Research Articles (University of Pretoria)

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This collection offers open access to the full text of research articles published by staff, students and affiliates of the University of Pretoria. These items are identical in content to their published counterparts. It is linked to the Research Information System and complements the Annual Research Report.

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Follicular thyroid carcinoma in South Africa : insights from 103 cases
Pienaar, Z.; Martin, L.; Luvhengo, T.; Lubbe, J.A.; Bestbier, A.; Bhuiyan, M.; Bombil, I.; Cacala, S.R.; Cairncross, L.; Changfoot, C.; Jackson, Brandon Spencer; Jehle, H.S.; Jonas, L.; Lukusa, M.R.; Makgoka, M.; Yeo, A.; Sishuba, N.T.; Razack, R.; Baatjes, K.; Conradie, W. (Medpharm Publications, 2026-03)
BACKGROUND : Follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) accounts for approximately 17-20% of well-differentiated thyroid cancer (WDTC) worldwide. In South Africa (SA), FTC is more common than reported internationally, however, available SA studies included small patient numbers. This multi-institutional study comprehensively describes FTC patients who underwent surgery over a 5-year period, focusing on presentation, diagnosis, and management. METHODS : A retrospective review of all patients with FTC operated at 13 academic hospitals throughout SA between January 2015 and December 2019 was conducted. The Thyroid Cancer Group of South Africa collectively entered data on the presentation, diagnosis, management, and short-term outcomes of 464 thyroid cancer patients into a REDCap database. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS : Of 464 cases captured in the database, 103 (22.1%) were FTCs. WDTC was reported in 87.9% (408/464) of operations, with FTC comprising 25.2% (103/408). Of the 103 FTC patients, 82.5% (n = 85) were female and 16.5% (n = 17) male. The mean age was 51.8 years (SD 17.3). In cases where staging was reported, more than half (53.9%) presented with T3 tumours. Distant metastases were found in 12.6% of patients. Thyroid lobectomy was the most performed procedure (57.4%), followed by total thyroidectomy (37.6%). CONCLUSION : SA presents a multifaceted picture of FTC, with a higher incidence than in developed countries but lower than some other African nations. Patients are frequently symptomatic, which may predict worse outcomes. Standardised reporting and a national thyroid registry could assist in treatment planning and consistency of care.
Dikgeo tsa puo le setso le ditokelo tsa ditjhaba tsa matsoalloa : maikutlo a tswang kahlolong ya sustaining the Wild Coast
Rantlo, Tiisetso John (Routledge, 2026)
KAKARETSO : Dikahlolo tse entsweng nyeoeng ya Sustaining the Wild Coast NPC v Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy di bontsha kamoo dikgeo tsa puo le setso di ka amang ditokelo tsa tshebetso le tsa motheo tsa ditjhaba tsa matsoalloa. Pampiri e hlalosa hore molao wa wa Afrika Borwa, o itshetlehileng mokgweng wa Yuropa, o hlolehile ho utlwisisa le ho fetolela ka nepo moelelo wa ditokelo tlasa molao wa setso. Sena se bakile tahlehelo ya moelelo le ho se kenyeletswe ha ditjhaba ha ho etsa diqeto. Pampiri e totobatsa hore ditokelo le boikarabelo tlasa molao wa setso di itshetlehile hodima setso, puo le tumelo ya semoya, mme di ke ke tsa bapiswa ka ho toba le tsa molao wa senyesemane. Ho hloleha ho ananela phapang ena ho lebisitse kgatikelong ya ditokelo tsa matsoalloa. Ho rarolla bothata bona ho hloka mokgwa o akaretsang o kenyeletsang dipuo le meetlo ya matsoalloa kahare ho tsamaiso ya molao. ABSTRACT : The judgments in Sustaining the Wild Coast NPC v Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy highlight the impact of linguistic and cultural translation gaps on the procedural and substantive rights of indigenous communities. This paper examines how these translation gaps, rooted in the Eurocentric orientation of South African civil law, led to a loss of meaning of the rights of affected communities. The paper demonstrates that rights and duties under customary law cannot be equated with their civil law counterparts, as they derive meaning from distinct cultural, linguistic, and spiritual contexts. An overview of the case highlights the exclusion of indigenous communities from decision-making processes, which constituted an infringement of their procedural and substantive rights. This exclusion stemmed from a failure to appreciate the significance of linguistic and cultural diversity in legal contexts. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach. It involves ensuring legal procedures are culturally sensitive and inclusive.
Should medical aids cover gender-affirming healthcare for children under prescribed minimum benefits?
Baird, Sophy Boitumelo (Routledge, 2025)
This research explores the imperative of extending healthcare benefits, particularly in the context of medical aid schemes, to transgender children in South Africa with gender dysphoria. By examining the unique challenges and needs of this demographic, it underscores the significance of providing comprehensive healthcare coverage to support their mental and physical well-being. Through an analysis of existing policies, societal attitudes and international standards, this research aims to advocate for inclusive and gender-affirming healthcare practices, fostering a more equitable and compassionate approach to transgender healthcare with a specific focus on the private healthcare sector of South Africa.
