Browsing by Author "Nel, Janske"

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    Anaerobes and bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy: virulence factors contributing to vaginal colonisation
    (Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 2014) Africa, Charlene W.J.; Nel, Janske; Stemmet, Megan C.
    The aetiology and pathogenesis of bacterial vaginosis (BV) is unclear but it appears to be associated with factors that disrupt the normal acidity of the vagina thus altering the equilibrium between the normal vaginal microbiota. BV has serious implications for female morbidity, including reports of pelvic inflammatory disease, adverse pregnancy outcomes, increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections and infertility. This paper reviewed new available information regarding possible factors contributing to the establishment of the BV vaginal biofilm, examined the proposed role of anaerobic microbial species recently detected by new culture-independent methods and discusses developments related to the effects of BV on human pregnancy. The literature search included Pubmed (NLM), LISTA (EBSCO), and Web of Science. Because of the complexity and diversity of population groups, diagnosis and methodology used, no meta-analysis was performed. Several anaerobic microbial species previously missed in the laboratory diagnosis of BV have been revealed while taking cognisance of newly proposed theories of infection, thereby improving our understanding and knowledge of the complex aetiology and pathogenesis of BV and its perceived role in adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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    Nanoscience teaching and research program in South Africa
    (Frontiers Media SA, 2024) Lindsay, Robert; Nel, Janske
    Since 2012, the national nanoscience teaching and training platform (NNPTTP), funded by the South African department of science and innovation (DSI), has been responsible for overseeing Africa’s first-ever master’s in nanoscience program. For over a decade, the NNPTTP has seen the cooperation of four partner universities across South Africa, namely, the university of Johannesburg (UJ), University of the Free State (UFS), University of the Western Cape (UWC), and Nelson Mandela university (NMU), culminating in over 250 graduates trained in either nanophysics, nanochemistry, or nanobiology. Originally established to train professionals for a nanotechnology-based industry, both in South Africa and internationally, the program and platform has evolved into a testament to scientific collaboration. This paper discusses the program’s framework, successes and challenges, related research, and future plans.