Search Results (670)

The aim of this review is to examine the contribution of genomic variation to preeclampsia susceptibility in Africans. PubMed/Medline, Scopus, African Index Medicus and Sabinet African Journals databases were used to access studies conducted in populations of African descent focussing on the genomics of preeclampsia. Studies were selected according to PRISMA guidelines and assessed for quality and risk of bias using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklists. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random effects model, and publication bias was evaluated using the Eggers test and funnel plots. Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) was applied to evaluate the certainty of evidence outcomes. Sixty-six (66) studies reporting on genomics of preeclampsia were retrieved. Forty-four (44) studies had a quality assessment score ≥75%. Vascular pathway genes (GNB3, FLT1, NOS3 and VEGFC; OR (95% CI): 1.61 (1.38–1.88); I²: 0.0%, p = 0.87; GRADE: low certainty), immune/inflammatory pathway genes (APOL1, ERAP2, HLA-G, IL-1β, LEPR and TNF-α; OR (95% CI): 2.07 (1.68–2.54); I²: 42.2%, p = 0.04; GRADE: low certainty) and cellular homeostasis genes (GLUT9, URAT1, SLC4A1 and SLCO4C1; OR (95% CI): 1.65 (1.43–1.91); I²: 0.0%, p = 0.99; GRADE: low certainty) showed pooled effect estimates suggestive of moderate to increased preeclampsia risk. APOL1 G1 or G2 risk alleles seemed to contribute 1.70-fold (95% CI: 1.39–2.07; I²: 0.0%; p = 0.51; GRADE: low certainty), respectively, to overall preeclampsia risk. Vascular, immune/inflammatory and cellular homeostasis genes may be ideal starting points for future research, and further validation of the role of APOL1 G1 or G2 risk alleles in preeclampsia may be essential. Full article

Fruit trichomes and pericarp architecture are pivotal for biological defense and postharvest resilience in the genus Actinidia. However, the evolutionary diversity of these structures and the molecular mechanisms governing their development—particularly under the influence of polyploidization—remain poorly understood. We performed a systematic evaluation of 21 Actinidia species and 14 cultivars using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and histological analysis. To determine the effects of genome doubling, an autotetraploid line was induced from diploid A. chinensis cv. ‘Donghong’, followed by comparative transcriptomic and temporal expression profiling. Morphological characterization identified three distinct evolutionary groups based on fruit surface traits: glabrous, caducous-spotted, and persistent-pubescent. All observed trichomes featured a unique bipartite multicellular architecture. Kiwifruit pericarp thickness (59.8–534.6 μm) was locally reinforced at trichome insertion sites. Among kiwifruit cultivars, polyploidization significantly increased both trichome length and total amount. Transcriptomic analysis revealed 235 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) enriched in hormonal signaling and flavonoid pathways. Two key candidate genes, Achv4p15g023764.t1 and Achv4p01g000003.t1, were identified as candidate genes for stage-specific regulators governing early morphogenesis and late maturation. By characterizing the morphological diversity and genetic underpinnings of Actinidia trichome and epidermal variation, this study establishes a potential scientific framework for the targeted kiwifruit breeding of novel kiwifruit cultivars with optimized fruit surface characteristics. Full article

The research problematises the different micro-exclusion practices in rural primary schools and their impact on learners’ participation and academic development. Rural primary school classrooms perpetuate systemic micro-exclusion of learners in various ways, reflecting injustice and a colossal squandering of human potential. All learners, at some point, in the same learning spaces often face different classroom experiences as they are subtly excluded through teacher commissions and omissions. The paper presents an exploration of the phenomenon of micro-exclusion practices in rural primary school classrooms, drawing on the perspectives and reflections of six primary school teachers. Using a qualitative phenomenological multi-case study design, we explore the everyday behavioral activities of these teachers through in-depth semi-structured interviews and non-participant observation to uncover their experiences and insights regarding subtle micro-exclusionary practices that impact learner participation and inclusivity. It responds to two questions: how do teachers micro-exclude learners during teaching and learning in rural primary schools in Zimbabwe, and what mitigation strategies can be implemented to minimise micro-exclusion in rural primary school classrooms? Findings revealed that micro-exclusion affects all learners and is multifaceted. It exists and manifests in the form of social isolation, subtle biases in attention, and disparities in feedback, which have a strong bearing on learners’ participation. Teachers reported varying degrees of awareness and challenges concerning micro-exclusion practices and expressed a desire to address implicit or explicit biases and foster greater participation in classroom environments. The study highlights the importance of reflective practices among rural primary school teachers and suggests strategies for creating an inclusive participatory atmosphere that mitigates micro-exclusion. Full article