Anatomical evaluation of the greater occipital nerve block using embalmed neonatal cadavers
Prigge, Lané; Ayres, Amelia; Bosenberg, Adrian T.; Van Schoor, Albert-Neels (AOSIS, 2026-06-27)
BACKGROUND : The greater occipital nerve block is indicated for pain relief in children undergoing, among others, posterior fossa craniotomies. This nerve, which arises from the C2 spinal nerve, travels alongside the occipital artery and provides sensation to the posterior scalp. AIM : The aim of this study was to anatomically determine the location of the greater occipital nerve and accompanying occipital artery, as it travels through the hiatus in the trapezius muscle aponeurosis, in the occipital region, in embalmed neonatal cadavers. SETTING : Study was conducted at the Department of Anatomy, University of Pretoria, South Africa. METHODS : Following ethical approval, the greater occipital nerve and occipital artery were bilaterally dissected and exposed in 35 embalmed neonatal cadavers from the Department of Anatomy at the University of Pretoria. The distance between the external occipital protuberance, the rudimentary mastoid process and the greater occipital nerve was measured, while the relationship between the neurovascular structures was observed. RESULTS : The greater occipital nerves were found to be on average 19.85 mm ± 4.70 mm from the external occipital protuberance in neonates, while the external occipital protuberance and rudimentary mastoid process are 42.55 mm ± 8.46 mm apart. In 77.3% of the specimens, the greater occipital nerve was located medial to the occipital artery, while in the remaining cases, the artery lies between the cutaneous branches of the greater occipital nerve at the trapezius muscle hiatus. CONCLUSION : In this neonatal sample, the greater occipital nerve is located at the approximate mid-point of the line between the external occipital protuberance and rudimentary mastoid process. CONTRIBUTION : Careful aspiration is recommended, because the greater occipital nerve is not always located medial to the occipital artery.
Navigating adversity : non-completion and evacuation of trail runners at the 2022 Magoebaskloof Forest Marathon
Maleka, Thabo; Jansen van Rensburg, Audrey; Viljoen, Carel Thomas; Ramkilawon, Gopika Devi; Ramagole, Dimakatso Althea; Nair, Anoop; Janse van Rensburg, Dina Christina (South African Sports Medicine Association, 2026-04-22)
BACKGROUND : Trail running occurs on natural, uneven terrain. The literature is limited in exploring factors that contribute to trail runners not completing a race. OBJECTIVES : This study firstly investigated self-reported reasons for runners who did not finish (DNF) the 2022 Magoebaskloof Forest Marathon across 10km, 20km, 34km, and 50km distances, and secondly assessed runners' evacuation methods. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study of consenting trail runners (n=429) who completed the post-race DNF survey (10km, 20km, 34km and 50km distances). Within two weeks post-race, runners reported whether they finished, reasons for discontinuing and evacuation methods. We report numbers (n) and point prevalence (%). RESULTS : Of the 228 runners who completed the post-race survey, 16 (7%) DNF. DNF runners entered the 34 km (19%) and 50 km distance (81%) and were aged 31–50 years (94%). No DNFs occurred in the 10km and 20km races. Approximately 27% did not meet cut-off times, while 19% got lost despite trail directions. Other contributing factors included pre-existing and new injuries (23%), illnesses (15%), and inadequate training (8%). While 50% of the DNF group had >5 years total running experience, only 19% had >5 years of trail running experience. Runners who finished the trail race had significantly more trail running experience than those who DNF (p=0.0082). The primary evacuation method was hiking back to the nearest aid station (63%), with 19% subsequently transported by shuttle. CONCLUSION : Multiple factors may have contributed to the race non-completion. Many DNF runners started with injuries or illnesses, inadequate training, or limited trail-running experience. Event planners should improve measures to prevent runners from getting lost. These findings emphasise the importance of preparation, navigation skills, and race management in ensuring trail running safety and success.
Prevalence of self-reported shoulder pain and shoulder function among uninjured CrossFit athletes in Pretoria, South Africa
Dawood, Muhammad; Meyer, Edwin Ernest; Moatshe, Tshegofatso Prudence (South African Sports Medicine Association, 2026-06-22)
BACKGROUND: CrossFit is a rapidly growing sport characterised by high-intensity functional movements that place substantial demands on the shoulder complex. Although shoulder injuries are frequently reported, the prevalence of self-reported shoulder pain and shoulder function among uninjured CrossFit athletes remains unclear. OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of self-reported shoulder pain and to describe shoulder function among uninjured CrossFit athletes in Pretoria, Gauteng. METHODS : A cross-sectional study was conducted among CrossFit athletes recruited from gyms in Pretoria. Participants completed a sociodemographic and training questionnaire. Pain presence and severity were assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), based on current shoulder pain intensity. Shoulder function was assessed using the Penn Shoulder Score (PSS). Descriptive statistics (means, standard deviations, frequencies, and percentages) were used to summarise the data. Chi-square tests were used to explore associations between shoulder pain and selected demographic and training-related variables. RESULTS : Sixty-eight participants provided valid responses for pain analysis, while all participants completed the PSS. The prevalence of self-reported shoulder pain was 76% (95% CI: 64%-85%), with a mean NPRS score of 2.97 ± 2.75/10, indicating predominantly low-intensity pain. Shoulder function was generally preserved, with a mean total PSS of 87.8 ± 12.2 (out of 100). Shoulder pain was significantly associated with previous shoulder injury (p < 0.05). No significant associations were found between demographic or training-related variables and shoulder function. CONCLUSION : Self-reported shoulder pain is highly prevalent among uninjured CrossFit athletes despite largely preserved shoulder function. These findings suggest that athletes may continue training despite experiencing pain, highlighting the importance of routine screening and early intervention strategies.
