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Oliveira LB, Mora L, Olímpio LA, Palavani LB, Andreão FF, Batista S, Bertani R, Welling LC, Figueiredo EG. Literature reviews and global neurosurgery: a powerful way of doing more with less. Neurosurg Rev 2024; 47:570. [PMID: 39242364 DOI: 10.1007/s10143-024-02818-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neurosurgery is an intensely competitive field. With the USMLE Step 1 transitioning to a pass/fail system, research has become a crucial component of the neurosurgery residency application process. This emphasis on research is particularly critical for international medical graduates (IMGs), who often face greater challenges compared to their U.S. counterparts. IMGs typically need more publications and higher H-indices to stand out. However, accessing quality research opportunities is significantly more difficult for those from low- and middle-income countries. This mini-review aims to provide a new perspective for IMGs, demonstrating that publishing in prestigious neurosurgical journals is possible even with limited resources. METHODS We searched Scopus and reviewed Brazilian publications from 2014 to 2023 in Neurosurgery and the Journal of Neurosurgery. We extracted the methodological designs of the studies and the graduation status of the first authors. RESULTS In 2023-2024, four Brazilian medical students published systematic reviews in major neurosurgical journals as first authors, marking a revolutionary change in the Brazilian neurosurgical landscape not seen in the past decade. These achievements illustrate that high-impact publications are attainable without geographical proximity, substantial financial support, or access to extensive institutional databases. Letters to the editor also represented a considerable Brazilian contribution. CONCLUSION Literature reviews and letters to the editor are accessible methods for IMGs to engage in impactful research. IMGs can maximize their abilities and significantly contribute to neurosurgery by embracing literature reviews and meta-analyses. These approaches can open doors for those without other avenues to begin their research careers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo B Oliveira
- Department of Medicine, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, PR, Brazil.
| | - Laura Mora
- Department of Medicine, Metropolitan University of Health Sciences, Barranquilla, Colombia
| | | | - Lucca B Palavani
- Department of Medicine, Max Planck University, Indaiatuba, SP, Brazil
| | - Filipi Fim Andreão
- Department of Medicine, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sávio Batista
- Department of Medicine, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Department of Neurology, Grady Memorial Hospital, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Raphael Bertani
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Leonardo C Welling
- Department of Medicine, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, PR, Brazil
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El Tantawi M, Attia D, Virtanen JI, Feldens CA, Schroth RJ, Al-Batayneh OB, Arheiam A, Foláyan MO. A scoping review of early childhood caries, poverty and the first sustainable development goal. BMC Oral Health 2024; 24:1029. [PMID: 39227891 PMCID: PMC11370007 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-04790-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poverty is a well-known risk factor for poor health. This scoping review (ScR) mapped research linking early childhood caries (ECC) and poverty using the targets and indicators of the Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG1). METHODS We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus in December 2023 using search terms derived from SDG1. Studies were included if they addressed clinically assessed or reported ECC, used indicators of monetary or multidimensional poverty or both, and were published in English with no date restriction. We excluded books and studies where data of children under 6 years of age could not be extracted. We charted the publication year, study location (categorized into income levels and continents), children age, sample size, study design, measures of ECC, types and levels of poverty indicators and adjusted analysis. The publications were also classified based on how the relation between poverty and ECC was conceptualized. RESULTS In total, 193 publications were included with 3.4 million children. The studies were published from 1989 to 2023. Europe and North America produced the highest number of publications, predominantly from the UK and the US, respectively. Age-wise, 3-5-year-olds were the most studied (62.2%). Primary studies (83.9%) were the majority, primarily of cross-sectional design (69.8%). Non-primary studies (16.1%) included reviews and systematic reviews. ECC was mainly measured using the dmf indices (79.3%), while poverty indicators varied, with the most common used indicator being income (46.1%). Most studies measured poverty at family (48.7%) and individual (30.1%) levels. The greatest percentage of publications addressed poverty as an exposure or confounder (53.4%), with some studies using poverty to describe groups (11.9%) or report policies or programs addressing ECC in disadvantaged communities (11.4%). In addition, 24.1% of studies requiring adjusted analysis lacked it. Only 13% of publications aligned with SDG1 indicators and targets. CONCLUSION The ScR highlight the need for studies to use indicators that provide a comprehensive understanding of poverty and thoroughly examine the social, political, and economic determinants and impact of ECC. More studies in low and middle-income countries and country-level studies may help design interventions that are setting- and economic context-relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha El Tantawi
- Early Childhood Caries Advocacy Group, Winnipeg, Canada.
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Dina Attia
- Early Childhood Caries Advocacy Group, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Jorma I Virtanen
- Early Childhood Caries Advocacy Group, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Clinical Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Carlos Alberto Feldens
- Early Childhood Caries Advocacy Group, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Universidade Luterana do Brasil, Canoas, Brazil
| | - Robert J Schroth
- Early Childhood Caries Advocacy Group, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Preventive Dental Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Ola B Al-Batayneh
- Early Childhood Caries Advocacy Group, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Orthodontics, Pediatric and Community Dentistry, College of Dental Medicine, University of Sharjah, PO Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Arheiam Arheiam
- Early Childhood Caries Advocacy Group, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Community and Preventive Dentistry, University of Benghazi, Benghazi, Libya
| | - Morẹnikẹ Oluwátóyìn Foláyan
- Early Childhood Caries Advocacy Group, Winnipeg, Canada
- Department of Child Dental Health, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
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Jones P, Yala JA, Knight KN, Song JM, Adkins SML, Battaglia-Hoffman G, Trapl ES. Unifying Public Health Surveillance: A Scoping Review of Global Use of the Youth Risk Behavior Survey. J Adolesc Health 2024; 75:383-391. [PMID: 38752965 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2024.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) is a well-established surveillance tool designed to document the health risk behaviors of youth. However, there is limited insight into the use of the survey outside of the United States. The aim of this scoping review was to assess the global presence and utilization of the YRBS. METHODS A structured electronic search of all publication years (through February 2020) was conducted to identify articles in PubMed and EBSCOhost. The search identified 128 articles that used the YRBS beyond the United States. RESULTS More than one-third of all countries, territories, and dependencies were represented in the articles, with the greatest use among upper-middle and high-income economies and those in the East Asia and Pacific geographic region. Priority health-risk behaviors identified were alcohol and other drug use (51%), tobacco use (48%), and unintentional and intentional injuries (44%). The articles predominantly suggested that the survey data be used to influence programs, policies, and practices (57%). DISCUSSION The development and proliferation of surveillance systems has allowed for important contributions to public health. Extensive use of the YRBS is notable; however, greater efforts are needed to support more systematic and collaborative approaches for evaluating youth behaviors around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- P'Ashe Jones
- Kent State University, College of Public Health, Kent, Ohio.
| | - Joy Atieno Yala
- Department of Psychiatry, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Kristina N Knight
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Jessica M Song
- Kent State University, College of Public Health, Kent, Ohio
| | | | | | - Erika S Trapl
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
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Ndambo MK, Ndambo TB, Manda-Taylor L. Exploring healthcare workers' perceptions of child health research at Kamuzu Central Hospital, Malawi: an interpretative phenomenological analysis. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2024; 22:57. [PMID: 39164721 PMCID: PMC11334372 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-024-00938-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children's health is a global public health priority and a determinant of development and sustainability. Its effective delivery and further improvements require constant and dedicated research on children, especially by child healthcare workers (HCWs). Studies have shown a high involvement of child HCWs from developed countries in child health research, with an under-representation from the global south in authorship and leadership in international collaborations. To our knowledge, there is very little literature on challenges faced by child HCWs in Malawi in conducting child health research. We sought to explore the lived experiences of child HCWs at Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) in Malawi by examining their perceptions of child health research and assessing the availability of child health research opportunities. METHODS From July 2023 to August 2023, we conducted five key informant interviews with purposively sampled policymakers and 20 in-depth interviews with child HCWs at KCH. The interviews were conducted in English, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim. We utilised interpretative phenomenological analysis by reviewing initial transcripts for familiarity, generating codes manually, and refining them into broader themes through comparisons and iterative processes. RESULTS The analysis revealed three main themes on perceptions of child HCWs at KCH in child health research. These are (i) perceived motivation and challenges for engaging in child health research, (ii) perceptions of resource availability and research opportunities at KCH, and (iii) perceptions of gaps in research training and participation among child HCWs. CONCLUSIONS Our study has uncovered critical factors influencing the low participation of child HCWs in child health research at KCH. Lack of collaboration, limited financial opportunities, and non-research-based training were the key barriers to participation in child health research among child HCWs at KCH. We advocate for the inclusion of child HCWs at all stages of collaborative health research, transparency on funding opportunities for child health research, and inclusion of research in the training of HCWs. These initiatives can strengthen the participation of child HCWs in child health research and ultimately enhance child health outcomes in Malawi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myness Kasanda Ndambo
- School of Global and Public Health, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi.
- Training and Research Unit of Excellence (TRUE), Kufa Road, Mandala, P. O. Box 30538, Blantyre, 3, Malawi.
| | - Tuntufye Brighton Ndambo
- Department of Civic Education, Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Lucinda Manda-Taylor
- School of Global and Public Health, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
- Training and Research Unit of Excellence (TRUE), Kufa Road, Mandala, P. O. Box 30538, Blantyre, 3, Malawi
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Amboka P, Kurui D, Wamukoya M, Sindi JK, Vicente-Crespo M. A landscape analysis of clinical trials and infant clinical trials in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Nigeria. FRONTIERS IN EPIDEMIOLOGY 2024; 4:1417419. [PMID: 39211394 PMCID: PMC11357950 DOI: 10.3389/fepid.2024.1417419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Global inequality in clinical research capacity and service delivery can be indicated simply by the proportion of clinical trials that a country or region has registered in clinical trial registry databases. The proportion of clinical trials registered in Africa is very low at 0.02%, even though the region accounts for approximately 15% of the world's population. Despite the economic challenges in most African countries, they have shown potential for growth and change in recent years. Methods We conducted desk reviews on the interventional clinical trials done in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Nigeria between 2015 to May 2023. The search was done in clinical trials repositories, and journal repositories. The search focused on intervention clinical trials. Data was extracted by screening through the publications and clinical trial platforms. The data extracted from the publications included the type of clinical trial, clinical trial phase, diseases, etc. The data extracted from the reports included: challenges in conducting clinical trials, capacity-building efforts, and the impact of the clinical trial. Results The number of clinical trial studies identified in Kenya was 113 (28 were on infant clinical trials). The study identified 97 clinical trials in Nigeria, of which 11 studies were on infant clinical trials. In Ethiopia, there were 28 clinical trials and only five were on infant clinical trials. The landscape review also expanded to capacity and gaps in clinical trials in the three countries. The largest proportion of clinical trials carried out in Kenya was on injury, occupational disease, and poisoning, 30.5% (n = 18) and the smallest proportion was on kidney disease, neonatal disease, obstetrics, and gynecology. Most Infant clinical trials were carried out in the area of infections and infestations 33.3% (n = 7). Most of the challenges faced by clinical trials in the three countries include a lack of infrastructure, a lack of human resources, and a lack of financial resources. Implications There is a need to map clinical trials done by African researchers based in Africa to exclude the trials done by non-African researchers based in Africa. Opportunities for clinical trials should be supported and challenges addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Amboka
- Research and Related Capacity Strengthening Division, African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Daniel Kurui
- Research and Related Capacity Strengthening Division, African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Marylene Wamukoya
- Research and Related Capacity Strengthening Division, African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Julius Kirimi Sindi
- Research and Related Capacity Strengthening Division, African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Marta Vicente-Crespo
- Research and Related Capacity Strengthening Division, African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC, Nairobi, Kenya
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Pulford J, Mutua MN, Bates I, Tagoe N. Articulating the ultimate objectives of research capacity strengthening programmes: Why this is important and how we might achieve it. F1000Res 2024; 13:909. [PMID: 39246823 PMCID: PMC11377929 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.153447.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
'Research capacity strengthening' (RCS) is an umbrella term that can be used to describe a wide variety of activities conducted in support of diverse objectives premised upon distinct, potentially opposing, views. Despite this, the ultimate objective of RCS activities is rarely made explicit which can be problematic when diverse objectives are possible. By 'ultimate' objective we are referring to the overarching (often long-term) goal an RCS initiative is intended to contribute towards (e.g. better population health) as opposed to the more immediate 'proximate' (often short-term) objectives of any such activity (e.g. improved capacity to undertake infectious disease research). We argue a need for those funding, designing and implementing RCS initiatives to make clear statements as to the ultimate objective that they foresee their respective initiative contributing towards as well as the proposed pathway and associated assumptions that underlie their approach. Examples of distinct ultimate objectives for RCS initiatives are presented alongside fictitious examples of how they may be transparently reported from both a funder and implementor perspective. Such transparency should be routine within the scope of funding calls for RCS activities (even when such activities are only a minor component of the call), subsequent applications to those calls and any description of an applied RCS activity/ies and/or the associated outcomes thereof. The process of determining one's ultimate objective will further cause funders and actors to think through their respective initiatives more thoroughly and make informed choices and better designed RCS projects. Doing so would reduce any ambiguity associated with the use of the term 'research capacity strengthening' and would provide a stronger foundation for robust programme evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Imelda Bates
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Nadia Tagoe
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Blatch-Jones AJ, Lakin K, Thomas S. A scoping review on what constitutes a good research culture. F1000Res 2024; 13:324. [PMID: 38826614 PMCID: PMC11140362 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.147599.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The crisis in research culture is well documented, covering issues such as a tendency for quantity over quality, unhealthy competitive environments, and assessment based on publications, journal prestige and funding. In response, research institutions need to assess their own practices to promote and advocate for change in the current research ecosystem. The purpose of the scoping review was to explore ' What does the evidence say about the 'problem' with 'poor' research culture, what are the benefits of 'good' research culture, and what does 'good' look like?' Aims To examine the peer-reviewed and grey literature to explore the interplay between research culture, open research, career paths, recognition and rewards, and equality, diversity, and inclusion, as part of a larger programme of activity for a research institution. Methods A scoping review was undertaken. Six databases were searched along with grey literature. Eligible literature had relevance to academic research institutions, addressed research culture, and were published between January 2017 to May 2022. Evidence was mapped and themed to specific categories. The search strategy, screening and analysis took place between April-May 2022. Results 1666 titles and abstracts, and 924 full text articles were assessed for eligibility. Of these, 253 articles met the eligibility criteria for inclusion. A purposive sampling of relevant websites was drawn from to complement the review, resulting in 102 records included in the review. Key areas for consideration were identified across the four themes of job security, wellbeing and equality of opportunity, teamwork and interdisciplinary, and research quality and accountability. Conclusions There are opportunities for research institutions to improve their own practice, however institutional solutions cannot act in isolation. Research institutions and research funders need to work together to build a more sustainable and inclusive research culture that is diverse in nature and supports individuals' well-being, career progression and performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Jane Blatch-Jones
- School of Healthcare Enterprise and Innovation, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, SO16 7NS, UK
| | - Kay Lakin
- Hatch, School of Healthcare Enterprise and Innovation, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, SO16 7NS, UK
| | - Sarah Thomas
- Hatch, School of Healthcare Enterprise and Innovation, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, SO16 7NS, UK
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Toyin-Thomas P, Wariri O, Ikhurionan P. Harnessing peer mentorship as a tool to turn human resource for health brain drain into brain gain: a case study of a Nigerian peer-mentored research group. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2024; 22:46. [PMID: 38937753 PMCID: PMC11212419 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-024-00932-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peer mentorship can be a potential tool to reduce the disparities in health research capacity between high- and low- and middle-income countries. This case study describes the potential of peer mentorship to tackle two critical issues: bridging health research capacity of doctors from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and the transformation of human resource for health brain drain into "brain gain". CASE PRESENTATION In 2021, a virtual peer mentorship group was established by 16 alumni of the University of Benin College of Medical Sciences' 2008 graduating class, residing across three continents. This program aimed to facilitate research collaboration and skill development among colleagues with diverse research experience levels, fostering a supportive environment for career development in research. The group relied heavily on digital technology to carry out its activities due to the different geographical locations of the group members. Led by experienced peer leaders, the group fostered a collaborative learning environment where members leveraged each other's expertise. Within 18 months, we published two research papers in high-impact peer-reviewed global health journals, launched a mixed-methods research study, and conducted training sessions on research design and implementation. Findings from our work were presented at conferences and workshops. However, logistical hurdles, competing priorities, structural constraints, and uneven participation presented challenges. CONCLUSION The peer mentorship collaboration has achieved some successes so far, and this model can be emulated by other cohorts of medical professionals across LMICs. Despite the group's success at a micro- or individual level, there remain significant structural barriers to research capacity building in LMICs that can only be addressed at the meso- and macro-levels by institutions and government, respectively. A systems-level approach is required to develop and support research capacity building and foster global research collaboration and effectively turn brain drain into brain gain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patience Toyin-Thomas
- The Department of Pediatrics, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, United States of America.