This research examined the long-run effect of climate change on food security in Malawi, Madagascar, Mozambique and Zimbabwe using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model. The study used nine variables for quantitative analysis using data for the four countries from the World Bank spanning from 2000 to 2023, using two models. The results were validated using the pooled mean group (PMG) estimator. The results from model 1 show that environmental temperature, fertiliser consumption, credit access, age dependency ratio, urbanisation and land size significantly affect the percentage of crop yields. The model 2 results show that all the aforementioned factors, including cereal temperature and yields, have an effect on the prevalence of malnutrition, which was a proxy for food security in this study. Furthermore, the study used the Granger causality test to indicate a unidirectional causality direction from both models’ independent variables to dependent variables. From the econometric analysis conducted, the findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions, such as promoting climate-resilient agriculture, expanding access to credit and social protection policies, to enhance nutritional well-being and improve resilience to climate shocks. Full article

Background: Access to affordable essential medicines is critical for effective management of hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM). In Zimbabwe, frequent stock-outs in public facilities position private pharmacies as important alternative sources of these medicines. Aim: To assess availability, pricing, and stock-out levels of essential HTN and DM medicines in private retail pharmacies in Gweru Urban District, Zimbabwe. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 40 registered private pharmacies. Data on medicine availability, retail prices, monthly stock-outs, and supply-chain factors were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire, stock cards, and observational checklists. Local prices were compared with international reference prices (IRPs). Chi-square analyses evaluated associations between pharmacy characteristics, medicine prices, availability, and stock-out durations. Results: Most tracer medicines for HTN and DM were available in ≥80% of pharmacies, with average stock-outs generally <3 days per month. Pharmacy characteristics were not significantly associated with availability or stock-outs. Medicines with <80% availability and those priced at ≥USD 5 were significantly associated with prolonged stock-outs of ≥7 days (p = 0.006 and p = 0.001, respectively). Local retail prices exceeded IRPs and public facility prices, suggesting potential affordability barriers in the context of an economic crisis, where most health expenditures are out-of-pocket. Key drivers of stock-outs included wholesaler shortages, delivery delays, limited procurement funds, and substitution with alternative medicines. Conclusions: While medicine availability and short-term stock-outs were generally favourable, high retail prices pose a major potential barrier to access. The cost burden is amplified by the common HTN-DM comorbidity, requiring multiple medications per person, thereby further increasing out-of-pocket expenses. High prices may limit adherence, reduce functional capacity, and negatively impact productivity. Policy interventions targeting pricing regulations and value-chain optimization are urgently needed to enhance equitable access to essential NCD medicines in urban Zimbabwe. Full article

Background/Objectives: The rapid development of safe and efficacious vaccines is often hindered by extensive, mandated non-clinical safety evaluations in animals. With the aim to provide scientific evidence supporting a “vaccine platform approach”, here we present the complete non-clinical studies for two investigational vaccines, GRAd-COV2 and GRAdHIVNE1, based on GRAd, a gorilla-derived group C adenoviral vector. Methods: The biodistribution of GRAd genomes following the intramuscular administration of the vaccines was assessed in rats by a sensitive qPCR method. Local tolerance and systemic toxic effects were evaluated in single- and repeated-dose toxicity studies in rabbits. Results: GRAd-COV2 and GRAdHIVNE1 were well-tolerated. Distribution was highly confined to the injection site and draining lymph nodes, and toxicity profile consisted of transient, non-adverse inflammatory responses, while the expected immune responses to the encoded antigens were successfully induced. Notably, both vaccines demonstrated a consistent safety profile despite transgene and backbone differences, comparable to other replication-defective adenoviral vectors. Conclusions: The established non-clinical safety profile of the GRAd platform provides a robust foundation for a more efficient and streamlined regulatory pathway. By leveraging this prior knowledge, future GRAd-based vaccines can achieve accelerated clinical development while fully adhering to the ethical principles of replacement, reduction, and refinement of animal use in research. Full article

Background: Intensive poultry production systems can act as reservoirs for antibiotic-resistant and multidrug-resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli, posing a public health risk through food and environmental transmission. Methods: This study investigated the genomic characteristics of antibiotic-resistant E. coli isolated from an intensive poultry production system in the uMgungundlovu District, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Chicken litter, wastewater, and floor swab samples were collected over three consecutive production cycles. Putative E. coli isolates were detected using the Colilert-18 system, cultured on eosin methylene blue agar, and genomically confirmed by quantitative PCR (q-PCR) targeting the uidA gene. Whole genome sequencing was performed using the Illumina MiSeq platform, followed by bioinformatic analyses to assess resistance genes, mobile genetic elements, and phylogenetic relationships. Results: Of 150 presumptive E. coli, 70 were genomically confirmed as E. coli and resistant to at least one antibiotic, with 74% exhibiting multidrug resistance. Resistance was highest to tetracycline (100%), ampicillin (94%), and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (76%), while ciprofloxacin resistance was rare (3%). Genomic analysis identified multiple antibiotic resistance genes conferring resistance to fluoroquinolones, β-lactams, aminoglycosides, amphenicols, fosfomycin, and sulfonamides, as well as the disinfectant resistance gene qacI. These genes were frequently associated with mobile genetic elements, including plasmids, integrons, transposons, and insertion sequences. Predominant sequence types included ST155, ST48, ST1286, and ST602, with phylogenetic relatedness to poultry-associated isolates from Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria, and Tanzania, as well as environmental E. coli strains previously identified in South Africa and Ghana. Conclusions: The detection of diverse, mobile MDR E. coli lineages in poultry environments clearly signals a substantial risk for resistance gene dissemination into the food chain and surrounding ecosystems. Immediate attention and intervention are warranted to mitigate public health threats. Full article

