Article
Surgery
Aida Tefera, Elizabeth Eleanor Lutge, Nirvasha Moodley, Xolani Wiseman Xaba, Timothy Craig Hardcastle, Petra Brysiewicz, Damian Luiz Clarke
Summary: This study analyzes trauma data collected from public health facilities in the province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa between 2012 and 2022. The findings reveal a high burden of trauma in the province, with intentional trauma occurring at twice the rate of unintentional trauma, and a significant increase in gunshot-related assaults.
WORLD JOURNAL OF SURGERY
(2023)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Sarentha Chetty, Millidhashni Reddy, Yogandree Ramsamy, Vusi C. Dlamini, Rahendhree Reddy-Naidoo, Sabiha Y. Essack
Summary: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global public health threat. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is recognized as an important tool to promote rational antibiotic use within healthcare facilities. A survey conducted in public-sector hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa, found various challenges in implementing antimicrobial stewardship activities, including lack of support from hospital leadership, limited financial resources, and shortage of healthcare professionals and time.
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Fidelis Udo, Maheshvari Naidu
Summary: This article explores the experiences of local Black African women in adapting to flood impacts within the Durban metropolitan area. The study finds that despite the experiences of poverty, lack of access to information, and persistent gender inequity, the women's situated knowledge and agency have transformed lives and livelihoods, increasing climate resilience and overall well-being. The research concludes that a more appropriate and intentional approach to local Black women's adaptation needs can lead to more effective, successful, equitable, and long-term climate change adaptation.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DISASTER RISK REDUCTION
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Justin Bradfield, Andrew C. Kitchener, Michael Buckley
Summary: Animal symbolism plays a significant role in human societies globally, particularly in the cosmogenic narratives of hunter-gatherer and Bantu-speaking farmer groups in southern Africa. Certain animals were selected for bone tool manufacture during the first millennium AD contact period, with a narrowing of the range of selected species observed. The deliberate avoidance of certain antelope tribes for tool production suggests a non-opportunistic selection process influenced by symbolic associations.
Article
Geography, Physical
Lucy Timbrell, Paloma de la Pena, Amy Way, Christian Hoggard, Lucinda Backwell, Francesco D'Errico, Lyn Wadley, Matt Grove
Summary: This study presents a technological and morphometric analysis of lithic assemblages from the post-Howiesons Poort phase in South Africa. The analysis reveals temporal and technological variability, as well as an increase in morphological diversity throughout the sequence. The findings contribute to addressing biases in our understanding of cultural evolution during the Middle Stone Age in southern Africa.
QUATERNARY SCIENCE REVIEWS
(2022)
Article
Forestry
Nasiphi Bitani, Craig P. Cordier, David A. Ehlers Smith, Yvette C. Ehlers Smith, Colleen T. Downs
Summary: Monitoring species' habitat selection and microhabitat requirements is crucial for conservation and management. Camera traps are useful techniques for studying bird communities, especially elusive species. This study found that tree species richness, leaf litter, and water cover are the main microhabitat characteristics influencing understorey forest-specialist birds.
FOREST ECOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Debbie Stanbridge, M. Justin O'Riain, Cathy Dreyer, Nikki le Roex
Summary: Globally, wildlife populations are becoming smaller and more isolated, leading to an increased risk of extinction. Translocating genetically diverse animals can improve the viability of endangered populations, but it is important to consider the genetic implications to avoid outbreeding depression. This study analyzed the genetic diversity of black rhinoceros populations in Kruger National Park, South Africa, and demonstrated the benefits of mixing multiple source populations to restore gene flow and protect small, isolated populations from extinction.
