Reimagining library services: Transforming libraries into dynamic learning spaces in South African universities
- Authors: Nongalo, Noloyiso
- Date: 2025
- Subjects: Dynamic learning spaces , Collaborative enviroments , Inclusive education , Digital Literacy , Lifelong learning
- Language: English
- Type: article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/13140 , vital:77950 , DOI: https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.2025641
- Description: This conceptual paper aimed to explore the transformation of university libraries in South Africa into dynamic learning spaces that cater to evolving academic and social needs of students. In the context of South Africa's rapidly changing higher education landscape, where inclusivity and technological advancements are paramount, the role of university libraries is shifting from traditional information repositories to hubs of collaborative learning and student engagement. The paper employed a qualitative review of literature and an analysis of the existing infrastructures in libraries of Historically Disadvantaged Institutions (HDIs) to identify strategies for this transformation. The findings highlighted the pivotal role libraries play in promoting lifelong learning, enhancing digital literacy, and supporting academic success. Key recommendations include the integration of advanced technology, the creation of flexible, student-centred spaces, and the incorporation of inclusive practices to accommodate diverse student populations. This paper contributes to ongoing research by offering a model for reimagining library spaces in line with global trends, providing insights for other educational institutions seeking to foster dynamic, student-focused learning environments.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nongalo, Noloyiso
- Date: 2025
- Subjects: Dynamic learning spaces , Collaborative enviroments , Inclusive education , Digital Literacy , Lifelong learning
- Language: English
- Type: article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/13140 , vital:77950 , DOI: https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.2025641
- Description: This conceptual paper aimed to explore the transformation of university libraries in South Africa into dynamic learning spaces that cater to evolving academic and social needs of students. In the context of South Africa's rapidly changing higher education landscape, where inclusivity and technological advancements are paramount, the role of university libraries is shifting from traditional information repositories to hubs of collaborative learning and student engagement. The paper employed a qualitative review of literature and an analysis of the existing infrastructures in libraries of Historically Disadvantaged Institutions (HDIs) to identify strategies for this transformation. The findings highlighted the pivotal role libraries play in promoting lifelong learning, enhancing digital literacy, and supporting academic success. Key recommendations include the integration of advanced technology, the creation of flexible, student-centred spaces, and the incorporation of inclusive practices to accommodate diverse student populations. This paper contributes to ongoing research by offering a model for reimagining library spaces in line with global trends, providing insights for other educational institutions seeking to foster dynamic, student-focused learning environments.
- Full Text:
A panacea for public participation during Covid-19 and beyond in Matjhabeng Local Municipality
- Authors: Mofolo, Malefetsane
- Date: 2021-08-18
- Subjects: Mthatha Research and Innovation Day , COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020-
- Language: English
- Type: lecture , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/6295 , vital:45356
- Description: Since the inception of Covid-19 in 2020 in South Africa and the subsequent lockdown levels that were introduced in order to mitigate the effects of this pandemic, public participation in municipalities has experienced a serious knock. Public participation forms the most important legislative principle for good governance in the South African government. While,the literature is showing that Covid-19 has affected the South African public sector in numerous ways, the tension that was created by the challenges inclined to public participation in the South African municipalities during the pandemic has not gained much attention. Apparently,communities were not even aware of the measures that were introduced to conduct public participation during this period of Covid19.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mofolo, Malefetsane
- Date: 2021-08-18
- Subjects: Mthatha Research and Innovation Day , COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020-
- Language: English
- Type: lecture , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/6295 , vital:45356
- Description: Since the inception of Covid-19 in 2020 in South Africa and the subsequent lockdown levels that were introduced in order to mitigate the effects of this pandemic, public participation in municipalities has experienced a serious knock. Public participation forms the most important legislative principle for good governance in the South African government. While,the literature is showing that Covid-19 has affected the South African public sector in numerous ways, the tension that was created by the challenges inclined to public participation in the South African municipalities during the pandemic has not gained much attention. Apparently,communities were not even aware of the measures that were introduced to conduct public participation during this period of Covid19.