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Lebanon, NH, United States of America.
| | - Oghenebrume Wariri
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.
- Vaccines and Immunity Theme, Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, The Gambia.
| | - Paul Ikhurionan
- Department of Child Health, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin, Nigeria
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Olowoyo JO, Okoya AA, Adesiyan IM, Awe YT, Lion GN, Agboola OO, Oladeji OM. Environmental health science research: opportunities and challenges for some developing countries in Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024:1-25. [PMID: 38909292 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2024.2370388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Due to ongoing developmental projects, there is a need for regular monitoring of the impact of pollutants on the environment. This review documented the challenges and opportunities in the field of environmental health sciences in some African countries. A systematic review was used to investigate opportunities and challenges in the field of environmental health science in Africa by examining published work with a specific focus on Africa. The reports showed that funding and infrastructure as the major problems. The study also highlighted recruiting study participants, retention, and compensation as a bane in the field in Africa. The absence of modern equipment also hinders research. The review, however, noted research collaboration from the region including studies on emerging pollutants such as pharmaceuticals, per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and microplastic (MPs) as great opportunities. The study concluded that collaboration with other continents, exchange programs and improved governmental interventions may help.
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Affiliation(s)
- J O Olowoyo
- Department of Health Sciences and The Water School, Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, FL, USA
- Department of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences, South Africa
| | - A A Okoya
- Institute of Ecology and Environmental Studies, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - I M Adesiyan
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Medical Sciences, Ondo, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Y T Awe
- Environmental Management Program, Pan African University of Life and Earth Sciences, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - G N Lion
- Department of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences, South Africa
| | - O O Agboola
- Department of Botany, University Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Health Sciences Otukpo, Benue State, Nigeria
| | - O M Oladeji
- Department of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences, South Africa
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Blackman B, Barnett S, Premkumar A, Sheth NP. Orthopaedic and trauma research in Tanzania: A scoping review. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304218. [PMID: 38837974 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Tanzania is disproportionately burdened by musculoskeletal injuries as it faces unique challenges when dealing with trauma care. This scoping review aims to summarize and assess the current state of orthopaedic and trauma research in Tanzania. By identifying key themes, trends, and gaps in the literature, this review seeks to guide future research initiatives catered specifically to the needs of Tanzania's healthcare system. Utilizing the PRISMA-ScR protocol, OVID Medline, PubMed, and CINAHL databases were searched from inception to June 17, 2023, using keywords such as "Orthopaedics" "Trauma" and "Tanzania". One hundred and ninety-two eligible studies were included and the Arksey and O'Malley framework for scoping studies was followed. There was a notable growth of relevant publications from 2015 onward, with peaks in growth in the years 2019, 2021, and 2020. The studies employed diverse research methodologies, with cross-sectional (n = 41, 21%) and prospective studies (n = 39, 20%) being the most prevalent, and randomized-controlled trials being the least prevalent methodology, making up eight studies (4.2%). The most common study themes were trauma (n = 101, 52.6%), lower extremity (n = 31, 16%), and spine-related issues (n = 27, 14%). Only three studies looked at work-related injuries (1.6%). Road traffic injuries (RTIs) were the most common mechanism of trauma in 77.0% of the trauma focused studies. Fifty-three percent of the studies were conducted by a majority of Tanzanian authors. This scoping review highlights various trends in orthopaedic and trauma research in Tanzania, with a particular emphasis on road traffic-related injuries. Various gaps are explored, including a lack of research on work-related injuries and a paucity of experimental research. Our findings underline areas where future research is warranted. The future of orthopaedic and trauma care in Tanzania depends on the efforts and collaboration of both local and international stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah Barnett
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Ajay Premkumar
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Neil P Sheth
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Dorokhina M, Siu E, Drope J, Chaloupka FJ. From capacity building to collaboration in tobacco economics research. Tob Control 2024; 33:s34-s37. [PMID: 38839097 PMCID: PMC11187379 DOI: 10.1136/tc-2022-057821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Dorokhina
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Erika Siu
- Law School, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jeffrey Drope
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Nthumba PM, Odhiambo M, Pusic A, Kamau S, Rohde C, Onyango O, Gosman A, Vyas R, Nthumba MN. The State of Surgical Research in Sub-Saharan Africa: An Urgent Call for Surgical Research Trainers. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2024; 12:e5903. [PMID: 38881962 PMCID: PMC11177832 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000005903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Background Surgery in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is poorly developed because of years of neglect. Sustained research on global surgery led to its recognition as an indivisible and indispensable part of primary healthcare in 2015. However, this has had little visible effect on surgical ecosystems within LMICs, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). SSA surgical research systems strengthening, which includes skills transfer, with local priority setting driving the research agenda, is needed to propel global surgery into the future. Methods The authors performed a literature review of the state of surgical research within SSA and also report the initial efforts of two research training nonprofits to empower young African surgeons with research skills. Results Surgical research in SSA is disadvantaged even before it is birthed, facing monumental challenges at every stage of development, from research agenda determination to funding, study execution, and publication. Compared with a global output of 17.49 publications per 100,000 population, SSA produces 0.9 (P < 0.0001). The Surgeons in Humanitarian Alliance for Reconstructive, Research, and Education and Enabling Africa Clinical Health Research programs are involved in the longitudinal research mentorship of surgical residents within SSA; the improved quality of research and successful publications by participants suggest nascent steps in growing young surgical scientists. Conclusions In the absence of an existing surgical research infrastructure within LMICs, global surgery research trainers should link up and collaborate to help develop a surgical research community that will provide the local data required to help transform the SSA surgical ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Nthumba
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, AIC Kijabe Hospital, Kijabe, Kenya
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tenn
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Temple, Tex
- EACH Research, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Moses Odhiambo
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, AIC Kijabe Hospital, Kijabe, Kenya
- EACH Research, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Andrea Pusic
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
| | - Stephen Kamau
- EACH Research, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Christine Rohde
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, N.Y
| | - Onesmus Onyango
- EACH Research, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Amanda Gosman
- Department of Plastic Surgery, UC San Diego School of Medicine, Calif
| | - Raj Vyas
- Department of Plastic Surgery, UC Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, Calif
| | - Michelle N Nthumba
- EACH Research, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- African Women's Studies Centre, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
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Pagani E, Ropke CD, Soares CM, Perez SAC, Benevides PJC, Barbosa BS, Carvalho ACB, Behrens MD. Technology Readiness Level Roadmap for Developing Innovative Herbal Medicinal Products. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:703. [PMID: 38931370 PMCID: PMC11206302 DOI: 10.3390/ph17060703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the vast global botanical diversity, the pharmaceutical development of herbal medicinal products (HMPs) remains underexploited. Of over 370,000 described plant species, only a few hundred are utilized in HMPs. Most of these have originated from traditional use, and only a minority come from megadiverse countries. Exploiting the pharmacological synergies of the hundreds of compounds found in poorly studied plant species may unlock new therapeutic possibilities, enhance megadiverse countries' scientific and socio-economic development, and help conserve biodiversity. However, extensive constraints in the development process of HMPs pose significant barriers to transforming this unsatisfactory socio-economic landscape. This paper proposes a roadmap to overcome these challenges, based on the technology readiness levels (TRLs) introduced by NASA to assess the maturity of technologies. It aims to assist research entities, manufacturers, and funding agencies from megadiverse countries in the discovery, development, and global market authorization of innovative HMPs that comply with regulatory standards from ANVISA, EMA, and FDA, as well as WHO and ICH guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Pagani
- Medical Department, Azidus Brasil, Valinhos 13271-130, SP, Brazil
- Centroflora Group, Innovation Department, Campinas 06460-040, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Cristiane Mota Soares
- Project Management Office, Vice Direction of Education, Research and Innovation, Institute of Drug Technology Farmanguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sandra Aurora Chavez Perez
- Project Management Office, Vice Direction of Education, Research and Innovation, Institute of Drug Technology Farmanguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, RJ, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ana Cecilia Bezerra Carvalho
- GMESP, Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency, Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA), Brasília 71205-050, DF, Brazil
| | - Maria Dutra Behrens
- Natural Products Department, Vice Direction of Education, Research and Innovation, Institute of Drug Technology Farmanguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, RJ, Brazil
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Reeder J, Aslanyan G, Kitamura M. TDR at 50: advancing a longstanding commitment to inclusion. BMJ 2024; 385:q1149. [PMID: 38806186 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.q1149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- John Reeder
- Unicef/UNDP/World Bank/WHO Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Garry Aslanyan
- Unicef/UNDP/World Bank/WHO Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Makiko Kitamura
- Unicef/UNDP/World Bank/WHO Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR), Geneva, Switzerland
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15
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Vinals L, Radhakrishnan A, Sarri G. Opportunity and accessibility: an environmental scan of publicly available data repositories to address disparities in healthcare decision-making. Int J Equity Health 2024; 23:93. [PMID: 38720282 PMCID: PMC11080201 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-024-02187-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health disparities, starkly exposed and exacerbated by coronavirus disease 2019, pose a significant challenge to healthcare system access and health outcomes. Integrating health inequalities into health technology assessment calls for robust analytical methodologies utilizing disaggregated data to investigate and quantify the scope of these disparities. However, a comprehensive summary of population datasets that can be used for this purpose is lacking. The objective of this review was to identify publicly accessible health inequalities data repositories that are potential resources for healthcare decision-making and future health technology assessment submissions. METHODS An environmental scan was conducted in June of 2023 of six international organizations (World Health Organization, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, Eurostat, United Nations Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and World Bank) and 38 Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries. The official websites of 42 jurisdictions, excluding non-English websites and those lacking English translations, were reviewed. Screening and data extraction were performed by two reviewers for each data repository, including health indicators, determinants of health, and health inequality metrics. The results were narratively synthesized. RESULTS The search identified only a limited number of country-level health inequalities data repositories. The World Health Organization Health Inequality Data Repository emerged as the most comprehensive source of health inequality data. Some country-level data repositories, such as Canada's Health Inequality Data Tool and England's Health Inequality Dashboard, offered rich local insights into determinants of health and numerous health status indicators, including mortality. Data repositories predominantly focused on determinants of health such as age, sex, social deprivation, and geography. CONCLUSION Interactive interfaces featuring data exploration and visualization options across diverse patient populations can serve as valuable tools to address health disparities. The data they provide may help inform complex analytical methodologies that integrate health inequality considerations into healthcare decision-making. This may include assessing the feasibility of transporting health inequality data across borders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Vinals
- Cytel Inc, 1 University Avenue, 3rd Floor, Toronto, M5J 2P1, Canada.
| | | | - Grammati Sarri
- Cytel Inc, Hamilton House, Mabledon Place, London, WC1H 9BB, UK
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16
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Asukile MT, Zunt JR, Thakur KT. Building Equitable Neuroscience Research Collaborations in Resource-limited Settings. Semin Neurol 2024; 44:159-167. [PMID: 38485122 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1778640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
The burden of noncommunicable neurological disorders, such as stroke, dementia, and headache disorders, are on the rise in low- to middle-income countries (LMICs), while neuroinfectious diseases remain a major concern. The development of neuroscience research aimed at defining the burden of neurological diseases across the lifespan, as well as optimizing diagnosis and treatment strategies, is fundamental to improving neurological health in resource-limited settings. One of the key factors to advancing neuroscience research in LMICs is the establishment of effective collaborations based on responsible and trustworthy partnerships between local scientists in LMICs and international collaborators. LMIC researchers face many logistical, institutional, and individual level challenges as they embark on their neuroscience research journey. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for improving LMIC investigator-led research that should focus on human and institutional infrastructure development. With regard to human capacity building, potential areas for offering support include enhancing research methodology training, offering instruction in manuscript and grant-writing, institutionalizing mentorship programs, and providing opportunities to conduct funded, mentored research to disseminate in high-impact journals. The foundational elements required for implementing and optimizing neuroscience research within an institution include an institutional review board, mentorship programs, data management, research administration, and laboratory facilities. This institutional capacity varies significantly across and within countries, and many rely on collaborations with better-resourced institutions to initiate research. Successful equitable collaborations ensure the engagement of all local and international stakeholders, as well as implementation of a self-sustaining long-term program. Building research capacity in LMICs is an essential endeavor that requires ongoing commitment to training independent scientists. As research capacity increases, LMIC institutions and governments should consider developing competitive research grant programs to support innovative studies led by local researchers, foster regional collaborations, and hence create a sustainable and independent neuroscience research environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody T Asukile
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Joseph R Zunt
- Departments of Neurology, Global Health, Medicine (Infectious Diseases) and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Kiran T Thakur
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center-New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York
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Neupane D, Hall B, Mukhtar Q, Delles C, Sharman JE, Cobb LK, Lackland DT, Moran AE, Weber MA, Olsen MH. Emerging Authors Program for Global Cardiovascular Disease Research-A collaboration of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Lancet Commission on Hypertension Group, Resolve to Save Lives, and the World Hypertension League. J Hum Hypertens 2024; 38:293-294. [PMID: 35322180 PMCID: PMC8942057 DOI: 10.1038/s41371-022-00678-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Neupane
- Lancet Commission on Hypertension Group, London, UK.
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Bethany Hall
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- CDC Foundation, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Qaiser Mukhtar
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Christian Delles
- Lancet Commission on Hypertension Group, London, UK
- Institute of Cardiovascular & Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - James E Sharman
- Lancet Commission on Hypertension Group, London, UK
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | | | - Daniel T Lackland
- World Hypertension League, Charleston, SC, USA
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | | | - Michael A Weber
- World Hypertension League, Charleston, SC, USA
- State University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael Hecht Olsen
- Lancet Commission on Hypertension Group, London, UK
- Department of Internal Medicine, Holbaek Hospital, Holbaek, Denmark
- Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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18
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Mardini A, Shaykhon N, Khan A, Mardini A, Saeed HN. Global Disparities in Access to Vaccine Clinical Trials: A Review of the Literature. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:348. [PMID: 38675731 PMCID: PMC11054150 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12040348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaccines are an effective tool to reduce the disease burden from infectious diseases on a population, infrastructural, and individual level. Before vaccines can be administered to populations at large, they must go through rigorous testing in the form of clinical trials. While vaccine trials can be used to assess the efficacy of interventions on a local populace as well as target local endemic diseases, most clinical trials are sponsored and conducted by companies in high-income countries (HICs). This can lead to vaccines that are not optimized for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and that often neglect to address diseases specific to the local population. This narrative review aims to explore the factors leading to discrepancies in the execution of and access to vaccine trials between HICs and LMICs, thus guiding future efforts in confronting them. This review was written using the literature sourced from the PubMed database and supplemented with articles from Google Scholar along with grey literature. Several themes are highlighted including poorly defined regulatory and ethical guidelines, staff shortages, lack of research infrastructure, and logistical barriers. We discuss how these challenges have affected vaccine development in various capacities through case examples of SARS-CoV-2, poliovirus, and malaria. Many challenges remain in equitable vaccine clinical trial development and implementation. Facilitating the implementation of locally sponsored vaccine clinical trials in LMICs may be one avenue to address these challenges. In doing so, LMICs can become active stakeholders in the health of their citizens by addressing endemic diseases, tailoring vaccine specifications based on local needs, and implementing wide-scale vaccine access and delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mardini
- School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland—Medical University of Bahrain, Busaiteen 228, Bahrain; (A.M.); (N.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Norhan Shaykhon
- School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland—Medical University of Bahrain, Busaiteen 228, Bahrain; (A.M.); (N.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Asher Khan
- School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland—Medical University of Bahrain, Busaiteen 228, Bahrain; (A.M.); (N.S.); (A.K.)
- York Hospital, York and Scarborough Teaching Hospital and Foundation Trust, National Health Service (NHS), London SM5 1AA, UK
| | - Ahmad Mardini
- Advocate Christ Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60453, USA;
| | - Hajirah N. Saeed
- Department of Ophthalmology, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL 60153, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Gibas KM, Ahonkhai AA, Huang A, van Wyk C, Tsiga-Ahmed FI, Musa BM, Sani MU, Audet CM, Wester CW, Aliyu MH. The V-BRCH Project: Strengthening HIV Research Capacity in Nigeria through Intensive Workshops in Implementation Science and Grant Writing. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2024; 110:534-539. [PMID: 38350133 PMCID: PMC10919197 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.23-0711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
As persons with HIV live longer as the result of antiretroviral therapy, morbidity from HIV-associated noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) is increasing. The Vanderbilt-Nigeria Building Research Capacity in HIV and Noncommunicable Diseases program is a training platform created with the goal of training a cohort of successful Nigerian investigators to become leaders in HIV-associated NCD research. We describe survey findings from two week-long workshops in Kano, Nigeria, where trainees received instruction in implementation science and grant writing. Surveys assessed participants' self-perceived knowledge and confidence in topics taught during these workshops. Thirty-seven participants (all assistant professors) attended the implementation science workshop; 30 attended the grant-writing workshop. Response rates for the implementation science workshop were 89.2% for the preworkshop survey and 91.9% for the postworkshop survey. For the grant-writing workshop, these values were 88.2% and 85.3%, respectively. Improvement in participant knowledge and confidence was observed in every domain measured for both workshops. On average, a 101.4% increase in knowledge and a 118.0% increase in confidence was observed across measured domains among participants in the implementation science workshop. For the grant-writing workshop, there was a 68.8% increase in knowledge and a 70.3% increase in confidence observed. Participants rated the workshops and instructors as effective for both workshops. These workshops improved participants' knowledge and competence in implementation science and grant writing, and provide a model for training programs that aim to provide physician scientists with the skills needed to compete for independent funding, conduct locally relevant research, and disseminate research findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M. Gibas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Epidemiology & Infection Prevention, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Aima A. Ahonkhai
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Alexander Huang
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Chelsea van Wyk
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, Tennessee
| | | | - Baba M. Musa
- Department of Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | - Muktar H. Aliyu
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, Tennessee
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Tatoud R, Jones RB, Dong K, Ndung'u T, Deeks S, Tiemessen CT. Advancing HIV cure research in low- and middle-income countries requires empowerment of the next generation of scientists. J Virus Erad 2024; 10:100364. [PMID: 38559321 PMCID: PMC10979089 DOI: 10.1016/j.jve.2024.100364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
While low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), especially in Southern and Eastern Africa, bear the largest burden of the HIV globally, investigators working on the front lines in these regions are leading a limited number of research efforts, particularly related to HIV cure. Conducting HIV cure research in high-burden HIV LIMCs provides an unparalleled opportunity to formulate innovative research strategies, design trials tailored to the local context, evaluate clinical outcomes within key and vulnerable populations, meaningful involvement of stakeholders, and to shape policies in areas where HIV prevention and cure interventions can yield the most significant impact. Further, the high prevalence of infection, with varied HIV strains affecting large diverse populations, creates a unique environment for studies that would not be feasible in any other part of the world. This underscores the critical importance of addressing obstacles to unlock the full potential of research efforts in these regions. In this viewpoint, we identify significant challenges facing early career investigators in LMICs, particularly in Africa, that hinder their full engagement in HIV cure research. Drawing examples from the International AIDS Society's Research-for-Cure Academy, we provide practical recommendations to overcome barriers that include limited access to funding, effective mentors, educational and career development opportunities, coupled with inadequate investment in infrastructure that contribute towards the limited number of investigators from high-burden HIV LIMCs who are spearheading cutting-edge cure research. Addressing these challenges is crucial to empower investigators who possess unique insights and expertise, and who are well positioned to lead HIV cure-related research efforts. We acknowledge and welcome initiatives that promote capacity building and knowledge exchange between early-career investigators in LMICs and their peers and scientific leaders from high-income countries (HICs). Prioritizing investment in global collaboration and partnership will play a pivotal role in empowering the next generation of African scientists and clinicians. To expedite advancements of cure-related strategies that will be effective in high-burden HIV LMICs, we endorse the sustainable expansion of these pivotal initiatives in these regions, to enhance their effectiveness and hasten progress in the pursuit of a global HIV cure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - R Brad Jones
- Weill Cornell Medicine Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, USA
| | - Krista Dong
- Ragon Institute of MGH, Harvard Medical School, USA
| | - Thumbi Ndung'u
- Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Caroline T. Tiemessen
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Al Sukhun SA, Vanderpuye V, Taylor C, Ibraheem AF, Wiernik Rodriguez A, Asirwa FC, Francisco M, Moushey A. Global Equity in Clinical Trials: An ASCO Policy Statement. JCO Glob Oncol 2024; 10:e2400015. [PMID: 38484198 PMCID: PMC10954071 DOI: 10.1200/go.24.00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
ASCO is a global professional society representing more than 50,000 physicians, other health care professionals, and advocates in over 100 countries specializing in cancer treatment, diagnosis, prevention, and advocacy. ASCO strives, through research, education, and promotion of the highest quality of patient care, to create a world where cancer is prevented or cured, and every survivor is healthy. In this pursuit, health equity remains the guiding institutional principle that applies to all its activities across the cancer care continuum. This ASCO policy statement emphasizes the urgent need for global equity in clinical trials, aiming to enhance access and representation in cancer research as it not only improves cancer outcomes but also upholds principles of fairness and justice in health care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Verna Vanderpuye
- National Center for Radiotherapy Ghana, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | - Andres Wiernik Rodriguez
- Grupo Montecristo Healthcare Division, San José, Escazu, Costa Rica
- Hospital Metropolitano, San José, Costa Rica
- Metropolitano Research Institute, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Fredrick Chite Asirwa
- International Cancer Institute, Kenya International Cancer Institute | ICI, Eldoret, Kenya
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Gjerde H, Huestis MA, Mulima G, Kajombo C, Sundet M, Pechansky F. Recommendations for effective collaboration and capacity building in epidemiological studies on the effect of alcohol and drug use on traffic safety in low- and middle-income countries. TRAFFIC INJURY PREVENTION 2024; 25:313-321. [PMID: 38426896 DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2024.2316720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alcohol or drug impairment is a major risk factor for road traffic crashes, and studies on this issue are essential to provide evidence-based data for policymakers. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), such studies are often conducted in partnership with one or more organizations in high-income countries (HICs). The aim of this article is to provide recommendations for improving project planning and decision-making processes in epidemiological studies on alcohol, drug and traffic safety in LMICs involving HICs. METHODS We searched Pubmed, Google Scholar, and Google Search for articles and reports in English about lessons learned when conducting collaborative research in LMIC as well as papers presenting recommendations for effective research collaboration with partners in LMICs. RESULTS Based on the search results, we selected 200 papers for full text examination. Few were related to studies on the effect of alcohol or drug use on road traffic safety. However, several conclusions and recommendations from other studies were found to be relevant. We combined the findings with our own experience in a narrative review. We also present a checklist for risk and quality assessment. CONCLUSIONS Many papers presented similar recommendations, which included the importance of addressing local needs, ensuring adequate resources, local project ownership and leadership, establishing strong partnerships among all involved stakeholders, promoting shared decision-making and planning, and implementing strategies to translate research findings into policy, practice, and publications. It is also important to avoid HIC bias, which prioritizes the interests or perspectives of HICs over those of LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hallvard Gjerde
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- International Council on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety (ICADTS)
| | - Marilyn A Huestis
- Institute of Emerging Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Severna Park, Maryland
| | | | | | - Mads Sundet
- Centre for Treatment of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Disease (REMEDY), Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Flavio Pechansky
- International Council on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety (ICADTS)
- Center for Drug and Alcohol Research, Hospital de Clinicas of Porto Alegre, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Perkins J, Nelson S, Birley E, Mcswiggan E, Dozier M, McCarthy A, Atkins N, Agyei-Manu E, Rostron J, Kameda K, Kelly A, Chandler C, Street A. Is qualitative social research in global health fulfilling its potential?: a systematic evidence mapping of research on point-of-care testing in low- and middle-income contexts. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:172. [PMID: 38326871 PMCID: PMC10848363 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10645-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Qualitative social research has made valuable contributions to understanding technology-based interventions in global health. However, we have little evidence of who is carrying out this research, where, how, for what purpose, or the overall scope of this body of work. To address these questions, we undertook a systematic evidence mapping of one area of technology-focused research in global health, related to the development, deployment and use of point-of-care tests (POCTs) for low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). METHODS We conducted an exhaustive search to identify papers reporting on primary qualitative studies that explore the development, deployment, and use of POCTs in LMICs and screened results to identify studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted from included studies and descriptive analyses were conducted. RESULTS One hundred thirty-eight studies met our inclusion criteria, with numbers increasing year by year. Funding of studies was primarily credited to high income country (HIC)-based institutions (95%) and 64% of first authors were affiliated with HIC-based institutions. Study sites, in contrast, were concentrated in a small number of LMICs. Relatively few studies examined social phenomena related to POCTs that take place in HICs. Seventy-one percent of papers reported on studies conducted within the context of a trial or intervention. Eighty percent reported on studies considering POCTs for HIV and/or malaria. Studies overwhelmingly reported on POCT use (91%) within primary-level health facilities (60%) or in hospitals (30%) and explored the perspectives of the health workforce (70%). CONCLUSIONS A reflexive approach to the role, status, and contribution of qualitative and social science research is crucial to identifying the contributions it can make to the production of global health knowledge and understanding the roles technology can play in achieving global health goals. The body of qualitative social research on POCTs for LMICs is highly concentrated in scope, overwhelmingly focuses on testing in the context of a narrow number of donor-supported initiatives and is driven by HIC resources and expertise. To optimise the full potential of qualitative social research requires the promotion of open and just research ecosystems that broaden the scope of inquiry beyond established public health paradigms and build social science capacity in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Perkins
- Department of Social Anthropology, School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, Chrystal Macmillan Building, 15a George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9LD, Scotland, UK.
