Jean van Wyk

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This study examined how different sheep breeds in South Africa respond to tick infestations and their immune reactions at tick attachment sites. Researchers analyzed the skin responses of 89 ewes from three breeds: Namaqua Afrikaner, South African Mutton Merino, and Dorper. They found that the Namaqua Afrikaner breed had a stronger immune response, with more specific immune cells present at the tick attachment sites compared to the Dorper breed, which may help reduce disease transmission and improve the health of livestock. Who this helps: This research helps sheep farmers and veterinarians in managing tick infestations and improving sheep health.

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This study looked at the effectiveness and safety of two-drug treatments for HIV that included an integrase inhibitor and a reverse transcriptase inhibitor among adults in Europe who were already managing their virus well. Out of 737 participants, over 98% maintained viral suppression after 96 weeks, with only 5 (<1%) experiencing treatment failure. This matters because it shows that these simpler two-drug regimens are not only effective but also generally safe and tolerable for people living with HIV, potentially reducing the complexity of their treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients living with HIV who may prefer simpler medication regimens.

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This study looked at how atopic dermatitis (AD), a common skin condition in children, affects their quality of life in Ethiopia. Researchers followed 461 children with AD and their caregivers over six months, finding that after receiving both treatment and education about the condition, many children saw improvements: 33.5% moved from moderate to mild cases, and overall quality of life significantly improved for all participants. Since AD can greatly impact children's daily lives, this research shows that combining medical treatment with education can lead to better outcomes. Who this helps: This helps children with atopic dermatitis and their caregivers in Ethiopia.

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Researchers studied how using certain plants alongside targeting treatment in goats can improve their health and reduce the use of deworming drugs on small farms. They found that supplementing goats with specific local plants reduced worm counts significantly from an average of 485 eggs per gram (EPG) to 269 EPG, and goats that received these plant supplements were 46.6% less likely to need any deworming medications. This is important because it provides a cost-effective way to keep goats healthy while lowering reliance on expensive drugs, especially in areas where parasites are a major issue. Who this helps: This helps farmers and smallholder goat herders.

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Researchers in South Africa gathered a group of 14 wound care experts to create guidelines on using negative pressure wound therapy (a specific treatment method) for various types of wounds. They found that this therapy can be beneficial for both simple and complex wounds, recommending its use not just for serious injuries but also for wounds needing cleaning and care after surgery. These guidelines are important because they aim to improve wound care in South Africa, where healthcare resources are limited and specialized training is lacking. Who this helps: These recommendations benefit patients with wounds, especially those facing challenges in South Africa's healthcare system.

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This study looked at the life cycle of a specific type of morel mushroom, Morchella rufobrunnea, focusing on how its genes control reproduction and growth. Researchers sequenced its genome and analyzed gene activity in different stages of its life, discovering a genome size of 58 million base pairs and identifying key genes involved in sexual reproduction. Understanding these processes is crucial as it can help improve mushroom farming and ensure a steady supply of this popular food. Who this helps: This helps mushroom farmers and the food industry.

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Researchers studied how switching to a long-acting treatment (cabotegravir + rilpivirine, given every two months) compared to continuing a daily oral treatment (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) affected patient satisfaction and psychological challenges after 12 months. They found that those who switched experienced a significant increase in treatment satisfaction, with an average score improvement of 3.36 points compared to a decline of 1.59 points for the daily treatment group (p < 0.001). Additionally, 90% of participants preferred the new long-acting treatment over the daily option, showing that many felt it relieved their anxiety about living with HIV. Who this helps: This benefits patients living with HIV, particularly those struggling with psychological challenges related to their treatment.

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In this study, researchers compared the effects of a new HIV treatment (cabotegravir plus rilpivirine given every two months) to a standard treatment (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) on weight and other metabolic changes in 687 participants over one year. They found that those on the new treatment lost a small amount of weight (about 0.4 kg), while those on the standard treatment gained a tiny bit (about 0.05 kg), and there were no significant changes in body composition or metabolic health in either group. This is important because it shows that the new treatment does not lead to significant weight gain or metabolic issues, making it a viable option for people with HIV. Who this helps: This helps patients living with HIV who are considering switching their treatment.

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This study looked at how caring for children with atopic dermatitis (AD) affects the well-being of their caregivers in central and southern Ethiopia. Researchers found that the average quality of life score for caregivers was 9.64 out of 30, with worse scores linked to more severe cases of the disease—46% of the children had moderate AD and 21.5% had severe AD. This is important because it highlights the emotional, social, and financial challenges faced by caregivers, emphasizing the need for better support and resources for families dealing with this condition. Who this helps: Caregivers of children with atopic dermatitis.

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This study focused on patients with early to moderate-stage rectal cancer in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, to identify factors that lead to delays or lack of surgery. Researchers found that nearly half (49.4%) of patients experienced gaps in surgical care, with 13.6% not receiving any surgery and 86.4% facing delays of over 62 days. The risk model they developed identified key factors, such as race and comorbidity, that could help pinpoint patients most at risk, allowing for targeted interventions. Who this helps: Patients with rectal cancer who may face delays in surgical treatment.

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This study looked at whether switching from a daily HIV treatment (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) to a long-acting injection (cabotegravir and rilpivirine) was just as effective for Japanese patients after 12 months. Both groups achieved similar results, with none of the participants having high levels of HIV, and 86% on the injections had their viral load below the detectable level compared to 100% on the daily treatment. Additionally, those on the injection reported a much higher satisfaction with their treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with HIV who are looking for convenient treatment options.

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This study looked at how to better detect anemia in young male goats by using advanced artificial intelligence (AI) instead of traditional visual assessments, which can be biased and time-consuming. Researchers collected 4,700 images of goats' eyes over six months and found that a specific AI model, called Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), could accurately classify anemia levels with 97.8% accuracy, significantly better than other methods. This improvement can help farmers quickly identify and treat anemia in their animals, leading to healthier livestock and better management practices. Who this helps: This helps farmers and livestock producers manage the health of their goats more effectively.

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This study looked at using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) with machine learning to quickly identify the health status of goats affected by a parasite called Haemonchus. Researchers tested 94 goats and found that the model using Support Vector Machines achieved an impressive accuracy of 95%, helping to clearly distinguish between healthy and unhealthy goats based on electrical measurements from their bodies. This method could lead to faster diagnosis of infections, improving the health and productivity of livestock. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and goat owners by providing an efficient way to monitor the health of their animals and prevent disease.

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The study focused on improving the care of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) through a quality improvement program called CONQUEST in three integrated healthcare systems. The research outlined three key stages: developing the program, preparing healthcare systems for its implementation, and executing the program. It found that strong local leadership and thorough preparation are vital for successful implementation, emphasizing that adaptable models tailored to specific healthcare resources enhance patient care. Who this helps: This benefits patients with COPD, doctors, and healthcare systems looking to improve chronic disease management.

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This study created a new system to help small farmers in the southeastern U.S. improve their production of sericea lespedeza, a hardy plant that grows well in difficult conditions. By combining advanced mapping technologies and local weather and soil data, the system provides tailored recommendations for growing this plant in Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina. The approach aims to boost fodder availability and enhance farming resilience in the face of climate challenges, contributing to food security. Who this helps: This benefits small-scale farmers and the livestock industry.

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The study looked at how adding specific bacteria to the breakdown of tough plant materials, like corn stover and food waste, can improve the production of biomethane, a renewable energy source. Researchers found that using a particular strain of bacteria, Bacillus subtilis, increased biomethane production by 34% and reduced the digestion time by up to 11 days. This is important because it makes the process of producing cleaner energy from waste more efficient and effective. Who this helps: This research benefits energy producers and waste management facilities looking to increase biomethane yields.

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This study looked at the difficulties that staff face while caring for students with spina bifida in special schools in South Africa. Researchers interviewed 41 school staff members and found that many struggle with not having enough resources, no clear health guidelines, and students not doing well academically. To better support these students, staff recommended more resources, better health management protocols, and teamwork among health professionals. Who this helps: This benefits educators, healthcare providers, and students with spina bifida.

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This study looked at how unprofessional behavior among health professionals is understood in low- and middle-income countries. It reviewed 382 research articles and found that most studies focused on medical students, highlighting issues like bullying, academic dishonesty, and neglect of responsibilities. The results show a pressing need for changes in training and policies to better reflect the challenges faced in these countries. Who this helps: This helps patients and health professionals in low- and middle-income countries.

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This study looked at how final-year General Surgery students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal adapted their learning to an online format during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers reviewed 33 documents related to the surgical curriculum and found that online teaching now mainly uses videos and quizzes, replacing in-person exams with written tests. This transition is important because it keeps students learning despite challenges posed by the pandemic, ensuring they continue to build essential surgical skills. Who this helps: This benefits students and educators in surgical training programs.