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Institutionalised business incubation: a frontier for accelerating entrepreneurship in African countries
- Authors: Lose, Thobekani
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Economic indicators , Economic growth , Business incubators
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/7405 , vital:53977 , https://www.abacademies.org/articles/institutionalised-business-incubation-a-frontier-for-accelerating-entrepreneurship-in-african-countries-9989.html
- Description: Africa is a growing hub for small, medium and large enterprise. This paper attempts to cement the need to create business incubation institutions in South Africa (as well as in other African countries) so as to promote a superior entrepreneurial ecosystem for economic growth. The Africa of tomorrow needs solutions that last and one key component is the progress of entrepreneurship as an employment strategy, an innovation and creativity platform, and a key economic factor. This study employs a narrative overview of literature to explore an institutionalised business incubation concept as a frontier for accelerating entrepreneurship in African countries. The study found that the need for institutionalised business incubation has become pervasive for superior entrepreneurial ecosystems across economies. The study recommends that central governments need to promote the development of local, regional and national institutions for the strong development of incubation as well as entrepreneurship.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lose, Thobekani
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Economic indicators , Economic growth , Business incubators
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/7405 , vital:53977 , https://www.abacademies.org/articles/institutionalised-business-incubation-a-frontier-for-accelerating-entrepreneurship-in-african-countries-9989.html
- Description: Africa is a growing hub for small, medium and large enterprise. This paper attempts to cement the need to create business incubation institutions in South Africa (as well as in other African countries) so as to promote a superior entrepreneurial ecosystem for economic growth. The Africa of tomorrow needs solutions that last and one key component is the progress of entrepreneurship as an employment strategy, an innovation and creativity platform, and a key economic factor. This study employs a narrative overview of literature to explore an institutionalised business incubation concept as a frontier for accelerating entrepreneurship in African countries. The study found that the need for institutionalised business incubation has become pervasive for superior entrepreneurial ecosystems across economies. The study recommends that central governments need to promote the development of local, regional and national institutions for the strong development of incubation as well as entrepreneurship.
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Dataset and ANN model prediction of performance of graphene nanolubricant with R600a in domestic refrigerator system
- Taiwo, Babarinde, Stephen, Akinlabi, Daniel Makundwaneyi, Madyira, Ekundayo, Funmilayo M, Paul Adeola, Adedeji
- Authors: Taiwo, Babarinde , Stephen, Akinlabi , Daniel Makundwaneyi, Madyira , Ekundayo, Funmilayo M , Paul Adeola, Adedeji
- Date: 2020
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/3139 , vital:43150 , (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352340920309926)
- Description: This work evaluated the steady state performance of R600a in the base lubricant and graphene nanolubricant. The measuring instruments required and their uncertainties were provided, step by step method and procedures for preparation of graphene nanolubricant concentration and substituting it with the base lubricant in domestic refrigerator system are described. The system temperatures data was captured at the inlet and outlet of the system components. Also, the pressures data was recorded at the compressor inlet and outlet. The data was recorded for 3 h at 30 min interval at an ambient temperature of 27 °C. The experimental dataset, Artificial Neural Network (ANN) training and testing dataset are provided. The artificial intelligence approach of ANN model to predict the performance of graphene nanolubricant in domestic refrigerator is explained. Also, the ANN model prediction statistical performance metrics such as Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Deviation (MAD), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) and coefficient of determination (R2) are also provided. The data is useful to researchers in the field of refrigeration and energy efficiency materials, for replacing nanolubricant with the base lubricant in refrigerator systems. The data can be reuse for simulation and modelling vapour compression energy system.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Taiwo, Babarinde , Stephen, Akinlabi , Daniel Makundwaneyi, Madyira , Ekundayo, Funmilayo M , Paul Adeola, Adedeji
- Date: 2020
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/3139 , vital:43150 , (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352340920309926)
- Description: This work evaluated the steady state performance of R600a in the base lubricant and graphene nanolubricant. The measuring instruments required and their uncertainties were provided, step by step method and procedures for preparation of graphene nanolubricant concentration and substituting it with the base lubricant in domestic refrigerator system are described. The system temperatures data was captured at the inlet and outlet of the system components. Also, the pressures data was recorded at the compressor inlet and outlet. The data was recorded for 3 h at 30 min interval at an ambient temperature of 27 °C. The experimental dataset, Artificial Neural Network (ANN) training and testing dataset are provided. The artificial intelligence approach of ANN model to predict the performance of graphene nanolubricant in domestic refrigerator is explained. Also, the ANN model prediction statistical performance metrics such as Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Deviation (MAD), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) and coefficient of determination (R2) are also provided. The data is useful to researchers in the field of refrigeration and energy efficiency materials, for replacing nanolubricant with the base lubricant in refrigerator systems. The data can be reuse for simulation and modelling vapour compression energy system.
