Article
Psychology, Multidisciplinary
Lindokuhle Blessing Ngubane, Jani Noethling, Relebohile Moletsane, Abigail Wilkinson, Lihle Qulu
Summary: Sexual offending is a global issue, particularly prevalent in Africa and South Africa. This study investigated the experiences of incarcerated male perpetrators of rape in South Africa, revealing that childhood trauma, substance abuse, and gender roles contribute to rape perpetration. The findings highlight the importance of interventions aimed at reducing childhood trauma and improving social and relational contexts to prevent sexual violence.
FRONTIERS IN PSYCHOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Environmental Studies
P. N. Ndlovu, J. M. Thamaga-Chitja, T. O. Ojo
Summary: The study investigates the factors influencing the level of value chain participation and implications on smallholder farmers in the Swayimane area of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Results show that factors such as age, marital status, farm income, household size, cooperative membership, market information, radio, extension officer, and formal education significantly influence smallholder farmers' participation decisions in agricultural value chains. Additionally, off-farm income, access to credit, irrigation schemes, contact with NGOs, and formal education significantly impact the level of value chain participation among smallholder farmers.
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Anele Aurelia Khowa, Zivanai Tsvuura, Rob Slotow, Manqhai Kraai
Summary: Goats are common in rural areas of southern Africa but less so in peri-urban areas. This study investigated the contribution of small-scale goat farming to household livelihoods in rural and peri-urban areas of KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. Goats were found to contribute to household income through cash sales and meat consumption, and were more significant in rural areas compared to peri-urban areas. There is potential for increased value addition of goat products in both settings.
TROPICAL ANIMAL HEALTH AND PRODUCTION
(2023)
Article
Agronomy
Lerato Phali, Maxwell Mudhara, Stuart Ferrer, Godswill Makombe
Summary: This study explores farmers' perceptions on irrigation scheme governance and highlights the importance of informal institutions in policy formulation. It suggests empowering farmers through training, increasing awareness of formal institutions applicable to their irrigation scheme, and strengthening stakeholder engagement in the schemes.
IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE
(2022)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Sifiso Mtshali, Ozayr Mahomed
Summary: The study assessed prevalence, patient-related factors, and referral patterns for diabetes-related complications at IALCH. Results showed that 47.4% of adult diabetes patients had one or more complications, with 56% experiencing macrovascular complications. Older age, male sex, Indian ancestry, and non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus were associated with an increased likelihood of developing cardiovascular complications.
DIABETES METABOLIC SYNDROME AND OBESITY-TARGETS AND THERAPY
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
S. L. M. Madela, N. W. Harriman, R. Sewpaul, A. D. Mbewu, D. R. Williams, S. Sifunda, T. Manyaapelo, A. Nyembezi, S. P. Reddy
Summary: Hypertension is a major health concern in South Africa, particularly among the Black population. This study examines the relationship between socioeconomic status and hypertension prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control. The findings highlight the importance of addressing barriers to care and implementing targeted interventions for disadvantaged groups.
Article
Oncology
Mpoi Makhetha, Namitha Chabilal, Colleen Aldous
Summary: Breast cancer incidence has globally increased, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This retrospective study focuses on demographic and genetic trends for hereditary breast cancer patients in the KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa, using data collected between 2011 and 2021. The study found an increase in new cases, particularly among Black patients, with Black women being diagnosed at a younger age. Triple-negative breast cancers accounted for a significant portion of hereditary cases, predominantly among Black patients. Pathogenic sequence variants in BRCA1/2 were reported in a minority of patients, with higher prevalence among Blacks and Indians. This study highlights the need for unique interventions, such as early detection programs for Blacks and increased genetic screening for Indians.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Leonardo Bertassello, Paul Winters, Marc F. Mueller
Summary: Global wheat trade data for 2022 reveals disparities in how countries responded to Ukrainian wheat shortages, with some countries experiencing significant import losses. The decrease in Ukrainian wheat exports led to over 70% import losses in vulnerable countries such as Egypt, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Mauritania, Yemen, and Lebanon. The differential impacts highlight the importance of access to capital and international trade, emphasizing the need for policy measures to prevent a food crisis.
Article
Family Studies
Rabiya Majeed-Ariss, Glen P. Martin, Catherine White
Summary: This study explored the utilization of STI services for children in cases of child sexual abuse and found that children with learning disabilities, affected by domestic violence, with prior consensual sexual activity, or alcohol-related incidents were less likely to undergo STI screening during the forensic medical examination. Additionally, children on protection/in-need plans had increased odds of STI screening during the examination.