| | - Sarah Nelson
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, Old Medical School, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Teviot Place, Edinburgh, EH8 9AG, Scotland, UK
| | - Emma Birley
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, Old Medical School, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Teviot Place, Edinburgh, EH8 9AG, Scotland, UK
| | - Emilie Mcswiggan
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, Old Medical School, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Teviot Place, Edinburgh, EH8 9AG, Scotland, UK
| | - Marshall Dozier
- Library Academic Support Team, Library & University Collections, and Information Services University of Edinburgh, Argyle House, 3 Lady Lawson Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9DR, Scotland, UK
| | - Anna McCarthy
- Department of Social Work, School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, Chrystal Macmillan Building, 15a George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9LD, Scotland, UK
| | - Nadege Atkins
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, Old Medical School, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Teviot Place, Edinburgh, EH8 9AG, Scotland, UK
| | - Eldad Agyei-Manu
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, Old Medical School, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Teviot Place, Edinburgh, EH8 9AG, Scotland, UK
| | - Jasmin Rostron
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, Old Medical School, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Teviot Place, Edinburgh, EH8 9AG, Scotland, UK
| | - Koichi Kameda
- Centre Population et Développement (CEPED), 45 Rue Des Saints-Pères, 75006, Paris, France
| | - Ann Kelly
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, King's College London, Bush House North East Wing, 30 Aldwych, London, WC2B 4BG, England, UK
| | - Clare Chandler
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, England, UK
| | - Alice Street
- Department of Social Anthropology, School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, Chrystal Macmillan Building, 15a George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9LD, Scotland, UK
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Vu HTT, Nguyen TA, Nguyen TTH, Nguyen AT, Tran D, Nguyen H, Hinton L, Pham T. A national program to advance dementia research in Vietnam. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:156. [PMID: 38302993 PMCID: PMC10832103 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10608-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As Vietnam and other low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) experience a rapid increase in the number of people living with dementia, an acute need exists to strengthen research capacity to inform policy, improve care and support, and develop national dementia plans. We describe the development and early outcomes of an National Institutes of Health (NIH)/National Institute on Aging (NIA)-funded national dementia research capacity building program in Vietnam. METHODS The research capacity building program commenced in 2019 and has three components: (1) Vietnam Alzheimer's and other dementias research Network (VAN), (2) a mentored pilot grant program, and (3) research training, networking, and dissemination activities. The pilot grant program funds Vietnamese researchers for one to two years to conduct research focusing on Alzheimer's Disease and Alzheimer's Disease Related Dementias (AD/ADRD). Grants are reviewed and scored using NIH criteria, and priority is given to pilot grants with policy relevance and potential for future funding. An international pool of high-income country (e.g., United States, Australia, and United Kingdom) mentors has been engaged and mentors paired with each funded project. Training and networking activities include workshops on AD/ADRD research topics and regular meetings in conjunction with Vietnam's annual national dementia/geriatric conferences. Dissemination is facilitated through targeted outreach and the creation of a national network of institutions. RESULTS Over four years (2019-2023), we received 62 applications, reviewed 58 applications, and funded 21 projects (4-5 per year). Funded investigators were from diverse disciplines and institutions across Vietnam with projects on a range of topics, including biomarkers, prevention, diagnosis, neuropsychological assessment, family caregiver support, dementia education, and clinical trials. A network of 12 leading academic and research institutions nationwide has been created to facilitate dissemination. Six research training workshops have been organized and included presentations from international speakers. Grantees have published or presented their studies at both national and international levels. The mentoring program has helped grantees to build their research skills and expand their research network. CONCLUSION This research capacity building program is the first of its kind in Vietnam and may serve as a useful model for other LMIC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huyen Thi Thanh Vu
- Department of Geriatrics, Hanoi Medical University, 1 Ton That Tung Street, Dong Da District, Hanoi, Vietnam.
- National Geriatric Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Tuan Anh Nguyen
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Psychological Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
- UniSA Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
- Health Strategy and Policy Institute, Ministry of Health of Vietnam, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thu Thi Hoai Nguyen
- Department of Geriatrics, Hanoi Medical University, 1 Ton That Tung Street, Dong Da District, Hanoi, Vietnam
- National Geriatric Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Anh Trung Nguyen
- Department of Geriatrics, Hanoi Medical University, 1 Ton That Tung Street, Dong Da District, Hanoi, Vietnam
- National Geriatric Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Duyen Tran
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Huong Nguyen
- School of Nursing, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ladson Hinton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Thang Pham
- Department of Geriatrics, Hanoi Medical University, 1 Ton That Tung Street, Dong Da District, Hanoi, Vietnam
- National Geriatric Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
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Perez Liz G, Vela G, Vela A, Maldonado Coronado JR, Sanchez Lizardi P, Robins DL. Autism research capacity building in Northern Mexico: Preliminary evaluation of an ongoing process. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:229-238. [PMID: 36627839 DOI: 10.1177/13623613221145787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT To inform improvement of care and public policy, quality research is required. Conducting research projects requires skills and infrastructure. Research capacity building is the process by which individuals and organizations develop greater ability to conduct useful research. However, in the scientific community, research quality and productivity measures are often focused on long-term products, such as publications or grants awarded. Those measures are not helpful when measuring initial stages of research, a common situation in low- and middle-income countries. We used a six-principle framework designed by J. Cooke to assess the progress of an autism research collaborative in northern Mexico. We established 64 criteria across the six principles, and rated them as Not Started, In Progress, or Achieved, based on narratives and process documentation collected for this purpose. Ratings were established for the Years 2018, 2020, and 2022. The principles with the highest Achieved rates were "Linkages, collaborations, and partnerships" (90%), and "Infrastructure" (Principle 6, 70%). Cooke's research capacity building framework is a useful way to monitor progress of research capacity building and contribute to harmonious development of relevant principles at different levels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Arturo Vela
- Autismo ABP, Mexico
- Autism Global Panel, Mexico
- Colegio de Bioetica de Nuevo Leon, Mexico
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Goldberg BB, Mbugi EV, Kyari F, Woods SE, Balandya E, Drane D, Reng R, Kakoko D. Training in the art and science of facilitation to scale research mentor training in low and middle income countries. FRONTIERS IN EDUCATION 2023; 8:1270480. [PMID: 38846335 PMCID: PMC11155035 DOI: 10.3389/feduc.2023.1270480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Advancing biomedical research in low and middle income countries (LMICs) to expand the capacity for LMICs to integrate biomedical research into their health care systems and education has been the focus of many programs in global health over the past two decades. Central to the success of these programs is effective research mentoring, characterized by academic, career and psychosocial support through culturally appropriate practices. Research mentoring is a learned skill, developed through training, mutual discussions, practice and feedback. The majority of extant training programs are designed and delivered by US partners, so the next stage in building capacity is to train facilitators within the LMIC partner institutions to contextualize and advance mentoring specifically within their cultural and institutional norms by co-developing, delivering and evaluating semi-annual research mentoring training. To this end, we describe the development, delivery and outcome evaluation of a 5-week course in the art and skill of facilitation. Care was taken to explicitly distinguish between concepts of "teaching" and "facilitation," since "teaching" is closely connected to a transmission or banking model of education, which is characterized by "top-down," hierarchical relationship. The course discussed power and positionality, themes that resonate with partners in Nigeria and Tanzania. These themes provided unique entry into deeper conversations core to advancing mentoring practice away from the traditional dyadic power structure that remains from colonization. Evaluation findings indicate significant advances in awareness of differences between teaching and facilitating, increased confidence in facilitation skills, especially in the area of structured planning and organization, as well as improved communication and interpersonal skills. All respondents felt that students in Nigeria and Tanzania would respond well to the facilitation approach conveyed during the course and they found value in participating in the course as a cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bennett B. Goldberg
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Erasto V. Mbugi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Fatima Kyari
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Sara E. Woods
- Program Evaluation Core, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Emmanuel Balandya
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Denise Drane
- Program Evaluation Core, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Rifkatu Reng
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Deodatus Kakoko
- Department of Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Semahegn A, Manyazewal T, Hanlon C, Getachew E, Fekadu B, Assefa E, Kassa M, Hopkins M, Woldehanna T, Davey G, Fekadu A. Challenges for research uptake for health policymaking and practice in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review. Health Res Policy Syst 2023; 21:131. [PMID: 38057873 PMCID: PMC10699029 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-023-01084-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An estimated 85% of research resources are wasted worldwide, while there is growing demand for context-based evidence-informed health policymaking. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), research uptake for health policymaking and practice is even lower, while little is known about the barriers to the translation of health evidence to policy and local implementation. We aimed to compile the current evidence on barriers to uptake of research in health policy and practice in LMICs using scoping review. METHODS The scoping review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses-extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) and the Arksey and O'Malley framework. Both published evidence and grey literature on research uptake were systematically searched from major databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL (EBSCO), Global Health (Ovid)) and direct Google Scholar. Literature exploring barriers to uptake of research evidence in health policy and practice in LMICs were included and their key findings were synthesized using thematic areas to address the review question. RESULTS A total of 4291 publications were retrieved in the initial search, of which 142 were included meeting the eligibility criteria. Overall, research uptake for policymaking and practice in LMICs was very low. The challenges to research uptake were related to lack of understanding of the local contexts, low political priority, poor stakeholder engagement and partnership, resource and capacity constraints, low system response for accountability and lack of communication and dissemination platforms. CONCLUSION Important barriers to research uptake, mainly limited contextual understanding and low participation of key stakeholders and ownership, have been identified. Understanding the local research and policy context and participatory evidence production and dissemination may promote research uptake for policy and practice. Institutions that bridge the chasm between knowledge formation, evidence synthesis and translation may play critical role in the translation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agumasie Semahegn
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
- College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Tsegahun Manyazewal
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Charlotte Hanlon
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Centre for Global Mental Health, Health Services and Population Research Department, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Research and Capacity-Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Eyerusalem Getachew
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Bethelhem Fekadu
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Esubalew Assefa
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Health Economics and Policy Research Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | | | - Michael Hopkins
- Science Policy Research Unit, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Tassew Woldehanna
- College of Business and Economics, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Gail Davey
- Global Health & Infection Department, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
- School of Public Health, College of Health Science, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Abebaw Fekadu
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Department of Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Research and Capacity-Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Global Health & Infection Department, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