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Events tourism as a conduit to promote underdeveloped tourist destinations, with specific reference to the Mooiplaas Homecoming Music Event in East London, South Africa
- Mxunyelwa, Siyabonga, Kilani, Khuselwa Busisiwe
- Authors: Mxunyelwa, Siyabonga , Kilani, Khuselwa Busisiwe
- Date: 2020
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/1958 , vital:39809 , https://www.ajhtl.com/uploads/7/1/6/3/7163688/article_9_vol_9_2__2020_wsu.pdf
- Description: Events tourism has demonstrated growth over the years, and has been used as a tool to boost local economies. Hosting such events creates benefits, these include the boost in the local economy, improvement of infrastructure on destinations and job creation. The purpose of this paper was to investigate how events tourism could be utilised as a conduit to promote underdeveloped tourist destinations in Mooiplaas. Secondary data sources were consulted to understand the role of events tourism in the local community of Mooiplaas. This paper utilised a survey questionnaire to collect data. The simple random sampling method was utilised to select the respondents. The findings indicate that 70% of the respondents agreed that they are consulted about the events that promote their community. Furthermore, the findings elucidates that 82% of the respondents concur that events can potentially create entrepreneurial opportunities. These findings contribute significantly in developing the local economic strategies of the municipalities in underdeveloped regions. As such it is recommended that events are planned in a coherent, systematic manner in order to achieve local economic development objectives. Furthermore, the paper provided a foundation on how to plan, organise, lead and control events that can potentially unearth tourism demand particularly in developing tourist destinations. Moreover, it is hoped that the paper will serve as the basis to plan future events in the context of regions such as Mooiplaas that are still engulfed with developmental challenges, these contribute to triple threat of unemployed, poverty and inequality.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mxunyelwa, Siyabonga , Kilani, Khuselwa Busisiwe
- Date: 2020
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/1958 , vital:39809 , https://www.ajhtl.com/uploads/7/1/6/3/7163688/article_9_vol_9_2__2020_wsu.pdf
- Description: Events tourism has demonstrated growth over the years, and has been used as a tool to boost local economies. Hosting such events creates benefits, these include the boost in the local economy, improvement of infrastructure on destinations and job creation. The purpose of this paper was to investigate how events tourism could be utilised as a conduit to promote underdeveloped tourist destinations in Mooiplaas. Secondary data sources were consulted to understand the role of events tourism in the local community of Mooiplaas. This paper utilised a survey questionnaire to collect data. The simple random sampling method was utilised to select the respondents. The findings indicate that 70% of the respondents agreed that they are consulted about the events that promote their community. Furthermore, the findings elucidates that 82% of the respondents concur that events can potentially create entrepreneurial opportunities. These findings contribute significantly in developing the local economic strategies of the municipalities in underdeveloped regions. As such it is recommended that events are planned in a coherent, systematic manner in order to achieve local economic development objectives. Furthermore, the paper provided a foundation on how to plan, organise, lead and control events that can potentially unearth tourism demand particularly in developing tourist destinations. Moreover, it is hoped that the paper will serve as the basis to plan future events in the context of regions such as Mooiplaas that are still engulfed with developmental challenges, these contribute to triple threat of unemployed, poverty and inequality.
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Antihypertensive effects of the hydroethanol extract of Senecio serratuloides DC in rats
- Tata, Charlotte Mungho, Sewani-Rusike, Constance Rufaro, Oyedeji, Opeoluwa Oyehan, Gwebu, Ephraim Tobela, Mahlakata, Fikile, Nkeh-Chungag, Benedicta Ngwenchi
- Authors: Tata, Charlotte Mungho , Sewani-Rusike, Constance Rufaro , Oyedeji, Opeoluwa Oyehan , Gwebu, Ephraim Tobela , Mahlakata, Fikile , Nkeh-Chungag, Benedicta Ngwenchi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South Africa Hypertension Computer File
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/5847 , vital:44656 , https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-019-2463-2
- Description: Senecio serratuloides DC is used in folk medicine for treating hypertension, skin disorders, internal and external sores, rashes, burns and wounds. This study aimed at investigating the antihypertensive effects of the hydroethanol extract of S. serratuloides (HESS) in N-Nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) induced hypertension in rats. Methods: Acute toxicity of HESS was first determined to provide guidance on doses to be used in this study. Lorke’s method was used to determine safety of the extract in mice. Female Wistar rats were treated orally once daily with L-NAME (40 mg/kg) for 4 weeks and then concomitantly with L-NAME (20 mg/kg) and plant extract (150 and 300 mg/kg), captopril (20 mg/kg) or saline as per assigned group for 2 weeks followed by a 2-week period of assigned treatments only. Blood pressure was monitored weekly. Lipid profile, nitric oxide, renin and angiotensin II concentrations were determined in serum while mineralocorticoid receptor concentration was quantified in the kidney homogenate. Nitric oxide (NO) concentration was determined in serum and cardiac histology performed. Results HESS