PhD Graduate Creates IsiZulu Paediatric Rate of Reading Test
UKZN staffer, Dr Urvashni Nirghin, is passionate about Paediatric Eye Health.A passion to improve the reading skills of children with learning difficulties and visual impairments inspired an academic in the Discipline of Optometry, Dr Urvashni Nirghin, to develop and validate an isiZulu Paediatric Rate of Reading (PRR) Test.
Nirghin was rewarded with a doctoral degree for her work!
The test was specifically designed for normally sighted and low vision primary school children aged between six and 12 whose home language is isiZulu.
Reading is related to an individual’s experience, ability, and neurological functioning and is affected by multiple factors including intelligence level; educational exposure; primary emotional, mental and physical state; speech, and vision. Assessing the rate of reading has often been used as a measure of intellectual development. Internationally, reading rate tests with associated standard scores are available yet this is limited nationally for educational and optometric use.
Said Nirghin: ‘Most of these tests are designed for English-speaking children with none available in the isiZulu language. Furthermore, the identification of factors that may affect reading rates are based on reading rate norms specifically designed for the English-speaking population. This is of great concern as these factors may then be generalised to children whose home language is isiZulu.’
Nirghin’s development of the PRR Test consisted of word selection from a Grade 1 isiZulu Level 1 reader while item development for the tool was based on literature and design procedure of the English PRR Chart.
The reliability of the test was performed on isiZulu-speaking learners aged between six and 12 years old in a home language and first additional language school. Nirghin’s test was proven to be valid and reliable in assessing reading rates for both normally sighted and low vision isiZulu-speaking children.
Nirghin, who specialises in Paediatric Optometry and diagnosis and management of ocular diseases, has two daughters, one of whom is currently studying Medicine.
‘Studying towards a PhD was a daunting journey but all gratitude to God and His Divine blessings for all I have and for allowing me to improve myself as a person, mother, daughter, optometrist and academic. I am always grateful for continuous family support and love being in academia,’ said Nirghin.
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .Hopes of Reducing Maternal and Perinatal Mortality at the Core of PhD Thesis
Dr Solange Mianda graduated with a PhD in Public Health.Towards Skilled Midwives: a Model to Ensure Clinical Leadership in the Labour Wards of District Hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal, was the title of a doctoral thesis by Dr Solange Zoe Mianda of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The thesis secured Mianda a PhD degree in Public Health from UKZN.
The study explored midwife conceptualisations of clinical leadership; identified enablers and barriers to clinical leadership, and proposed an intervention model to ensure the development of clinical leadership in the labour wards of district hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal with the goal of reducing maternal and perinatal mortality.
‘The proposed model of intervention is applicable to low and middle income countries, and can be used by midwives, nurses, medical doctors, allied health care providers, midwives in leadership roles, and district clinical specialist teams,’ said Mianda.
Supervised by Dr A Voce, the study - located in an interpretivist/constructivist paradigm - comprised the Corbin and Strauss approach to grounded theory. Data was collected through a synthesis of evidence obtained from structured literature reviews; in-depth interviews with eight advanced diploma midwifery members of the District Clinical Specialist Teams (DCSTs) in KwaZulu-Natal, conducted between April 2015 and January 2016 in a location of each respondent’s choice; and a confirmatory consensus building workshop held in March 2016 and attended by diverse stakeholders.
Evidence generated in the study was integrated to propose an intervention model to ensure the development of clinical leadership in the labour wards of district hospitals in South Africa.
Mianda is currently based at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) as a postdoctoral research fellow under the SARChI for Health systems governance, Professor Helen Schneider.
Mianda plans to grow as a health policy and systems researcher. ‘Being based in the School of Public Health at UWC and being a Collaborative of Health Policy and Systems Researchers (CHESAI) member gives me an opportunity to develop and contribute to the field of Health Policy and Systems Research (HPSR).’
Mianda said her interests include travelling, music, reading, learning new things and hiking in the bushveld.
‘The love of God and His presence in my life keeps me going. Knowing that He will never leave me nor forsake me, gives me the courage to face the world no matter what,’ she said.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .Doctoral Graduate Aims to Rid the World of Zika Virus
Dr Nikita Devnarain earned a Doctoral degree for her study on the Zika virus.Research into the Zika virus which is transmitted mainly by mosquitoes resulted in Dr Nikita Devnarain graduating with a PhD degree in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from UKZN.
Devnarain’s thesis was titled: The Methyltransferase and Helicase Enzymes as Therapeutic Targets of Zika Virus: A Bio-Computational Analysis of Interactions with Potential Inhibitors.