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Ikejezie J, Adebusoye B, Ekezie W, Langley T, Lewis S, Phalkey R. Modifiable risk factors for diphtheria: A systematic review and meta-analysis. GLOBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2023; 5:100100. [PMID: 37638375 PMCID: PMC10445968 DOI: 10.1016/j.gloepi.2023.100100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To identify modifiable risk factors for diphtheria and assess their strengths of association with the disease. Methods This review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. Electronic databases and grey literature were searched from inception until January 2023. Studies had to report on diphtheria cases and estimates of association for at least one potential risk factor or sufficient data to calculate these. The quality of non-ecological studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), while the quality of evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. Results The search yielded 37,705 papers, of which 29 were ultimately included. All the non-ecological studies were of moderate to high quality. Meta-analysis of 20 studies identified three factors increasing the risk of diphtheria: incomplete vaccination (<3 doses) (pooled odds ratio (POR) = 2.2, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.4-3.4); contact with a person with skin lesions (POR = 4.8, 95% CI = 2.1-10.9); and low knowledge of diphtheria (POR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.2-4.7). Contact with a case of diphtheria; sharing a bed or bedroom; sharing utensils, cups, and glasses; infrequent bathing; and low parental education were associated with diphtheria in multiple studies. Evidence for other factors was inconclusive. The quality of evidence was low or very low for all the risk factors. Conclusions Findings from the review suggest that countries seeking to control diphtheria need to strengthen surveillance, improve vaccination coverage, and increase people's knowledge of the disease. Future research should focus on understudied or inconclusive risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juniorcaius Ikejezie
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, UK
| | - Busola Adebusoye
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, UK
| | - Winifred Ekezie
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, UK
| | - Tessa Langley
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, UK
| | - Sarah Lewis
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, UK
| | - Revati Phalkey
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, UK
- Climate Change and Health Unit, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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Govender K, King J, Nyamaruze P, Quinlan T. The role of the social sciences and humanities in pandemic preparedness responses: insights gained from COVID-19, HIV and AIDS and related epidemics. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH : AJAR 2023; 22:269-275. [PMID: 38117747 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2023.2262977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, particularly from 2020 to mid-2022, debilitated the management of the HIV epidemic in Africa. The multiple effects included well-documented HIV service interruptions, curtailment of HIV prevention programmes, the associated marked increase in both the risk for HIV infection among key populations and vulnerability of sub-populations (e.g. adolescent girls and young women) who are the focus of these programmes and - as importantly but less well-documented - the diverse negative socio-economic effects that accentuate HIV risk and vulnerability generally (e.g. loss of earnings, gender-based violence, stigma, police harassment of people during "lockdowns"). The global biomedical response to COVID-19 was necessary and remarkable for mitigating the bio-physical impacts of the pandemic (e.g. wide-spread surveillance coupled with rapid updates on the epidemiology of infections, rapid development of vaccines and revisions of treatment). However, drawing upon the widespread criticisms of state responses to the socio-economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and of "lockdowns" themselves, this article elaborates a core argument within those criticisms, namely that key lessons learnt during the HIV and AIDS and other pandemics were ignored, at least during the early stages of COVID-19. Our critique is that better integration of the social sciences and humanities in responses to pandemics can counter the reflex tendency to uncritically adopt a biomedical paradigm and, more importantly, to enable consideration of the social determinants of health in pandemic responses. At root, we re-assert a key value of 'integrated' interventions, namely the accommodation of context-sensitive considerations in the formulation of strategies, policies, plans and programme designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaymarlin Govender
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Patrick Nyamaruze
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Tim Quinlan
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Allen LN, Azab H, Jonga R, Gordon I, Karanja S, Thaker N, Evans J, Ramke J, Bastawrous A. Rapid methods for identifying barriers and solutions to improve access to community health services: a scoping review. BJGP Open 2023; 7:BJGPO.2023.0047. [PMID: 37474255 PMCID: PMC11176707 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpo.2023.0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The advancement of universal health coverage (UHC) is largely based on identifying and addressing barriers to accessing community health services. Traditional qualitative research approaches provide excellent insights but have unfeasibly high resource requirements for most care providers. AIM To identify, categorise, and evaluate methods that have been used to identify barriers to and/or solutions for improving access to community-based health services, grounded in engagement with affected communities, excluding approaches that take >14 days. DESIGN & SETTING This was a scoping review. METHOD Following Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines, a search was undertaken using the Cochrane Library, Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Ovid Global Health, and Google Scholar. An information specialist designed the search, and dual independent review and data charting were used. RESULTS In total, 44 studies were included from 30 countries, reporting on 18 different clinical services. Thirty studies used self-described 'rapid' approaches; however, the majority of these did not justify what they meant by this term. Nearly half of the studies used mixed- or multi-methods and triangulation to verify early findings. All of the qualitative studies used interviews and/or focus groups, which were often supplemented with observations, document review, and mapping activities. The use of in situ snowball and convenience sampling; community members as data collectors and cultural guides; collaborative summarisation (review of findings with community members and end-users); and deductive framework analysis expedited the research processes. There were no data on costs. CONCLUSION There are a wide range of methods that can be used to deliver timely information about barriers to access. The methods employed in the articles reviewed tended to use traditional data collection approaches in innovative ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke N Allen
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Hagar Azab
- World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ronald Jonga
- Department of Audit and Clinical Effectiveness, Northampton Foundation trust, Northampton, UK
| | - Iris Gordon
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sarah Karanja
- Centre for Public Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nam Thaker
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jennifer Evans
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jacqueline Ramke
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Andrew Bastawrous
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Prina E, Ceccarelli C, Abdulmalik JO, Amaddeo F, Cadorin C, Papola D, Tol WA, Lund C, Barbui C, Purgato M. Task-sharing psychosocial interventions for the prevention of common mental disorders in the perinatal period in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2023; 69:1578-1591. [PMID: 37183793 DOI: 10.1177/00207640231174451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
AIM to assess the efficacy of psychosocial interventions delivered through task-sharing approaches for preventing perinatal common mental disorders among women in low- and middle-income countries. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials following a prespecified protocol registered in the Open Science Framework (osf.io/qt4y3). We searched MEDLINE, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) through June 2022. Two reviewers independently extracted the data and evaluated the risk of bias of included studies using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. We performed random-effects meta-analyses and rated the certainty of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. RESULTS We included 23 studies with 24,442 participants. At post-intervention, task-shared psychosocial interventions, were effective in preventing the development of mental disorders in general (RR 0.57, 95% CI [0.35, 0.91]), and specifically depression (RR 0.51, 95% CI [0.35, 0.75]), but not anxiety disorders (RR 0.46, 95% CI [0.06, 3.33]). Similarly, psychosocial interventions reduced psychological distress (SMD -1.32, 95% CI [-2.28, -0.35]), and depressive symptoms (SMD -0.50, 95% CI [-0.80, -0.16]), and increased parenting self-efficacy (SMD -0.76, 95% CI [-1.13, -0.38]) and social support (SMD -0.72, 95% CI [-1.22, -0.22]). No effect was detected for anxiety symptoms at post-intervention. At follow-up the beneficial effects of interventions progressively decreased. CONCLUSIONS Psychosocial interventions delivered through the task-sharing modality are effective in preventing perinatal common mental disorders and fostering positive mental health among women in low- and middle-income countries. However, our findings are tentative, due to the low number of preventative intervention strategies considering outcomes as the incidence of mental disorders, especially in the long-term. This evidence supports calls to implement and scale up psychosocial prevention interventions for perinatal common mental disorders in low- and middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Prina
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Caterina Ceccarelli
- Global Program Expert Group on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support, SOS Children's Villages, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Amaddeo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Camilla Cadorin
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Davide Papola
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy
- Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Italy
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Wietse A Tol
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
- Athena Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Crick Lund
- Centre for Global Mental Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Corrado Barbui
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy
- Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Marianna Purgato
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy
- Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Italy
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Seewoo BJ, Goodes LM, Mofflin L, Mulders YR, Wong EV, Toshniwal P, Brunner M, Alex J, Johnston B, Elagali A, Gozt A, Lyle G, Choudhury O, Solomons T, Symeonides C, Dunlop SA. The plastic health map: A systematic evidence map of human health studies on plastic-associated chemicals. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 181:108225. [PMID: 37948868 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global production and use of plastic materials has increased dramatically since the 1960s and there is increasing evidence of human health impacts related to exposure to plastic-associated chemicals. There is, however, no comprehensive, regulatory, post-market monitoring for human health effects of plastic-associated chemicals or particles and it is unclear how many of these have been investigated for effects in humans, and therefore what the knowledge gaps are. OBJECTIVE To create a systematic evidence map of peer-reviewed human studies investigating the potential effects of exposure to plastic-associated particles/chemicals on health to identify research gaps and provide recommendations for future research and regulation policy. METHODS Medline and Embase databases were used to identify peer-reviewed primary human studies published in English from Jan 1960 - Jan 2022 that investigated relationships between exposures to included plastic-associated particles/chemicals measured and detected in bio-samples and human health outcomes. Plastic-associated particles/chemicals included are: micro and nanoplastics, due to their widespread occurrence and potential for human exposure; polymers, the main building blocks of plastic; plasticizers and flame retardants, the two most common types of plastic additives with the highest concentration ranges in plastic materials; and bisphenols and per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances, two chemical classes of known health concern that are common in plastics. We extracted metadata on the population and study characteristics (country, intergenerational, sex, age, general/special exposure risk status, study design), exposure (plastic-associated particle/chemical, multiple exposures), and health outcome measures (biochemical, physiological, and/or clinical), from which we produced the interactive database 'Plastic Health Map' and a narrative summary. RESULTS We identified 100,949 unique articles, of which 3,587 met our inclusion criteria and were used to create a systematic evidence map. The Plastic Health Map with extracted metadata from included studies are freely available at https://osf.io/fhw7d/ and summary tables, plots and overall observations are included in this report. CONCLUSIONS We present the first evidence map compiling human health research on a wide range of plastic-associated chemicals from several different chemical classes, in order to provide stakeholders, including researchers, regulators, and concerned individuals, with an efficient way to access published literature on the matter and determine knowledge gaps. We also provide examples of data clusters to facilitate systematic reviews and research gaps to help direct future research efforts. Extensive gaps are identified in the breadth of populations, exposures and outcomes addressed in studies of potential human health effects of plastic-associated chemicals. No studies of the human health effects of micro and/or nanoplastics were found, and no studies were found for 26/1,202 additives included in our search that are of known hazard concern and confirmed to be in active production. Few studies have addressed recent "substitution" chemicals for restricted additives such as organophosphate flame retardants, phthalate substitutes, and bisphenol analogues. We call for a paradigm shift in chemical regulation whereby new plastic chemicals are rigorously tested for safety before being introduced in consumer products, with ongoing post-introduction biomonitoring of their levels in humans and health effects throughout individuals' life span, including in old age and across generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhedita J Seewoo
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Louise M Goodes
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Louise Mofflin
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Yannick R Mulders
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Enoch Vs Wong
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Priyanka Toshniwal
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Manuel Brunner
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia; School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Jennifer Alex
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Brady Johnston
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Ahmed Elagali
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Aleksandra Gozt
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Greg Lyle
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia; School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent St, Bentley WA 6102, Australia
| | - Omrik Choudhury
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Terena Solomons
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia; Health and Medical Sciences (Library), The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Christos Symeonides
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, 50 Flemington Rd, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Sarah A Dunlop
- Plastics, Minderoo Foundation, 171-173 Mounts Bay Road 6000, Perth, WA, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia.
