bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An adaptation of a macroscale methodology to assess the direct economic losses caused by Tropical Cyclone Idai in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mavhura Emmanuel , Aryal Komal R.
Published: October 2022

Tropical cyclones are among the costliest disasters in the world, with reported losses amounting to billions of US dollars on an annual basis. To reduce the impact of disasters including cyclones, Zimbabwe signed the Sendai Framework whose Target C is aimed at reducing the direct economic losses of disasters. Under the direction of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), an open-ended intergovernmental expert working group (OIEWG) developed a simple methodology for estimating direct disaster-economic loss. Therefore, this study tested the applicability of the OIEWG methodology in assessing the direct economic losses induced by Tropical Cyclone Idai (TCI) in Zimbabwe. The results revealed that TCI inflicted huge losses in most sectors of the economy, notably the housing, agriculture and the critical infrastructure. The sectoral analysis approach of the OIEWG methodology worked well in distinguishing direct and indirect loses as well as in underlining the need to adopt and effectively implement adequate risk reduction strategies in the built environment. Strengthening such strategies such as the ‘build back better’ principle, cyclone forecasting and warning systems and constructing cyclone-resilient infrastructure is critical in order to minimise direct losses attributed to cyclones.
Flood risk perception, disaster preparedness and response in flood-prone urban communities of Rivers State
Authors: Elum Zelda A. , Lawal Olanrewaju
Published: October 2022

Rapid urbanisation is contributing to increasing societal vulnerability to disaster. This study aimed at exploring the perception on flood risk and ascertaining the determinants of disaster preparedness among residents in flood-prone urban communities. Descriptive statistics and discriminant regression model were employed on primary data collected from 240 urban households across five communities at risk of flooding in the study area. The results showed that most households had low awareness of flood risk and exhibit low levels of adaptive capacity, having adopted little or no measures to deal with disaster floods. Also, awareness of flood risk was observed to discriminate the most between the two groups of adopters and nonadopters of flood preventive and management measures (proxy for disaster preparedness), followed by flood risk perception, age, location and household size.Contribution: The study suggests an integrated approach (a combination of preventive, protective and control measures) by all stakeholders, including government and other relevant bodies, increasing public awareness of flood risk and its attending effects for greater responsiveness, supporting communities in regular clearing of drainage areas and strictly regulating the construction of buildings, particularly in flood prone areas.
Implications of fiscal policy on household consumption in Kenya: A nonlinear auto-regressive distributed lag approach
Authors: Muindi Naomy N. , Mukorera Sophia Z.E.
Published: October 2022

Orientation: Fiscal policy can be applied with a stabilisation intention if government finance choices can influence household consumption behaviour. According to Keynes, expansionary fiscal policy is the best economic stabilisation tool.Research purpose: This article examined the crowding in effects of fiscal policy on household consumption whilst investigating the effectiveness of fiscal policy in Kenya.Motivation for the study: Household consumption is a key indicator of economic well-being in any economy. Despite its importance, empirical studies examining the relationship between fiscal policy and household consumption are limited in Kenya. In addition, empirical studies on this subject focused on the linear or the symmetric effects of fiscal policy on household consumption.Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the asymmetric effects of fiscal policy on household consumption in Kenya.Methodology: This study employed a quantitative research method using time series data which ranged from 1971 to 2018. The nonlinear auto-regressive distributed lag (NARDL) model was used in the empirical analysis.Results: In the short run, fiscal policy was found not to affect household consumption. However, fiscal policy was found to have asymmetric effects on household consumption in the long run.The managerial implications: The study revealed that, in the long run, negative changes in tax revenue crowd in consumption whilst other factors do not have a significant effect on household consumption.Value-added: This study informs the Kenyan government on the best way to follow when fiscal policy tools must be employed to boost household consumption.
Mainstreaming environmental, social and governance integration in investment practices in South Africa: A proposed framework
Authors: Marais Francis , Van der Lugt Cornelis T. , Mans-Kemp Nadia
Published: October 2022

Orientation: Responsible investment (RI) is gaining prominence globally. As South African asset managers increasingly apply environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria, they require improved guidance on the integration thereof in mainstream investment practices.Research purpose: A best-practice framework for ESG integration is proposed based on empirical results and international standards.Motivation for the study: The mainstreaming of ESG is examined in South Africa, a country where integrated disclosure by listed companies is well established and asset managers are challenged to meet international standards while facing emerging market realities.Research approach/design and method: Selected South African asset managers completed a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews were conducted with national and international asset managers to gauge their views on ESG integration best practices.Main findings: The findings highlight the limited local opportunity set and scope to increase client demand for RI in South Africa. Inconsistencies were noted in how the local asset managers incorporated material ESG information in their investment policies and practices.Practical/managerial implications: ESG integration should form part of the entire investment process. To effectively apply the proposed ESG framework, Investment managers should formalise and publish comprehensive RI policies and develop internal ESG data provision systems covering material subjects defined by international ESG disclosure standards. Invest managers are encouraged to conduct ongoing engagement with investee companies on key ESG issues.Contribution: While the need for ESG integration is recognised, local asset managers require improved guidance on the incorporation of complex ESG issues. A best-practice framework for ESG integration is hence proposed.
‘A luta continua’, will it ever end? The reality of local government in South Africa
Authors: Rulashe Tando
Published: October 2022

