Science and research news from Africa. Covers Congo Basin wildlife, maternity care, malaria resurgence, and drug-resistant parasites.
A study analyzing vital registration, census, and survey data from 202 countries estimates sex ratio at birth for all countries between 1950 and 2017. The study reveals significant regional variations and findings a total of 23.1 million missing female births worldwide.
Researchers found that teens have an overly simplistic understanding of consent, ignoring non-verbal cues, and believe silence indicates consent. Targeted interventions are needed to reduce sexual violence and improve resilience among teens.
A new study found substantial variation in vaccine coverage within countries, with some areas having less than 25% coverage. The study provides insights for nations' health ministers to identify where to improve vaccine delivery systems and tailor strategies to reach unvaccinated children.
Researchers found diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough vaccination levels in Nigeria, DRC, Ethiopia, Mozambique, and Cambodia below the 80% threshold. Targeted campaigns can improve immunization service delivery, especially in areas with poor routine immunization coverage.
A large-scale study found consensus among conservationists on core aims, but significant disagreement on mechanisms to achieve them. The study reveals deep divisions over assigning economic value to nature and the necessity of protected areas, as well as varying perspectives on non-native species and human population growth.
A study by ISGlobal identifies West African regions where treating livestock with ivermectin can significantly impact malaria transmission. The analysis highlights the potential of this strategy to reduce malaria prevalence among children under 10 years of age and improve community health.
Researchers develop a model to estimate TB drug distribution in lung lesions, revealing poor penetration into cavitary lesions. A clinical risk score is also introduced to identify HIV-positive patients at high risk of dying within 2 months of diagnosis.
A study by Syracuse University professor Mark Ritchie observed a 400% spike in human population and a 75% drop in larger wildlife species populations near the iconic ecosystem. The research highlights the need for alternative strategies to sustain coexistence between local people and wildlife.
Researchers have confirmed the presence of Telenomus remus, an egg parasitoid that could be a vital tool in fighting fall armyworm in Africa. The species has been shown to provide full control of fall armyworm with an 80-100 percent parasitism rate.
Researchers discovered a new species of ebolavirus, Bombali, in Kenyan bats, suggesting it may be more widespread than thought. The virus does not infect humans and its presence in wildlife could help researchers understand the dynamics of this and other ebolavirus species.
A new census using the IUCN A.P.E.S. database estimates that 52,800 western chimpanzees live in western Africa, primarily outside protected areas. The study highlights the need for conservation efforts to reduce habitat loss and connectivity due to development corridors.
Scientists found that current WHO guidelines for chronic hepatitis B fail to detect 50% of patients in need of treatment in Ethiopia. The guidelines are based on European and American data, highlighting the need for regionalized approaches to identify patients with significant liver disease.
A new model predicts substantial reduction of malaria transmitting mosquitoes in West Africa by introducing genetically modified male mosquitoes with a driving-Y chromosome. The approach, which targets the most important species of malaria mosquitoes, has the potential to reduce populations and ultimately eliminate disease transmission.
A study by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that improved housing prevalence doubled from 11% to 23% in sub-Saharan Africa between 2000 and 2015. Despite this progress, 53 million urban Africans still lived in slum conditions in 2015.
A major international collaboration aims to improve weather forecasting across Africa, with a focus on reducing the impact of severe weather events. The project seeks to build confidence between forecasters and users by developing new computer models and satellite methods.
A new study published in the Journal of Public Health found that immigrant women in Norway are more likely to be overweight during pregnancy. The study, which analyzed data from 219,555 deliveries between 2006 and 2014, also found a significant association between country of birth and weight status.
A study by Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine found that complete window screening coverage was associated with a 92% reduction in malaria prevalence. Mosquito biting rates were also reduced, highlighting the potential impact of simple interventions on malaria transmission.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that people from North Africa were among the first to colonize the Canary Islands, arriving by 1000 CE. The researchers analyzed ancient mitochondrial genomes and identified lineages consistent with radiocarbon dating evidence, suggesting a complex and heterogeneous process of colonization.
A genetic study confirms a small-scale migration of modern humans from southern Africa to eastern Africa around 65,000 years ago. This event likely transmitted cultural advancements and contributed to the greatest diaspora in human history.
A North Carolina State University study found that US indoor climate preferences are most similar to those of west central Kenya and northeast Africa, with warm conditions and low humidity prevailing. The survey of 37 states showed that Americans aim for a climate closest to the outdoor conditions in these regions.