The effect of career construction counselling on high school students' career decision-making difficulties and career adaptability
Magere, Grace Makunja; Maree, J.G. (Kobus); Rajab, Pakeezah (Sage, 2026-06)
This study investigated the effect of career construction counselling as an intervention on addressing career decision-making difficulties and enhancing career adaptability of high school students in Tanzania. The study sample consisted of 66 Form Five students (Grade 11) drawn from two public high schools in Morogoro Municipality. An intervention group of 35 students received career construction counselling, while a comparison group of 31 students continued with traditional regular classes. A quasi experimental pre- and post-test design was used to assess participants’ career decision-making difficulties and adaptability before and after intervention. The results indicated statistically significant differences between the pre- and post-test interventions, implying that the intervention decreased students’ career decision-making difficulties and increased their career adaptability. Future research could expand this line of inquiry by including larger and more diverse samples, conducting longitudinal follow-ups to examine sustained effects, and exploring the applicability of career construction counselling across different cultural and educational contexts.
Predictors and profiles of mental health and well-being among South African university students
Muller, Jacomien; Martin, Jarred H.; Mostert, Sonja Nicolene; Van Appel, Jolize Joubert (Sage, 2026-06)
In South African higher education, students encounter numerous challenges that affect their mental health and well-being. This study examined the incidence and predictors of mental health among 1,366 students at a public, in-contact South African university. A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was employed, using the Mental Health Continuum Short Form alongside measures of life satisfaction, sexual well-being, health literacy, and psychosocial and institutional factors. Descriptive findings indicated that most (66%) students reported moderate mental health, with 28% flourishing and 6% languishing. Bivariate correlations showed strong positive associations between mental health and life satisfaction, sexual well-being, and health literacy. While small significant differences were found across demographic groups, hierarchical regression revealed that psychosocial factors, particularly life satisfaction, components of health literacy, and social support, were the strongest predictors, accounting for the largest proportion of variance in mental health (R² = .61), whereas structural and academic factors played smaller roles. A two-step cluster analysis identified two distinct profiles: a ‘Strained and Stressed’ group characterised by structural disadvantage and fewer psychosocial support, and a ‘Resourced and Supported’ group with greater resource security and psychosocial resources. Cluster membership explained over 12% of the variance in mental health, underscoring the interplay of structural and psychosocial factors in shaping student well-being. Results suggest that interventions designed to strengthen psychosocial resources such as social connection, health literacy, and life satisfaction may enhance students’ mental health and mitigate the effects of structural disadvantages.
Exploring detectives’ emotional and psychological experiences in interactions with families in intimate femicide cases
Nkosi, Khetsiwe Emmah; Matamela, Nyambeni Asnath; Sibisi, Nonhle Tracey (Sage, 2026-03)
Intimate femicide remains one of the most urgent and devastating forms of gender-based violence in South Africa. While existing research has centred on the prevalence and legal responses to such cases, less attention has been given to the emotional and psychological experiences of detectives who must engage with both the investigative process and the interaction with bereaved families. This study explores the emotional and psychological experiences of detectives’ interactions with families in intimate femicide cases. In-depth interviews were conducted with eight South African Police Service detectives from Gauteng province. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was utilised to explore the emotional and psychological impact of such work, focusing on death notifications and ongoing family interactions. Analysis revealed three interlinked findings: (1) detectives as first witnesses to families’ shock, disbelief, and embodied grief; (2) the emotional labour, cumulative strain, and personal identity spillover arising from repeated exposure to trauma; and (3) the challenges of managing death notifications in the context of training gaps, procedural frictions, and high family expectations. The study contributes to psychological literature on trauma-exposed occupations and emphasises the need for trauma-informed policing practices that address both interpersonal engagement and officer mental health.
Empowering young adults in disadvantaged communities to promote mental health among their peers
Hadebe, Nqobile Nqobi; Visser, Maretha (Sage, 2026-03)
Youth living in disadvantaged communities such as Mamelodi, a peri-urban settlement in the City of Tshwane in South Africa, have limited access to mental health services. Community-based interventions to promote mental health can play a crucial role in such contexts. This research aimed to empower young adults to promote mental health through peer-led interventions. Using action research, salient issues were identified to effect social change through collaboration. The local radio station and community organisations assisted with the recruitment of young adults (18–24 years) through snowball sampling. Seven out-of-school young adults joined the study as peer leaders. Eight project meetings were held between June and December 2023 to plan and implement an intervention aimed at improving the mental health literacy of their peers. During an interview at the community radio station, the peer leaders discussed the mental health challenges of youth. They created a video on depression and suicide, and a pamphlet containing information on mental health support, available on the community radio station’s Facebook page and their personal social media accounts. A large number of viewers accessed this information. Recordings of project sessions and a focus group discussion with the peer leaders were analysed using thematic analysis to explore their experiences of the project. Participation in the project contributed to the personal growth of the peer leaders, particularly the development of competence, confidence, and personal well-being, and a sense of psychological empowerment that enabled them to contribute to the lives of their peers. Their peers also benefitted, as they received mental health information and social support from the peer leaders. The research emphasises the value of peer-led interventions as a strategy to promote mental health literacy and emotional support among young people.
