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Open Access Africa: Showcasing African research

Collection published: 5 November 2012

Last updated: 11 July 2013

In November 2012 the third Open Access Africa event, hosted by BioMed Central and the University of Cape Town, discussed the implications of open access for African research. Through this collection of articles, we want to highlight the quality and the breadth of the research being carried out across Africa. It brings together a diverse range of specialities and study types, featuring research into diseases prevalent within the continent, and offering insights into health policy that can be implemented throughout the world. Case reports and clinical trials allow health workers to keep up to date with the latest treatments and information.

As internet and mobile technology improves, access to knowledge increases. This collection aims to show the impact of open access, which allows free access to and distribution of published articles, meaning that individuals aren't limited to seeing content from the journals they have subscribed to. Authors retain copyright of their work through a Creative Commons attribution license; they or anyone else can distribute it and reuse it as needed. Through open-access publication, the visibility of African researchers and institutions is improved, and the opportunity for local and international collaborations increase.

		Research Health inequalities in Ethiopia: modeling inequalities in length of life within and between population groups Eirik Tranvåg, Merima Ali, Ole Norheim International Journal for Equity in Health 2013, 12:52 (11 July 2013) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| ePUB \| PubMed
		Scoping Review Scaling up impact of malaria control programmes: a tale of events in Sub-Saharan Africa and People’s Republic of China Ernest Tambo, Ahmed Adedeji, Fang Huang, Jun-Hu Chen, Shui-Sen Zhou, Ling-Hua Tang Infectious Diseases of Poverty 2012, 1:7 (1 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| Editor’s summary This systematic review provides scientific evidence on the trends in malaria events 1960 - 2011, as well as the achievements, progress and challenges in research, through informed decisions on public health issues and intervention designs towards elimination in both Africa and China. Image: The malaria incidence patterns of selective African countries and China.
		Research Article Association between water related factors and active trachoma in Hai district, Northern Tanzania Michael J Mahande, Humphrey D Mazigo, Eliningaya J Kweka Infectious Diseases of Poverty 2012, 1:10 (1 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| Editor’s summary This study was conducted to assess the association of water related factors, general hygiene and active trachoma among preschool and school age children in Hai district, northern Tanzania. Image: A Masai woman with a baby both infested with flies on their faces.
		Research Linking avian communities and avian influenza ecology in southern Africa using epidemiological functional groups Alexandre Caron, Michel de Garine-Wichatitsky, Mduduzi Ndlovu, Graeme S Cumming Veterinary Research 2012, 43:73 (26 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Research Article Socio-cultural determinants of timely and delayed treatment of Buruli ulcer: implications for disease control Mercy M Ackumey, Margaret Gyapong, Matilda Pappoe, Cynthia Maclean, Mitchell G Weiss Infectious Diseases of Poverty 2012, 1:6 (25 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| Editor’s summary An integrated approach to Buruli ulcer that includes periodic screening for early case-detection, collaboration with private practitioners and traditional healers and, use of mobile services to improve access, adherence and treatment outcomes is suggested.
		Review The burden of neglected tropical diseases in Ethiopia, and opportunities for integrated control and elimination Kebede Deribe, Kadu Meribo, Teshome Gebre, Asrat Hailu, Ahmed Ali, Abraham Aseffa, Gail Davey Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:240 (24 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are significant public health problems in Ethiopia. Ethiopia stands out for having the largest number of NTD cases following Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo in Sub-Saharan Africa. A third of Ethiopians are infected with ascariasis, one quarter is infected with trichuriasis and one in eight Ethiopians lives with hookworm or is infected with trachoma. To achieve success in integrated control of NTDs, integrated mapping, rapid scale-up of interventions and operational research into co-implementation of intervention packages will be crucial. . Image: Podoconiosis patient.
		Research Do guidelines influence the implementation of health programs? — Uganda’s experience Juliet Nabyonga Orem, Juliet Bataringaya Wavamunno, Solome K Bakeera, Bart Criel Implementation Science 2012, 7:98 (15 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Research Identification of different trypanosome species in the mid-guts of tsetse flies of the Malanga (Kimpese) sleeping sickness focus of the Democratic Republic of Congo Gustave Simo, Barberine Silatsa, Njiokou Flobert, Pascal Lutumba, Philemon Mansinsa, Joule Madinga, Emile Manzambi, Reginald De Deken, Tazoacha Asonganyi Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:201 (19 September 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The transmission cycles of human and animal trypanosomiasis show tsetse as the central actor transmitting the parasite to mammals. Identification of trypanosomes in tsetse as well as blood meal origin provides data for better understanding the epidemiology of these diseases. Image: Tsetse as the main actor transmitting trypanosomes to human and animals.