was found to be non-toxic, having a LD50 greater than 5000 mg/kg. Blood pressure increased progressively in all animals from the second week of L-NAME treatment. HESS treatment significantly and dose-dependently lowered systolic blood pressure (p less 0.001), diastolic blood pressure (p less 0.01), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (p less 0.01) and triglycerides (p less 0.01). It significantly prevented L-NAME induced decrease in serum angiotensin II (p less 0.01), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (p less 0.001) and serum nitric oxide concentrations (p less 0.001). HESS also significantly (p less 0.01) prevented collagen deposition in cardiac tissue. Conclusion The hydro-ethanol extract of Senecio serratuloides showed antihypertensive, antihyperlipidemic and cardioprotective effects in rats thus confirming its usefulness in traditional antihypertensive therapy and potential for antihypertensive drug development.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Tata, Charlotte Mungho , Sewani-Rusike, Constance Rufaro , Oyedeji, Opeoluwa Oyehan , Gwebu, Ephraim Tobela , Mahlakata, Fikile , Nkeh-Chungag, Benedicta Ngwenchi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South Africa Hypertension Computer File
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/5847 , vital:44656 , https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-019-2463-2
- Description: Senecio serratuloides DC is used in folk medicine for treating hypertension, skin disorders, internal and external sores, rashes, burns and wounds. This study aimed at investigating the antihypertensive effects of the hydroethanol extract of S. serratuloides (HESS) in N-Nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) induced hypertension in rats. Methods: Acute toxicity of HESS was first determined to provide guidance on doses to be used in this study. Lorke’s method was used to determine safety of the extract in mice. Female Wistar rats were treated orally once daily with L-NAME (40 mg/kg) for 4 weeks and then concomitantly with L-NAME (20 mg/kg) and plant extract (150 and 300 mg/kg), captopril (20 mg/kg) or saline as per assigned group for 2 weeks followed by a 2-week period of assigned treatments only. Blood pressure was monitored weekly. Lipid profile, nitric oxide, renin and angiotensin II concentrations were determined in serum while mineralocorticoid receptor concentration was quantified in the kidney homogenate. Nitric oxide (NO) concentration was determined in serum and cardiac histology performed. Results HESS was found to be non-toxic, having a LD50 greater than 5000 mg/kg. Blood pressure increased progressively in all animals from the second week of L-NAME treatment. HESS treatment significantly and dose-dependently lowered systolic blood pressure (p less 0.001), diastolic blood pressure (p less 0.01), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (p less 0.01) and triglycerides (p less 0.01). It significantly prevented L-NAME induced decrease in serum angiotensin II (p less 0.01), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (p less 0.001) and serum nitric oxide concentrations (p less 0.001). HESS also significantly (p less 0.01) prevented collagen deposition in cardiac tissue. Conclusion The hydro-ethanol extract of Senecio serratuloides showed antihypertensive, antihyperlipidemic and cardioprotective effects in rats thus confirming its usefulness in traditional antihypertensive therapy and potential for antihypertensive drug development.
- Full Text:
Antihypertensive effects of the hydroethanol extract of Senecio serratuloides DC in rats
- Tata, Charlotte Mungho, Sewani-Rusike, Constance Rufaro, Oyedeji, Opeoluwa Oyehan, Gwebu, Ephraim Tobela, Mahlakata, Fikile, Nkeh-Chungag, Benedicta Ngwenchi
- Authors: Tata, Charlotte Mungho , Sewani-Rusike, Constance Rufaro , Oyedeji, Opeoluwa Oyehan , Gwebu, Ephraim Tobela , Mahlakata, Fikile , Nkeh-Chungag, Benedicta Ngwenchi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South Africa Hypertension Computer File
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/5842 , vital:44654 , https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-019-2463-2
- Description: Senecio serratuloides DC is used in folk medicine for treating hypertension, skin disorders, internal and external sores, rashes, burns and wounds. This study aimed at investigating the antihypertensive effects of the hydroethanol extract of S. serratuloides (HESS) in N-Nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) induced hypertension in rats. Methods: Acute toxicity of HESS was first determined to provide guidance on doses to be used in this study. Lorke’s method was used to determine safety of the extract in mice. Female Wistar rats were treated orally once daily with L-NAME (40 mg/kg) for 4 weeks and then concomitantly with L-NAME (20 mg/kg) and plant extract (150 and 300 mg/kg), captopril (20 mg/kg) or saline as per assigned group for 2 weeks followed by a 2-week period of assigned treatments only. Blood pressure was monitored weekly. Lipid profile, nitric oxide, renin and angiotensin II concentrations were determined in serum while mineralocorticoid receptor concentration was quantified in the kidney homogenate. Nitric oxide (NO) concentration was determined in serum and cardiac histology performed. Results HESS was found to be non-toxic, having a LD50 greater than 5000 mg/kg. Blood pressure increased progressively in all animals from the second week of L-NAME treatment. HESS treatment significantly and dose-dependently lowered systolic blood pressure (p less 0.001), diastolic blood pressure (p less 0.01), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (p less 0.01) and triglycerides (p less 0.01). It significantly prevented L-NAME induced decrease in serum angiotensin II (p less 0.01), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (p less 0.001) and serum nitric oxide concentrations (p less 0.001). HESS also significantly (p less 0.01) prevented collagen deposition in cardiac tissue. Conclusion The hydro-ethanol extract of Senecio serratuloides showed antihypertensive, antihyperlipidemic and cardioprotective effects in rats thus confirming its usefulness in traditional antihypertensive therapy and potential for antihypertensive drug development.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Tata, Charlotte Mungho , Sewani-Rusike, Constance Rufaro , Oyedeji, Opeoluwa Oyehan , Gwebu, Ephraim Tobela , Mahlakata, Fikile , Nkeh-Chungag, Benedicta Ngwenchi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South Africa Hypertension Computer File