Using computational pharmaceutical chemistry, Devnarain made huge advances in gaining a better understanding of an anti-Zika Vaccine (ZIKV) drug design, discovery and delivery against the virus.
Outbreaks of the Zika virus, which is transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, have been widely reported in Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific.
A total of 86 countries and territories have reported evidence of mosquito-transmitted Zika infection, according to the World Health Organization. Symptoms of the virus are generally mild and include fever, a rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise and headaches, which all usually last for between two and seven days. However, the effects are devastating in pregnant women and in children.
If infected during pregnancy, the virus causes microcephaly and other congenital abnormalities in the developing foetus and newborn. Zika infection in pregnancy also results in pregnancy complications such as foetal loss, stillbirth, and preterm birth. Despite all this, there is no vaccine or medicine which fights the virus successfully.
‘The rampant Zika virus received worldwide attention after becoming a global crisis following the Brazilian epidemic in 2015,’ said Devnarain. ‘From an obscure and neglected pathogen, The Zika virus is now a notorious virus associated with neurological disorders in infants and adults. Since 2016, the rapid research response from the global scientific community has led to the discovery of numerous potential small molecule inhibitors and vaccines against the Zika virus. In spite of this massive research initiative, there is still no effective antiviral or vaccine.’
Devnarain’s study applied computer-aided drug design techniques to better understand the drug design process. Computational approaches adopted included molecular docking, virtual screening, molecular modeling and molecular dynamics which aid in facilitating the filtration of large databases of compounds to sift out potential lead compounds. Her study also assessed the bioavailability and blood-brain barrier permeability of screened drugs to scrutinise the list of potential Zika virus inhibitors.
Her results presented an all-inclusive in silico assessment to advance research in drug design and the development of Zika virus inhibitors. Hence, the study provides a greater understanding of the structural dynamics that occur in unbound and inhibitor-bound Zika virus target enzymes. ‘The constituents of this thesis are considered an essential platform in the progression of research toward anti-ZIKV drug design, discovery and delivery against the virus,’ she said.
‘To discover an anti-viral to cure this rampant virus would be a blessing to humanity. Together, as one global community, we can try to rid the world of sickness, one virus at a time,’ said Devnarain.
Currently a post-doctoral research fellow at the Nano Drug Delivery Unit at UKZN, Devnarain was supervised by UKZN’s top researcher, Professor Mahmoud Soliman. ‘During the course of my PhD I’ve gained so much writing experience, particularly from Professor Soliman, who I am extremely indebted to,’ said Devnarain. ‘My thesis highlights computational methods that have been refined and optimised by the Molecular Bio-Computation and Drug Design Research Group at UKZN headed by Soliman.
‘The road to where I am today has been hard and I imagine it doesn’t get easier from here on, so I’m thankful to God for sending me an amazing life partner and power source – my husband, Shaylen – who gives me strength to keep going. My dream has always been to study and become a scientist so I sought assistance from my uncle to complete my BSc Biomedical Science degree. Thereafter, with the financial aid of NSFAS, NRF and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), I’ve been able to complete my studying career goals – and I’m now finally a doctor!’
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .PhD in Pharmacy for Cancer Researcher
Delving into the world of cancer resulted in a PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry for Dr Andrew Olotu.Dr Fisayo Andrew Olotu of Nigeria graduated with a PhD in Pharmacy following a study he did that presented medicinal chemistry and computer-aided drug design perspectives into the therapeutic blockage of crucial pro-carcinogenic machinery and their roles in cancer development.
Olotu says corroborated findings from his study would greatly facilitate the discovery of drugs with high selectivity for cancer targets and minimal toxicities.
The study - conducted under the supervision of Professor Mahmood Soliman - was titled: Delving into the Cancer World: Combinatorial in Silico Modelling and Investigations of Crucial Oncogenic Targets and Potential Therapeutic Approaches in Cancer Treatment.
His study reflected, to medicinal chemists and drug designers, the concept that fragmenting natural (possibly non-natural also) compounds could turn natural products abandoned (due to toxicities) into viable therapeutic weapons (high selectivity, less toxicities) for disease treatment.
‘The perpetual failure of existing therapeutic interventions in the treatment and management of cancer has left an obnoxious vacuum that will remain unfilled until an efficient regimen with minimal toxicities is achieved,’ said Olotu.
He says over the years several approaches have emerged which were strategically directed towards distinct cancer hallmarks, all in a bid to ameliorate carcinogenesis.