This study examined how resilience-based interventions enable rural older women living with HIV in Zimbabwe to confront stigma and sustain their quality of life. Guided by the 4S framework of resilience resources planning (social support, coping strategies, sagacity, and solution-seeking), the research explored how women apply these dimensions to navigate challenging life events. A purposive sample of 17 women (those not living with a spouse or in a socially sanctioned relationship), aged 40–65, all on antiretroviral therapy and drawn from rural Matabeleland South Province, participated through in-depth interviews. Using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis, four themes emerged: (1) Social Support and Social Networks as Foundations of Resilience, (2) Self-Efficacy and Coping Strategies in Managing Emotional Distress, (3) Spirituality and Sagacity as Sources of Strength and Meaning, and (4) Sense of Purpose and Solution-Seeking Behaviours. The findings highlight that resilience is actively mobilised through family ties, peer groups, and community initiatives, enabling women to adapt to socio-economic hardship and health-related barriers. This study concludes that empowerment strategies, especially community-based programmes focused on skills development and economic opportunities, are essential for enhancing resilience, reducing vulnerability, and improving health outcomes. Strengthening these resources not only equips women to manage HIV-related challenges but also contributes to sustainable development within their communities. Full article

Gendered media framing continues to restrict women’s political representation in Southern Africa, where news narratives often emphasise emotion and personality over policy and competence. This systematic review analysed empirical and grey literature (2000–2025) on the portrayal of women politicians in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Zambia, Lesotho, and Namibia. Following PRISMA 2020 standards, 1384 records were identified from academic databases and regional repositories, with 73 records meeting the inclusion criteria. The studies were thematically analysed using feminist media theory. The review uncovers enduring stereotypes—such as motherhood, moral virtue, and emotionality—while leadership competence remains marginalised. Coverage frequently reinforces the “political glass cliff,” portraying women as suitable only during crises. Nonetheless, some evidence of resistance journalism and feminist digital counter-narratives is emerging, driven by NGOs like Gender Links and Media Monitoring Africa. Despite methodological diversity, most studies emphasise qualitative textual analysis and highlight limited audience or production research. Major limitations include reliance on English-language and secondary data, which restrict regional generalisability. Overall, the findings underscore that symbolic exclusion persists across Southern African media, emphasising the need for gender-sensitive newsroom frameworks and transformative reporting practices. This review received no external funding and is not registered in PROSPERO. Full article

A new generalized family of distributions, termed the Cosine–Topp–Leone–Exponentiated Half Logistic–G (Cos–TL–EHL–G) family, is proposed. The primary motivation for introducing this family is to enhance the modelling flexibility of the existing Cosine–Topp–Leone–G class by incorporating a exponentiated half logistic (EHL-G)-based transformation. Two important special cases, namely the Cos–TL–EHL–Weibull (Cos–TL–EHL–W) and Cos–TL–EHL–Log–Logistic (Cos–TL–EHL–LLoG) distributions, are presented. Several mathematical and statistical properties of the proposed family are derived, including series expansions, moments, order statistics, and uncertainty measures. Parameter estimation is carried out using maximum likelihood, least squares, Anderson–Darling, and Cramér–von Mises methods. A Monte Carlo simulation study indicates that the maximum likelihood estimator outperforms the competing estimation techniques. The practical usefulness and robustness of the proposed family are illustrated through applications to two real datasets, where the Cos–TL–EHL–W distribution demonstrates superior performance compared to both nested and non-nested competing models. Full article

Tuberculosis (TB) rarely occurs in isolation; most people with TB experience multiple coexisting conditions, including HIV, diabetes, undernutrition, depression, and substance use disorders, which worsen disease severity and compromise treatment outcomes. Although the World Health Organization has issued disease-specific guidance for managing key comorbidities, TB care remains largely siloed and poorly equipped to address the growing burden of multimorbidity, particularly in African health systems. In this perspective article, we propose a phased framework for multimorbidity-centered TB care. The first phase emphasizes systematic screening for common comorbidities and establishment of basic referral pathways. The second phase focuses on strengthening coordination between TB programs and existing health and social services, including task sharing and longitudinal follow-up. The third phase advances toward fully integrated, co-located, multidisciplinary models of care that embed TB services within broader multimorbidity platforms. Together, this framework offers a pragmatic roadmap for TB programs to deliver more person-centered, equitable, and efficient care, strengthen primary care systems, and accelerate progress toward ending TB as a public health threat in Africa. Full article