CONSERVATION GENETICS
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Adam Akullian, Alain Vandormael, Joel C. Miller, Anna Bershteyn, Edward Wenger, Diego Cuadros, Dickman Gareta, Till Barnighausen, Kobus Herbst, Frank Tanser
Summary: In a hyper-epidemic region of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, the median age of HIV seroconversion increased in both men and women, suggesting a changing demographic of HIV risk with a focus on younger age groups. The decline in HIV incidence was more pronounced in young men and women, while older individuals showed stable or even lagging declines in incidence. These results provide direct epidemiological evidence of the impact of large-scale treatment and prevention interventions on the age distribution of HIV incidence in sub-Saharan Africa.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Christiana O. Shobo, Sabiha Y. Essack, Linda A. Bester
Summary: This study investigated the prevalence of Enterococcus spp. in selected wards in public hospitals in South Africa, identifying a high contamination rate on occupied beds and mops used to clean floors. Enterococcus faecalis was the most frequent species isolated, with a substantial number of isolates showing multidrug resistance. The study highlights the importance of infection control practices and the potential role of healthcare staff in preventing bacterial dissemination.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Zoology
Pawel Jaloszynski, Adam Slipinski
Summary: The newly described Afroboganium wakefieldense species was collected in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The hindgut of the dissected specimens was packed with pollen grains, suggesting feeding on flowers, but specific associations with plant taxa were not identified. There is a possibility of feeding on other flower tissues in addition to pollenophagy.
Article
Health Care Sciences & Services
Kebogile Elizabeth Mokwena, Jabulile Ndlovu
Summary: Treatment default by psychiatric patients is a global challenge, with South Africa facing higher rates. Reasons for defaulting treatment at Manguzi Hospital in rural South Africa include social factors like denial of disorders and preference for traditional medicine, highlighting the need for tailored support systems and increased health literacy in rural communities.
Article
Geography, Physical
Amelie Beaudet, Francesco d'Errico, Lucinda Backwell, Lyn Wadley, Bernhard Zipfel, Paloma de la Pena, Hugo Reyes-Centeno
Summary: This article presents novel information about the brain, braincase, and bony labyrinth of Border Cave 1 and discusses the evolutionary implications. The study compares Border Cave 1 to other Homo specimens and explores the biogeography, evolution, and behavior of fossil Homo sapiens.
QUATERNARY SCIENCE REVIEWS
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Muhammad Zubayr Saib, Barnesh Lalloo Dhada, Colleen Aldous, Helen Louise Malherbe
Summary: This study aimed to address the lack of data on congenital anomalies in South Africa, finding a birth prevalence rate of 15.57 per 1,000 live births at Edendale Hospital, with musculoskeletal system anomalies being the most common.
Article
Agronomy
Joyce Chitja, Cobus J. Botha, Muthulisi Siwela, Fhatuwani Nixwell Mudau
Summary: The production of nutritious food by rural farmers has always been challenging due to various factors. However, the introduction of climate-smart technologies (CSTs) such as in-field rainwater harvesting and sound agronomic management practices have shown potential in enhancing the nutrient levels of vegetables. This study is of socio-economic significance as it demonstrates that rural, small-scale farmers can improve food and nutrition security and household livelihoods by adopting local and accessible agronomic treatments and water-use technologies.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Bilkis Dawood, Andrew Tomita, Suvira Ramlall
Summary: As a vulnerable population, healthcare workers are exposed to chronic and multiple sources of psychological stress due to the Covid-19 pandemic. They experience high levels of depression, anxiety, stress, and traumatic stress, and perceive a lack of support from their employers.
Article
Ecology
Kyle J. Lloyd, Daniel M. Parker
AFRICAN JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Zoliswa N. Nhleko, Robert Ahrens, Sam M. Ferreira, Robert A. McCleery
Summary: The study focused on the age-structured model of the rhino population in Kruger National Park, South Africa, and found that poaching and climate change are the main factors affecting population size and demographics, with poaching being the primary driving force and rainfall influencing poaching losses. Current poaching levels have reduced the reproductive output of rhino cows and could lead to a 35% decline in the rhino population in the next 10 years, but halving poaching intensity could double the population over the same time period.