‘Regardless, cancer, being a multifactorial disease, has continued to evade chemotherapy and resist apoptosis, among many other unpleasant attributes. Moreover, in as much as the chemotherapeutic molecules seemed effective, they in themselves gradually became unusable and, in most cases, need to be discontinued in clinical stages due to associable toxic and adverse side effects.
‘This remains an irony which implies that while the battle to contain cancer is yet to be won, the deployed arsenals have also metamorphosed into threats, which have continued to raise “eyebrows”,’ said Olotu.
According to Olotu, computer-aided drug design has a lot of impact in achieving “perfect” drugs that are desired for disease treatment. ‘By saying “perfect”, I mean drugs with great selectivity for the pathogenic target and minimal adverse side effects.
‘Tunnel perturbation theory and how mutations could induce distortions and loss was an interesting model I implemented in my research methodology. Experiences gathered during the course of my PhD studies have been worthwhile, and it has transformed me into a dynamic computer-aided drug designer as evidenced by my continuous research outputs (30 peer-reviewed publications at present) and collaborations for which I was nominated for the Top 40 UKZN awards for excellence in 2018,’ he said.
Olotu is currently a post-doctoral researcher, ‘With the support of my supervisor, I have been privileged to work on several international research collaborations in medicinal chemistry and novel drug design.’
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .Research finds Awareness Campaigns Vital in Fight Against ADHD in Children
Dr Maria Mokobane overcame all odds to graduate with a PhD in Behavioural Medicine.With Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affecting six to 10 percent of schoolchildren, the findings of a doctoral study stress the importance of awareness campaigns to achieve early diagnosis and treatment in the hope of preventing long-term psychiatric disorders.
The study was done by Dr Maria Mokobane and resulted in her being awarded a PhD in Behavioural Medicine.
Mokobane’s thesis was titled: Neuropsychological Deficits in Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Comparing Inattention, Hyperactivity/Impulsivity and Combined Presentations.
ADHD is regarded as a neurodevelopmental disorder as it tends to be chronic and due to neurobiological factors, the disorder involves a significant disturbance in the acquisition of necessary skills for development. Mokobane’s study sought to understand whether children with ADHD are also depressed. She also looked at whether children with ADHD symptoms of inattentive, hyperactivity, impulsivity or combined presentations differ in fine motor functioning, behavioural planning functions and in response inhibition.
Her study was conducted in the Aganang Municipality and the Fetakgomo-Greater Tubatse Local Municipality in the Limpopo province with her sample involving learners in Grade 1 to Grade 7 (aged between six and 14) in six primary schools. A total of 4 200 children completed the Disruptive Behaviour Disorders Rating Scale and from this a total of 320 were selected, 160 with ADHD (80 boys and 80 girls) and 160 without ADHD (80 boys and 80 girls).
Through a number of neurological assessments, Mokobane found that children with ADHD did not display symptoms of depression. The prevalence of fine motor functioning problems was found in children with ADHD (predominantly inattentive subtype) and ADHD (combined subtype). Most of these motor problems lead to difficulties in everyday living, including academic performance, sport, play and self-esteem. Poor motor skills reflect in daily tasks such as dressing, riding a bicycle, feeding and writing. These deficits severely impact on a child’s development and may result in inhibited social interaction, poor academic functioning and poor performance in sport activities.
Said Mokobane: ‘The study was conducted in schools based in deep rural villages where researchers hardly conduct research. The schools, teachers and learners alike were thankful for the study. I intend to join hands with non-governmental organisations and community based organisations that advocate for the interests of children in general and create an awareness of the disorder in rural communities.’
Mokobane currently lives in the Limpopo province. ‘I love reading, travelling and meeting new people and also dressing well. I am married and blessed with a daughter and a son. We are a family that loves education - my husband is also doing his PhD.
‘When we were building our house, we completed a room dedicated for books and study facilities before the kitchen was built! One of my brothers was so surprised by this that he joked with my three sisters that some people’s priorities were confused. How could one prefer a library/study room over a kitchen?’
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .Gates Cambridge Scholarship for Virology Master’s Graduate
Ms Isabella Anna Theresa Markham Ferreira received a Master of Medical Sciences in Virology.UKZN Master of Medical Sciences in Virology graduate, Ms Isabella Anna Theresa Markham Ferreira, has been awarded a Gates Cambridge Scholarship.
The scholarships were established by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation with a US$210 million donation to enable outstanding graduate students from all over the world to study at the University of Cambridge in England. It was the largest single donation ever made to a United Kingdom university.
‘I feel incredibly honoured to have obtained my Master of Medical Sciences in Virology degree and be awarded a Gates Cambridge Scholarship. It is something I would never even have dreamed of - I am humbled,’ said Ferreira.