Psychiatry and artificial intelligence : a need for informed engagement
Szabo, Christopher P.; Kotze, Carla; Galvin, Lisa; Minty, Yumna; Mgweba-Bewana, Lihle; Talatala, Mvuyiso; Gwanya-Mdletye, Sisikelelwe; Nortje, Gareth (AOSIS, 2026-06-18)
No abstract available.
The undergraduate external examination process and the perceptions of examiners at the physiotherapy departments in South Africa
Ntsiea, Mokgobadibe V.; Mostert, Karien; Titus, Adnil; Joseph, Conran; Manie, Shamila; Van Wyk, Heleen; Tshabalala, Muziwakhe; Chetty, Verusia (AOSIS, 2026-06-26)
BACKGROUND : Variations in external examination processes across South African universities may challenge the validity of physiotherapy assessments. Our study explores external examiners’ understanding of moderation and academic standards. OBJECTIVES : This study aimed to describe the examination processes and external examiners’ perceptions of academic standards in South African physiotherapy programmes. METHOD : A descriptive cross-sectional survey using a self-administered questionnaire sent to all eight universities that offer a physiotherapy degree in South Africa. The total population size was 103. RESULTS : Practices include appointing the same external examiner for up to 2 years (n = 4), using the same examiner for reassessments (n = 3), and assigning examiners across all modules regardless of expertise (n = 2). Five institutions allocate clinical blocks specifically, and four expose students to all clinical areas. External examiners assess all third- and fourth-year students at five institutions and receive procedural orientation via written guidelines (n = 5). Feedback is typically shared orally (n = 5) or in a university-formatted written report (n = 3). A 10% mark difference is acceptable at two institutions; others lack clear criteria. Internal and external marks carry equal weight, and two universities apply sub minima for clinical safety and effectiveness. Moderation samples span high to low scoring scripts (n = 4). Contingency plans for examiner cancellations are in place at all institutions. Indicators of good performance include evidence-based practice (88%), alignment with departmental outcomes (71%), and meeting examiners’ assessment expectations (50%). CONCLUSION : Clarification of the external examiner’s role is needed in the absence of formal guidelines from governing bodies. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS : Findings can guide consistent competency standards and also support the Health Professions Council in evaluating physiotherapy training institutions.
Shoulder pain in amateur fast bowlers : a case example illustrating opportunities to embed prevention in undergraduate physiotherapy education
Dawood, Muhammad A.; Olivier, Benitta; Cochrane, Maria Elizabeth (AOSIS, 2026-04-30)
BACKGROUND : Health professions education is undergoing a paradigm shift from a predominantly curative focus towards prevention and health promotion, in line with global health priorities such as Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG3). Physiotherapy curricula, however, often still devote limited attention to preventative competencies. OBJECTIVES : The objectives of this study are to identify risk factors for shoulder pain in amateur fast bowlers and illustrate how such evidence can inform the integration of preventative competencies into undergraduate physiotherapy curricula. METHOD : A prospective, longitudinal cohort study was conducted during the 2018–2019 amateur cricket season. Thirty-nine male fast bowlers completed baseline musculoskeletal screening and weekly online questionnaires documenting injury incidence. Physical assessments included shoulder range of motion, scapular control, muscle strength, endurance and stability tests. Data were analysed using t-tests, Mann–Whitney U tests, chi-square and/or Fisher’s exact tests. RESULTS : Nine participants (23%) sustained shoulder pain during the season. Risk factors associated with injury included scapular dyskinesia, decreased internal rotation, increased external rotation, glenohumeral internal rotation deficit, poor endurance and reduced isometric muscle strength. These factors demonstrated moderate-to-large effect sizes. CONCLUSION : The identification of modifiable risk factors for shoulder pain demonstrates the value of embedding screening skills into undergraduate physiotherapy curricula. Teaching students to assess and address risk factors fosters a preventative orientation that extends beyond sports injuries to broader health contexts. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS : Incorporating risk factor screening into training equips physiotherapy graduates with practical skills for early detection and prevention, thereby reducing the burden of preventable conditions and aligning education with the objectives of SDG3.