		Research article Engagement of non-government organisations and community care workers in collaborative TB/HIV activities including prevention of mother to child transmission in South Africa: Opportunities and challenges Jeannine Uwimana, Christina Zarowsky, Harry Hausler, Debra Jackson BMC Health Services Research 2012, 12:233 (2 August 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Correspondence Analysis of pan-African Centres of excellence in health innovation highlights opportunities and challenges for local innovation and financing in the continent Solomon Nwaka, Alexander Ochem, Dominique Besson, Bernadette Ramirez, Foluke Fakorede, Sanaa Botros, Uford Inyang, Charles Mgone, Ivan Adae-Mensah, Victor Konde, Barthelemy Nyasse, Blessed Okole, Anastasia Guantai, Glaudina Loots, Peter Atadja, Peter Ndumbe, Issa Sanou, Ole Olesen, Robert Ridley, Tshinko Ilunga BMC International Health and Human Rights 2012, 12:11 (27 July 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Review Effectiveness of early interventions for substance-using adolescents: findings from a systematic review and meta-analysis Tara Carney, Bronwyn Myers Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy 2012, 7:25 (14 June 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Methodology A case-control study of Burkitt lymphoma in East Africa: are local health facilities an appropriate source of representative controls? Sonya Baik, Mike Mbaziira, Makeda Williams, Martin D Ogwang, Tobias Kinyera, Benjamin Emmanuel, John L Ziegler, Steven J Reynolds, Sam M Mbulaiteye Infectious Agents and Cancer 2012, 7:5 (13 March 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Protocol Male participation in prevention programmes of mother to child transmission of HIV: a protocol for a systematic review to identify barriers, facilitators and reported interventions Frederick LI Morfaw, Lehana Thabane, Lawrence CE Mbuagbaw, Philip N Nana Systematic Reviews 2012, 1:13 (16 February 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Case report Atypical presentation of colon adenocarcinoma: a case report Lynnette K Tumwine, Magid Kagimu, Ponsiano Ocama, Innocent Segamwenge, Noah Masiira-Mukasa, Dan Wamala, Otto Dworak, Christopher K Opio Journal of Medical Case Reports 2012, 6:58 (13 February 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Research article Zinc adjunct therapy reduces case fatality in severe childhood pneumonia: a randomized double blind placebo-controlled trial Maheswari G Srinivasan, Grace Ndeezi, Cordelia Mboijana, Sarah Kiguli, Gabriel S Bimenya, Victoria Nankabirwa, James K Tumwine BMC Medicine 2012, 10:14 (8 February 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| f1000 \| Editor’s summary Clinical trial evidence shows zinc supplementation can reduce mortality rates of children with severe pneumonia, having a greater effect in HIV positive infants, without reducing time to normalization of disease severity parameters.
		Research Landscape requirements of a primate population in a human-dominated environment Tali S Hoffman, M Justin O'Riain Frontiers in Zoology 2012, 9:1 (23 January 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Research Determinants of low family planning use and high unmet need in Butajira District, South Central Ethiopia Wubegzier Mekonnen, Alemayehu Worku Reproductive Health 2011, 8:37 (8 December 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Research The contribution of traditional healers' clinics to public health care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study Wubet Birhan, Mirutse Giday, Tilahun Teklehaymanot Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2011, 7:39 (2 December 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Research Infant mortality in South Africa - distribution, associations and policy implications, 2007: an ecological spatial analysis Benn KD Sartorius, Kurt Sartorius, Tobias F Chirwa, Sharon Fonn International Journal of Health Geographics 2011, 10:61 (18 November 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Research Identity of zinc finger nucleases with specificity to herpes simplex virus type II genomic DNA: novel HSV-2 vaccine/therapy precursors Misaki Wayengera Theoretical Biology and Medical Modelling 2011, 8:23 (24 June 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Research article Comparative evaluation of two rapid field tests for malaria diagnosis: Partec Rapid Malaria Test^®and Binax Now^®Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test Bernard Nkrumah, Samuel EK Acquah, Lukeman Ibrahim, Juergen May, Norbert Brattig, Egbert Tannich, Samuel Nguah, Yaw Adu-Sarkodie, Frank Huenger BMC Infectious Diseases 2011, 11:143 (23 May 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Original research Prevalence and determinants of obesity - a cross-sectional study of an adult Northern Nigerian population Kolawole W Wahab, Mahmoud U Sani, Bashir O Yusuf, Maruf Gbadamosi, Akeem Gbadamosi, Mahmoud I Yandutse International Archives of Medicine 2011, 4:10 (1 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Methodology article Genome-wide SNP identification by high-throughput sequencing and selective mapping allows sequence assembly positioning using a framework genetic linkage map Jean-Marc Celton, Alan Christoffels, Daniel J Sargent, Xiangming Xu, D Jasper G Rees BMC Biology 2010, 8:155 (30 December 2010) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Research Inequities in utilization of maternal health interventions in Namibia: implications for progress towards MDG 5 targets Eyob Zere, Prosper Tumusiime, Oladapo Walker, Joses Kirigia, Chris Mwikisa, Thomas Mbeeli International Journal for Equity in Health 2010, 9:16 (12 June 2010) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Review The nature of fibrous dysplasia Liviu Feller, Neil H Wood, Razia AG Khammissa, Johan Lemmer, Erich J Raubenheimer Head & Face Medicine 2009, 5:22 (9 November 2009) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed

		Research Health inequalities in Ethiopia: modeling inequalities in length of life within and between population groups Eirik Tranvåg, Merima Ali, Ole Norheim International Journal for Equity in Health 2013, 12:52 (11 July 2013) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| ePUB \| PubMed
		Scoping Review Scaling up impact of malaria control programmes: a tale of events in Sub-Saharan Africa and People’s Republic of China Ernest Tambo, Ahmed Adedeji, Fang Huang, Jun-Hu Chen, Shui-Sen Zhou, Ling-Hua Tang Infectious Diseases of Poverty 2012, 1:7 (1 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| Editor’s summary This systematic review provides scientific evidence on the trends in malaria events 1960 - 2011, as well as the achievements, progress and challenges in research, through informed decisions on public health issues and intervention designs towards elimination in both Africa and China. Image: The malaria incidence patterns of selective African countries and China.