Her future aspirations involve further understanding how HIV infection persists in the presence of antiretroviral therapy and a commitment to actively improve the lives of those infected, particularly in South Africa.
The scholarship covers university fees, a maintenance allowance for the duration of doctoral studies, airfare, and visa costs.
Ferreira says growing up in KwaZulu-Natal, which has one of the highest incidences of HIV infection in the world, she felt an obligation to focus her studies on understanding the virus further and discovering ways that could potentially lead to a cure.
She was fortunate to have had many incredible opportunities during her master’s work offered by her supervisor, Dr Alex Sigal, and the Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), and also got fellowships from the Sub-Saharan African Network for TB/HIV Research Excellence(SANTHE) and the Poliomyelitis Research Foundation.
Her master’s research involved identifying the cellular HIV reservoir in lymph nodes from individuals virally suppressed on treatment.
‘The HIV reservoir is the reason why individuals on antiretroviral treatment are suppressed and not cured,’ said Ferreira. ‘The virus is able to remain in a latent state in anatomical sites that have low drug penetrance, such as the lymph nodes, and this allows for the virus to persist and not be eradicated. We hypothesised that certain immune cell populations in the lymph nodes were responsible for harbouring a replication-competent virus. And we used a variety of techniques, including single-cell RNA-sequencing, to identify these cells.’
She said the study identified certain immune cell populations which harboured replication-competent virus in the context of the cellular HIV reservoir. ‘Further details will be given on publication of our work. The downstream applications of these findings are therapeutic methods which could be used to attempt to eradicate the virus in these cells, thus resulting in a functional cure.
‘While there are many studies that examine the cellular HIV reservoir in different capacities, ours was novel in that we were using whole lymph node samples from study participants who were virally suppressed on treatment, and in the techniques we used to identify these cell types, such as high-throughput single-cell RNA-sequencing methods,’ she said.
Ferreira studied a BSc in Genetics and Psychology at the University of Cape Town and then moved to UKZN’s Pietermaritzburg campus to study for an honours degree in Genetics. She completed a short internship in Sigal’s laboratory after her honours degree and then did her master’s under his supervision.
During this time, she spent a year as a visiting student at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the United States in a collaborating lab.
‘I thoroughly enjoyed my time at UKZN,’ said Ferreira. ‘I was based at the Africa Health Research Institute on the Medical campus and I was very privileged to have had that opportunity. I was surrounded by incredible scientists who are leading ground-breaking research in the fields of HIV and TB research. My peers were all committed to conducting research that positively impacted the lives of those suffering from these diseases and this motivated me to conduct the best research I could.’
Ferreira’s hobbies include playing the piano, hiking, enjoying natural foods and keeping fit.
Words: Lihle Sosibo
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Four Ethiopian Students Achieve Doctorates all Related to Sport
From left: Dr Bizuw Gebermariam, Dr Daga Makaza (NUST, Zimbabwe), Dr Rowena Naidoo and Dr Gashaw Analeyi.Four Ethiopian students in the Discipline of Biokinetics, Exercise and Leisure Sciences (BELS) graduated with doctoral degrees from UKZN’s College of Health Sciences.
They were Dr Gashaw Analeyi, Dr Ephrm Desalegn, Dr Dagnachew Begizew and Dr Bizuw Gebermariam.
Analeyi’s thesis was titled: The Rise and Fall of the Ethiopian Men’s National Football Team Since 1962; Desalegn’s thesis was headed: Incidence and Etiology of Volleyball Injuries in Ethiopia: A Search for Amhara Regional State Clubs and Players; Begizew’s study was titled: Running-Related Injuries of 10 000m Long Distance Runners in Ethiopia, and Gebermariam’s study was titled: The Effect of Exercise on People Living with HIV in Hawassa in Ethiopia.
‘Today, injuries are a potential outcome of taking part in physical activity and have become an important public health problem,’ said Desalegn. ‘An understanding of the frequency and severity of the problem and its causes and risks are prerequisites for an injury prevention project.’
The aim of Desalegn’s study was to examine the incidence and etiology of volleyball injuries in Ethiopia and to describe factors associated with them.
He said the results of his study could be helpful in providing up to date information about the incidence and associated factors of volleyball injuries in the study areas and to use the information for evidence-based interventions.
Desalegn, an instructor in the Department of Sport Science at the University of Ethiopia, is currently involved in two research projects titled: The Relationship between Relative Age, Biological Maturation, Anthropometry, Physiological, Physical and Technical skills: An Investigation on Amhara Regional State Soccer Players Development programme; and An Investigation, on Typology and Documentation of Traditional Games in Amhara Regional State: A Search for North, Central and West Gondar Zones.