Self-perceived competence and readiness of undergraduate physiotherapy students in treating patients with spinal cord injury
Mashola, Mokgadi K.; Bauermeister, Tamsyn; Urio, Clare N.; Michael, Alexandra; Masindi, Rabelani; Mpe, Kgaogelo M.; Dippenaar, Lorraine; Mostert, Karien (AOSIS, 2026-04-30)
BACKGROUND : Physiotherapy management is a necessary core aspect in spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation, and undergraduate preparation for adequate application is imperative. Objectives: To determine physiotherapy students’ self-perceived competence and readiness in treating patients with SCI. METHOD : This study included 48 fourth-year students enrolled in a Bachelor of Physiotherapy degree in South Africa. Students completed a QualtricsXM online survey consisting of 32 questions self-compiled from the Assessment of Physiotherapy Practice (APP) tool and the Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure (DREEM) questionnaire to determine self-perceived competence and readiness to treat SCI patients. Descriptive (frequencies and means) and inferential data (independent t-test and Fisher’s exact test) were analysed using SPSS v26 at a 0.05 level of significance. RESULTS : Students reported 70% self-perceived competence and 73% readiness to treat SCI patients. Theoretical knowledge was perceived as adequate (p < 0.01), and students who completed their SCI clinical block perceived themselves as more competent in treating patients with SCI (p < 0.01). They were able to clinically reason and adequately differentiate between diagnoses (p < 0.01) and safely perform treatment techniques (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION : Students who completed their SCI clinical block had higher self-perception of competence to differentially diagnose SCI and to treat SCI patients safely, compared to those who had not. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS : Hands-on experience of SCI patient care is encouraged before SCI clinical block rotation. In cases where there are limited clinical placements, universities are recommended to augment written case scenarios with finite supervised patient exposure.
Reaching a consensus on a patellofemoral pain syndrome self-management programme for recreational cyclists in Saudi Arabia : a modified Delphi study
Masoudi, Ameen; Bello, Bashir; Chemane, Nomzamo; Useh, Ushotanefe; Magida, Nontembiso (AOSIS, 2026-02-28)
BACKGROUND : Recreational cycling is increasingly popular in Al Madinah, Saudi Arabia. However, many cyclists lack structured self-management programmes (SMPs) to address patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), a common overuse injury that significantly affects knee function and cycling performance. Despite the growing interest in cycling, a critical gap remains in culturally relevant, evidence-based SMP. OBJECTIVES : Our study aimed to develop expert consensus on the essential components of SMP for recreational cyclists with PFPS. Method: Our study employed a two-round modified Delphi to develop expert consensus on the components of an SMP for recreational cyclists with PFPS. A panel of 25 experts, comprising physiotherapists, biokinetists, sports medicine professionals and exercise physiologists, participated in Round 1, with 19 experts (76% retention) completing Round 2. The process involved rating proposed programme objectives, principles, outcome measures and pain relief strategies using a four-point Likert scale. Consensus was defined as ≥ 70% of respondents selecting either ‘disagree’ to ‘strongly agree’. RESULTS : Consensus was reached on strengthening exercises (88%), evidence-based practice (84%), pain education (84%), PFPS education (92%) and knee pain management (92%). Round 2 results were streamlined and ranked according to pain, function, adherence, cultural resources and engagement supports, following clarifications and the addition of new items from experts. CONCUSION : Our study establishes an evidence-based, region-specific framework for self-managing PFPS among recreational cyclists. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS : The proposed programme is designed to enhance adherence, reduce the risk of injury and improve cycling performance. Future research should evaluate the effectiveness of this approach, its scalability, outcomes and integration into national sports and rehabilitation strategies.
Wild canids and felids differ in their reliance on reused travel routeways