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/5842 , vital:44654 , https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-019-2463-2
- Description: Senecio serratuloides DC is used in folk medicine for treating hypertension, skin disorders, internal and external sores, rashes, burns and wounds. This study aimed at investigating the antihypertensive effects of the hydroethanol extract of S. serratuloides (HESS) in N-Nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) induced hypertension in rats. Methods: Acute toxicity of HESS was first determined to provide guidance on doses to be used in this study. Lorke’s method was used to determine safety of the extract in mice. Female Wistar rats were treated orally once daily with L-NAME (40 mg/kg) for 4 weeks and then concomitantly with L-NAME (20 mg/kg) and plant extract (150 and 300 mg/kg), captopril (20 mg/kg) or saline as per assigned group for 2 weeks followed by a 2-week period of assigned treatments only. Blood pressure was monitored weekly. Lipid profile, nitric oxide, renin and angiotensin II concentrations were determined in serum while mineralocorticoid receptor concentration was quantified in the kidney homogenate. Nitric oxide (NO) concentration was determined in serum and cardiac histology performed. Results HESS was found to be non-toxic, having a LD50 greater than 5000 mg/kg. Blood pressure increased progressively in all animals from the second week of L-NAME treatment. HESS treatment significantly and dose-dependently lowered systolic blood pressure (p less 0.001), diastolic blood pressure (p less 0.01), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (p less 0.01) and triglycerides (p less 0.01). It significantly prevented L-NAME induced decrease in serum angiotensin II (p less 0.01), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (p less 0.001) and serum nitric oxide concentrations (p less 0.001). HESS also significantly (p less 0.01) prevented collagen deposition in cardiac tissue. Conclusion The hydro-ethanol extract of Senecio serratuloides showed antihypertensive, antihyperlipidemic and cardioprotective effects in rats thus confirming its usefulness in traditional antihypertensive therapy and potential for antihypertensive drug development.
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Central obesity and normal-weight central obesity among adults attending healthcare facilities in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa: a cross-sectional study
- Owolabi, Eyitayo Omolara, Ter Goon, Daniel, Adeniyi, Oladele Vincent
- Authors: Owolabi, Eyitayo Omolara , Ter Goon, Daniel , Adeniyi, Oladele Vincent
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Computer File , Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa , Central obesity , Overall obesity , Waist circumference , Waist-to-hip ratio , Waist-to-height ratio , NICE BMI-WC composite index , Health risks , Abdominal obesity
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/5887 , vital:44664 , https://DOI10.1186/s41043-017-0133-x
- Description: Background Central obesity (CO) confers a significant threat on the cardio-metabolic health of individuals, independently of overall obesity. Disparities in the measures of fat distribution lead to misclassification of individuals who are at risk of cardio-metabolic diseases. This study sought to determine the prevalence and correlates of central obesity and normal-weight central obesity among adults attending selected healthcare facilities in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), South Africa, assess their health risk and examine the association between central obesity and cardio-metabolic diseases among adults with normal weight, measured by body mass index (BMI). Methods A cross-sectional survey of 998 adults was carried out at the three largest outpatient clinics in BCMM. Overall and central obesity were assessed using BMI, waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHTR). The WHO STEPwise questionnaire was used for data collection. Blood pressure and blood glucose were measured. Normal-weight central obesity was defined as CO among individuals with normal weight, as assessed by BMI. Health risk levels were assessed using the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) BMI-WC composite index. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine the prevalence of CO, normal-weight central obesity and the predictors of CO. Results The mean age of participants was 42.6 (± 16.5) years. The prevalence of CO was 67.0, 58.0 and 71.0% by WC, WHR and WHTR, respectively. The prevalence of normal-weight central obesity was 26.9, 36.9 and 29.5% by WC, WHR and WHTR, respectively. About 41% of the participants had a very high health risk, 13% had increased risk or high risk and 33% had no health risk. Central obesity was significantly associated with hypertension but not associated with diabetes among those with normal weight (by BMI). Female sex, age over 30 years, marriage, secondary or tertiary level of education, non-smoking status, diabetes and hypertension significantly predicted central obesity among the study participants. Conclusion The prevalence of central obesity among the study participants is high, irrespective of the defining criteria. One in three adults of normal weight had central obesity. Body mass index should therefore not be used alone for clinical assessment by healthcare workers in the study setting.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Owolabi, Eyitayo Omolara , Ter Goon, Daniel , Adeniyi, Oladele Vincent