Begizew’s study aimed to establish the status of running-related injury prevention and treatment programmes, and to determine the incidence, severity, risk factors and challenges of 10 000m runners in Ethiopian clubs and youth athletic training programmes in order to develop a national strategy.
The study concluded that the runners, coaches, medical professionals and sports organisations must acknowledge the specific risk factors associated with running-related injuries and need to agree on the importance of implementing running-related injury prevention and treatment programmes.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .Concern for Safety of Police in SA Inspires PhD Graduate
Dr Gugu Mona graduated with a PhD, accompanied by her daughter.Dr Gugu Mona has graduated with a PhD degree in Public Health following research she did into Occupational Health and Safety among police officers in Gauteng.
Mona, who aspires to be a social entrepreneur and an academic, was supervised by one of UKZN’s Top 30 researchers, Professor Moses Chimbari.
Passionate about improving safety for members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), her study consisted of structured interviews with 45 police officers randomly selected from 15 police stations in Tshwane. She also interviewed safety representatives using checklists and document reviews from seven selected police stations.
Mona’s research found that police officers are severely affected by occupational hazards, injuries and diseases related to their work. She discovered that the shooting of police officers was the most common occupational hazard (38%) while gunshot wounds (58%) were the most common occupational injuries. Of 45 study respondents, 43 displayed a negative attitude and 27 perceived Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) to be poorly managed in the SAPS.
Further, her study revealed that police officers were concerned about the lack of effective OHS interventions. They reported that there was poor compliance with OHS legislation, given that four police stations did not conduct regular risk assessments and lacked an annual medical surveillance programme. Only three police stations had an OHS training programme for police officers.
From seven study police stations, only two respondents said their stations had police officers who were trained on incident investigation. The general lack of documentation and proof of accreditation of training service providers revealed apparent poor quality in OHS training.
Together with Chimbari, Mona is currently engaging with the SAPS regarding the results of the study and the implications involved.
Said Mona: ‘The main aim is to help provide transparent and credible feedback to the stakeholders who made it possible to conduct the research. We also aim to contribute towards the improvement of health and safety among police officers in South Africa.’
Aside from her academic pursuits; Mona is a passionate author, poet, philosopher and songwriter. She is currently working on a book titled: My Mother’s Classroom, which comprises poetry she has written about lessons from her mother - Ms Lucy Anna Mona - and many powerful women who have inspired her.
She also appreciated the love and guidance given to her by her father, Mr Fred Mona, who taught her poetry when she was a youngster.
Mona plans to pursue a career in academia and is keen on doing a post-doctoral fellowship overseas in order to collaborate with experts globally.
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .Loneliness and Mental Wellbeing of Residents in Homes for the Elderly Assessed in PhD Thesis
Nursing academic, Dr Mary Ann Jarvis, graduated with a PhD in Nursing.Loneliness and depression among people resident in homes for the elderly was assessed in a PhD thesis by a lecturer in UKZN’s School of Nursing and Public Health, Dr Mary Jarvis.
The study – titled: A Connected Health Intervention to Address Social Isolation, Loneliness and Mental Wellbeing in Persons 60 years and Older in a South African Residential Care Setting – resulted in Jarvis being awarded a Doctor of Philosophy degree.
Her work involved the development and evaluation of a low-intensity cognitive behaviour therapy - intervention supported by mHealth viz WhatsApp.
‘The intervention involved the development of technological readiness, psychoeducation and the delivery of positively worded messages which were counter to negative cognitions,’ said Jarvis. ‘It was developed through workshopping and informed by a cross sectional survey, two umbrella reviews, and a survey of the mobile phone landscape. The evaluation was conducted with a randomised crossover design.
‘The study is a first in its demonstration of the effectiveness of a LI-CBT mHealth supported intervention on cognitions linked to loneliness levels and mental well-being in older persons living in residential care. The study links with current World Health Organization moves and recognition of the essential role of digital technology in health.
‘Ageism often limits the potential of older persons and the satisfying part is knowing my study made a difference in many people lives and has opened up a window of further opportunities,’ she said.
Jarvis says she was exceptionally fortunate to be supervised by Professor Jennifer Chipps of the University of the Western Cape (UWC) and to enjoy the expertise of co-supervisors, Dr Suvira Ramlall of UKZN and Professor Anita Padmanabhanunni of UWC, all experts in the areas of her study.
‘I had wonderful support from my family and friends that saw me through the challenges. My PhD was a family journey - at times a way of life - that I believe my family are happy is now something of the past,’ added Jarvis.