		Research Article Association between water related factors and active trachoma in Hai district, Northern Tanzania Michael J Mahande, Humphrey D Mazigo, Eliningaya J Kweka Infectious Diseases of Poverty 2012, 1:10 (1 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| Editor’s summary This study was conducted to assess the association of water related factors, general hygiene and active trachoma among preschool and school age children in Hai district, northern Tanzania. Image: A Masai woman with a baby both infested with flies on their faces.
		Research Linking avian communities and avian influenza ecology in southern Africa using epidemiological functional groups Alexandre Caron, Michel de Garine-Wichatitsky, Mduduzi Ndlovu, Graeme S Cumming Veterinary Research 2012, 43:73 (26 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Research Article Socio-cultural determinants of timely and delayed treatment of Buruli ulcer: implications for disease control Mercy M Ackumey, Margaret Gyapong, Matilda Pappoe, Cynthia Maclean, Mitchell G Weiss Infectious Diseases of Poverty 2012, 1:6 (25 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| Editor’s summary An integrated approach to Buruli ulcer that includes periodic screening for early case-detection, collaboration with private practitioners and traditional healers and, use of mobile services to improve access, adherence and treatment outcomes is suggested.
		Review The burden of neglected tropical diseases in Ethiopia, and opportunities for integrated control and elimination Kebede Deribe, Kadu Meribo, Teshome Gebre, Asrat Hailu, Ahmed Ali, Abraham Aseffa, Gail Davey Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:240 (24 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are significant public health problems in Ethiopia. Ethiopia stands out for having the largest number of NTD cases following Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo in Sub-Saharan Africa. A third of Ethiopians are infected with ascariasis, one quarter is infected with trichuriasis and one in eight Ethiopians lives with hookworm or is infected with trachoma. To achieve success in integrated control of NTDs, integrated mapping, rapid scale-up of interventions and operational research into co-implementation of intervention packages will be crucial. . Image: Podoconiosis patient.
		Research Do guidelines influence the implementation of health programs? — Uganda’s experience Juliet Nabyonga Orem, Juliet Bataringaya Wavamunno, Solome K Bakeera, Bart Criel Implementation Science 2012, 7:98 (15 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Research Identification of different trypanosome species in the mid-guts of tsetse flies of the Malanga (Kimpese) sleeping sickness focus of the Democratic Republic of Congo Gustave Simo, Barberine Silatsa, Njiokou Flobert, Pascal Lutumba, Philemon Mansinsa, Joule Madinga, Emile Manzambi, Reginald De Deken, Tazoacha Asonganyi Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:201 (19 September 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The transmission cycles of human and animal trypanosomiasis show tsetse as the central actor transmitting the parasite to mammals. Identification of trypanosomes in tsetse as well as blood meal origin provides data for better understanding the epidemiology of these diseases. Image: Tsetse as the main actor transmitting trypanosomes to human and animals.