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Computer File , Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa , Central obesity , Overall obesity , Waist circumference , Waist-to-hip ratio , Waist-to-height ratio , NICE BMI-WC composite index , Health risks , Abdominal obesity
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/5887 , vital:44664 , https://DOI10.1186/s41043-017-0133-x
- Description: Background Central obesity (CO) confers a significant threat on the cardio-metabolic health of individuals, independently of overall obesity. Disparities in the measures of fat distribution lead to misclassification of individuals who are at risk of cardio-metabolic diseases. This study sought to determine the prevalence and correlates of central obesity and normal-weight central obesity among adults attending selected healthcare facilities in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), South Africa, assess their health risk and examine the association between central obesity and cardio-metabolic diseases among adults with normal weight, measured by body mass index (BMI). Methods A cross-sectional survey of 998 adults was carried out at the three largest outpatient clinics in BCMM. Overall and central obesity were assessed using BMI, waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHTR). The WHO STEPwise questionnaire was used for data collection. Blood pressure and blood glucose were measured. Normal-weight central obesity was defined as CO among individuals with normal weight, as assessed by BMI. Health risk levels were assessed using the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) BMI-WC composite index. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine the prevalence of CO, normal-weight central obesity and the predictors of CO. Results The mean age of participants was 42.6 (± 16.5) years. The prevalence of CO was 67.0, 58.0 and 71.0% by WC, WHR and WHTR, respectively. The prevalence of normal-weight central obesity was 26.9, 36.9 and 29.5% by WC, WHR and WHTR, respectively. About 41% of the participants had a very high health risk, 13% had increased risk or high risk and 33% had no health risk. Central obesity was significantly associated with hypertension but not associated with diabetes among those with normal weight (by BMI). Female sex, age over 30 years, marriage, secondary or tertiary level of education, non-smoking status, diabetes and hypertension significantly predicted central obesity among the study participants. Conclusion The prevalence of central obesity among the study participants is high, irrespective of the defining criteria. One in three adults of normal weight had central obesity. Body mass index should therefore not be used alone for clinical assessment by healthcare workers in the study setting.
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Anton and Vale van der Merwe: reinterpreting Afro-Oriental studio ceramics traditions in South Africa
- Authors: Steele, John
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/968 , vital:30077
- Description: Growing awareness of ancient Chinese Song and Yuan ceramics, amongst other Oriental traditions, by people with western connections such as Bernard Leach and Michael Cardew, in conjunction with influences from Japanese associates such as Soyetsu Yanagi, Kenkichi Tomimoto, and Shoji Hamada, (De Waal 1997, Harrod 2012, Kikuchi 1977, Leach 1976) has had many consequences. It spread a consciousness idealizing self-sufficient pottery studios where potters were in touch with all aspects of creating utilityware, largely from local materials for local use. Out of this emerged an Anglo-Oriental studio ceramic philosophy of form and practice, associated mainly with hand-made high temperature reduction fired ceramics. These ideas spread to South Africa in the late 1950s, and by the early 1960s local studios were being established along these lines. This studio ceramics movement grew exponentially in South Africa, initiating a phase of Afro-Oriental ceramics that remains a powerful way of life and visual arts influence. This paper seeks to explore aspects of Afro- Oriental studio ceramics in South Africa, with particular reference to the Leach/Hamada/Cardew to Rabinowitz, and Van der Merwe lineage.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Steele, John
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/968 , vital:30077
- Description: Growing awareness of ancient Chinese Song and Yuan ceramics, amongst other Oriental traditions, by people with western connections such as Bernard Leach and Michael Cardew, in conjunction with influences from Japanese associates such as Soyetsu Yanagi, Kenkichi Tomimoto, and Shoji Hamada, (De Waal 1997, Harrod 2012, Kikuchi 1977, Leach 1976) has had many consequences. It spread a consciousness idealizing self-sufficient pottery studios where potters were in touch with all aspects of creating utilityware, largely from local materials for local use. Out of this emerged an Anglo-Oriental studio ceramic philosophy of form and practice, associated mainly with hand-made high temperature reduction fired ceramics. These ideas spread to South Africa in the late 1950s, and by the early 1960s local studios were being established along these lines. This studio ceramics movement grew exponentially in South Africa, initiating a phase of Afro-Oriental ceramics that remains a powerful way of life and visual arts influence. This paper seeks to explore aspects of Afro- Oriental studio ceramics in South Africa, with particular reference to the Leach/Hamada/Cardew to Rabinowitz, and Van der Merwe lineage.