Words: Lihle Sosibo
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .Master’s Research Highlights Burden on Families of Cancer Sufferers
MLCCP Research Assistant, Dr Phindile Mlaba, graduated with a Master’s degree in Public Health.A UKZN study has found that family caregivers suffer psychological, social and financial challenges as a result of caring for a family member living with cancer.
The finding was made by Ms Phindile Mlaba, a junior researcher in the Multinational Lung Cancer Control Programme (MLCCP) in the School of Nursing and Public Health, during research for her master’s thesis titled: The Psychosocial and Perceived Economic Experiences of Families Caring for Members Living with Cancer in KwaZulu-Natal.
Mlaba, who graduated with a Master of Medical Science in Public Health degree, was supervised by Dr Khumbulani Hlongwana and Dr Themba Ginindza.
The study assessed the psychological burden families experience while caring for members living with cancer and explored the social and economic hardships that befall families providing care for cancer sufferers.
Mlaba’s findings have shown that there is a need to recognise the psychosocial and economic needs of families caring for members living with cancer, particularly families of low-income households.
‘Family caregivers need social support from other family members, friends, the healthcare system and other sources,’ she said.
‘The psychosocial and financial needs of families caring for members living with cancer need to be considered in the development of healthcare policies and interventions.’
Her community-based study was conducted at five sites in Durban and Pietermaritzburg.
Mlaba has submitted two manuscripts addressing objectives of her dissertation to two journals for publication.
The abstract of one manuscript was accepted and presented at the MLCCP conference in Durban last month. The abstract was also accepted and will be presented at the AORTIC conference to be held in Mozambique in November and at the Qualitative Health Research (QHR) conference in Vancouver, Canada, next month.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .Mental Health Care Vital in HIV Treatment – Doctoral Thesis Finding
Dr Winnie Baphumelele Cele celebrates being awarded a Doctoral degree.The importance of mental health care being integrated into HIV services at primary health care settings and the stigma attached to mental illness were the focus of a doctoral thesis by UKZN Nursing Mental Health lecturer, Dr Winnie Baphumelele Cele.
Cele was awarded a PhD in Mental Health Nursing for the study titled: Analysing the Implementation of National Mental Health Policy Framework on the Integration of Mental Health into HIV Services in Selected Primary Health Care Settings in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Supervised by Dr Euphemia Mbali Mhlongo, Cele highlighted the importance of mental health care being integrated into HIV services at primary health care settings to reduce the stigma attached to mental illness.
Cele’s work investigated the extent to which the national Mental Health Policy Framework had been implemented in various institutions, with a focus on the integration of mental health care into HIV services in selected primary health care settings.
‘The findings were used to develop a model that would in theory, facilitate the implementation of the policy framework and the integration of mental health care into HIV services at primary health care level,’ she said.
‘Mental health care is complicated and more so when it co-occurs with another illness such as HIV which carries its own complexities. Mental health cannot be treated in isolation from other illnesses. It is therefore essential for mental health and HIV services to be integrated.’
Integrating mental health care into medical services at primary health care level could also curb the stigma associated with the treatment of mental disorders. ‘This can be achieved by task-sharing mental health care services among primary care workers, leading to improved access to specialist mental care in the face of limited resources.
‘Health workers’ perceptions of the treatment of co-morbid mental health conditions and HIV infection can be improved through the adoption of a pragmatic model that can be sustained over time,’ said Cele. ‘Such models should address the educational needs of health care professionals and their negative mind-set and fears about the integration of mental health into HIV services at the primary health care level.’
According to Cele, numerous studies have shown that collaboration is an important factor in the development of policies. She said new policies should be introduced to the staff who are expected to implement them.
Moreover, ‘more staff should be appointed in order to reduce the mental health patient workload and institutions should establish multi-disciplinary teams to provide people-centred holistic care,’ said Cele.
Cele obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing, Degree in Nursing Education, Degree in Nursing Management and Psychology at the University of Zululand and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Nursing at UKZN.
She recently shared her findings at the KZN Mental Health Advocacy group in partnership with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group. She has also shared her findings in 2018 at the AFREhealth symposium at the Durban ICC and her findings have been shared again at an international conference held in Dubai last year.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .Doctoral Research Finds Urgent Need for Heightened Regulations in SA Animal Food Production
Dr Daniel Amoako received a PhD in Pharmaceutical Microbiology.A UKZN researcher says he has found evidence to support the urgent implementation of heightened antibiotic regulation and stewardship in the animal food production system in South Africa.
