to determine the effect of progressive resisted exercise (PRE) and Aerobic exercise (AE) on HIV-related DSPN symptoms and their health-related Quality of Life (HR-QoL).

He said the exercises have been consistently reported as one of the non-pharmacological therapies for rehabilitation of individuals with HIV, but little is known about an exercise programme on HIV-related DSPN symptoms.

The study concluded that PRE and AE are able to positively improve the symptoms of HIV-related DSPN such as pain intensity, balance impairment, gait disturbance, as well as domains of HR-QoL. This study supports the use of PRE or AE as an adjuvant to chemotherapy to rehabilitate People living with HIV (PLWHIV)-related DSPN,’ declared Yakasai.

According to Yakasai, this was the first study to compare aerobic and progressive resisted exercise using moderate intensity in persons with HIV related neuropathy symptoms (pain, walking disturbances, balance impairment and quality of life). He said chemotherapies often are useful for treating neuropathic pain, yet have not demonstrated any benefit for improving strength, gait disturbance, balance impairment, or quality of life. ‘Hence, the summation of chemotherapy to treat neurological comorbidity of HAART and HIV-infection is likely to further compromise the benefit of HAART,’ he said.

He believes his study is special because HIV/AIDS used to be a terminal disease, although the introduction of HAART has improved the survival of PLWHIV around the globe. ‘The neurological disorders however remain a portentous burden for HIV-positive people. The severe symptoms in patients with HIV-neuropathy can cause activity limitation, restricted participation, reduction in the quality of life and subsequently a disability that requires rehabilitation,’ elaborated Yakasai.

Yakasai is currently preparing his manuscripts for publication. He plans to carry out another study on TB/HIV co-infection. ‘I also plan to apply for the post-doctoral fellowship post because I enjoyed working with my supervisor and plan to work with him in the future,’ said the Physical Therapist clinician who enjoys treating patients, especially those with neurological deficit.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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PhD Study Investigates Food Contamination

Dr Yashodani Pillay who received a PhD in Philosophy in Health Sciences.

‘I have feelings of relief, excitement and gratitude. It’s been a difficult journey but I am so grateful to all who were a part of it. I’m unsure of what the future holds for now, but I’d like to use what I’ve learnt to help others and make a positive impact - possibly through evidence-based policy and initiatives.’

This is what Dr Yashodani Pillay had to say upon obtaining her Doctoral degree of Philosophy in Health Sciences (Medical Biochemistry).

The 28-year-old completed her Honours, and now her PhD, in Medical Biochemistry with the School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences under the supervision of Professor Anil Chuturgoon.

Pillay says she had several challenges along her journey but the support she received from her team at the lab, her friends and family kept her going. 

‘I had a very supportive team and we were constantly encouraged to push ourselves and the boundaries of our research. The student-supportive environment and guidance provided by Professor Anil Chuturgoon and his team at Medical Biochemistry allows his students to bring the best to their projects. It also awoke my passion for research and science,’ she said.

Pillay’s study looked at Patulin, a common mycotoxin contaminant of food (mainly apple products) linked to vital organ damage; with the highest risk of exposure among children and babies. Her study used in vitro techniques to study the effects of Patulin on the epigenome, inflammasome, redox homeostasis and metabolism.

This was the first study to identify possible epigenetic targets (with possible diagnostic/therapeutic implications) and show that Patulin-mediated organ damage may be a function of metabolic complications with a role in insulin resistance. Pillay’s current research focuses on mycotoxin contamination in food (which disproportionately affects developing countries where food transport and storage infrastructure is limited) as a possible etiological agent in non-communicable diseases (NCDs). NCDs (cancer, diabetes, heart disease) have risen rapidly in recent years; particularly among developing nations to become the leading cause of mortality. While current strategy to address NCDs focusses on healthy diets and lifestyle changes, research indicates food quality is also an important consideration.

Pillay has worked - in a volunteering and professional capacity - with different NGOs, government and international agencies in health, policy and education. This gave her a chance to use the skills acquired in her training for real life applications which has been rewarding. Pillay was also named in The Mail & Guardian’s Top 200 Young South Africans in Science and Technology for 2018.

‘I would like to thank my aunt, Ms Shamla Govender, and my uncle, Mr Nuglan Pillay. Without them and their continued support, I would not have completed this degree,’ she said.

Words: Lihle Sosibo 

Photograph: Supplied

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PhD Study Investigates Immune Responses to Carriage of Enteric Pathogens

Dr Agness Farai Nhidza who graduated with a PhD in Medical Microbiology.

Dr Agness Farai Nhidza feels greatly humbled and hopes to continue with her Post-Doctoral studies in molecular immunology and bioinformatics, if the opportunity arises.