ANIMAL CONSERVATION
(2022)
Article
Ecology
Daniel M. Parker, Kyle Junkuhn, Nigel P. Barker
AFRICAN JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Ecology
Safia Bouderka, Travis W. Perry, Daniel Parker, Maya Beukes, Nokubonga Mgqatsa
AFRICAN JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Zoology
Anja Truter, Nokubonga Mgqatsa, Daniel M. Parker
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the reproductive success of white rhinos introduced to a private game reserve in the Eastern Cape province. The results showed that the average net annual population growth rate was 10%, higher than the recommended 5%. In addition, parameters such as age at first calving and inter-calving intervals indicated that the population density was still below the level at which ecological constraints may manifest.
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Sandra MacFadyen, Nicky Allsopp, Res Altwegg, Sally Archibald, Judith Botha, Karen Bradshaw, Jane Carruthers, Helen De Klerk, Alta de Vos, Greg Distiller, Stefan Foord, Stefanie Freitag-Ronaldson, Richard Gibbs, Michelle Hamer, Pietro Landi, Duncan MacFadyen, Jeffrey Manuel, Guy Midgley, Glenn Moncrieff, Zahn Munch, Onisimo Mutanga, Rendani Nenguda, Mzabalazo Ngwenya, Daniel Parker, Mike Peel, John Power, Joachim Pretorius, Syd Ramdhani, Mark Robertson, Ian Rushworth, Andrew Skowno, Jasper Slingsby, Andrew Turner, Vernon Visser, Gerhard Van Wageningen, Cang Hui, Cang Hui
Summary: This article discusses the potential and challenges of biodiversity conservation in South Africa and proposes the establishment of a Biodiversity Informatics Hub. The authors emphasize the importance of cooperation, collaboration, and data sharing, and recommend the development of a stable, free, and user-friendly system to advance scientific research and conservation practices.
BIOLOGICAL CONSERVATION
(2022)
Article
Zoology
David G. Marneweck, Dave J. Druce, Joris P. G. M. Cromsigt, Elizabeth le Roux, Michael J. Somers
Summary: This study modeled the effects of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on the wild dog population in HiP, South Africa, and found that interspecific competition had a significant impact on population change and survival. Lions negatively affected adult and yearling survival, but pup survival was not affected. Wild dog populations in small protected areas showed high adaptability and could coexist with high levels of interspecific competition.
Article
Ecology
Vusani Mphethe, Sina Weier, Catrin Westphal, Birthe Linden, Lourens Swanepoel, Daniel Parker, Peter Taylor
Summary: In the Limpopo Province of South Africa, fruit bats primarily feed on wild fruit trees, with commercial fruit only contributing 2% to their diet, even during the litchi harvest season. This highlights the important ecosystem services provided by fruit bats in orchards and surrounding natural vegetation, and their ability to mitigate crop damage.
AFRICAN JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Ecology
Dan M. Parker, Keenan Stears, Terence Olckers, Melissa H. Schmitt
Summary: Habitat heterogeneity plays a crucial role in shaping species diversity and distribution. Changes in vegetation structure in African savannas have led to increased woody plant cover and homogenization of vegetation structure. We conducted a study in an African savanna to investigate the ecological implications of different habitat management practices on arthropod and bird communities. Our findings suggest that vegetation management practices contribute to habitat heterogeneity and increase bird species richness through species turnover. However, dominance of a single vegetation management practice may lead to simplification of the avian community.
ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION
(2023)
Article
Zoology
Daniel M. Parker, Vilis O. Nams, Guy A. Balme, Colleen Begg, Keith Begg, Laura Bidner, Dirk Bockmuehl, Gabriele Cozzi, Byron du Preez, Julien Fattebert, Krystyna Golabek, Tanith Grant, Matt W. Hayward, Ann-Marie Houser, Luke T. B. Hunter, Lynne A. Isbell, David Jenny, Andrew J. Loveridge, David W. Macdonald, Gareth K. H. Mann, Nakedi Maputla, Laurie Marker, Quinton E. Martins, Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni, Joerg Melzheimer, Vera Menges, Phumuzile Nyoni, John O'Brien, Cailey Owen, Tim Parker, Ross Pitman, R. John Power, Rob Slotow, Andrew Stein, Villiers Steyn, Ken Stratford, Lourens H. Swanepoel, Abi Vanak, Rudi Van Vuuren, Bettine Wachter, Florian Weise, Chris C. Wilmers
Summary: The size of the home range of leopards in Africa is influenced by a combination of prey availability, competition with conspecifics, and reproductive factors. Leopards with larger home ranges tend to be more active and travel faster in straighter lines. However, maintaining a large home range is energetically costly and requires a trade-off between basic needs and avoiding potential dangers.