Ghanaian-born, Dr Daniel Amoako did the research for his PhD in Pharmaceutical Microbiology producing a thesis titled: Molecular and Genomic Profiling of Staphylococcus aureus from “Farm-to-Fork” in an Intensive Poultry Production System in the uMgungundlovu District of KwaZulu-Natal.
The multi-faceted study, believed to be the first of its kind in South Africa, involved Amoako using the One-Health multi-faceted approach (human, animal and environmental) to gain insights into the drivers of antibiotic resistance in the food chain and their potential link with human health.
Staphylococcus aureus is the most dangerous of all of the many common staphylococcal bacteria. The gram-positive bacteria often cause skin infections but can also cause pneumonia, heart valve infections, and bone infections.
Studies have found that poultry is the most consumed meat in South Africa with consumption of about 2.152 million tons, according to the South African Poultry Association.
The Association reported that the consumption of chicken in 2016 accounted for 60% of the total animal protein consumed in South Africa, dwarfing the total consumption of other food animals such as sheep, beef, veal, and pork.
The high demand for chicken has resulted in the extensive use of different antimicrobial agents but there is limited data on the microbial quality and safety in intensive poultry production, particularly in relation to S. aureus contamination.
As part of Amoako’s study, 384 samples were examined from selected critical control points across the “farm-to-fork” continuum for S. aureus. Farm to fork refers to the product being transported from the farm to the slaughterhouse and finally to retail points. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) and bioinformatic analysis were used to understand the multi-drug resistant strains isolated in continuum.
Amoako’s study, supervised by SA Research Chair of Antibiotic Resistance and One Health in South Africa Professor Sabiha Essack, demonstrated the need to develop a comprehensive One-Health surveillance system in South Africa using high-throughput technologies to aid in the development of targeted interventions.
Amoako is currently a post-doctoral research fellow at the infection genomics and applied bioinformatics division of the Antimicrobial Research Unit at UKZN under the mentorship of Essack. He is involved in several large-scale microbial whole-genome sequencing projects and actively translates different pathogenomics data into genetic epidemiology using bioinformatic tools for the benefit of South Africa’s public, private, food, animal and environmental health sectors. He also applies metagenomics, transcriptomics, and microbiomics to investigate human health and disease.
Commenting at his Graduation ceremony, Amoako said: ‘I pursued my postgraduate research degree at UKZN because it is one of the prestigious universities in the world that truly nurtures the next generation scientist. My main inspiration is God. Without Him I wouldn’t have been able to negotiate all the obstacles throughout my PhD study. My family is very proud and excited to finally see me achieve my dream and I greatly appreciate their support because without them I wouldn’t be where I am today. I am also thankful to Professor Essack, Dr Linda Bester, Dr King Abia, Dr Anou Somboro and the UKZN Ghanaian community.
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .Doctorate for Research into Infection by Parasitic Worms
PhD in Public Health graduate, Dr Tafadzwa Mindu.Improving knowledge - about schistosomiasis a disease caused by infection of fresh water parasitic worms - in the uMkhanyakude area was the subject of research by Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences (Public Health) graduate, Dr Tafadzwa Mindu (29).
The uMkhanyakude area is endemic to schistosomiasis and Mindu’s research was conducted to determine how improved communication about the disease could assist in reducing the problem in that area.
Mindu said he chose to study public health because he felt it was one of the important disciplines in society. ‘Healing people is relevant and any practice that contributes to the functionality of the health care system is essential. I recognised the need to apply my expertise in communication technology into health care practice. This came from the realisation that communication is a critical part of the health care system.’
Mindu says it was challenging to start learning about schistosomiasis because in his undergraduate degree he had studied publishing so public health was a new discipline for him. Although this was a challenge at first, he feels that doing research in a transdisciplinary research group enabled him to learn through practice all the aspects of schistosomiasis.
The study discovered that poor living conditions and fewer health workers affected schistosomiasis knowledge uptake in the community, and that mass media and community gatherings were the most common methods of informing schoolchildren about the disease.
The study also found that schools and clinics were among the best places for schoolchildren to be taught about the problem.
Mindu designed a quasi-experimental trial to test the effectiveness of two methods of disseminating information - infographics and edutainment. The methods were applied in two primary schools where there was a high prevalence of the disease and the results from this experiment showed that both methods were effective in improving schistosomiasis health knowledge among the primary schoolchildren in the area.
Mindu said studies had been conducted on schistosomiasis knowledge uptake in Japan and Brazil using similar methods. These two countries as well as China had been able to successfully eliminate schistosomiasis using a combination of health education interventions and mass drug treatment. ‘We hope that if the methods we tested can be used in the whole area, it may increase awareness and knowledge about schistosomiasis,’ said Mindu.