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Kasprowicz VO, Jeffery C, Mbuvi D, Bukirwa V, Ouattara K, Kirimi F, Heitz-Tokpa K, Gorrethy M, Chopera D, Nakanjako D, Bonfoh B, Elliott A, Kinyanjui S, Bates I, Ndung'u T. How to improve research capacity strengthening efforts: learning from the monitoring and evaluation of four research consortia in Africa. Health Res Policy Syst 2023; 21:109. [PMID: 37880720 PMCID: PMC10601174 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-023-01056-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent efforts to shift the control and leadership of health research on African issues to Africa have led to increased investments for scientific research capacity strengthening (RCS) on the continent and a greater demand for accountability, value for money and demonstration of return on investment. There is limited literature on monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of RCS systems and there is a clear need to further explore whether the M&E frameworks and approaches that are currently used are fit for purpose. The M&E approaches taken by four African RCS consortia funded under the Developing Excellence in Leadership, Training and Science in Africa (DELTAS) I initiative were assessed using several methods, including a framework comparison of the M&E approaches, semi-structured interviews and facilitated discussion sessions. The findings revealed a wide range in the number of indicators used in the M&E plans of individual consortium, which were uniformly quantitative and at the output and outcome levels. Consortia revealed that additional information could have been captured to better evaluate the success of activities and measure the ripple effects of their efforts. While it is beneficial for RCS consortia to develop and implement their own M&E plans, this could be strengthened by routine engagement with funders/programme managers to further align efforts. It is also important for M&E plans to consider qualitative data capture for assessment of RCS efforts. Efforts could be further enhanced by supporting platforms for cross-consortia sharing, particularly when trying to assess more complex effects. Consortia should make sure that processes for developmental evaluation, and capturing and using the associated learning, are in place. Sharing the learning associated with M&E of RCS efforts is vital to improve future efforts. Investing and improving this aspect of RCS will help ensure tracking of progress and impact of future efforts, and ensure accountability and the return on investment. The findings are also likely applicable well beyond health research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria O Kasprowicz
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme, The Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Caroline Jeffery
- Centre for Capacity Research, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Dorcas Mbuvi
- KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Strathmore University Business School, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Victoria Bukirwa
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Karim Ouattara
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Cote d'Ivoire, Abidjan, Lagunes, Ivory Coast
| | - Florence Kirimi
- KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Catholic Relief Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kathrin Heitz-Tokpa
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Cote d'Ivoire, Abidjan, Lagunes, Ivory Coast
| | - Mary Gorrethy
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Denis Chopera
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme, The Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Damalie Nakanjako
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Uganda Virus Research Institute, Wakiso, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Bassirou Bonfoh
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Cote d'Ivoire, Abidjan, Lagunes, Ivory Coast
| | - Alison Elliott
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Samson Kinyanjui
- KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Strathmore University Business School, Nairobi, Kenya
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Biochemistry, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Imelda Bates
- Centre for Capacity Research, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Thumbi Ndung'u
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme, The Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States of America.
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
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Amos V, LeBaron V, Chuong T, Elmore CE, Hamal PK, Paudel BD, Steen A, Chapagain S. Co-constructing collaboration: An evidence-based approach to advance and evaluate equitable global public health research partnerships. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002481. [PMID: 37871002 PMCID: PMC10593218 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Equitable global health partnerships are essential to promote innovative research and strengthen research capacity to address critical public health challenges, but how to optimally evaluate such collaborations is unclear. This was a sequential, multi-method study that utilized an electronic survey informed by the literature followed by semi-structured interviews to comprehensively evaluate the experience of participating in a global research-capacity building collaboration between Nepal and U.S. clinicians and investigators. De-identified quantitative survey were analyzed to calculate descriptive and summary statistics, along with crosstabs of each variable by group. Groups were defined based on country-of-origin and Chi Square statistics calculated to assess for statistically significant differences (p<0.05) between groups. Interviews were analyzed using a descriptive qualitative approach to develop an overall thematic map. 22 survey responses (52.4% response rate) were analyzed; 13 (59.1%) from Nepal, 9 (40.9%) from the U.S. Eight participants (4 Nepal; 4 U.S.) were interviewed. Over the course of the project, all participants reported gaining experience and confidence with research. The majority of participants "strongly agreed" there was a shared understanding of goals, priorities and strategies (Nepal, 58.3%, n = 7; U.S., 88.9%, n = 8;) and that power was shared equally (Nepal, 58.3%, n = 7; U.S., 55.6%, n = 5). The over-arching theme that emerged from the interviews was the importance of 'establishing community' which participants discussed within the broader context of COVID-19. Overall, team members reported strong bi-directional benefit and a greater emphasis on perceived benefits versus challenges. Our survey tool and interview guide, designed to holistically evaluate the impact of a global partnership across various levels of the Social Ecological Model, with particular attention to power dynamics and equity, can be adapted and used by others engaged in similar research capacity collaborations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Amos
- University of Virginia School of Nursing, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Virginia LeBaron
- University of Virginia School of Nursing, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Tuyet Chuong
- University of Virginia School of Nursing, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Catherine E. Elmore
- University of Utah College of Nursing, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Pawan Kumar Hamal
- National Academy of Medical Sciences, National Trauma Center, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Bishnu D. Paudel
- National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS) Bir Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Amber Steen
- University of Virginia, Center for Global Health Equity, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Sandhya Chapagain
- National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS) Bir Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Gaba F, Ash K, Blyuss O, Bizzarri N, Kamfwa P, Saiz A, Cibula D. International Variations in Surgical Morbidity and Mortality Post Gynaecological Oncology Surgery: A Global Gynaecological Oncology Surgical Outcomes Collaborative Led Study (GO SOAR1). Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5001. [PMID: 37894368 PMCID: PMC10605858 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15205001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Gynaecological malignancies affect women in low and middle income countries (LMICs) at disproportionately higher rates compared with high income countries (HICs) with little known about variations in access, quality, and outcomes in global cancer care. Our study aims to evaluate international variation in post-operative morbidity and mortality following gynaecological oncology surgery between HIC and LMIC settings. Study design consisted of a multicentre, international prospective cohort study of women undergoing surgery for gynaecological malignancies (NCT04579861). Multilevel logistic regression determined relationships within three-level nested-models of patients within hospitals/countries. We enrolled 1820 patients from 73 hospitals in 27 countries. Minor morbidity (Clavien-Dindo I-II) was 26.5% (178/672) and 26.5% (267/1009), whilst major morbidity (Clavien-Dindo III-V) was 8.2% (55/672) and 7% (71/1009) for LMICs/HICs, respectively. Higher minor morbidity was associated with pre-operative mechanical bowel preparation (OR = 1.474, 95%CI = 1.054-2.061, p = 0.023), longer surgeries (OR = 1.253, 95%CI = 1.066-1.472, p = 0.006), greater blood loss (OR = 1.274, 95%CI = 1.081-1.502, p = 0.004). Higher major morbidity was associated with longer surgeries (OR = 1.37, 95%CI = 1.128-1.664, p = 0.002), greater blood loss (OR = 1.398, 95%CI = 1.175-1.664, p ≤ 0.001), and seniority of lead surgeon, with junior surgeons three times more likely to have a major complication (OR = 2.982, 95%CI = 1.509-5.894, p = 0.002). Of all surgeries, 50% versus 25% were performed by junior surgeons in LMICs/HICs, respectively. We conclude that LMICs and HICs were associated with similar post-operative major morbidity. Capacity to rescue patients from surgical complications is a tangible opportunity for meaningful intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faiza Gaba
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London E1 1FR, UK
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 3FX, UK
| | - Karen Ash
- Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, NHS Grampian, Aberdeen AB25 2ZN, UK
| | - Oleg Blyuss
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Nicolò Bizzarri
- UOC Ginecologia Oncologica, Dipartimento per la Salute della Donna e del Bambino e della Salute Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Paul Kamfwa
- Cancer Diseases Hospital, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| | - Allison Saiz
- Northwestern University in Chicago, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - David Cibula
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, 121 08 Prague, Czech Republic
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Perrotta C, Downey V, Elabbasy D, Ingram C, Lo C, Naseer A, Thorson A, Brizuela V. Remote training for strengthening capacity in sexual and reproductive health and rights research: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1964. [PMID: 37817136 PMCID: PMC10566165 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16851-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Training has been used to develop research skills among sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) researchers. Remote education may accelerate transfer of skills and reduce barriers to strengthening research capacity. This systematic review aimed to assess the effectiveness of remote training on SRHR research and describe enablers and barriers of effective remote training. METHODS PubMed, Embase, and Scielo were searched up to December 2022 for studies that evaluated in any language online research training programmes either on a SRHR topic or tailored for professionals working in SRHR published since 1990. Characteristics of included studies, the programmes they evaluated, the programme's effectiveness, and reported barriers and enablers to remote learning were extracted. Three researchers synthesized and described findings on effectiveness, impact and outcomes mapping them against the Kirkpatrick model. Additionally, thematic analysis from qualitative data was conducted to identify themes relating to the barriers and enablers of remote learning. RESULTS Of 1,510 articles retrieved, six studies that included 2,058 remote learners met the inclusion criteria. Five out of six studies described empirical improvements in participant research knowledge/skills and three studies reported improvements in attitudes/self-efficacy towards research. Follow-up surveys from four studies revealed frequent application of new research skills and improved opportunities for career advancement and publication following online trainings. Cited barriers to effective online SRHR research training included time management challenges and participants' competing professional obligations; limited opportunities for interaction; and lack of support from home institutions. Cited enablers included well-structured and clear courses, learning objectives and expectations with participants; ensuring a manageable workload; facilitating interactions with mentors and hands-on experience; and selecting programme topics relevant to participants' jobs. CONCLUSION Remote SRHR training can lead to improvements in research knowledge, skills, and attitudes, particularly when course learning objectives, structure, and expectations are outlined clearly, and ongoing mentorship is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Perrotta
- School of Public Health Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, ROI, Woodview House, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
| | - Vicky Downey
- School of Public Health Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, ROI, Woodview House, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Darin Elabbasy
- School of Public Health Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, ROI, Woodview House, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Carolyn Ingram
- School of Public Health Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, ROI, Woodview House, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Chungwan Lo
- School of Public Health Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, ROI, Woodview House, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Amara Naseer
- School of Public Health Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, ROI, Woodview House, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Anna Thorson
- UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, CH, Switzerland
| | - Vanessa Brizuela
- UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, CH, Switzerland
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Mughal NA, Hussain MH, Ahmed KS, Waheed MT, Munir MM, Diehl TM, Zafar SN. Barriers to Surgical Outcomes Research in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping Review. J Surg Res 2023; 290:188-196. [PMID: 37269802 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2023.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Systematic collection and analysis of surgical outcomes data is a cornerstone of surgical quality improvement. Unfortunately, there remains a dearth of surgical outcomes data from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). To improve surgical outcomes in LMICs, it is essential to have the ability to collect, analyze, and report risk-adjusted postoperative morbidity and mortality data. This study aimed to review the barriers and challenges to developing perioperative registries in LMIC settings. METHODS We conducted a scoping review of all published literature on barriers to conducting surgical outcomes research in LMICs using PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and GoogleScholar. Keywords included 'surgery', 'outcomes research', 'registries', 'barriers', and synonymous Medical Subject Headings derivatives. Articles found were subsequently reference-mined. All relevant original research and reviews published between 2000 and 2021 were included. The performance of routine information system management framework was used to organize identified barriers into technical, organizational, or behavioral factors. RESULTS Twelve articles were identified in our search. Ten articles focused specifically on the creation, success, and obstacles faced during the implementation of trauma registries. Technical factors reported by 50% of the articles included limited access to a digital platform for data entry, lack of standardization of forms, and complexity of said forms. 91.7% articles mentioned organizational factors, including the availability of resources, financial constraints, human resources, and lack of consistent electricity. Behavioral factors highlighted by 66.6% of the studies included lack of team commitment, job constraints, and clinical burden, which contributed to poor compliance and dwindling data collection over time. CONCLUSIONS There is a paucity of published literature on barriers to developing and maintaining perioperative registries in LMICs. There is an immediate need to study and understand barriers and facilitators to the continuous collection of surgical outcomes in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabiha Akhlaq Mughal
- Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University Medical College, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Muzamil Hamid Hussain
- Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University Medical College, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
| | | | - Muhammad Talha Waheed
- Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University Medical College, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan; Department of Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California
| | - Muhammad Musaab Munir
- Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University Medical College, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Thomas M Diehl
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
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Keshri VR, Peden M, Singh P, Norton R, Abimbola S, Jagnoor J. Health systems research in burn care: an evidence gap map. Inj Prev 2023; 29:446-453. [PMID: 37532304 DOI: 10.1136/ip-2023-044963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Burn injury is associated with significant mortality and disability. Resilient and responsive health systems are needed for optimal response and care for people who sustain burn injuries. However, the extent of health systems research (HSR) in burn care is unknown. This review aimed to systematically map the global HSR related to burn care. METHODS An evidence gap map (EGM) was developed based on the World Health Organization health systems framework. All major medical, health and injury databases were searched. A standard method was used to develop the EGM. RESULTS A total of 6586 articles were screened, and the full text of 206 articles was reviewed, of which 106 met the inclusion criteria. Most included studies were cross-sectional (61%) and were conducted in hospitals (71%) with patients (48%) or healthcare providers (29%) as participants. Most studies were conducted in high-income countries, while only 13% were conducted in low-and middle-income countries, accounting for 60% of burns mortality burden globally. The most common health systems areas of focus were service delivery (53%), health workforce (33%) and technology (19%). Studies on health policy, governance and leadership were absent, and there were only 14 qualitative studies. CONCLUSIONS Major evidence gaps exist for an integrated health systems response to burns care. There is an inequity between the burden of burn injuries and HSR. Strengthening research capacity will facilitate evidence-informed health systems and policy reforms to sustainably improve access to affordable, equitable and optimal burn care and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikash Ranjan Keshri
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Injury Division, The George Institute for Global Health India, New Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Margaret Peden
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health UK, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Pratishtha Singh
- Injury Division, The George Institute for Global Health India, New Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Robyn Norton
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health UK, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Seye Abimbola
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jagnoor Jagnoor
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Injury Division, The George Institute for Global Health India, New Delhi, Delhi, India
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Young J, Xie M, Choi S, Osazuwa I, Robbins J, Bain PA, May C. Authorship Patterns in the Orthopaedic Journals of Low-Income and Lower-Middle-Income Countries. JB JS Open Access 2023; 8:e23.00072. [PMID: 38028376 PMCID: PMC10642905 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.oa.23.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Extensive research collaborations exist between researchers from high-income countries (HICs) and those from low-income countries (LICs) and lower-middle-income countries (LMICs). Previous research has suggested that authors from LICs and LMICs are underrepresented as first and last authors in the orthopaedic literature on local populations, particularly in LICs. We present a bibliometric analysis of authorship solely in studies published in orthopaedic journals that are based in LICs and LMICs. Methods The Global Index Medicus was queried, and all articles published from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2021, in journals with a focus on orthopaedic surgery that were based in an LIC or an LMIC were included. Logistic regressions were calculated to assess the predictors of local authorship. Results Over 92% of studies included in our analysis had first or last authors from LICs or LMICs. In terms of study type, the majority (89%) of studies were clinical, although largely of low-level evidence (78% of clinical studies were case reports, case series, or descriptive studies). None received funding. LIC or LMIC first authorship and last authorship were less likely for most types of nonclinical studies. LIC or LMIC first authorship was more likely when there were more study authors. LIC or LMIC first authorship and last authorship were less likely when there were more countries affiliated with the study authors. Finally, when compared with studies with only LIC or LMIC authors, those with a combination of HIC and LIC or LMIC authors had significantly lower rates of LIC or LMIC first authorship (93.3% versus 62.5%) and last authorship (97.7% versus 70.8%). Conclusions Our study presents one of the first analyses to assess authorship patterns in the orthopaedic literature of locally published journals in LICs and LMICs. Future studies are needed to contextualize our findings within a broader bibliometric landscape in order to better address the ongoing challenges to building research capacity in LICs and LMICs. Clinical Relevance Our study highlights important observations regarding authorship in international, collaborative research in orthopaedics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Young
- Harvard Combined Orthopaedic Residency Program, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Soy Choi
- Harvard College, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | | | - Paul A. Bain
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Countway Library of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Collin May
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Hoffman GS, Parvin-Nejad FP, Linz MS, Salter SE, Goydos C, Padmanaban V, Nwomeh BC, Mshelbwala PM, Sifri ZC. The Impact of Global Collaboration on the Academic Focus of the West African College of Surgeons: Are Worldwide Efforts Aligning with Local Priorities? World J Surg 2023; 47:2319-2327. [PMID: 37284848 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-023-07075-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global collaboration has the potential to induce a shift in research focus away from the priorities of those in low- and low-middle-income countries (LICs and LMICs). This study quantified international collaboration among surgery publications by Fellows of the West African College of Surgeons (WACS) and investigated if collaboration with upper-middle-income and high-income countries (UMICs and HICs) decreases the homophily of research focus. METHODS Publications by WACS surgery Fellows from 1960 to 2019 were characterized as local WACS publications, collaborative publications without UMIC/HIC participation, or collaborative publications with UMIC/HIC participation. Research topics were determined for each publication, and topic percentages were compared between collaboration groups. RESULTS We analyzed 5065 publications. Most (3690 publications, 73%) were local WACS publications, while 742 (15%) were collaborative publications with UMIC/HIC participation and 633 (12%) were collaborative publications without UMIC/HIC participation. UMIC/HIC collaborations contributed to 49% of the increase (378 out of 766 publications) from 2000 to 2019. Topic homophily was significantly lower between local WACS publications and collaborations with UMIC/HIC participation (differed in nine research topics) than it was between local WACS publications and collaborations without UMIC/HIC participation (differed in two research topics). CONCLUSIONS Publications without international collaboration comprise most WACS research, but the rate of UMIC/HIC collaborations is rapidly increasing. We found that UMIC/HIC collaborations decreased the homophily of topic focus in WACS publications, indicating that global collaborations need to have greater emphasis on the priorities of those in LICs and LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary S Hoffman
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA.