JOURNAL OF MAMMALOGY
(2023)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Benjamin L. Allen, Christopher Bobier, Stuart Dawson, Peter J. S. Fleming, Jordan Hampton, David Jachowski, Graham I. H. Kerley, John D. C. Linnell, Kelly Marnewick, Liaan Minnie, Mike Muthersbaugh, M. Justin O'Riain, Dan Parker, Gilbert Proulx, Michael J. Somers, Keifer Titus
Summary: This article discusses why humans kill animals and the necessity of this behavior. The reasons for human killing animals include wild harvest or food acquisition, human health and safety, agriculture and aquaculture, urbanization and industrialization, control of invasive, overabundant or nuisance wildlife, threatened species conservation, recreation, sport or entertainment, mercy or compassion, cultural and religious practice, and research, education, and testing. While the necessity of animal killing is debatable, the article emphasizes that some of these forms of killing are an inevitable part of our involvement in a global food web. It suggests that humans can modify these behaviors to improve animal welfare and reduce animal suffering.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Ecology
Zoliswa N. N. Nhleko, Andre Ganswindt, Sam M. M. Ferreira, Robert A. A. McCleery
Summary: This study aimed to understand the effects of natural and anthropogenic factors on the adrenocortical response of white rhinos within protected areas. The results suggest that white rhinos may experience physiological stress in smaller protected areas, especially during the dry season when resources are limited.
Article
Ecology
Rebecca J. Welch, Jessica Comley, Armand D. Kok, Jon M. Taylor, Dan M. Parker
Summary: This study investigated the drivers of black-backed jackal space use and detection in areas with and without lions. The results showed that jackals demonstrate behavioral flexibility in response to apex predators, which can both facilitate and suppress mesopredators. Additionally, there were differences in jackal activity patterns depending on the presence or absence of lions.
Review
Biodiversity Conservation
Matthew S. Becker, Joao Almeida, Colleen Begg, Laura Bertola, Christine Breitenmoser, Urs Breitenmoser, Peter Coals, Paul Funston, Angela Gaylard, Rosemary Groom, Philipp Henschel, Dennis Ikanda, Agostinho Jorge, Johan Kruger, Peter Lindsey, Howard Maimbo, Roseline Mandisodza-Chikerema, Glynn Maude, Moreangels Mbizah, Susan M. Miller, Edwin Mudongo, Henry Mwape, Thandiwe Mweetwa, Vincent Naude, Vincent R. Nyirenda, Andrew Parker, Daniel Parker, Craig Reid, Ashley Robson, Ed Sayer, S. A. Jeanetta Selier, Mwamba Sichande, Chuma Simukonda, Kenneth Uiseb, Vivienne L. Williams, Dennis Zimba, Luke Hunter
Summary: Lions, as the top predators in African ecosystems, have experienced a significant decline in their historical range and few countries have stable populations. Translocations, which involve capturing and moving lions for various management purposes, have become popular, but poorly conceived or unsuitable translocations pose challenges for conservation efforts. Translocations can contribute to the recovery of wild lion populations and address threats, but they can also divert attention, waste funding, exacerbate conflict, disrupt population dynamics, and harm genetic integrity.
FRONTIERS IN CONSERVATION SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Ecology
Orla K. McEvoy, Sam M. Ferreira, Dan M. Parker
Summary: Intraspecific competition among lions drives their social behavior, but this dynamic may break down in small, managed wildlife reserves where natural immigration and emigration are limited. Wildlife managers should consider mimicking natural competition levels to ensure the persistence of lion populations in such reserves.
ECOLOGICAL SOLUTIONS AND EVIDENCE
(2022)