Nhidza recently graduated with her PhD in Medical Microbiology in the School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences under the supervision of Professors Takafira Mduluza and Thajasvarie Naicker.

The biologist, who hails from Zimbabwe, was led to her research topic as a result of challenges related to diarrheal disease outbreaks in the country (Zimbabwe) and sub-Saharan Africa. ‘My PhD study experience was awesome although I encountered financial challenges. The support for reagents and other critical needs for the study was also not enough,’ she said.

Nhidza’s novel study looked at immunological effects of asymptomatic enteric pathogens, in particular, Salmonella typhi, Vibrio cholerae and Entamoeba histolytica in mother-baby pairs in an HIV burdened setting in Harare, Zimbabwe. The study first looked at the prevalence of these asymptomatic disease causing organisms (pathogens) in the study population; followed by looking at the effects of the presence of these pathogens on one’s defense system (immunity) against the pathogens. The immunity was checked through studying cytokines and antibodies released or suppressed as a result (of these pathogens). Cytokines are substances released by the body to fight against disease-causing agents. Similarly, immunoglobulins, also known as antibodies, are released by the body to fight against disease-causing agents.

The findings were that typhoid and cholarae asymptomatic carriers in suburbs which had outbreaks in 2008 and 2012 seem to have cleared the pathogen as Nhidza found 0% prevalence for these pathogens. Asymptomatic carriers are individuals who have disease causing organisms in their bodies but do not necessarily fall sick. Alternatively, they can have very minor symptoms which can clear without treatment.

This study gives preliminary data for development of immunotherapy drugs to benefit pregnant mothers and their neonates in HIV burdened communities with exposure to E. histolytica infections. Immunotherapy drugs are medicines that prevent or treat diseases through boosting the immune system.

Before joining UKZN for her full-time PhD programme, Nhidza was the Head of a laboratory unit and a Quality Manager.

During her tenure, her then employer was accredited to ISO 15189 international standard of quality, under her co-ordination. ‘Professionally, I have good co-ordination and communication skills and pay attention to detail. I have always been an achiever and I am proud of my hard work,’ she said.

Words: Lihle Sosibo 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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PhD in Sport Science for Soccer Coach

Dr Eyasu Merhatsidk Gebreegziabher who graduated with a PhD in Sport Science.

Ethiopian national, Dr Eyasu Merhatsidk Gebreegziabher, is thrilled to have graduated with a PhD in Sport Science following his study which investigated anthropometric profile and physical performance of youth players as well as challenges in the Ethiopian football talent identification programme.

The study, which was supervised by Professor Johan van Heerden, was titled: Anthropometric Profile and Physical Performance of Youth Players and Challenges in the Ethiopian Football Talent Identification Program. 

He said the study addresses a novel area of investigation that is often neglected by researchers despite its importance. ‘Over the years, although there have been many published studies on talent identification among youth football players in Europe, there is little or no information in Ethiopia,’ he declared. ‘Participants have overcome basic standards to recruit talented young players based on their anthropometric and physical quality. A descriptive and inferential analysis was used to subsequently compile a Participation Likelihood Assessment Tool for youth football. Education and training were offered as keys to the talent identification programme,’ said Gebreegziabher.

Gebreegziabher is a sport science teacher and soccer coach at Haramaya University, Ethiopia, and aspires to be a full-time soccer coach.

Soccer first caught Gebreegziabher’s attention when he was seven years old. ‘I was playing it whenever I could. I have always been good at sports. I like playing soccer and running. I have played in many sport tournaments (soccer, handball, races),’ he said.

Gebreegziabher has a level "A" Confederation of African Football (caf) coaching certificate.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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Dissecting the Distribution of Heroin in the Brain

PhD graduate, Dr Bilen Gebrekidan Teklezgi, who investigated the distribution and localisation of heroin and other drugs in the brain.

A UKZN PhD study investigated the distribution of heroin as well as opioids, opioid agonist and antagonists and their localisation in the brain using Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI) for the first time.

MSI offers an advantage over existing imaging technologies such as positron emission tomography (PET) or Single, Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) since it eliminates the need for radioactive labels, a chemical compound in which one or more atoms have been replaced by a radionuclide so by virtue of its radioactivedecay it can be used to explore the mechanism of chemical reactions by tracing the path that the radioisotope follows from reactants to products.

Titled: Regional Brain Distribution and Localisation of Herion and Opioid Addiction Treatment Drugs via Mass Spectrometry, the study was conducted by Dr Bilen Gebrekidan Teklezgi under the supervision of Professors T Govender, HG Gruger, N Gopal and Dr S Baijnath.