Fagan, William F.; Krishnana, Ananke G.; Fleminga, Christen H.; Ferreira, Elizabeth; Chia, Stephanie; Swain, Anshuman; Abrahms, Briana; Bracis, Chloe; Gurarie, Eliezer; Mueller, Thomas; Noonan, Michael J.; Oliveira-Santos, Luiz Gustavo R.; Tucker, Marlee A.; Anand, Gayatri; Liao, Qianru; Na, Sarah; Su, Steven; Liao, Daisy; Chilukuri , Varun; Ramulu, Shreyas; Diele-Viegas, Luisa Maria; Dougherty, Michael; Illingworth, David; Alexandrov, Dmitry Y.; Antunes, Pamela Castro; Azevedo , Fernanda C.; Barrett, Christina; Barroso, Matías Taborda; Behr, Dominik M.; Belant, Jerrold L.; Bellana, Steven; Berteaux, Dominique; Beyer, Dean E.; Bidner , Laura R.; Bishop, Jacqueline; Blount, J. David; Butler, Andrew; Carter, Andrew; Carvalho, Marina Motta; Chamberlain, Michael; Chistopolova, Maria D.; Clarkmm , Darren; Conner, L. Mike; Cotterill, Alayne; Cozzi, Gabriele; Cristescu, Bogdan; Cunningham, Calum X.; Çoban, Emrah; Darlington, Siobhan; Das Candeias, Ísis Zanini; DePerno, Christopher S.; Dekker, Jasja J.A.; Downs, Colleen T.; Dronova, Natalia; Drouilly, Marine; Eblate, Ernest; Ekwanga, Steve; Swingen , Morgan; Farhadinia, Mohammad; Ford, Adam T.; Frair, Jacqueline; Frank, Laurence; Fryxell, John M.; Fuller, Todd K.; Fyumagwa , Robert; Garthe, Stefan; Getz, Wayne Marcus; Palacios Gonzalez, Maria Jesus; Gooliaff, T.J.; Götz, Malte; Hamer, Rowena; Haberfeld, Mario; Hebblewhite, Mark; Hernandez-Blanco , Jose A.; Herrmann, Mathias; Heurich, Marco; Hodge, Karen E.; Houser, AnnMarie; Humphries, Bruce; López Iglesias, Miguel Ángel López; Isbell, Lynne A.; Jachowski , David; Jackson, Craig; Janssen, René; Jenks, Kate E.; Jiménez, Jaime E.; Jorge, Maria Luisa S.P.; Jorge, Rodrigo; Jubete, Fernando; Katna, Anjan; Kays, Roland; Kittle , Andrew M.; Klein, Rebecca; Kont, Raido; Kral, Michelle J.C.; Kusak, Josip; Lang, Johannes; Latham, Andrew David M.; Leimgruber, Peter; Lemos, Frederico G.; Levi, Taal; Lima , Caio F.M.; Lima, Edson; Lima, Fernando; Linnell, John D.C.; Macdonald, David W.; Mahoney, Peter; Männil, Peep; Masenga, Emmanuel; Mattisson, Jenny; May, Roel F.; McBride Jr., Roy T.; McDonald, Robbie A.; McNutt, J. Weldon; Miller, Karl; Minaev, Alexander; Miquelle, Dale G.; Moorman, Christopher E.; Morato , Ronaldo G.; Moreno, Ricardo; Mourão, Guilherme; Munkhtsog, Bariushaa; Munkhtsog, Bayaraa; Naidenko, Sergey V.; Nava, Teresa; Odden, John; Odden , Morten; Palomares, Francisco; Patterson, Brent R.; Patterson, Bruce D.; De Paula, Rogerio Cunha; Paviolo, Agustin; Petrunenko, Yury K.; Pkhitikov, Alim B.; Poyarkov, Andrey D.; Prugh, Laura R.; Rafiq, Kasim; Ramalho, Emiliano Esterci; Ramesh, Tharmalingam; Ranc, Nathan; Ranglack, Dustin H.; Ratnayaka, Anya; Roshier, David; Røskaft, Eivin; Rozhnov, Viatcheslav V.; Ruiz-Villar, Hector; Ruprecht, Joel; Samelius, Gustaf; Schwemmer, Philipp; Şekercioğlu, Çağan H.; Serieys, Laurel E.K.; Seryodkin, Ivan V.; Simon, Olaf; Songsasen, Nucharin; Sorokin, Pavel A.; Soutryina, Svetlana; Stent, Patrick; Stoner, David; Streicher, Jarryd; Tatler, Jack; Teichman, Kristine; Thaker, Maria; Thompsona , Katerina V.; Thompson, Jeffrey J.; Tortato, Marcos Adriano; Trinzen, Manfred; Van Der Weyde, Leanne; Vanak, Abi Tamim; Velilla, Marianela; Walton mmmmmm , fffff , sss , nnnnnn, , Zea; Wheeldon, Tyler J.; Tomas Willebrand; Williams, Terrie M.; Wilmers, Christopher C.; Wilson-Aggarwal , Jared; Wyson, Michael L.; Yachmennikova, Anna A.; Young, Julie K.; Calabrese, Justin M. (National Academy of Sciences, 2025-09-29)
Diverse factors, including environmental features and cognitive processes, can drive animals’ movements and space use, with far-reaching implications. For example, repeated use of individual-level travel routeways (directionally constrained but imperfectly aligned routes), which results in spatial concentration of activity, can shape encounter-based processes including predation, mate finding, and disease transmission. However, how much variation in routeway usage exists across species remains unknown. By analyzing GPS movement tracks for 1,239 range-resident mammalian carnivores—representing 16 canid and 18 felid species from six continents—we found strong evidence of a clade-level difference in species’ reliance on repeatedly used travel routeways. Across the global dataset, tracked canids had a 15% (±7 CI) greater density of routeways within their home ranges than did felids, rising to 33% (±16 CI) greater in landscapes shared with tracked felids. Moreover, comparisons within species across landscapes revealed broadly similar home range routeway densities despite habitat differences. On average, canids also reused their travel routeways more intensively than did felids, with hunting strategies and spatial contexts also contributing to the intensity of routeway usage. Collectively, our results suggest that key aspects of carnivore routeway-usage have an evolutionary component. Striking interspecific and clade-level differences in carnivores’ reliance on reused travel routeways within home ranges identify important ways in which the movement patterns of real-world predators depart from classical assumptions of predator-prey theory. Because such departures can drive key aspects of human-wildlife interactions and other encounter-based processes, continued investigations of the relationships between movement mechanisms and space use are critical.