| | | | - Matthew S Linz
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - S Elina Salter
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Christopher Goydos
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 185 S Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Vennila Padmanaban
- Department of Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Benedict C Nwomeh
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Philip M Mshelbwala
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, FCT, Nigeria
| | - Ziad C Sifri
- Department of Surgery, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
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Duda K, D’Artibale A, Moombe M, Lark R, Pulford J. A mixed-methods evaluation of capacity strengthening within an international conservation agriculture research consortium. F1000Res 2023; 12:1119. [PMID: 37990736 PMCID: PMC10660302 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.139715.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The Strengthening Capacity in Environmental Physics, Hydrogeology and Statistics for conservation agriculture research (CEPHaS) consortium sought to to strengthen research capacity among a network of African and UK researchers, and their respective institutions, to fill knowledge gaps on the impacts of conservation agriculture practices on the water cycle in cultivated soils. We examined experiences of consortium membership and, drawing on this information, determined key recommendations for future programmes with similar objectives. Methods: A mixed methods study encompassing an online survey (N=40) and semi-structured interviews (N=19) completed between June 2021 and February 2022 with CEPHaS consortium members from Malawi, UK, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Survey and interview data were analysed separately, using univariate statistics and framework synthesis respectively Results: Survey and interview findings were generally aligned, with both revealing a wide range of reported capacity strengthening gains resulting from CEPHaS engagement at both an individual and institutional level. Participants consistently expressed their CEPHaS involvement in positive terms with praise for the applied 'learn by doing' approach underpinning many of the activities as well as the engaging and highly inclusive leadership. There was evidence that the various trainings and resources provided through CEPHaS were valued, frequently utilised, and often transferred beyond the immediate CEPHaS membership for wider benefit. Resource provision and staff training were seen as foundational for long-term institutional benefits. Some challenges and suggested areas for improvement were reported by participants as were potential opportunities to facilitate greater impact. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the basic 'template' of the CEPHaS consortium provided a strong basis for research capacity strengthening in Conservation Agriculture, especially at the level of individual researchers, and that this template could be further enhanced in any future iteration of the same or similar programme. Recommendations for replicating and enhancing CEPHaS programme strengths are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Duda
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Miyanda Moombe
- School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - R.Murray Lark
- School of Biosciences and Future Food Research Beacon, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, England, UK
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Kengia JT, Kalolo A, Barash D, Chwa C, Hayirli TC, Kapologwe NA, Kinyaga A, Meara JG, Staffa SJ, Zanial N, Alidina S. Research capacity, motivators and barriers to conducting research among healthcare providers in Tanzania's public health system: a mixed methods study. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2023; 21:73. [PMID: 37670321 PMCID: PMC10478476 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-023-00858-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Building health research capacity in low- and middle-income countries is essential to achieving universal access to safe, high-quality healthcare. It can enable healthcare workers to conduct locally relevant research and apply findings to strengthen their health delivery systems. However, lack of funding, experience, know-how, and weak research infrastructures hinders their ability. Understanding research capacity, engagement, and contextual factors that either promote or obstruct research efforts by healthcare workers can inform national strategies aimed at building research capacity. METHODS We used a convergent mixed-methods study design to understand research capacity and research engagement of healthcare workers in Tanzania's public health system, including the barriers, motivators, and facilitators to conducting research. Our sample included 462 randomly selected healthcare workers from 45 facilities. We conducted surveys and interviews to capture data in five categories: (1) healthcare workers research capacity; (2) research engagement; (3) barriers, motivators, and facilitators; (4) interest in conducting research; and (5) institutional research capacity. We assessed quantitative and qualitative data using frequency and thematic analysis, respectively; we merged the data to identify recurring and unifying concepts. RESULTS Respondents reported low experience and confidence in quantitative (34% and 28.7%, respectively) and qualitative research methods (34.5% and 19.6%, respectively). Less than half (44%) of healthcare workers engaged in research. Engagement in research was positively associated with: working at a District Hospital or above (p = 0.006), having a university degree or more (p = 0.007), and previous research experience (p = 0.001); it was negatively associated with female sex (p = 0.033). Barriers to conducting research included lack of research funding, time, skills, opportunities to practice, and research infrastructure. Motivators and facilitators included a desire to address health problems, professional development, and local and international collaborations. Almost all healthcare workers (92%) indicated interest in building their research capacity. CONCLUSION Individual and institutional research capacity and engagement among healthcare workers in Tanzania is low, despite high interest for capacity building. We propose a fourfold pathway for building research capacity in Tanzania through (1) high-quality research training and mentorship; (2) strengthening research infrastructure, funding, and coordination; (3) implementing policies and strategies that stimulate engagement; and (4) strengthening local and international collaborations.
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Affiliation(s)
- James T Kengia
- Department of Health, Nutrition Services and Social Welfare, The President's Office Regional Administration and Local Government, P.O Box 1923, Dodoma, Tanzania.
| | - Albino Kalolo
- Center for Reforms, Innovation, Health Policies and Implementation Research, Dodoma, Tanzania
- Department of Public Health, St Francis University College of Health and Allied Sciences, Ifakara, Tanzania
| | | | - Cindy Chwa
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tuna Cem Hayirli
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ntuli A Kapologwe
- Department of Health, Nutrition Services and Social Welfare, The President's Office Regional Administration and Local Government, P.O Box 1923, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Ally Kinyaga
- Center for Reforms, Innovation, Health Policies and Implementation Research, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - John G Meara
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Steven J Staffa
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Noor Zanial
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shehnaz Alidina
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Amegee Quach J, Valea I, Bates I, Pulford J. Factors affecting African postdoctoral researcher capacity development within 'learn-by-doing' international research partnerships: findings from the 'Partnership for Increasing the Impact of Vector Control (PIIVeC)'. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e012626. [PMID: 37678937 PMCID: PMC10496693 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-012626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Partnership to Increase the Impact of Vector Control sought to develop the research and leadership capacity of 10 African postdoctoral vectorborne disease scientists via a 'learn-by-doing' approach. We identified factors that either supported or hindered their development and, drawing on this information, determined key lessons for future programmes with similar objectives. METHODS A longitudinal qualitative study encompassing focus group discussions and semistructured interviews conducted with the cohort of African postdoctoral fellows, programme leadership, supervisory and research support staff (N=28). Data analysis was informed by a general inductive approach. RESULTS Numerous supportive and hindering factors were identified. Supportive factors were primarily structural or attitudinal in nature, whereas hindering factors were primarily operational or contextual. None of the supporting or hindering factors were specific to vectorborne disease research. Four key lessons for future programme implementation emerged, including: the value in exposing postdoctoral fellows to a diverse work-mix and training-mix to improve understanding of the broad skillset needed for scientific career advancement; recognising and managing the potentially competing interests of different partnership members to ensure everyone benefits from participation; ensuring equity of opportunity and rewarding engagement; and ensuring flexibility in support provision. CONCLUSION Our study highlights numerous factors that may be readily incorporated into early career researcher capacity strengthening initiatives based on a learn-by-doing approach. Many of these factors are supported by a growing weight of evidence and would be appropriate to research capacity strengthening programmes both within and outside of a vectorborne disease context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Amegee Quach
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Innocent Valea
- Unité de Recherche Clinique de Nanoro, Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - Imelda Bates
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Justin Pulford
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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Ghebrehiwet S, Ogundare T, Owusu M, Harris BL, Ojediran B, Touma M, Durham MP, Hook K, Borba CPC, Henderson DC. Building a postgraduate psychiatry training program in Liberia through cross-country collaborations: initiation stages, challenges, and opportunities. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1020723. [PMID: 37727607 PMCID: PMC10505824 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1020723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background About 80% of the nearly 2 billion people experiencing psychiatric conditions worldwide do not have access to quality, affordable mental health care. In Africa, there are 0.004 psychiatrists per 10,000 people, with the shortage exacerbated by a limited number of postgraduate psychiatry training opportunities. As of 2018, there were only two psychiatrists in Liberia. Methods This paper aims to offer a framework for developing postgraduate (i.e., residency) psychiatry training in resource-constrained settings to disseminate best practices and lessons learned. This article describes the approach to developing the formal global academic partnership that supported the initiation of Liberia's first postgraduate psychiatry training program in July 2019. Results Authors describe strengths, challenges, and opportunities for improvement in the planning and initiation stages of the postgraduate program. Key strengths of the program planning process include: (1) collaboration with a coalition of local and national stakeholders committed to improving mental health care in Liberia; (2) early procurement of quality video conferencing equipment and internet service to facilitate remote learning and broaden access to digital materials; and (3) leveraging of intra-continental partnerships for subspecialty training. Challenges experienced include: (1) navigating the intricacies of local political and administrative processes; (2) recruiting candidates to a medical specialty with historically lower salaries; and (3) the added burden placed on the limited number of local specialists. Identified opportunities include building a monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) framework, further diversifying subspecialty areas of psychiatric and neurological training, and obtaining full accreditation of the postgraduate psychiatry program through the West African College of Physicians (WACP). Conclusion The successful launch of the postgraduate psychiatry training program in Liberia is attributed to several factors, including a long-standing academic collaboration of over 10 years and support for mental health capacity-building efforts at national and local levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senait Ghebrehiwet
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Temitope Ogundare
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Micaela Owusu
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Benjamin L. Harris
- A.M. Dogliotti College of Medicine, University of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia
| | - Babawale Ojediran
- A.M. Dogliotti College of Medicine, University of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia
| | - Mia Touma
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Michelle P. Durham
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kimberly Hook
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Christina P. C. Borba
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - David C. Henderson
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
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Haroon MA, Noorali AA, Khan AS, Hussain MH, Advani R, Sami A, Merchant AA, Khan AA, Baloch SG, Tharwani A, Fatimi SH, Samad Z, Hasan BS, Rasheed MA. Implementation evaluation of a medical student-led intervention to enhance students' engagement with research: Findings and lessons learned. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290867. [PMID: 37651371 PMCID: PMC10470873 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Medical colleges globally have student organizations that serve to enable students' involvement in research. However, details of their approach and activities are seldom published to serve as learning for student organizations in other settings. The Student Research Forum (SRF), a student organization based at a private medical school in Pakistan aims to facilitate students in acquiring research skills. Following the observation of a downward trajectory of student initiative and interest, SRF leadership restructured the organization and improve its impact. This study describes the development and implementation evaluation of the interventions. METHODOLOGY The operational framework was revised using the Theory of Change by the core group. Major interventions included enhanced social media and outreach coordination, research workshops, journal clubs, and mentorship to increase research output, mentorship opportunities, and knowledge of medical research; ultimately improving quality in research. The outcomes generated over the course of the study's duration from July 2019 to September 2021 were analyzed using the process metrics of reach, adoption, and efficacy. RESULTS As a result of the interventions, SRF expanded its reach by conducting a total of 41 events during the duration of the study, facilitated by social media growth on each of SRF's online platforms, with a 300% increase in followers on Facebook, and a nationwide network of 91 student ambassadors. An annual workshop series taught research skills to more than 3800 participants. Students leading their own events, SRF featuring international speakers, and the abstracts submitted to SRF's annual conference, along with the conference's reach of 10,000 students, are seen as improvements in the ToC-informed interventions' adoption. The efficacy of the interventions manifested as the REACH program allocated 56 research projects to vetted applicants. CONCLUSION The applied interventions have accelerated SRF's progress towards achieving its long-term outcome of increased quality in research as translated by increased research output quantity, mentorship, and knowledge of medical research. Further evaluation is required to assess the success of the ToC. As SRF continues to grow, a continued analysis of the implementation outcomes is imperative to gauge its effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Rohan Advani