According to Teklezgi, the impact of drug abuse and its health and social consequences continue to be a public health crisis. ‘Heroin is a commonly abused illicit opioid drug and leads to addiction; a chronic brain disease which requires psychological and pharmaceutical intervention. Opioid induced overdose deaths accounts for the death of approximately 69 000 people worldwide each year,’ she said.

She said the evaluation of the distribution and localisation of opioid drugs, as well as their treatment to addiction, in the brain is of major significance. 

The study employed MSI and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for quantification to investigate 6-MAM (heroin’s major metabolite) distribution profile over time in the brain; determine and compare the localisation of methadone and naltrexone; as well as determine and compare the regional distribution of 6-MAM and 6-MAM post naloxone treatment to evaluate the ability of naloxone to displace 6-MAM in the brain of Spraque-Dawley rats. ‘MSI analysis of the brain sections showed region-specific localisation images of 6-MAM, methadone, naltrexone and naloxone with high intensities of these drugs in the mesocorticolimbic system which is involved in reward perception and thalamus-hypothalamus of the brain regions responsible for motivation and energy regulation,’ explained Teklezgi. 

She said the findings were in correlation with the distribution of opioid receptors in the brain as reported in literature. ‘MSI study demonstrated a time-dependent distribution in the levels of 6-MAM, methadone and naltrexone at various time points. In addition, MSI experiments showed the ability of naloxone to displace 6-MAM, at specific sites in the brain,’ she said.

Teklezgi plans to continue with research focusing on addiction and behaviour from a public health perspective.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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PhD Study Dissects Effectiveness of Ecologically Valid Telerehabilitation System

Dr Sona Narayanan Ayanikalath who graduated with a PhD during the recent UKZN Spring Graduation ceremonies.

A UKZN study identified the need for treating a new intervention as unique, developing in relation to a complex and potentially unique set of ecological conditions.

Dr Sona Narayanan Ayanikalath, who hails from India, identified the need for using a contextually guided framework when developing telerehabilitation (TR) which can improve its effectiveness.

Supervised by Professor Mershen Pillay, the study titled: Investigation of the Effectiveness of an Ecologically Valid Telerehabilitation System for the Assessment and Primary Management of Neurogenic Dysphagia in a Resource Constrained Country, the study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of an ecologically valid telerehabilitation system for the assessment and primary management of neurogenic dysphagia in India.

‘Telerehabilitation for dysphagia intervention is mostly used and researched on in the economically developed countries,’ said Ayanikalath. ‘No studies have been reported in resource constrained countries. Hence, its ecological validity and effectiveness were investigated. The results of this study are an inspiration for future large-scale research in any resource constrained countries,’ she said.

Although the study population used were patients with dysphagia, the results obtained can be applicable to any field. ‘The current study can be generalised to the use of TR for any kind of speech and language intervention and possibly other rehabilitation disciplines. The factors identified could play a role in the effectiveness of TR when providing assessment and/or management services to any kind of disability in a real-life setting in a resource constrained country,’ said Ayanikalath.

Ayanikalath intends to conduct further research in the field of Telerehabilitation especially in resource constrained countries and is also interested in pursuing a teaching profession.

Ayanikalath graduated in 2004 with MSc Speech and Hearing. She has been working in Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (Abu Dhabi) since 2008 and is currently the Supervisor of Speech Language Pathology in the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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UKZN Academic Graduates Four International Students

From left: Dr Eyesu Gebreegziabher, Professor Johan van Heerden, Dr Leyetad Gebru and Dr Ashenafi Tariku. Also pictured with Professor van Heerden is Ms Ireen Munekani.

UKZN’s Professor Johan van Heerden from the Sport Science Discipline at UKZN graduated three PhD students and one Master’s student during the Spring Graduation ceremonies.

The three PhD students hail from Ethiopia, while the Master’s student is from Zimbabwe.

‘I’m very pleased for them and proud of their hard work and effort,’ said van Heerden. ‘We put in a lot of face-to-face consultation time as well as effective electronic communication to make it happen. Initially we had difficulty with communication, with English not being their first language. We managed to overcome the language issue once the conceptualisation of the work and required analysis through mind-mapping was understood. The students were able to convert and action them into written drafts,’ he explained. ‘Patience and continued focus was the key,’ added van Heerden.

Dr Ashenafi Tariku’s thesis was titled: Performance of the Men’s Ethiopian Youth Football Player Development Project and Its Impact on the Under-17 National Team; Dr Leyetad Gebru’s was titled: Anthropometric and Physical Fitness Characteristics of Ethiopian Boys Under-17 Football Players; while Dr Eyesu Gebreegziabher’s was titled: Anthropometric Profile and Physical Performance of Youth Players and Challenges in the Ethiopian Football Talent Identification Program.