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This study examined a group of fungi called lorchels, known for their distinctive brain-shaped mushrooms and the harmful toxin gyromitrin. Researchers analyzed 75 genomes and found that lorchels belong to 10 different genera, confirming important differences in their biology, with some living in partnership with plants (mycorrhizal) while others feed on decaying material (saprotrophic). This research helps clarify the relationships among these fungi and may lead to better understanding of their toxin production and environmental roles. Who this helps: This benefits scientists studying fungi and their ecosystems, as well as patients who may be affected by toxic mushroom exposure.

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This study looked at the genetic evolution of morels and truffles, two types of fungi known for their culinary uses. Researchers discovered that true morels (like Morchella species) have genes related to breaking down plant materials, indicating they thrive on decaying matter, while certain truffles have genes linked to forming relationships with plant roots. Surprisingly, the team found that most species prefer to reproduce in a way that promotes genetic diversity, but a few showed signs of a different, more self-sufficient reproduction method. Who this helps: This information benefits researchers and farmers interested in cultivating and understanding these valuable fungi.

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This study looked at a group of fungi called Pezizales in Israel, focusing on their types and how they get their nutrients. Researchers collected 112 samples and identified 23 different genera, discovering 25 species that were new to Israel. They found that most of these fungi form relationships with tree roots (ectomycorrhizal), while some behave as saprotrophs, which feed on dead organic matter, though some samples had unclear nutritional behaviors needing further research. Who this helps: This research helps scientists and environmentalists better understand fungal diversity and ecology in Israel.

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This study focused on understanding the evolution and classification of truffles, a type of fungus that forms underground. Researchers analyzed 41 new fungal genomes and discovered that truffles evolved from above-ground to underground forms only once. They also identified new species and confirmed that some truffles obtain nutrients by partnering with trees, which is important for understanding their role in ecosystems and the potential for cultivation. Who this helps: This benefits chefs, foragers, and researchers interested in gourmet fungi and their ecological roles.

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This study looked at whether it's safe to reuse equipment for enteral tube feeding up to 24 hours without increasing the risk of bacterial growth. The researchers tested four different feeding systems and found that three of them showed no harmful bacteria after 24 hours, while one system began to grow dangerous bacteria after about 19 hours. These findings are important because they suggest that with proper handling and storage, some feeding equipment can be reused safely, potentially reducing waste and costs. Who this helps: This helps patients who rely on enteral tube feeding and the healthcare professionals who support them.

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The study looked at how well a new monthly or every two-month treatment (cabotegravir and rilpivirine) works for Asian participants living with HIV over a 96-week period. Results showed that 83% of the 41 participants had undetectable levels of the virus, none experienced worsening HIV conditions, and while 44% had some side effects, none were severe. This is significant because it shows that this new long-acting treatment is effective and safe for Asian individuals, helping them maintain control of their HIV. Who this helps: Patients living with HIV.

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This study looked at how often goats in Malawi have harmful foreign objects, like plastic and metal, inside them when they are slaughtered. Researchers surveyed 150 butchers and found that 80.7% had seen plastic objects in goats, with more than half noticing them in the last five goats they slaughtered. Only 45.3% reported seeing metal objects, suggesting plastic waste is a bigger problem. This is important because these foreign bodies can cause major health issues in goats, affecting food security and livelihoods in rural communities. Who this helps: This helps farmers and butchers understand the health risks associated with goats that consume plastic waste.

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This study looked at how different HIV medications affect weight changes in patients. Researchers found that people taking the drugs dolutegravir and bictegravir, especially when paired with tenofovir alafenamide, gained more weight than those on other treatments involving tenofovir disoproxil. Understanding these weight changes is important because it helps doctors make better treatment choices for their patients. Who this helps: This helps patients living with HIV who are concerned about weight gain linked to their medication.

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This study looked at how well a two-drug treatment, Dolutegravir/Lamivudine (DTG/3TC), works for people with HIV who had been on other treatments before. It followed 787 individuals for about 14 months and found that less than 1% experienced a major treatment failure, while the overall rate of losing control of the virus was 14 per 100 people each year. This is important because it shows that DTG/3TC is effective and generally well-tolerated for diverse groups of people with HIV. Who this helps: This helps patients with HIV, particularly those switching from other treatments.