- Medical College, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ashmal Sami
- Medical College, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Sana Gul Baloch
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Arsal Tharwani
- Department of Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | | | - Zainab Samad
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Babar S. Hasan
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muneera A. Rasheed
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
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AlHamawi R, Saad RK, Abdul Rahim HF, Mir Islam Saeed K, Husseini A, Khader Y, Al Nsour M. Supporting Public Health Research Capacity, Quality, and Productivity in a Diverse Region. Interact J Med Res 2023; 12:e39154. [PMID: 37523227 PMCID: PMC10425819 DOI: 10.2196/39154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Public health research plays a critical role in strengthening health systems and improving their performance and impact. However, scholarly production in public health coming from the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) remains well below the world average and lacks a tangible growth trend over time. During the seventh Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network Regional Conference, a roundtable session brought together a panel of public health experts representing Global Health Development/Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network affiliates, universities or academia, and research institutions from the region, where they shared insights on the current situation of public health research; challenges and barriers to research facing the different countries in the EMR and the region in general; and how research agendas, productivity, and quality can be supported through strengthening research capacity in the region. Although the region is diverse in terms of health system capacity and socioeconomic development, several common challenges were identified, including a lack of strategic prioritization to guide health research, insufficient funding, ineffective transfer of knowledge to policy and practice, limited availability of research facilities, and limited national and international research collaboration. Occupied countries and countries in a state of conflict, such as Palestine, face additional barriers, such as personal and social security, lack of control of borders and natural resources, travel and movement restrictions, and confidentiality challenges because of the continuing war conditions and occupation. However, there have been success stories in the EMR regarding research publications and their positive and effective impact on policy and decision-makers. To improve research resilience and public health care in the region, a collaborative approach involving institutions, policymakers, and relevant stakeholders is critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana AlHamawi
- Global Health Development/Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network, Amman, Jordan
| | - Randa K Saad
- Global Health Development/Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network, Amman, Jordan
| | - Hanan F Abdul Rahim
- Qatar University Health, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Khwaja Mir Islam Saeed
- Afghanistan Field Epidemiology Training Program, Afghanistan National Public Health Institute, kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Abdullatif Husseini
- Institute of Community and Public Health, Birzeit University, Ramallah, Occupied Palestinian Territory
| | - Yousef Khader
- Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mohannad Al Nsour
- Global Health Development/Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network, Amman, Jordan
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Elgamri A, Mohammed Z, El-Rhazi K, Shahrouri M, Ahram M, Al-Abbas AM, Silverman H. Challenges Facing Arab Researchers in Publishing Scientific Research: A Qualitative Interview Study. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3129329. [PMID: 37503191 PMCID: PMC10371160 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3129329/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Background Studies have shown an underrepresentation of researchers from lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in the research literature compared with their counterparts in high-income countries. We aimed to explore Arab researchers' challenges regarding conducting and publishing research in peer-reviewed journals. Methods We used a descriptive qualitative study design of semi-structured in-depth interviews. Using purposive sampling, we recruited participants from four Arab countries in the Middle East and North Africa. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and translated to English if the original language was Arabic or French. We analyzed the transcripts using reflexive thematic analysis. Several authors independently coded the transcripts and agreed on the identified codes, themes, and subthemes. Results We performed 17 interviews: three from Egypt, six from Jordan, four from Morocco, and four from Sudan. Our participants' comments were divided into three broad categories with associated themes and subthemes. The first regards the conduct of research (themes of inadequate quality of research, insufficient research resources, and nonsuppurative research environment). The second category involves the publishing process (themes of poor scientific writing skills and difficulties navigating the publishing and peer-reviewed system). The third regards international collaborations and the final category recommends methods to address the challenges. Our recommendations include: enhancing the institutional research culture, increasing funding mechanisms, establishing mentoring programs and workshops on research methodology and scientific writing, and increasing the representation of LMICs on the editorial staff. Conclusions Identifying the challenges of Arab researchers in publishing original and quality research would guide programs tailored and targeted toward Arab scholars' needs.
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Sales RK, Reyes-Ramos GK, de Veyra C, Gascon G, Barraca V, Garcia G, Yap ME. Advancing health through evidence assisted decisions with health policy and systems research program: a qualitative evaluation of a national health research grant management process in the Philippines. Health Res Policy Syst 2023; 21:73. [PMID: 37443116 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-023-01021-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health policy and systems research (HPSR) has influenced Philippine policies, including tobacco control, mental health, and COVID-19. The Department of Health (DOH) Philippines and Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) launched the Advancing Health through Evidence-Assisted Decisions (AHEAD) with HPSR program in 2017, aiming to build a community of researchers and decision-makers committed to evidence production and utilization. Research systems employ grant management processes for transparency and accountability in research funding, preventing waste, fraud, and misuse of funds. METHODS This study evaluated AHEAD-HPSR's grant management using surveys, interviews, and focus groups to document (1) grant administration processes implemented by DOH and PCHRD, and (2) experiences of grantees, program managers, staff, and policymakers. Data were initially analyzed through the USA Grant Accountability Office's Federal Grant Life Cycle, with new themes created as they emerged. The study identified processes and gaps in the research grant life cycle stages: design/redesign, pre-award, award, implementation, closeout, and research dissemination and utilization. RESULTS Identification of research areas for the grant are identified using national and departmental research priorities. While Calls for Proposals are posted publicly, researchers that have previously worked with policymakers are contacted directly to submit proposals. The evaluation found that research is delayed by bureaucracies in grant administration, particularly in financial reporting and ethics review processes. Complying with the terminal financial report was identified as the most challenging part of the grant process due to immense auditing requirements. Grantees recommend the simplification of bureaucracy for fund release to enable them to focus on research work. CONCLUSION This study contributes to the limited literature on health research grant management in developing countries. Valuable information and recommendations were contributed by stakeholders in this evaluation. These are manifestations of a continuing interest and desire to make health policy and systems research in the Philippines more robust and relevant. It is imperative for the program to continually evolve and build systems most applicable to its multidisciplinary context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reneepearl Kim Sales
- Alliance for Improving Health Outcomes, Veria 1 Building, 62 West Avenue, West Triangle, 1104, Quezon City, Philippines.
| | - Gladys Kaye Reyes-Ramos
- Alliance for Improving Health Outcomes, Veria 1 Building, 62 West Avenue, West Triangle, 1104, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Chiqui de Veyra
- Alliance for Improving Health Outcomes, Veria 1 Building, 62 West Avenue, West Triangle, 1104, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Gabrielle Gascon
- Alliance for Improving Health Outcomes, Veria 1 Building, 62 West Avenue, West Triangle, 1104, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Vianka Barraca
- Alliance for Improving Health Outcomes, Veria 1 Building, 62 West Avenue, West Triangle, 1104, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Gillian Garcia
- Alliance for Improving Health Outcomes, Veria 1 Building, 62 West Avenue, West Triangle, 1104, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Maria Eufemia Yap
- Alliance for Improving Health Outcomes, Veria 1 Building, 62 West Avenue, West Triangle, 1104, Quezon City, Philippines
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Carvalho DS, Felipe LL, Albuquerque PC, Zicker F, Fonseca BDP. Leadership and international collaboration on COVID-19 research: reducing the North-South divide? Scientometrics 2023; 128:1-17. [PMID: 37360229 PMCID: PMC10239718 DOI: 10.1007/s11192-023-04754-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic triggered unprecedented scientific efforts worldwide and launched several initiatives to promote international cooperation. Because international scientific collaborations between high-income countries (HICs) and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are not always balanced, analyzing research leadership helps to understand the global dynamics of knowledge production during COVID-19. In this study, we focused on HIC-LMIC collaborations on COVID-19 research in 469,937 scientific publications during the first 2 years of the pandemic (2020-2021). Co-authorship and authors' affiliation were used to identify international collaborations, according to country income level. The leadership analysis considered the countries of the first and last authors of publications. The results show that (i) most publications with international collaborations (49.3%) involved researchers from HICs and LMICs; (ii) collaborative research between HICs and LMICs addressed relevant public health needs; (iii) HIC-LMIC collaborations were primarily led by researchers from the United States, China, the United Kingdom, and India; (iv) most HIC-LMIC publications (44%) had shared leadership, with research interests linked to national expertise and global interests. This study contributes to the analysis of research collaborations on COVID-19 and sheds light on North-South relations in the production and dissemination of scientific knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Silva Carvalho
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Av. Brasil 4036, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21040-361 Brazil
| | - Lucas Lopes Felipe
- Post Graduation Program in Informatics (PPGI), Department of Computer Science, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Av. Athos da Silveira Ramos 274, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-916 Brazil
| | - Priscila Costa Albuquerque
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Av. Brasil 4036, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21040-361 Brazil
| | - Fabio Zicker
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Av. Brasil 4036, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21040-361 Brazil
| | - Bruna de Paula Fonseca
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Av. Brasil 4036, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21040-361 Brazil
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van der Westhuizen C, Richter M, Kagee A, Roomaney R, Schneider M, Sorsdahl K. Stakeholders' perspectives on the development of an Africa-focused postgraduate diploma to address public mental health training needs in Africa: a qualitative study. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:288. [PMID: 37098496 PMCID: PMC10127172 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04751-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the significant contribution of mental health conditions to the burden of disease, there is insufficient evidence from Africa to inform policy, planning and service delivery. Thus, there is a need for mental health research capacity building, led by African public mental health researchers and practitioners, to drive local research priorities. The aim of African mental health Researchers Inspired and Equipped (ARISE) was to develop a one-year postgraduate diploma (PGDip) in public mental health to address the current gaps in public mental health training. METHODS Thirty-six individual interviews were conducted online with three groups of participants: course convenors of related PGDips in South Africa, course convenors of international public mental health degree programmes and stakeholders active in public mental health in Africa. The interviewers elicited information regarding: programme delivery, training needs in African public mental health, and experiences of facilitators, barriers and solutions to successful implementation. The transcribed interviews were analysed by two coders using thematic analysis. RESULTS Participants found the Africa-focused PGDip programme acceptable with the potential to address public mental health research and operational capacity gaps in Africa. Participants provided several recommendations for the PGDip, including that: (i) the programme be guided by the principles of human rights, social justice, diversity and inclusivity; (ii) the content reflect African public mental health needs; (iii) PGDip faculty be skilled in teaching and developing material for online courses and (iv) the PGDip be designed as a fully online or blended learning programme in collaboration with learning designers. CONCLUSIONS The study findings provided valuable insight into how to communicate key principles and skills suited to the rapidly developing public mental health field while keeping pace with changes in higher education. The information elicited has informed curriculum design, implementation and quality improvement strategies for the new postgraduate public mental health programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire van der Westhuizen
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, 46 Sawkins Road, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa.
| | - Marlise Richter
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, 46 Sawkins Road, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
- African Centre for Migration & Society, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ashraf Kagee
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Rizwana Roomaney
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Marguerite Schneider
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, 46 Sawkins Road, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
| | - Katherine Sorsdahl
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, 46 Sawkins Road, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
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