For her Master’s, Ms Ireen Munekani looked at Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Plyometrics among High School Sports Coaches in Harare Province Zimbabwe.

Van Heerden said working with the graduands was a good reciprocal learning experience. ‘It is satisfying for me that these PhD credentialed students will now lead research in their country of origin.’

Van Heerden is currently supervising five Ethiopian PhD students set to graduate in April 2019.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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Improving Healthcare Through Academia

Dr Fathima Nuzha Ishak graduates with a PhD in Speech Language Pathology.

Sri Lanka National, Dr Fathima Nuzha Ishak, graduated with a PhD in Speech Language Pathology at the CHS Spring Graduation.

Supervised by Professor Mershen Pillay and Dr Shyamani Hettiarachchi, Ishak conducted a study titled: An Exploratory Study of The Efficiency of Swallowing and Communication Management in Tracheostomized Populations in Sri Lanka.

‘It is truly a dream come true for me; a dream I thought was too farfetched especially being a full-time working mother in the UAE, far from academically oriented job opportunities,’ said the Manager of Speech and Language Therapy at the NMC Provita International Medical Center, UAE.

Ishak’s study looked at the efficiency of healthcare practices in Sri Lanka. The study explored the management of swallowing and communication in people with tracheostomies through literature reviews; document and chart reviews; observations and interviews with professionals; people with tracheostomies as well as their unpaid caregivers.

The study found that it is not the expected financial, capital and human resource constraints - common to the majority world - that most impact the efficiency of healthcare practices in Sri Lanka; rather, it is the inherent power dynamics among the healthcare professionals which compromises the efficiency of these processes.

‘I found that a primary mechanism hindering the achievement of good outcomes compared to those in minority world contexts stems from the rigid medical hierarchy nested within the system, arising from the prevalence of the medical model in Sri Lankan healthcare,’ explained Ishak.

She said her study adds valuable data to the scarce existing research on swallowing and communication management for tracheostomized individuals in majority world contexts. ‘Policy makers, medical managers and health professionals have little evidence to guide their decisions on how efficient current practices are, what areas require strengthening and how to provide quality healthcare to their patients. Thus, this study provides empirical evidence for these professionals to form a baseline of the practice quality,’ she said.

Ishak self-funded her research and with the help of Pillay, who identified a co-supervisor in Sri Lanka, whose supervision enabled her to get the ethical clearance required from UKZN.

A clinician at heart, Ishak is a passionate Speech Therapist with a vision to empower professionals such as herself to provide the highest quality of evidence-based services to the people they serve.

‘This doctorate is hopefully my stepping stone to my bigger dream of ensuring good clinical outcomes for children and adults with communication and swallowing disorders in the majority of the world countries,’ she said.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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UKZN Study Leads to Nurse-Client Interactive Mobile App Development

UKZN PhD graduate, Dr Elizabeth M Joseph-Shehu, whose research led to the development of a healthcare promotion mobile app.

A UKZN PhD study conducted by Dr Elizabeth M Joseph-Shehu identified health promotion as key in the control and prevention of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs); leading to the development of an Android mobile application that can enhance healthcare promotion amongst university workers.

Through the study, which was supervised by Professor Busisiwe Ncama, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Heath Sciences, Joseph-Shehu developed the Tertiary Staff Health Promotion App (TASHePA), a nurse-client interactive app used by nurses employed at universities to monitor the health of staff and plan health promotion interventions on a needs basis. The app is available on Google Play.

Titled: Developing an Integrated Technology-Moderated Institutional Health Promotion Model for University staff in Nigeria, the study commenced with a systematic review of the health-promoting lifestyle profile of workers, followed by a critical review of a health-promoting lifestyle of university staff and a scoping review on health-promoting lifestyle practices and information and communication technology (ICT).

Joseph-Shehu found ICT as a means to enhance and maintain health-promoting lifestyle behaviour and health status amongst workers. ‘Health-promoting lifestyle behaviour has been found to improve individual quality of life and increase life expectancy. Health-promoting lifestyle behaviour also has a link with non-communicable diseases that have high mortality and morbidity rates globally,’ she said.

Joseph-Shehu said the study demonstrated that the app enhances health-promoting lifestyle behaviours and improves the health status of workers. ‘To inculcate habitual health-promoting lifestyle behaviour among the country’s population, government, institutions and health professionals needs a change in emphasis and practice as many healthcare systems still focus more on curative management than on preventive measures,’ she said.