‘Being at UKZN was an eye-opener. It exposed me to many cultures, religions and social beliefs, and changed my whole perspective on life and the future. Most importantly the student culture at UKZN is amazing and very welcoming. There is a lot of diversity; I have done things that I never thought I could do before.’
He is currently doing post-doctoral research fellowship under the supervision of his PhD supervisor Professor Moses Chimbari. His new project is on schistosomiasis research uptake using health informatics.
Mindu hopes to develop an artificial intelligence system for health monitoring and management using wireless digital communication systems and data capturing software. ‘Using artificial intelligence and machine learning is the next era for human development, hence I aim to boost my knowledge in this area of expertise,’ said Mindu.
During his spare time he enjoys playing golf and taking long walks. He also sings acapella and plays the traditional drum and horn at church.
‘I feel elated by this accomplishment because it came so early in my life and this will enable me to jump into my ultimate career early. I aspire to be a research scientist in the field of public health specialising in health informatics which is a fast-growing area of research in health sciences,’ added Mindu.
Words: Lihle Sosibo
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .Improving Health Care for HIV and TB Patients Spurred PhD Graduate
Head of Internal Medicine at Edendale hospital, Dr Douglas Wilson graduated with a PhD.Ward experiences by the Head of the Clinical Unit in the Department of Internal Medicine at Edendale Hospital in Pietermaritzburg, Dr Douglas Wilson (53), enlightened him about the need to contribute towards helping improve care for patients with HIV and tuberculosis.
Wilson decided to do research for a doctoral degree which in the end revealed that tuberculosis in HIV positive adults presented significant diagnostic challenges leading to delayed or missed diagnosis, associated with substantial mortality and multidrug-resistant infection.
Wilson’s study now contributes to an improved overall understanding of diagnostic issues in HIV-positive patients with tuberculosis in South Africa.
He said he had struggled at first to balance his clinical work with his studies but soon realised that he had to set his own pace and remain focused on completing one goal at a time.
‘This is a life milestone,’ said the Zimbabwean-born Wilson after he was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Health Sciences (Medicine).
During his free time, he collects classical music recordings and enjoys cooking stews and pasta dishes.
Wilson hopes to continue with his clinical and administrative responsibilities at Edendale Hospital, and is looking forward to being involved in ongoing collaborative research projects.
Word: Lihle Sosibo
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .Deep-Seated Passion for Advancing Rural Health Drives Doctoral Graduate
Advancing Rural Health earned Dr Landiwe Khuzwayo a PhD in Health Sciences.A passion for promoting rural health and community health programmes is a driving force for Dr Landiwe Khuzwayo who was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences from the School of Nursing and Public Health at UKZN.
‘I am excited about this achievement as I plan to move into academia and help young researchers realise their dreams. I also want to advance my research skills and do more work that focuses on epidemiology,’ said Khuzwayo.
Her research involved investigating what rural communities thought about community health programmes and how they benefitted from them. Khuzwayo says she explored user perceptions of primary health care (PHC) services provided by the ward-based outreach teams (WBOTs) and the effectiveness of the WBOTs in rural households.
Results from her research show that outreach teams are a welcome extension of PHC into communities, especially for people who live in remote and rural areas. ‘The teams are perceived to have increased access to health care, reduced out-of-pocket expenses and strengthened referral pathways,’ said Khuzwayo. ‘Furthermore, the results show that team composition is an important component of the outreach teams, as it determines the type of providers that visits the households as well as the package of services received by households. Notably, services being received by households and the effectiveness of the teams are limited to the skills of team members and team members visiting the households the most.
The current package of care needs to be expanded according to team composition and the skills within the teams. The outreach teams can be effective in meeting community needs and ultimately contribute to the success of health reforms, but the negative attributes need to be corrected.’ She believes her study will assist policy makers to better understand how users perceive services received at community and household level and how to better implement ward-based outreach teams.
Khuzwayo is currently working for an NGO in Health Systems. ‘My plan is to continue working in the field for a year or two while trying to build relationships with institutions of higher learning so that ultimately I can enter academia,’ she said. ‘I would also like to do postdoctoral research in the near future - I just need to find time and sponsorship for it.’
Khuzwayo is a road runner and has done Comrades and other ultra-marathons in South Africa as well as overseas. She loves travelling and learning new things about different cultures.
‘My father passed away during my studies so that made it hard for me. I have dedicated my work to him.’
Words: Lihle Sosibo
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan
author : .author email : .