Identifying genomic surveillance gaps in Africa for the global public health response to West Nile virus : a systematic review
Moir, Monika; Sitharam, Nikita; Hofstra, Laura Marije; Dor, Graeme; Mwanyika, Gaspary; Ramphal, Yajna; Reichmuth, Martina L; San, James Emmanuel; Gifford , Robert; Wilkinson , Eduan; Tshiabuila, Derek; Preiser, Wolfgang; Konou, Abla Ahouefa; Bitew, Molalegne; Onoja, Anyebe Bernard; Paganotti , Giacomo Maria; Maror , James Ayei; Kayiwa , John; Abuelmaali , Sara; Lusamaki, Eddy Kinganda; CLIMADE Consortium; Venter, Marietjie; Burt , Felicity; Baxter, Cheryl; Lessells, Richard; Tegally, Houriiyah; Collaborators; De Oliveira , Tulio; Alcantara, Luiz C.J.; Holmes , Edward C.; Padane, Abdou; Musa, Abdualmoniem O.A.; Abera, Adugna; Campbell, Allan; Ssemaganda , Aloysious; Ahouidi, Ambroise; Muianga, Argentina F.; Samson, Aziza John; Onoja, Anyebe Bernard; Alemu, Birhanu D.; Foka, Carlin; Baxter, Cheryl; Van Zyl , Daniel; De Castro Silva, Danilo; Martin, Darren; Wilkinson, Eduan; Kouma, Eninam; Simo , Fredy B.N.; Mwanyika , Gaspary; Godebo, Girma; D'or, Graeme; Tegally, Houriiyah; Omara, Isaac Emmanuel; Maror, James Ayei; Poonagavan , Jennica; Juma , John; Oludele, John; Xavier, Joicymara S.; Lourenco, José; Fokam, Joseph; Maeka , Kenneth K.; Singh, Lavanya; Chabuka, Lucious; Issaka, Maman; Hofstra, Marije; Giovanetti, Marta; Faye, Martin; Koffi , Melissa Ahou; Owusu, Michael; Dikongo, Michel N.; Alimohamed , Mohamed Z.; Bitew, Molalegne; Kraemer , Moritz U G; Sitharam, Nikita; Jerome, Nkurunziza; Oyola, Samuel; Abuelmaali, Sara A.; Golubchik, Tanya; Fonseca, Vagner; Preiser, Wolfgang; Ramphal, Yajna (Elsevier, 2025-10)
West Nile virus (WNV) is a priority pathogen that poses a high risk for public health emergencies of global concern. Although WNV is endemic to Africa, only few (n=63) whole genomic sequences are available from the continent. In this Review, we examined the status of the molecular testing and genomic sequencing of WNV across Africa and mapped its global spatiotemporal spread. WNV has been detected in 39 African countries, the Canary Islands, and Réunion Island. Although publications, including those with molecular data, originated from 24 of these countries, genomic sequences were available from only 16 countries. Our analysis identified regions with detected viral circulation but without molecular surveillance. The current literature has substantial knowledge gaps in terms of the disease burden, molecular epidemiology, and distribution of WNV in Africa. Addressing these gaps requires an integrated One Health surveillance approach, which is challenging to establish. We propose three key surveillance needs that could improve the current understanding of the WNV disease burden in Africa, to strengthen the global public health response to this vector-borne disease.
Open letter : there are more than just trees and forests to be conserved and restored
Pilon, Natashi; Peixoto, Franciele; Oliveira, Rafael S.; Oliveira, Ana Carolina C.; Alquéres, Julio; Alvarado, Swanni; Angelo, Jose G. M.; Archibald, Sally; Armani, Mohammed; Baldaszti , Ludwig; Barot, Sébastien; Barros, Fernanda de V.; Barroso, Mario; Bassani, Alessandra; Te Beest, Mariska; Benavides-Tocarruncho, Juan; Benitez, Lorena M.; Bernardino, Paulo N.; Bond, William J.; Den Braber, Bowy; Buchmann, Nina; Buisson, Elise; Campos, Bruna H.; Campos, Claudia; Canadell (Pep) , Josep; Charles-Dominique, Tristan; Cohen, Rachel; Courtenay, Anya; Cromsigt, Joris P.G.M.; Damasceno, Gabriella; Dantas, Vinicius L.; Deá, Balázs; Dechoum, Michele; Devenish, Adam J.M.; Diaz-Toribio, Milton H.; Djiofack, Brice Yannick; Donaldson, Jason E.; Doria, Larissa; Dudinszky, Natalie; Duraes, Lucas; Eshelman, Susan E.; De Fialho, Marcos; Finckh, Manfred; Funk, Jennifer L.; Gallagher, Rachael; Ganesh, T.; Gignoux, Jacques; Gonçalves, Luiz Gustavo; Greve, Michelle; riffith, Daniel Mark G; Guerin, Natalia; Helsen, Kenny; Hempson, Gareth P.; Hiremath, Ankila; Hoffmann, William A.; Holmes, Sheila M.; Hutley, Lindsay B.; Jewitt, Debbie; Kannan, Arjun; Keijzer, Marie Noelle; Keith, David A.; Khaling, Sarala; Kirkman, Kevin; Kolb, Rosana M.; Koné, Foundiéré; Kozovits, Alessandra R.; Kull, Christian; Langevelde, Frank van; Lapuz, R. Sedricke; Lata, Jean-Christophe; Le Stradic, Soizig; Lehmann, Caroline E.R.; Luz, Naíssa; Madhusudan, M.D.; Madjima, Soro Nounfro; Majgaonkar, Iravatee; Marini-Filho, Onildo J.; Mekuria, Aklilu Negussie; Meller, Paulina; Costa, Máximo M.; Merisse, Raoni; Munhoz, Cássia B.R.; Murphy, Brett P.; Naftal, Leena; Nanjarisoa, Olinirina Prisca; N'Dri, Aya B.; Nerlekar, Ashish N.; Neto, Aristides S.G.; Nippert, Jesse B.; Nkuna, Sindiso; Noss, Reed; Menor, Imma Oliveras; Osborne, Colin P.; Overbeck, Gerhard E.; Palazzi, Giovanna; Parr, Catherine; Pausas, Juli G.; Pennington, Toby; Pillar, Valério D.; Putz, Francis E.; Rasaminirina, Fitiavana; Ratnam, Jayashree; Raymundo, Diego; Ribeiro, Ana; Rickenback, Jess; Rowland, Lucy; Sampaio, Alexandre Bonesso; Sankaran, Mahesh; Schwartz, Naomi B.; Shamanna, Seshadri Kadaba; Siebert, Stefan; Siebert, Frances; Silva, Desireé Cristiane Barbosa; Ribeiro-Silva, Suelma; Silva, Domingos Fortunato P.F.; Silva, Julliene S.G. Monteiro; Silveira, Fernando A.O.; Simpson, Kimberley; Staver, A. Carla; Stein, Bethina; Stevens, Nicola; Still, Chris; Strömberg, Caroline A.E.; Studer, Rima Mekdaschi; Swemmer, Anthony; Tomlinson, Kyle Warwick; Valkó, Orsolya; Vanderlei, Renato; Veldman, Joseph W.; Verona, Larissa; Vetter, Susanne; Viani, Ricardo A.G.; Vorontsova, Maria S.; Wieczorkowski, Jakub D.; Wigley, Benjamin; Zanne, Amy; Durigan, Giselda (Wiley, 2025-09)