Joseph-Shehu’s future plans include working with health management organisations for organised health promotion and prevention strategies for their members. ‘I would also like to work with stakeholders to develop policy and protocol for healthy universities in Nigeria,’ she added.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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PhD Research Seeks to Improve HIV Anti-retroviral Treatment

PhD in Health Sciences graduate, Dr Raadhiya Osman.

Dr Raadhiya Osman graduated with a PhD in Health Sciences following her study titled: Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrom and Lipodystrophy in HIV-Positive Patients on Anti-retroviral Therapy attending Addington Hospital.

Supervised by Dr Peter Owira, Osman investigated the prevalence of and the factors associated with the development of Metabolic Syndrome (MS) and lipodystrophy in people with HIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART) at the Ikusasa Clinic located at Addington Hospital in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This cross-sectional retrospective study was based on patient interviews and review of records of 350 patients. Structured questionnaires and data collection forms were used to collect data on demographic, socio-economic, lifestyle, clinical and laboratory investigation.

Osman said the beginning of combination anti-retroviral treatment (cART)- which refers to the combination of drugs are used to keep HIV infections under control - brought about significant improvements in the survival and quality of life of HIV-infected patients as well as a dramatic decrease in the incidence of opportunistic infections. ‘However, metabolic abnormalities and abnormal fat distribution in people on cART have been reported elsewhere, yet not much of it is known in South Africa,’ she continued. She said these metabolic complications and abnormal fat redistribution syndromes were a risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease complications. 

Regimen 1a (lamivudine, tenofivir and efavirenz), Regimen 1b (lamivudine, tenofivir and nevirapine), Regimen 2 (didanosine, zidovudine and lopinavir/ritonavir), Fixed Dose Combination (FDC-comprising of tenofovir, emtricitabine and efavirenz) and Modified Regimen (doses of tenofivir adjusted due to renal abnormalities) are used at Addington Hospital. ‘Factors associated with the occurrence of Metabolic Syndrome and lipodystrophy were female gender, Regimen 2, smoking, race, high BMI and duration of treatment. Regimen 2 contains Protease Inhibitors (PIs), thus indicating that it contributes to MS as previously reported. These findings suggest that patients on antiretroviral treatment with risk factors should be monitored regularly for MS and lipodystrophy in order to avoid predisposition to diabetes cardiovascular diseases,’ cautioned Osman, adding that the study will assist clinicians with the prescribing of antiretroviral treatment.

Osman is busy with a Primary care drug therapy (PCDT) course for pharmacists. ‘This allows pharmacists to become more clinically involved with their patients,’ she said, adding, ‘My family is extremely excited and grateful that I have completed my PhD as my children need more quality time with their mother.’

Words: Nombuso Dlamini 

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal

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PhD Study Recommends Psychological Training for Coaches and Elite Runners

Dr Cherinet Hailu Balami graduated with a PhD in Sports Science.

A thesis on causal attribution of elite athletes on their performance has earned Ethiopian national, Dr Cherinet Hailu Balami a PhD in Sports Science.

Supervised by Dr Rowena Naidoo, Balami’s thesis was titled: Casual attribution of elite athletes on their performance: The case of Ethiopian long and middle-distance runners.

According to Balami, Ethiopia is known for its long and middle-distance runners in the world. However, the inability of the Ethiopian Athletics Federation to design appropriate training programmes based on an athlete’s personal ability and history in relation to their physiological, psychological, technical and tactical development, remains a major challenge.

Balami’s study aimed to identify the association of causal attribution with the performance of elite Ethiopian long and middle-distance runners. It also aimed to develop attribution retraining strategies suitable for the Ethiopian context.

The study revealed that the Ethiopian elite long and middle-distance runners attributed their successful races to internal, stable, global, personal control, external control and intentional attribution dimensions. It attributed failures to internal, unstable, personally controllable, externally controllable and unintentional causes.

‘There were no significant differences between male and female Ethiopian long and middle-distance runners’ groups in the score of internality, stability, controllability, globality and intentionality dimensions attributed to both successes and failures,’ said Balami.

However, he said apart from the intentionality dimension, there were no significant differences between junior and senior elite Ethiopian runners’ groups in the score of internality, stability, controllability and globality dimensions attributed to successes and failures.

His recommendations included that coaches and the elite runners undergo psychological training to provide psychological support to athletes. He also recommended that attribution retraining programmes should be provided to coaches and elite athletes.

Balami has been working as a lecturer at UKZN’s Sport Science Discipline before he enrolled to study at UKZN. ‘I was teaching athletics related courses, organising practical sessions, coaching the varsity teams, scheduling department activities and different competitions,’ he said.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini 

Photograph: Supplied

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