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This study looked at how well long-acting cabotegravir, a medication for preventing HIV, works when starting with a short-term oral pill first or going straight to injections. The researchers found that the levels of the drug in the bloodstream were similar whether participants took the oral pill or not, and that about 80% of people would reach effective drug levels within a few days after the first injection. This matters because it means the oral lead-in is optional, simplifying the process for people starting treatment. Who this helps: Patients at risk of HIV.

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This research paper presents updated guidelines for testing the effectiveness of deworming medications in livestock, specifically cattle, sheep, and goats. It emphasizes the need for a uniform approach so that studies from different countries can be easily compared, reducing the repetition of research efforts. The guidelines cover everything from choosing the right animals and their care to how to evaluate the results of the studies accurately. Who this helps: These guidelines benefit farmers, livestock veterinarians, and researchers focused on animal health.

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This study looked at how well final-year medical students learned a one-handed knot-tying skill through online demonstrations during the COVID-19 pandemic, using everyday items at home. Out of 71 students, 91.5% felt confident in their ability to perform the knot, and most were able to follow the video instructions well, practicing a median of 7 times before submitting their final videos. The scores of their attempts were high, averaging around 19 out of 21, indicating that online learning can be effective and satisfying for students, though they expressed a desire for more interactive feedback and in-person training opportunities. Who this helps: This helps medical students by providing an effective way to learn practical skills remotely.

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This study looked at a long-acting treatment for HIV using cabotegravir and rilpivirine, given by injection either monthly or every two months. After analyzing reactions from over 800 participants, researchers found that most injection site reactions were mild to moderate and lasted about 3 days, with very few people stopping treatment due to discomfort. The findings highlight effective techniques, like injecting slowly and ensuring the medication is at room temperature, which can make the process smoother for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients living with HIV who are receiving this treatment.

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This study examined a new treatment for HIV-1 using cabotegravir and rilpivirine, which are given as injections every two months instead of daily pills. After 12 months, 87% of the 430 participants were able to keep their HIV levels below 50 copies per milliliter, showing that this approach is highly effective, with only 0.7% experiencing an increase in their HIV levels. This matters because it offers a convenient option for managing HIV with less frequent dosing while effectively controlling the virus. Who this helps: This helps patients with HIV who prefer less frequent treatment options.

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This study looked at how effective and safe the long-acting injectable treatment of cabotegravir and rilpivirine (CAB + RPV) is for people living with HIV, based on their body weight. Researchers found that after 48 weeks, 92% of lighter individuals and 93% of heavier individuals had low levels of the virus (less than 50 copies per milliliter of blood), showing that the treatment works equally well for different body weights. The findings are important because they indicate that this treatment can be safely used by all patients, regardless of their body mass index. Who this helps: This helps patients living with HIV and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at atopic dermatitis (AD) in 461 children from Southern Ethiopia to understand its severity and causes. It found that 68% of the children had moderate to severe AD, with symptoms like severe itching and dryness of the skin. Factors such as the age when the condition started, the education level of mothers, and a family history of allergies were linked to more severe cases of AD, highlighting the need for better ways to manage this skin condition in Ethiopian kids. Who this helps: This helps patients with atopic dermatitis and their families.

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This study looked at how schools care for students with spina bifida to prevent infections. It found that most schools lack the basic facilities, like clean water and proper hygiene resources, needed for effective infection control. Improving infection control in schools is crucial because it can help enhance the well-being and safety of these students. Who this helps: This helps students with spina bifida and the teachers and staff who support them.

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This study looked at the effectiveness of a two-drug HIV treatment called dolutegravir/lamivudine (DTG/3TC) compared to commonly used three-drug regimens (3DRs) in people living with HIV who were already well-controlled on their current treatment. Over a two-year period, only 0.66 people per 100 experienced treatment failure with DTG/3TC, compared to 1.78 with 3DRs, indicating that DTG/3TC is just as effective but with fewer medications. The research shows that switching to DTG/3TC is a safe choice for those already controlled on HIV treatment, potentially reducing complexity and side effects. Who this helps: This benefits patients living with HIV who are looking for effective and less complicated treatment options.

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This study focused on how well new physiotherapists in South Africa are prepared for their jobs during community service, especially in diverse healthcare environments. Researchers interviewed ten recent graduates, finding that while most felt ready for clinical work, they struggled with broader issues like leadership and advocacy due to varying healthcare contexts. The findings revealed that many graduates felt competent in their clinical skills but lacked preparation for the wider challenges they faced, highlighting the need for better training that includes real-world experiences. Who this helps: This benefits new physiotherapists by improving their training and support as they enter the workforce.