A large randomized controlled trial found that two frontline two-drug combinations including amlodipine significantly reduced blood pressure levels more than a third combination without amlodipine. The study, conducted in sub-Saharan Africa, showed that nearly half of adults have high blood pressure, often receiving ineffective treatment.
The study found the maternal mortality rate after C-section in Africa is substantially higher than expected at 5.43 per 1,000 operations, compared to 0.1 per 1,000 operations in high-income countries. Neonatal mortality rates also double the global average.
A study by Oxford University and UN agencies finds that key services can contribute to multiple sustainable development goals, even among high-risk children and adolescents. Simple combinations of programs such as parenting support, cash transfers, and safe schools provide greater impacts.
Researchers found that 86% of East Africa's ecoregions have achieved the Aichi Target 11 goal of protecting at least 10% of each region by 2020. However, three ecoregions are poorly represented with less than 10% coverage. Protected areas cover at least 10% of endemic species' ranges, but many species still lack full protection.
The discovery of fossilized monkey teeth in West Turkana, Kenya, fills a 6-million-year gap in Old World monkey evolution. The newly found teeth, belonging to the species Alophia metios, have primitive dentition, lacking 'lophs,' and are believed to be adapted to a diet of hard fruits, seeds, and nuts.
The team aims to develop a sorting-machine prototype using pupae images and machine-learning algorithms to process tens of thousands of images daily. They also design a robot to sort the pupae based on the result of the algorithm, with the goal of reducing tsetse populations in sub-Saharan Africa.
A study of dengue fever's economic burden in Burkina Faso, Kenya, and Cambodia found high costs for patients in African countries. The average cost of inpatient care was $26 in Burkina Faso and $134 in Cambodia.
Researchers found genetic evidence of malaria's emergence in Sub-Saharan Africa dating back to at least 20,000 years ago. The study challenges the long-held assumption that agriculture led to the spread of malaria.
Researchers propose using smartphones for disease diagnosis, testing, and treatment in low-income countries like sub-Saharan Africa. Simple testing technologies can be linked into a phone via USB or wirelessly, allowing people to test themselves at home.
Researchers document a new 'behavioral realm' in Eastern chimpanzees of the Bili-Uéré region, characterized by novel tool use and expanded food processing technologies. This discovery sheds light on the likely incipient traditions of early hominin ancestors and highlights the importance of studying intact ape cultures.
The study found that Australian fairy circles were formed by physical processes such as weathering of the soil by heavy rainfall, extreme heat, and evaporation. The researchers also discovered that there is no causal relationship between termites and fairy circles.
Researchers found that Natura 2000 in Germany effectively protects all listed habitat types, but large-area and common ones are significantly underrepresented. This imbalance can be addressed by setting specific area targets for each habitat type.
Genomic analysis reveals East Africa's hunter-gatherers diverged from a shared ancestry around 20,000 years ago, driven by infectious disease and dietary adaptations. This study provides insight into the genetic diversity of African populations, shedding light on the role of diet and disease in shaping human evolution.
The Art Institute of Chicago has made significant new research on five terracotta sculptures from the 12th to 15th centuries, confirming they were created as a group and date back over 800 years. The use of CT scanning and thermoluminescence testing revealed exceptional craftsmanship and uniqueness among the sculptures.
The inaugural challenge highlighted scientific innovation across the African continent, with five winners selected from over 100 entries. The winners received a $5,000 cash prize and international publicity for their remarkable stories.
Prof Dave Richardson from Stellenbosch University has received the Kwame Nkrumah Award for Scientific Excellence, recognizing his significant contributions to the field of invasion biology. The award acknowledges his research on biological invasions and their impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning in Africa.
A new study called REACH seeks to understand the safety and acceptability of a daily oral tablet called Truvada (PrEP) and a monthly vaginal ring containing an antiretroviral drug called dapivirine. The study aims to enroll 300 young women and girls ages 16-21 in four African countries, providing them with choices in HIV prevention.
A new study found that disruptions in women's education in sub-Saharan Africa are partly responsible for the stall in declining fertility rates. The research used detailed data on over two million births and found that cohorts affected by educational discontinuities in the 1980s tend to have higher levels of fertility.
A new joint research project is studying changes in landscapes and soil conditions of South Africa to assess land degradation. The 'South African Land Degradation Monitor' will use Earth observation data to monitor developments over time.
African women's fertility rates declined between 1985-2010 when they were deprived of educational opportunities. However, improvements in education led to steady declines in Ghana.