CHILDREN AND YOUTH SERVICES REVIEW
(2021)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
N. G. McGrath, S. Pillay
Summary: The study revealed that there were many omissions in the down-referral letters, lacking both clinical and biochemical data necessary for clinicians working at both CHCs and PHCs to optimally manage patients living with diabetes mellitus. It is crucial that these findings be utilized in developing intervention strategies targeting this level of diabetes care.
JOURNAL OF ENDOCRINOLOGY METABOLISM AND DIABETES OF SOUTH AFRICA
(2021)
Article
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Maddalena Morlando, Carmela Morelli, Fortuna Del Gaizo, Adelaide Fusco, Federica De Fazio, Laura Di Pietto, Gianfranco Moccia, Ludovica Spinelli Barrile, Antonio Schiattarella, Pasquale De Franciscis, Nicola Colacurci, Maria Giovanna Russo
Summary: This study analyzed fetuses diagnosed with Aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA) and observed the associations with chromosomal abnormalities and the postnatal outcomes. The results showed that most fetuses with ARSA were confirmed after birth without significant symptoms, and overall, the association between ARSA and Down syndrome was less common.
JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Surgery
Ennio Alberto Adami, Gaetano Poillucci, Salomone Di Saverio, Mansoor Khan, Pietro Fransvea, Mauro Podda, Alessia Rampini, Pierluigi Marini
Summary: The study aims to identify predictors of postoperative mortality following ERT, and finds that the Injury Severity Score is the only independent predictor. The study suggests that ERT should be utilized for critical patients with penetrating injuries and blunt trauma.
UPDATES IN SURGERY
(2023)
Article
Surgery
C. M. Kithuka, V. C. Ntola, W. Sibanda
Summary: This study aims to audit traumatic haemothoraces and their outcomes in regional hospitals in Durban, South Africa. The results showed that stab-chest was the most common mechanism of injury and retained haemothorax worsened patient outcomes. Therefore, auditing proper intercostal chest drain positioning is crucial for successful drainage of haemothorax.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF SURGERY
(2023)
Article
Nursing
Alexander H. B. Wright, Eleanor S. Freshwater, Robert Crouch
Summary: The study examined the impact of Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) on major trauma center resources and the effects of the UK regional trauma network on HEMS asset provision. Results indicated that HEMS intervention for trauma patients led to reduced hospitalization time, showcasing efficiency in patient care.
INTERNATIONAL EMERGENCY NURSING
(2021)
Article
Pediatrics
Amani N. Alansari, Ahammed Mekkodathil, Ruben Peralta, Temur Baykuziyev, Nour W. Z. Alhussaini, Mohammad Asim, Ayman El-Menyar
Summary: This study conducted a retrospective analysis of pediatric trauma data in a level 1 trauma centre in one of the Arab Middle Eastern countries between 2012 and 2021, aiming to describe the injury pattern, mechanism of injury, and outcomes. The study found that the incidence rate of pediatric trauma in Qatar was 86 cases per 100,000 pediatric population in 2020. Male patients accounted for 78% and the mean age was 9.3 years. Head injuries were observed in nearly 40% of the patients. The in-hospital mortality rate was 3.8%. Conclusion: Developing strategies based on age and mechanism-specific patterns of traumatic injuries among the pediatric population is crucial.
FRONTIERS IN PEDIATRICS
(2023)
Article
Emergency Medicine
Kurt Nirishan Boolaky, Ali Hassan Tariq, Timothy Craig Hardcastle
Summary: The aim of this study is to evaluate the predictors of failed fascial closure and mortality in patients with an open abdomen. The results suggest that hypoalbuminemia, anastomotic leak, and sepsis are significant predictors of failed fascial closure, leading to a higher mortality rate.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TRAUMA AND EMERGENCY SURGERY
(2022)
Editorial Material
Surgery
Timothy Hardcastle
WORLD JOURNAL OF SURGERY
(2022)
Article
Radiology, Nuclear Medicine & Medical Imaging
Pilasande Hlwatika, Timothy C. Hardcastle
Summary: The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence and risk factors associated with combined traumatic brain injury (TBI) and cervical spine injury (c-spine) in patients. The results showed that male TBI patients and motor vehicle collisions were the main risk factors for c-spine injury. Cerebral contusions, traumatic subarachnoid haematomas, and skull fractures were also associated with c-spine injury. Diffuse axonal injury was the intracranial injury type most likely to have an associated c-spine injury.
SA JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Emergency Medicine
Federico Coccolini, Massimo Sartelli, Yoram Kluger, Aleksei Osipov, Yunfeng Cui, Solomon Gurmu Beka, Andrew Kirkpatrick, Ibrahima Sall, Ernest E. Moore, Walter L. Biffl, Andrey Litvin, Michele Pisano, Stefano Magnone, Edoardo Picetti, Nicola de Angelis, Philip Stahel, Luca Ansaloni, Edward Tan, Fikri Abu-Zidan, Marco Ceresoli, Andreas Hecker, Osvaldo Chiara, Gabriele Sganga, Vladimir Khokha, Salomone di Saverio, Boris Sakakushev, Giampiero Campanelli, Gustavo Fraga, Imtiaz Wani, Richard ten Broek, Enrico Cicuttin, Camilla Cremonini, Dario Tartaglia, Kjetil Soreide, Joseph Galante, Marc de Moya, Kaoru Koike, Belinda De Simone, Zsolt Balogh, Francesco Amico, Vishal Shelat, Emmanouil Pikoulis, Isidoro Di Carlo, Luigi Bonavina, Ari Leppaniemi, Ingo Marzi, Rao Ivatury, Jim Khan, Ronald Maier, Timothy C. Hardcastle, Arda Isik, Mauro Podda, Matti Tolonen, Kemal Rasa, Pradeep H. Navsaria, Zaza Demetrashvili, Antonio Tarasconi, Paolo Carcoforo, Maria Grazia Sibilla, Gian Luca Baiocchi, Nikolaos Pararas, Dieter Weber, Massimo Chiarugi, Fausto Catena
Summary: Emergency General Surgery (EGS) is a comprehensive surgery performed for traumatic and non-traumatic acute conditions. It consists of emergency and elective surgical practice, evidence generation through clinical registries and data accrual, and the production of indications and guidelines.
WORLD JOURNAL OF EMERGENCY SURGERY
(2022)
Editorial Material
Surgery
Ravi Naidoo, Timothy Craig Hardcastle
WORLD JOURNAL OF SURGERY
(2023)
Review
Emergency Medicine
Federico Coccolini, Francesco Corradi, Massimo Sartelli, Raul Coimbra, Igor A. Kryvoruchko, Ari Leppaniemi, Krstina Doklestic, Elena Bignami, Giandomenico Biancofiore, Miklosh Bala, Ceresoli Marco, Dimitris Damaskos, Walt L. Biffl, Paola Fugazzola, Domenico Santonastaso, Vanni Agnoletti, Catia Sbarbaro, Mirco Nacoti, Timothy C. Hardcastle, Diego Mariani, Belinda De Simone, Matti Tolonen, Chad Ball, Mauro Podda, Isidoro Di Carlo, Salomone Di Saverio, Pradeep Navsaria, Luigi Bonavina, Fikri Abu-Zidan, Kjetil Soreide, Gustavo P. Fraga, Vanessa Henriques Carvalho, Sergio Faria Batista, Andreas Hecker, Alessandro Cucchetti, Giorgio Ercolani, Dario Tartaglia, Joseph M. Galante, Imtiaz Wani, Hayato Kurihara, Edward Tan, Andrey Litvin, Rita Maria Melotti, Gabriele Sganga, Tamara Zoro, Alessandro Isirdi, Nicola De'Angelis, Dieter G. Weber, Adrien M. Hodonou, Richard TenBroek, Dario Parini, Jim Khan, Giovanni Sbrana, Carlo Coniglio, Antonino Giarratano, Angelo Gratarola, Claudia Zaghi, Oreste Romeo, Michael Kelly, Francesco Forfori, Massimo Chiarugi, Ernest E. Moore, Fausto Catena, Manu L. N. G. Malbrain
Summary: Dealing with acute postoperative pain in emergency abdominal surgery requires complex, multidisciplinary attention. Personalized analgesic approaches based on patient conditions, procedure, pathology, age, response, and expertise are crucial for improving prophylactic and treatment strategies.