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This study looked at how engaged final-year medical students were in an online surgical teaching program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers found that students were highly engaged, with an average engagement score of 71 out of 100, and they also favored deep approaches to learning, scoring an average of 34 out of 40. These findings highlight the importance of keeping students actively involved in their learning, which is crucial for their education and future practice. Who this helps: This helps medical students and their educators improve online learning strategies.

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This study examined how to quickly detect anemia in goats, which is important for their health and productivity. Researchers created a small, easy-to-use sensor that analyzes blood samples using artificial intelligence (AI), achieving a detection accuracy of 95.8% after refining the model. This advancement matters because it allows farmers to quickly identify health issues in their animals and take timely action, ultimately improving animal welfare and farm productivity. Who this helps: Farmers and livestock producers.

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Researchers identified two new edible truffle species growing wild in eastern North America by using trained dogs to sniff them out, then confirmed the discoveries through genetic testing and chemical analysis of their aromas. These truffles have culinary value and distinctive smells caused by compounds like dimethyl sulfide, making them potentially valuable for harvesting and selling. The findings show that truffle-hunting dogs are an effective tool for discovering unknown fungi in North America, where many undescribed edible species likely still exist.

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Researchers examined the health effects on people living with HIV-1 three years after they switched to a simpler two-drug treatment called dolutegravir/lamivudine (DTG/3TC) compared to those who continued their previous three or four-drug treatment based on tenofovir alafenamide (TAF). They found that about 13% of those on DTG/3TC and 12% of those on TAF experienced significant weight gain, showing no major difference between the two groups. Overall, the metabolic health measures, including weight and risk for conditions like insulin resistance and heart disease, were similar in both groups, indicating that DTG/3TC could be a safe and effective treatment option for HIV patients. Who this helps: This helps patients living with HIV and their healthcare providers in choosing effective treatment options.

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This study looked at whether switching to an injectable treatment for HIV, consisting of cabotegravir and rilpivirine every two months, is as effective as continuing a daily oral treatment of bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide. With 687 participants, the findings showed that only 1% of those on the injectable treatment had detectable virus levels (5 out of 447), compared to less than 1% in the daily treatment group (1 out of 223). This is important because it demonstrates that the long-acting injections offer a similar level of viral control as daily pills while potentially improving convenience and quality of life for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients living with HIV who may prefer less frequent treatment.

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This study looked at two new methods for detecting sounds made by whales and fish, aiming to improve how scientists monitor animal vocalizations for conservation and research. The new techniques are 30% more accurate in identifying these sounds compared to older methods, even in noisy environments, and they work up to 135 times faster. This is important because it allows for quicker and more reliable tracking of marine life, which can help protect these species. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and conservationists working to protect marine animals.

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This study looked at how well a new injectable treatment for HIV, called cabotegravir and rilpivirine (CAB + RPV LA), works in real-life settings in the U.S. Among 321 people receiving this treatment, 90% got their injections on time, and nearly all (95%) of the 237 individuals who began with an undetectable viral load remained undetectable or suppressed at their last check-up. This is important because it shows that this long-acting treatment works well in everyday practice, making it a viable option for people managing HIV. Who this helps: This benefits HIV patients seeking effective treatment options.

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This study looked at a new method for treating HIV using a long-acting injectable medication called cabotegravir and rilpivirine, which is given either once a month or every two months. The researchers found that this approach can lead to better satisfaction among patients compared to taking daily pills and can remove some of the challenges associated with oral medication. This matters because it gives patients a more convenient and less stressful way to manage their HIV treatment while helping them maintain their health. Who this helps: This helps people living with HIV who prefer a less frequent treatment option.

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This study looked at how South African patients feel about attending their first cancer check-up after surgery for colorectal cancer. Out of seven patients interviewed, 14.3% missed their appointment, and factors like their knowledge about cancer, family support, and travel costs affected their decision to attend. Improving awareness and support could help more patients follow up, which is crucial for better treatment outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients and their families.

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This study focused on creating a tool to help professional cricketers in South Africa navigate their careers and transitions. The partnership between the South African Cricketers' Association and the University of Cape Town led to the development of a screening tool specifically designed to identify the challenges cricketers face during their careers. This is important because it helps address the stress and difficulties players experience as they transition in and out of professional cricket, ultimately supporting their well-being. Who this helps: This helps professional cricketers and their support teams.