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Some reflections on two rural potter's cooperatives in the Port St Johns region of the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Steele, John
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/1001 , vital:30181
- Description: Two potters in the Port St Johns region of the Eastern Cape province of South Africa have been founder members of different visual arts producer’s cooperatives during the 1980s as part of development initiatives aimed at sustainable economic empowerment. These potters are Debora Nomathamsanqa Ntloya of Qhaka village in the Caguba area and Alice Gqa Nongebeza of Nkonxeni village in the Tombo area. They both engaged in zero electricity, using ceramics praxis and used variants of open bonfiring techniques to finish off their works. This article looks at aspects of formation and administration of such potter’s cooperatives, as well as at types of ceramics technology used and resulting works, and also at some marketing strategies and outcomes. It will be seen that these are factors that impact directly on why some such cooperatives are successful for long stretches of time, and others become defunct or dormant. Furthermore, Debora Nomathamsanqa Ntloya is now largely retired from clayworking, and Alice Gqa Nongebeza passed away in 2012, so a question arises as to whether their ceramic traditions will be continued in the years to come.
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- Authors: Steele, John
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/1001 , vital:30181
- Description: Two potters in the Port St Johns region of the Eastern Cape province of South Africa have been founder members of different visual arts producer’s cooperatives during the 1980s as part of development initiatives aimed at sustainable economic empowerment. These potters are Debora Nomathamsanqa Ntloya of Qhaka village in the Caguba area and Alice Gqa Nongebeza of Nkonxeni village in the Tombo area. They both engaged in zero electricity, using ceramics praxis and used variants of open bonfiring techniques to finish off their works. This article looks at aspects of formation and administration of such potter’s cooperatives, as well as at types of ceramics technology used and resulting works, and also at some marketing strategies and outcomes. It will be seen that these are factors that impact directly on why some such cooperatives are successful for long stretches of time, and others become defunct or dormant. Furthermore, Debora Nomathamsanqa Ntloya is now largely retired from clayworking, and Alice Gqa Nongebeza passed away in 2012, so a question arises as to whether their ceramic traditions will be continued in the years to come.
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Revisiting nomenclature: 'Early Iron Age', 'First-Millennium Agriculturist', or what?
- Authors: Steele, John
- Date: 2001
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/934 , vital:30067
- Description: As an art historian who has recently become fascinated by First-Millennium Agriculturist ceramics, I have come across several attempts at dealing with an issue of appropriate nomenclature for desigrrating this era. Conceptual frameworks are articulated using words, yet an apparent discomfort with the term Early Iron Age has seemingly not led to a consistently used altemative. I have been wondering about this and, with respect, offer my thoughts on the matter in a hope that debate will be furthered. Hereunder I utilise aspects of the KwaZulu-Natal and Eastem Cape first millennium ceramic sequence to address some significances associated with such artefacts in interpretations of the past, and then discuss some ways in which ideas of particular social contexts are embedded in language. Thereafter introduction of the term Iron Age into South African archaeology is referred to with reference to past and current usage, and advantages/disadvantages of alternatives are suggested.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Steele, John
- Date: 2001
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/934 , vital:30067
- Description: As an art historian who has recently become fascinated by First-Millennium Agriculturist ceramics, I have come across several attempts at dealing with an issue of appropriate nomenclature for desigrrating this era. Conceptual frameworks are articulated using words, yet an apparent discomfort with the term Early Iron Age has seemingly not led to a consistently used altemative. I have been wondering about this and, with respect, offer my thoughts on the matter in a hope that debate will be furthered. Hereunder I utilise aspects of the KwaZulu-Natal and Eastem Cape first millennium ceramic sequence to address some significances associated with such artefacts in interpretations of the past, and then discuss some ways in which ideas of particular social contexts are embedded in language. Thereafter introduction of the term Iron Age into South African archaeology is referred to with reference to past and current usage, and advantages/disadvantages of alternatives are suggested.