Researchers Graham Andrews and Sarah Brown from West Virginia University discovered drumlins, a type of hill formed by glaciers, in the Namibian desert. The study provides evidence of an ice stream in southern Africa during the late Paleozoic Age, about 300 million years ago.
The UKRI Global Research Hubs aim to improve the health and life prospects of Africa's youth by identifying effective service combinations. Researchers will test 'accelerator synergy' services in various sectors, aiming to lead better lives for teenagers across Africa.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet reveal altered mosquito behavior and parasite selection as major obstacles to malaria eradication. The study shows a 96% decline in malaria incidence in Zanzibar, but highlights the need for new strategies to overcome challenges and achieve elimination.
Researchers confirm that two ancient hominin skeletons are from the same early species, Australopithecus sediba. The study provides new insights into the species' adaptations for bipedalism and tree-climbing.
The five-year grant will support J-PAL's policy team and Pratham in scaling up the TaRL approach across multiple countries in Africa, building foundational skills through activities and materials tailored to each group. The initiative aims to shift from 'schooling for all' to 'learning for all', enabling governments, local schools, and...
Researchers found that North African date palms are a hybrid between Middle East cultivated date palms and the wild Cretan telative native to Crete, leading to increased genetic diversity. The study sheds light on the evolutionary history of the earliest domesticated tree crop in the world.
Date palms in North Africa exhibit mixed ancestry due to hybridization with P. theophrasti from Crete, influencing 18% of their genome. Researchers sequenced genomes of 71 cultivars and five wild relatives to uncover this origin story.
The systematic review identified nine themes impacting on adherence and treatment seeking, including external issues such as poverty and stigma. Long-term engagement requires adaptation and incorporation of ART into daily life, facilitated by factors like self-efficacy and emotional support. The review aims to inform service delivery a...
Researchers found that climate change has led to increased synchrony between the two species, resulting in more conflicts over nesting sites. As a result, pied flycatcher fatalities in great tit nests have risen dramatically.
The fall armyworm is forecasted to invade staple crops in South and Southeast Asia, as well as Australia, due to their similar climates. The species' potential for invasion and seasonal migration is high, and early detection of small larvae is crucial for effective management.
The Open Source Seed Licence safeguards plant germplasm by protecting it from patenting and exclusive rights. This allows for the free exchange of breeding material and knowledge, enabling the development of new varieties like 'Sunviva', a cherry tomato well-suited for gardens and balconies.
Researchers found the Sahara desert's climate swung between lush and arid conditions every 20,000 years, synchronized with monsoon activity. The study used sediment cores to analyze dust deposits and rare isotopes of thorium, revealing a 20,000-year beat that contradicts previous ice age cycle explanations.
A global study estimates that one in four people over age 25 are at risk for stroke during their lifetime. The study reveals large geographic variations in stroke risk, with the highest risks found in East Asia and Central Europe.
A systematic review of traditional medicine (TCAM) use in Sub-Saharan Africa found significant and widespread use among the general population and specific health conditions. TCAM use was often aligned with sociocultural and spiritual values, with herbal therapy being the most common treatment.
A large population study in sub-Saharan Africa discovered three new strains of hepatitis C, which may not be effective against current antiviral drugs. The findings highlight the need for further research and clinical trials to inform optimal treatment strategies and vaccine development.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs finds that pregnant women and young children in sub-Saharan Africa are the most likely family members to sleep under bed nets to prevent malaria. The study suggests that providing enough bed nets can reduce age and gender disparities in net use, but highlights concerns abou...
A recent study has identified the rapid evolution of a gene causing lighter skin pigmentation in southern Africa. The SLC24A5 gene was introduced from eastern Africa and underwent strong positive selection among KhoeSan populations.
Researchers discovered an East African pastoralist's introduction of the light skin allele to KhoeSan populations around 2,000 years ago. The allele underwent strong positive selection, resulting in the observed high frequencies of light skin pigmentation among the KhoeSan.
A joint US-African effort to test the Bharat Biotech typhoid conjugate vaccine (TCV) on 250 children aged 9-36 months in Burkina Faso. The study aims to evaluate the TCV's efficacy when co-administered with other routine vaccines, such as yellow fever and meningitis A vaccines.
A daily hydroxyurea pill has been shown to improve health outcomes for young children with sickle cell anemia in resource-challenged sub-Saharan Africa. The treatment reduced rates of pain episodes, infections, malaria, transfusions, and death by significant margins.