Tropical and subtropical grasslands and savannas have historically been neglected in global and local conservation policies. As a result, nearly half of their coverage has been lost. In 2023, the world's most biodiverse savanna (Brazilian Cerrado) lost 1.110.326 ha, increasing the rate of land conversion by 67.7% (MapBiomas, 2024). The resulting biodiversity and ecosystem service losses, including the ability to mitigate climate change, are profound and irreversible.
Experiences of physiotherapists audited by South African medical funding schemes
Meyer, Lesley; Van Staden, Werdie; Mostert, Karien (AOSIS, 2026-02-13)
BACKGROUND : Forensic auditing safeguards patients’ funds by investigating billing irregularities of claims submitted to medical schemes. However, billing irregularity audits can be misguided, as indicated in a study conducted in Australia, Canada and the United States. Negative consequences were reported, including attrition, and patients funding their treatments out of pocket. Medical professionals were penalised, without forensic auditors considering alternative explanations for the alleged irregular billing patterns. Small medical practitioners, unable to defend themselves financially, closed their practices, leaving patients without medical care. In South Africa, the experiences of physiotherapists who underwent forensic audits have not been examined. OBJECTIVES : This study explored physiotherapists’ experiences of forensic auditing by medical scheme administrators. METHOD : An analytical qualitative study was conducted to interview 14 physiotherapists. Three focus group discussions and 11 individual interviews were conducted. A semi-structured open-ended interview guide was used, analysing the data via open and axial coding. RESULTS : The first five themes that emerged captured the adverse experiences of physiotherapists. These were (1) ‘unfairly persecuted, judged and penalised’; (2) ‘overpowered and oppressed’; (3) ‘naively entrapped between a rock and a hard place’; (4) ‘distressed with a knife over your head’ and (5) ‘detrimental and hurtful’. In the sixth theme, ‘seeking remedies pre-emptively and preparedly’, the participants made recommendations to prevent similar unwanted experiences. CONCLUSION : Physiotherapists experienced significant emotional, financial and professional detriment at the hands of South African medical scheme administrators. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS : The quality of care provided by physiotherapists is adversely affected when forensic audit-related distress occurs.
Effectiveness of mindful breathing exercises on symptom reduction and quality of life in individuals with major depressive disorder : a systematic review
Bin Muaythir, Saad; Mshunqane, Nombeko; Ramano, Enos Morankoana; Bello, Bashir; Magida, Nontembiso (AOSIS, 2026-05-22)
BACKGROUND : Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a global cause of disability, with many patients experiencing suboptimal response to conventional treatments. Mindful breathing exercises, a simple and scalable technique, have emerged as a promising non-pharmacological intervention for alleviating depressive symptoms and improving quality of life. Objectives : To evaluate the effectiveness of mindful breathing exercises on symptom reduction and quality of life in individuals diagnosed with MDD. METHOD : A systematic search of Cochrane Library, MEDLINE (PubMed), PEDro, Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Scopus, Web of Science and BioMed Central databases was conducted from inception to September 2025. Our review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Eligible criteria were intervention studies examining the effects of mindful breathing on depressive symptoms and quality of life in individuals diagnosed with MDD. Two reviewers independently screened the studies, extracted the data and assessed the methodological quality using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. A narrative synthesis was conducted because of heterogeneity in outcome measures and intervention protocols. RESULTS : Two studies involving 179 participants met the inclusion criteria. One study combined cognitive behavioural therapy with breathing exercises, demonstrating improvements in sleep quality, psychiatric symptoms and heart rate variability. Another study demonstrated a significant reduction in anxiety. CONCLUSION : Mindful breathing exercises are beneficial in alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as enhancing physiological indicators in people with MDD. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS : Our review highlights breathing techniques as an affordable, non-pharmaceutical option to conventional treatment; however, more research with rigorous outcomes is needed.

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