In this paper, we analyze the impacts of financial innovation and financial deepening on the economic growth of 14 sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries from 1995 to 2023. The autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach and error correction model (ECM) were used to assess short- and long-run effects. The findings indicate that mobile cellular subscriptions and government spending are the main contributors to national economic growth and that money supply has a positive impact. However, the strong negative effect of capital formation on economic growth is contrary to expectations. Conversely, the findings confirm that gross capital formation has a strong positive effect on gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the long run. Bounds testing reveals varying degrees of cointegration across countries. Long-run relationships were confirmed in Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, and Zimbabwe, all of which showed evidence of strong cointegration. These findings support policy recommendations aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth in SSA economies through targeted policies that increase domestic credit in the private sector and attract foreign direct investment (FDI). Full article

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) constitute a menace in Zimbabwe. The industry’s image is tainted by rampant disposal on roadsides, in watercourses, and in landfills. Concerted practical efforts to proffer solutions to the problems of CDW disposal have achieved little. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a lean-based framework that could help reduce the impacts of CDW. An in-depth review of the related literature was conducted to establish that lean construction approaches have been adopted to minimise CDW. The literature review led to the compilation of a semi-structured questionnaire used to expedite survey research, which received insights and perspectives from 260 construction personnel gathered through a purposive sampling technique. The top-ranked lean CDW minimisation framework embeds recycling, recovering, and reuse, Kaizen (continuous improvement), Last Planner System (LPS), Just-in-Time (JIT), and Andon (visualisation). The four-step framework shows potential for reducing CDW in Zimbabwe and similar regional contexts. Some of the findings show that the recycling technologies needed to recycle construction waste are not yet available in Zimbabwe. The available regulatory frameworks are not very clear on using recovered, salvaged, and recycled construction materials. Designers are not designing in a way that controls waste streams on sites. Full article

Migration is as old as human history. Over the centuries, there was never a time when migration stopped. The nineteenth century was characterised by the migration of Europeans to Africa. These movements were attributed to colonisation, commerce, and Christianisation. Christianity was used as a conduit of colonisation and the deculturation of the recipients of the missionary gospel. At the turn of the twenty-first century, there was a significant influx of Africans migrating to Europe. Among these migrants were worshippers from the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Zimbabwe (WMCZ). Using a missiological framework, this paper employs a qualitative research methodology to argue that the establishment of the WMCZ Fellowship, grounded in the mission and ecclesiology of the home church in the United Kingdom, is both a reverse and distant mission. To achieve this aim, this paper unpacks the methodology and the theoretical framework. It will also trace the development of the WMCZ in the United Kingdom (UK), discuss the hybridisation of Christianity, and justify the notion that the Fellowship is both a reverse and distant mission. The study makes recommendations that support the growth of the Fellowship. It concludes by arguing that the development of migrant churches in the UK can turn the MCB into a church with a white history, a black/multiracial face, and a white head that will eventually use a multiracial mind to survive in a white historical ecclesiology. Full article

Background/Objectives: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among Enterobacterales poses a major threat to public health in Southern Africa and has led to limited treatment options and increased mortality. Despite Africa bearing the brunt, there is limited data on the epidemiology and molecular epidemiology of the genetic determinants of β-lactam and/or carbapenem resistance. This narrative literature review summarizes the epidemiology and molecular characteristics of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-PE), carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE), and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE) in Southern Africa, while identifying data gaps and surveillance challenges. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed articles from ten Southern African countries, including South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Botswana, Namibia, Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Malawi, reporting the epidemiology and/or molecular characterization of ESBL-PE, CRE, and CPE. Results: ESBL-PE, CRE, and CPE pose an increasing healthcare threat in Southern Africa, with prevalence varying widely by source. Klebsiella pneumoniae and E. coli are the predominant ESBL-PE, CRE, and CPE species. The most frequent resistance genes are bla_CTX-M among ESBLs and bla_NDM and bla_OXA among carbapenemases, reflecting global patterns. However, molecular characterization across the region remains limited, with countries such as Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini, Zambia, and Zimbabwe lacking sufficient data on the prevalence and diversity of these resistance determinants. Conclusions: Despite the paucity of genomic and epidemiological data, Southern Africa faces an urgent AMR challenge. Strengthening laboratory infrastructure, genomic surveillance, and regional coordination is crucial to mitigate AMR and guide antibiotic stewardship policies. Full article