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Medical Education in Decentralized Settings: How Medical Students Contribute to Health Care in 10 Sub-Saharan African Countries
- Talib, Zohray, van Schalkwyk, Susan, Cooper , I, Pattanaik , Swaha, Turay , Khadija, Sagay, Atiene S, Baingana , Rhona, Baird , Sarah, Gaede , Bernhard, Iputo, Jehu, Kibore , Minnie, Manongi , Rachel, Matsika , Antony, Mogodi , Mpho, Ramucesse , Jeremais, Ross, Heather, Simuyeba, Moses, Haile-Mariam, Damen
- Authors: Talib, Zohray , van Schalkwyk, Susan , Cooper , I , Pattanaik , Swaha , Turay , Khadija , Sagay, Atiene S , Baingana , Rhona , Baird , Sarah , Gaede , Bernhard , Iputo, Jehu , Kibore , Minnie , Manongi , Rachel , Matsika , Antony , Mogodi , Mpho , Ramucesse , Jeremais , Ross, Heather , Simuyeba, Moses , Haile-Mariam, Damen
- Date: 10-2017
- Subjects: Sub Sahara Africa Medical Education Health Care Medical Students Computer File
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/5786 , vital:44644 , https://doi:10.1097/ACM.0000000000002003
- Description: Purpose: African medical schools are expanding, straining resources at tertiary health facilities. Decentralizing clinical training can alleviate this tension. This study assessed the impact of decentralized training and contribution of undergraduate medical students at health facilities. Method: Participants were from 11 Medical Education Partnership Initiative-funded medical schools in 10 African countries. Each school identified two clinical training sites-one rural and the other either peri-urban or urban. Qualitative and quantitative data collection tools were used to gather information about the sites, student activities, and staff perspectives between March 2015 and February 2016. Interviews with site staff were analyzed using a collaborative directed approach to content analysis, and frequencies were generated to describe site characteristics and student experiences. Results: The clinical sites varied in level of care but were similar in scope of clinical services and types of clinical and nonclinical student activities. Staff indicated that students have a positive effect on job satisfaction and workload. Respondents reported that students improved the work environment, institutional reputation, and introduced evidence-based approaches. Students also contributed to perceived improvements in quality of care, patient experience, and community outreach. Staff highlighted the need for resources to support students. Conclusions: Students were seen as valuable resources for health facilities. They strengthened health care quality by supporting overburdened staff and by bringing rigor and accountability into the work environment. As medical schools expand, especially in low-resource settings, mobilizing new and existing resources for decentralized clinical training could transform health facilities into vibrant service and learning environments.
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- Authors: Talib, Zohray , van Schalkwyk, Susan , Cooper , I , Pattanaik , Swaha , Turay , Khadija , Sagay, Atiene S , Baingana , Rhona , Baird , Sarah , Gaede , Bernhard , Iputo, Jehu , Kibore , Minnie , Manongi , Rachel , Matsika , Antony , Mogodi , Mpho , Ramucesse , Jeremais , Ross, Heather , Simuyeba, Moses , Haile-Mariam, Damen
- Date: 10-2017
- Subjects: Sub Sahara Africa Medical Education Health Care Medical Students Computer File
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/5786 , vital:44644 , https://doi:10.1097/ACM.0000000000002003
- Description: Purpose: African medical schools are expanding, straining resources at tertiary health facilities. Decentralizing clinical training can alleviate this tension. This study assessed the impact of decentralized training and contribution of undergraduate medical students at health facilities. Method: Participants were from 11 Medical Education Partnership Initiative-funded medical schools in 10 African countries. Each school identified two clinical training sites-one rural and the other either peri-urban or urban. Qualitative and quantitative data collection tools were used to gather information about the sites, student activities, and staff perspectives between March 2015 and February 2016. Interviews with site staff were analyzed using a collaborative directed approach to content analysis, and frequencies were generated to describe site characteristics and student experiences. Results: The clinical sites varied in level of care but were similar in scope of clinical services and types of clinical and nonclinical student activities. Staff indicated that students have a positive effect on job satisfaction and workload. Respondents reported that students improved the work environment, institutional reputation, and introduced evidence-based approaches. Students also contributed to perceived improvements in quality of care, patient experience, and community outreach. Staff highlighted the need for resources to support students. Conclusions: Students were seen as valuable resources for health facilities. They strengthened health care quality by supporting overburdened staff and by bringing rigor and accountability into the work environment. As medical schools expand, especially in low-resource settings, mobilizing new and existing resources for decentralized clinical training could transform health facilities into vibrant service and learning environments.
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