		Research article Engagement of non-government organisations and community care workers in collaborative TB/HIV activities including prevention of mother to child transmission in South Africa: Opportunities and challenges Jeannine Uwimana, Christina Zarowsky, Harry Hausler, Debra Jackson BMC Health Services Research 2012, 12:233 (2 August 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Correspondence Analysis of pan-African Centres of excellence in health innovation highlights opportunities and challenges for local innovation and financing in the continent Solomon Nwaka, Alexander Ochem, Dominique Besson, Bernadette Ramirez, Foluke Fakorede, Sanaa Botros, Uford Inyang, Charles Mgone, Ivan Adae-Mensah, Victor Konde, Barthelemy Nyasse, Blessed Okole, Anastasia Guantai, Glaudina Loots, Peter Atadja, Peter Ndumbe, Issa Sanou, Ole Olesen, Robert Ridley, Tshinko Ilunga BMC International Health and Human Rights 2012, 12:11 (27 July 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Review Effectiveness of early interventions for substance-using adolescents: findings from a systematic review and meta-analysis Tara Carney, Bronwyn Myers Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy 2012, 7:25 (14 June 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Methodology A case-control study of Burkitt lymphoma in East Africa: are local health facilities an appropriate source of representative controls? Sonya Baik, Mike Mbaziira, Makeda Williams, Martin D Ogwang, Tobias Kinyera, Benjamin Emmanuel, John L Ziegler, Steven J Reynolds, Sam M Mbulaiteye Infectious Agents and Cancer 2012, 7:5 (13 March 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Protocol Male participation in prevention programmes of mother to child transmission of HIV: a protocol for a systematic review to identify barriers, facilitators and reported interventions Frederick LI Morfaw, Lehana Thabane, Lawrence CE Mbuagbaw, Philip N Nana Systematic Reviews 2012, 1:13 (16 February 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Case report Atypical presentation of colon adenocarcinoma: a case report Lynnette K Tumwine, Magid Kagimu, Ponsiano Ocama, Innocent Segamwenge, Noah Masiira-Mukasa, Dan Wamala, Otto Dworak, Christopher K Opio Journal of Medical Case Reports 2012, 6:58 (13 February 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Research article Zinc adjunct therapy reduces case fatality in severe childhood pneumonia: a randomized double blind placebo-controlled trial Maheswari G Srinivasan, Grace Ndeezi, Cordelia Mboijana, Sarah Kiguli, Gabriel S Bimenya, Victoria Nankabirwa, James K Tumwine BMC Medicine 2012, 10:14 (8 February 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| f1000 \| Editor’s summary Clinical trial evidence shows zinc supplementation can reduce mortality rates of children with severe pneumonia, having a greater effect in HIV positive infants, without reducing time to normalization of disease severity parameters.
		Research Landscape requirements of a primate population in a human-dominated environment Tali S Hoffman, M Justin O'Riain Frontiers in Zoology 2012, 9:1 (23 January 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Research Determinants of low family planning use and high unmet need in Butajira District, South Central Ethiopia Wubegzier Mekonnen, Alemayehu Worku Reproductive Health 2011, 8:37 (8 December 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed
		Research The contribution of traditional healers' clinics to public health care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study Wubet Birhan, Mirutse Giday, Tilahun Teklehaymanot Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2011, 7:39 (2 December 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Research Infant mortality in South Africa - distribution, associations and policy implications, 2007: an ecological spatial analysis Benn KD Sartorius, Kurt Sartorius, Tobias F Chirwa, Sharon Fonn International Journal of Health Geographics 2011, 10:61 (18 November 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Research Identity of zinc finger nucleases with specificity to herpes simplex virus type II genomic DNA: novel HSV-2 vaccine/therapy precursors Misaki Wayengera Theoretical Biology and Medical Modelling 2011, 8:23 (24 June 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Research article Comparative evaluation of two rapid field tests for malaria diagnosis: Partec Rapid Malaria Test^®and Binax Now^®Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test Bernard Nkrumah, Samuel EK Acquah, Lukeman Ibrahim, Juergen May, Norbert Brattig, Egbert Tannich, Samuel Nguah, Yaw Adu-Sarkodie, Frank Huenger BMC Infectious Diseases 2011, 11:143 (23 May 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Original research Prevalence and determinants of obesity - a cross-sectional study of an adult Northern Nigerian population Kolawole W Wahab, Mahmoud U Sani, Bashir O Yusuf, Maruf Gbadamosi, Akeem Gbadamosi, Mahmoud I Yandutse International Archives of Medicine 2011, 4:10 (1 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Methodology article Genome-wide SNP identification by high-throughput sequencing and selective mapping allows sequence assembly positioning using a framework genetic linkage map Jean-Marc Celton, Alan Christoffels, Daniel J Sargent, Xiangming Xu, D Jasper G Rees BMC Biology 2010, 8:155 (30 December 2010) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Research Inequities in utilization of maternal health interventions in Namibia: implications for progress towards MDG 5 targets Eyob Zere, Prosper Tumusiime, Oladapo Walker, Joses Kirigia, Chris Mwikisa, Thomas Mbeeli International Journal for Equity in Health 2010, 9:16 (12 June 2010) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central
		Review The nature of fibrous dysplasia Liviu Feller, Neil H Wood, Razia AG Khammissa, Johan Lemmer, Erich J Raubenheimer Head & Face Medicine 2009, 5:22 (9 November 2009) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed