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Investigating business analytics in radiology practices in Gauteng
Get PDFAbstract: Business Analytics (BA) is the collection, storage, distribution, and analysis of data. BA aims to support managers in making decisions and provides methods and tools for managers to access and manage information efficiently. Internationally there is a drive to improve processes in the radiology practice to enhance operational efficiency through BA of imaging informatics data. BA of imaging informatics’ relevant information will ensure enhanced operational efficiency, improve patient safety and service delivery in radiology practices. This study investigated the BA performed in radiology practices in Gauteng, South Africa. This study provided insight into what data is collected, how it is collected, analysed and transformed into actionable information in radiology practices in South Africa. This descriptive quantitative study was conducted at private radiology practices in South Africa. The e-questionnaire was administered to the total sample population (N=32) and had 13 respondents (n=13). Results indicate that radiology practices do perform some BA, using hybrid and II systems. Furthermore, in this study, most radiology practices use PACS, RIS and billing systems and use a wide range of imaging modalities, suggesting that infrastructure to perform BA is in place. In this study, 61 % of the participants indicated that they use a dashboard in their practice to display BA. Even so, only 53.2% of the proposed metrics are applicable, and 13.7% are measured in the participants’ radiology practices. Regardless of this, participants rated their average operational efficiency above good. In spite of this, there are many areas for improvement identified from the literature in radiology practices in SA. Measurement would be the first step to address these issues and guide improvement. The application of BA could address these pain points experienced by radiology practices in SA. Although BA is a business study concept, this is the ideal opportunity to adopt BA in radiology practices. Lastly, recommendations were formulated for clinical practice, education, regulatory bodies on implementation of BA and to guide further research on BA.M.Tech. (Radiography
Contradictory co-equals : virtual heterotopia
No full textAbstract: This project holds fascination in the unmasking of truth, in our post colonial cities, through identifying contradictory co-equals, where one matter cannot exist without the other, such as light and darkness, social ill and social good, leisure and labour, reality and fiction. This is done by using spatial tools to render these visible and suggest alternate relations between these two entities. Contradictory co-equals navigates itself in different ways within this project: here versus there, outside versus inside, above versus below, now versus then, remaining versus remains. This speaks about space, perspective, time and a state of being. These are processed by straddling the threshold of the ‘fourth wall’ as a supersurface, and resultant adjacent heterotopias which are produced, particularly in the context of Gold Reef City in Johannesburg. In places of performance, we find the articulation of the invisible ‘fourth wall’, a concept, as brought to light by Dennis Diderot (1713-1784). This device is used as a term to specify the division of space between the performers and spectators, usually present to allow a very specific frame of observation for spectators. This concept is important in providing a framework of engagement in which these two parallels may be juxtaposed and decoded; revealing overlaps, collisions, similarities, and contradictions of the co-equals. Michel Foucault (1986:24) writes of heterotopic sites as the in-between or other sites. This is a position, one might argue, that is in opposition with that of ‘utopia’, “heterotopias in Foucault’s conception are real places that exist like “counter-sites”, simultaneously representing, contesting, and inverting all other conventional sites” (Iwan Sadrudjat 2012:29). Drawing from this concept the project argues that the ‘fourth wall’ is not only a scale to measure difference, but also acts as a “counter-site” (Iwan Sadrudjat 2012:29) resisting polarisation; a space for unexpected encounters and occurrences. In this project, heterotopias are understood as worlds within worlds, which often operate with sophisticated spatial apparatus, including those that convey systems of illusion, suspend or subdue time, juxtapose seemingly congruent narratives, and open and close to the world it embeds itself in within particularly managed apertures or access ways. This project, in a sense, uses an exaggerated form of a heterotopia as a kind of didactic tool, a new way of seeing the spaces we encounter, many of which have dark hidden pasts. This project is understood through a heterotopic site viewed as “playspace as modality” (Steffen Walz 2010:27). Playspace as modality is determined beyond a subjective experience; holding qualities that can be physical, virtual, or a hybrid of these two settings (Walz 2010:18). The aim of this project is to exaggerate dualism but also expose the third of things. By looking at celestial and infernal, one does not exist without the other in a linguistic way, but then the third of this is earthly, one which is the in-between, the holistic, the more inclusive matter that we deal with. This is made with the intention to create grounds for hypothetical supersurfaces of familiarity. Moreover, the project may take on vivid dream-like fragments as a network of the depths of the supersurface. Central Research Question: If the surface is just a skin, facade or frame to hide, protect or hold together the depth of the matter, how might the effective use of the ‘fourth wall’ create a more responsive relationship between the contradictory co-equals within a spatial setting? Methodology: “Virtual reality is all about illusion. It’s about computer graphics in the theater of the mind. It’s about the use of technology to convince yourself you’re in another reality.” - Primintel and Texiera (1995:7) This project is envisaged as an interactive work involving an immersive landscape through the use of Virtual Reality (VR). It allows the fourth wall to not only be a flatline of division and projection but further creates an interactive realm/sphere in which the wall becomes an immersive and interactive space with depth and dimension. ‘Inhibition’, an immersive performance-based exhibition, created as part of the Interactive Architecture lab by Zoe Diakiki and Marina Mesiadou (2021), will be researched as a precedent of a playspace of modality (Walz, 2010:27). Through the use of VR, ‘Inhibition’ succeeds in creating an immersive experience which “invites the audience to become performers exploring their sense of agency” (Mersiadou. M, Diakaki. Z, 2021). The explorer becomes an observer of the virtual heterotopia which in return becomes observed by spectators. This is relevant to the research as it provides practical methodologies of engagement and observation; exposing the parallels of the fourth wall whilst users are submerged in the virtual event. The project aims to adopt such techniques into the framework of the ‘fourth wall’, where architectural tools may be used to extract and acquire meaningful data. Through the exploration of heterotopias, the counter sites reveal the parallels of contradictory co-equals.M.Tech. (Architecture
Perceptions and attitudes of radiographers in Malawi towards performing barium enema procedures
No full textAbstract: Malawi is currently experiencing a severe shortage of radiologists. This shortage affects service delivery to patients. Radiographers currently only assist radiologists to perform special procedures where needed. This shortage of radiologists stimulated the role extension of radiographers. Radiography role extension has been realised in many countries where radiographers are performing procedures that are not in their scope of practice, like intravenous injections, barium enemas and even reporting on radiographs. In Malawi no feasibility study has been undertaken to explore different areas in which radiographers can extend their roles. One such role is performing barium enema procedures. Based on the conceptualisation of the research problem, the study question that was answered is: ‘What are the attitudes and perceptions of Malawian radiographers towards performing barium enema procedures as a role extension?’ The aim of this quantitative, descriptive research approach was to explore the attitudes and perceptions of Malawian radiographers towards performing barium enema procedures as an extension of their current role, consequently enhancing their career pathways. A quantitative, descriptive research approach was employed for this study. Radiographers from the four selected referral central hospitals in Malawi were invited to participate in this study. The population for this study included registered radiographers from the selected hospitals in Malawi. A purposeful sampling method was used to select 81 participants. Eighty-one questionnaires were administered and 45 were returned, which is a 56% response rate. Data was collected using an adapted questionnaire based on the reference from existing questionnaires. The questionnaire used both closed and open-ended questions. Data was analyzed through descriptive statistical data using IBM SPSS. Descriptive statistical data analysis is often used to describe and summarize the basic features of the data in the study. The data was presented in frequencies, percentages, and chi-squares. The findings of the study suggested that there was a statistical significance in radiographer perceptions in the two main categories surveyed. Radiographer perceptions remain mere static in Malawi whilst radiographers are still regarded as v assistants at barium enema procedures. The insight gained in this study will contribute to the lack of available quantitative data related to perceptions and attitudes of radiographers towards performing barium enema procedures. This study was limited by the instrument used (questionnaire), as it was adopted from other existing studies, hence it could not generate real innovations to the researcher as well as the results gathered. The study focussed on only central hospitals, one at each region of Malawi, hence it was not possible to generalise the results of other hospitals.M.Tech. (Radiography
Risk perception and management of tuberculosis among health care workers in Umzingwane District, Zimbabwe
Get PDFAbstract: Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and an important cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries. Umzingwane district in Matabeleland South province is one of the districts with high reported cases of TB in Zimbabwe. There is scarcity of published data on TB risk perception, related risk and mitigation strategies employed by health-care workers (HCWs) in this region. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the risk perception of TB among HCWs and to assess the risk management practices in relation to perceived risk, by HCWs in Umzingwane District. Methods: A cross-section study was conducted and used stratified random sampling to enrol a total of 127 participants from both clinical and non-clinical settings. Pre-coded questionnaires and an electronic data collection form similar were used to collect data to achieve the study objectives. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26 and Epi-Info version 7. Univariate and multivariate analysis were conducted to investigate the relationship between study variables and to satisfy each of the study objectives. Results: The modal age of participants was 31 to 40 years. Based on analysis of sociodemographic variables, participants aged between 20 and 30 years were less likely to feel at risk of TB in the occupational environment (OR 0.33 CI: 0.11 – 0.98). Participants with their highest qualification as a diploma were more likely to feel at significant risk of TB (AOR 4.52 CI: 1.38 – 14.8). Health care workers offering non-clinical or supporting roles were less likely to feel at risk (AOR 0.07 CI: 0.01 – 0.52). Staff in combined medical and surgical departments perceived a higher risk (OR 3.43 CI: 1.09 – 10.79). Health care workers who did not know any other health worker diagnosed of TB were less likely to feel at risk of TB (OR 0.34 CI: 0.14 – 0.85). Compared to those who were never in contact with TB patients, HCWs with contact of any frequency with TB patients were more likely to feel at risk of TB. Health care workers who did not implement any mitigation strategies were less likely to feel at risk (OR 0.18 CI:0.06 – 0.60) as were those who did not implement open area patient waiting (OR 0.18 CI: 0.06 – 0.53) and those who did not implement patient triage and fast tracking (OR 0.27 CI: 0.10 – 0.76). Staff who did not use TB Preventive Therapy (TPT) when it was an applicable intervention were more likely to feel at significant risk of TB in the occupational environment (AOR 4.36 CI:1.10 – 17.23). Conclusion: This study highlighted important incongruencies between perceived risk and actual risk as highlighted in previous studies or existing evidence. The identified gaps in the implementation of v mitigation strategies commensurate with perceived levels of risk. There is a need for training of HCWs on TB infection control with emphasis of the importance of the various mitigation strategies to enable HCWs to apply mitigation strategies commensurate with their perceived risk. Key terms: Tuberculosis, TB, significant risk, perceived risk, occupational environment, mitigation strategies, risk management, Umzingwane District.M.A. (Public Health
Assessment of the implementation of controls for lead (Pb) exposure amongst laboratory workers at a science and research institution in Gauteng, South Africa
Get PDFAbstract: Background The lead regulations under the OHSA (Act 85 of 1993) prescribes guidelines for the control measures that must be put in place to protect workers from Lead (Pb) exposure in the workplace. Even though stringent measures are implemented at the science and research institution, workers exposed to Pb continue to have Blood Lead Levels (BLL) of over 20μg/dL and these high levels exposes workers to amongst others, neurological, cardiovascular, maskulo-skeletal and associated symptoms. While lead exposure has been investigated at the mining sites, in agriculture, households and amongst the vulnerable groups, investigation in the laboratories of a science and research institutions have not been adequately described in literature. Objective The study sought to assess the implementation of controls for Pb exposure amongst laboratory workers at a science and research institution in Gauteng, South Africa. Methods A quantitative cross section design study was conducted in a science and research council environment with laboratory workers who were more exposed to Pb and those less exposed to Pb. The study sample size was 389 with those exposed to Pb constituting a proportion equal to 181 (46.5%) and those less exposed to Pb 208 (53.5%). The data was collected using an online questionnaire. Secondary data for BLL in the period 2018-2019 was extracted from existing biological monitoring records of the same employees who participated in the online questionnaire. The data management and analysis were performed using EPINFO 7.2 for crude analysis and SPSS version 27 for adjusted odds ratios. Bivariate tests were performed using logistic regression to assess the association between laboratory work and Pb exposure at a confidence interval of 95%...M.A. (Public Health
Prevalence of diarrhoea-causing enteric pathogens and antimicrobial resistance of potentially pathogenic bacteria isolated from children under five years
Get PDFAbstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract.D.Tech. (Biomedical Technology
The views of learners of a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) strategy in Mathematics classrooms at a rural secondary school
Get PDFAbstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the views of learners of implementing a bring your own device (BYOD) strategy in mathematics classrooms at a rural secondary school. South African learners are among the worst-performing mathematics learners in regional and international assessments, and consequently the Department of Education finds itself under pressure to improve this situation. One way to achieve this is to incorporate technology into the mathematics classrooms, in the form of computers and tablets, which the learners can use to enhance their mathematical learning. However, many rural schools cannot afford to provide the learners with these technological tools, so a BYOD strategy can be implemented, which would allow the learners to bring their own devices to use in their mathematics classrooms. The quantitative research study was conducted at a rural KwaZulu-Natal secondary school. The participants were 52 mathematics learners in the FET phase. Data were collected through paper-based questionnaires, and the results were analysed using SPSS software and Microsoft Excel. The study found that most learners have positive attitudes towards, and are in favour of, the implementation of a BYOD strategy in their mathematics classrooms. The learners indicated that they are familiar with using their devices to learn mathematics, by accessing the internet, downloading and using educational apps, and using every day educational functions. The learners also felt that their teachers should allow them to use cell phones in class for these purposes, as this would support their learning of mathematics, increasing their attention and excitement to learn, improve their creativity, increase the amount of work they do in class, help them with technology skills and allow them to learn anywhere and anytime. Many learners are convinced that the use of cell phones would not be a distraction in class, nor would the devices be used inappropriately. The study recommended that the school needs to: find a way to cater for those learners who do not have smart devices; provide all learners with skills on how to use their devices for school related purpose inside and outside the mathematics classroom; have a comprehensive BYOD policy on the use of personal devices to avoid inappropriate use of cell 3 phones and to deal with any issues/ problem that can arise when learners bring their own devices to the mathematics class; and have technical and back-up support available to deal with any technical problems. Key words: Bring Your Own Devices (BYOD), Mathematics, Information Technology and Communication (ICT), Learner mathematics performance.M.Ed. (Information Communication and Technology
A critical evaluation of current e-waste management and recycling practices in the Jos Metropolis in Nigeria
Get PDFAbstract: This study focused on households and informal e-waste collectors as some of the key stakeholders in e-waste management in the Jos metropolis of Plateau state in Nigeria. Aspects investigated included awareness and knowledge on e-waste, disposal practices, willingness to recycle such wastes and the challenges encountered by these stakeholders. While households constitute major generators of e-waste, the absence of formal e-waste management in the Jos metropolis has created an opportunity for the informal e-waste sector. The data analysed in this study were collected from both households and informal waste pickers by using questionnaires. Both descriptive and inferential statistics as well as structural equation modelling were used to analyse the collected data. The household survey interviewed 228 respondents and the results indicated that cell phones (93%) and television sets (82%) were mentioned by most respondents. The main reasons for acquiring these electronic devices entailed the replacement of damaged ones (49.6%), frequent product upgrades (37.7%), as well as theft (35.55%), amongst others. The most predominant method of disposing e-waste included illegal dumping in open spaces along with other household wastes (25%), storing it at home indefinitely (27.6%), and selling it to others for possible reuse (17.5%). Although the handling and storage of this waste is currently inappropriate, most respondents (84.2%) were willing to participate in its management provided they are given appropriate knowledge (89.9%) on its safe disposal and recycling. The study found no significant correlation between existing awareness levels on e-waste and willingness to participate in its management based on the socio-demographical profile of respondents. Furthermore, this study showed how certain factors were moderating e-waste management and its recycling in the study area...Ph.D. (Environment Management
Adolescent Health Series - alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use among adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa : A narrative review
Get PDFAbstract: Alcohol, tobacco, and other drug (ATOD) use by adolescents are major contributors to death and disability in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This paper reviews the extent of adolescents’ ATOD use, risk and protective factors, and studies evaluating prevention interventions for adolescents in SSA. It also describes the harms associated with adolescents’ ATOD use in SSA, which mainly include interpersonal violence, sexual risk behaviours, and negative academic outcomes. We use the socio-ecological model as our framework for understanding ATOD use risk and protective factors at individual, interpersonal, peer/school, and societal/structural levels. We used two strategies to find literature evaluating ATOD interventions for adolescents in SSA: (a) we sought systematic reviews of adolescent ATOD interventions in SSA covering the period 2000–2020; and (b) we used a comprehensive evidence review strategy and searched for studies that had evaluated ATOD interventions in all SSA countries between 2000 and 2020. Only two community interventions (a brief intervention and an HIV prevention intervention), out of four that were identified, were partially effective in reducing adolescent ATOD. Furthermore, only one school-based intervention (HealthWise), out of the six that we uncovered, had any effect on ATOD use among adolescents. Possible reasons why many interventions were not effective include methodological limitations, involvement of non-evidence- based education-only approaches in some studies, and shortcomings in adaptations of evidence-based interventions. The scale of ATOD and related problems is disproportionate to the number of evaluated interventions to address them in SSA. More ATOD interventions need to be developed and evaluated in well-powered and well-designed studies
Intricacies of HRM as a managerial profession of South Africa : A conceptual analyses
Get PDFAbstract: The extent to which human resource management can be considered a profession in South Africa is still being debated. The primary goal of this study was to review the literature on the progression of professionalisation and professionalism in HRM in general and practices that could be explicitly adopted in the South African context. This manuscript is organised as a review of the literature. The literature review findings show that the current South African HR fraternity can obtain common understandings of HR professionalism when applied to all vocational settings by developing a governing body with legal status, a body of knowledge, and establishing standards for all HR practices at all organisational levels. The ontological methodology of literature analyses highlighted the significance, guiding principles, and expected behaviour of professionals in general and HRM practitioners in South Africa. Finally, recommendations are made for the enhancement of HR professionalism
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