WORLD JOURNAL OF EMERGENCY SURGERY
(2022)
Article
Emergency Medicine
Robert Bruce Mckenzie, Robin Pap, Timothy Hardcastle
Summary: A Delphi survey was conducted to determine 166 data elements for a checklist, which was then refined to 133 elements. The checklist was designed as a quality assurance tool for PRFs, and further research is needed to assess its use and reliability.
AFRICAN JOURNAL OF EMERGENCY MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Emergency Medicine
Marwala Simon Pule, Peter Hodkinson, Timothy Hardcastle
Summary: This study reviews the impact of Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) in the management of trauma in the only public accredited level one trauma center in the KwaZulu-Natal province in South Africa. The majority of trauma patients transported by HEMS were from distant regional hospitals and had severe injuries, resulting in a high mortality rate. It suggests the need for clear policies regarding the rational use of this essential service.
AFRICAN JOURNAL OF EMERGENCY MEDICINE
(2022)
Review
Emergency Medicine
R. McKenzie, R. Pap, T. C. Hardcastle
Summary: This review compiled a list of essential variables from patient assessment, care provided out-of-hospital, and patient handover process that should be recorded on a Patient Report Form (PRF) in the prehospital environment.
AFRICAN JOURNAL OF EMERGENCY MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Surgery
Aida Tefera, Elizabeth Eleanor Lutge, Nirvasha Moodley, Xolani Wiseman Xaba, Timothy Craig Hardcastle, Petra Brysiewicz, Damian Luiz Clarke
Summary: This study analyzes trauma data collected from public health facilities in the province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa between 2012 and 2022. The findings reveal a high burden of trauma in the province, with intentional trauma occurring at twice the rate of unintentional trauma, and a significant increase in gunshot-related assaults.
WORLD JOURNAL OF SURGERY
(2023)
Review
Infectious Diseases
Massimo Sartelli, Marja A. Boermeester, Miguel Cainzos, Federico Coccolini, Stijn W. de Jonge, Kemal Rasa, E. Patchen Dellinger, Deborah A. McNamara, Donald E. Fry, Yunfeng Cui, Samir Delibegovic, Zaza Demetrashvili, Belinda De Simone, George Gkiokas, Timothy C. Hardcastle, Kamal M. F. Itani, Arda Isik, Francesco Maria Labricciosa, Varut Lohsiriwat, Sanjay Marwah, Tadeja Pintar, Jennifer Rickard, Vishal G. Shelat, Fausto Catena, Philip S. Barie
Summary: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a common adverse event in surgical patients and can be prevented through measures such as surgical antibiotic prophylaxis (SAP). This document provides guidance for surgeons on the appropriate use of SAP, addressing key questions and outlining principles that should be followed worldwide by all surgeons.
Review
Medicine, General & Internal
Feroz Abubaker Ganchi, Timothy Craig Hardcastle
Summary: In austere environments, advanced diagnostic equipment is often unaffordable and prone to breakdown. This paper provides a review of options for medical professionals to perform diagnostic testing in resource-constrained environments and showcases the development of mobile advanced diagnostic equipment. The results highlight the need for cost-effective and accessible products and devices to bring affordable healthcare to lower- and middle-income or austere environments.
Review
Medicine, General & Internal
Vuyolwethu C. C. Ntola, Timothy C. C. Hardcastle
Summary: Polytrauma refers to significant injuries occurring simultaneously in two or more anatomical regions or organ systems, with at least one injury posing a threat to life. Trauma is a major cause of unexpected death in individuals under 44 years old and has a significant impact on society. Vascular injury is highly morbid and can result in rapid bleeding and death, posing a threat to both life and limb. The mechanisms of vascular injury in polytrauma can be blunt, penetrating, or a combination of both.
Article
Surgery
P. Parag, T. C. Hardcastle
Summary: This study investigates the differences in interpretation of CT angiograms (CTA) in suspected traumatic arterial injury between vascular specialists and radiology specialists, and the impact of these discrepancies on patient outcome. A comparative study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Durban, South Africa, comparing the interpretations of CTAs between vascular surgeons, vascular trainees, and radiology trainees, with consultant radiologist report as the gold standard comparator.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF SURGERY
(2023)
Article
Surgery
K. Kabongo, N. Naidoo, T. C. Hardcastle
Summary: This study found that the burden of emergency pediatric surgery in South Africa is significant, with sepsis and trauma being the leading causes of emergency admissions and burns having the highest mortality rate. Improvements in staff to patient ratios and the establishment of an early warning system could help reduce mortality.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF SURGERY
(2022)