No abstract available.
Employees’ aptitudes and trepidations for the adoption of enterprise application architecture for supply chain management in small and medium enterprises: A case of Capricorn District Municipality
Authors: Lamola Kingston X.
Published: October 2022

Background: This article inspects the internal constituents on employees’ aptitudes and trepidations (EATs) for the adoption of enterprise application architecture (EAA) for supply chain management (SCM) in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within Capricorn District Municipality. EATs trait origins widespread destruction and inflict in the adoption of EAA if not managed amicably, unless, the enterprise accentuate the importance of the 4th Industrial revolution with careful planning to deal with the aftermath and mitigate the inspirations instinctively. Thus, the logistics of EAA adoption is one of the main activities in information technology (IT) that requires meticulous knowledge in algorithms for a successful SCM.Objective: The principal objective of this study is to determine whether EATs affect the adoption of EAA for SCM in SMEs and to identify gaps and institute state of the art in research for future studies.Method: This study adopts a descriptive research method with the use of 310 respondents targeted at both SME owners and managers, sculpted over quantitative research. Based on the analyses of data, the linear regression model is executed. As a result, the author realised that ‘EATs affect the adoption of EAA’ as a dominant research focus of these studies. In this study, the response EATs as a primary influencer of the adoption of EAA, considered on linear regression model for attainable SCM. In practice, SMEs should link EAA to new technologies, enterprise capabilities, objectives and strategies, as well as the existing culture and performance philosophies.Results: The SMEs’ success in SCM activities is dependent on employees’ perceptions, attitudes, motivation and learning abilities that could ease the narratives on the adoption of EAA.Conclusion: These results provide the following comprehensions for future research: applying simplicity by getting them on board, introducing EAA through different channels of learning, building a coalition of willing mindsets, motivating its purpose and celebrating small progress. The research provides a profound understanding relevant in the contextual background to SMEs to adopt EAA for SCM that depends on the enterprise resources (ERs) acquisition and\or availability.
The impact of COVID-19 on informal humanitarian supply chains – The case study of Zimbabwe
Authors: Ittmann Hans W.
Published: October 2022

Background: For the last 20 years Zimbabwe has been dependent on humanitarian aid. The country is in a desperate condition, with millions of citizens leaving to reside in neighbouring countries. These Zimbabweans are providing and sending food, necessities and cash to relatives in the country using largely informal humanitarian supply chains (HSCs). The outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was disastrous causing more hardship.Objective: This case study explores how informal HSCs played a significant role in the Zimbabwe humanitarian aid initiative and the impact of COVID-19 on these supply chains.Method: A mixed method design was used to collect qualitative data through personal interviews with Zimbabweans in South Africa. Additional quantitative data was obtained from humanitarian reports, Zimbabwe government reports as well as other publications. These were used to present the humanitarian crisis in Zimbabwe and specifically how support was provided through informal HSCs from outside Zimbabwe.Results: Through the case study the devastating effect COVID-19 had on a large component of the food insecure and suffering population of Zimbabwe is vividly illustrated. The closing of national borders prevented any food and other necessities, sent by diaspora from South Africa, reaching relatives.Conclusion: The results of this case study show the effect COVID-19 had on the humanitarian aid from relatives in South Africa. All the aid to Zimbabweans completely stopped for an extended period as these informal HSCs were completely broken because of the COVID-19 pandemic and 2 years later they remain disrupted.
Characterisation and antibiotic resistance of Yersinia enterocolitica from various meat categories, South Africa
Authors: Seakamela Emmanuel M. , Diseko Letlhogonolo , Malatji Dikeledi , Makhado Lavhelesani , Motau Mmatau , Jambwa Kudakwashe , Magwedere Kudakwashe , Ntushelo Nombasa , Matle Itumeleng
Published: October 2022

Yersinia enterocolitica infections impose a significant public health and socioeconomic burden on human population in many countries. The current study investigated the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance profile and molecular diversity of Y. enterocolitica in meat and meat products across various retail outlets in selected provinces of South Africa (SA). In a cross-sectional study, a total of 581 retail meat and meat products were collected from four cities across three provinces of SA. Samples were from beef and pork products, which included 292 raw intact, 167 raw processed, and 122 ready-to-eat (RTE) meats. Samples were analysed using classical microbiological methods for isolation, identification and biotyping of Y. enterocolitica. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed for confirmation, serotyping, screening of virulence (n = 11) and antimicrobial resistance (n = 18) genes. Phenotypic antimicrobial resistance profiles were determined against 12 antibiotics discs, using disc diffusion method. The overall prevalence of 12% (70/581) was reported across all cities with contamination proportion reported in samples collected from raw intact 15% (43/292), followed by raw processed 11% (18/167) and RTE meats 7% (9/122). All positive isolates were of biotype 1A with 7% (5/70) belonging to bioserotype 1A/O:8. Most of the isolates harboured ymoA, ystB, fepD, ail, fepA, invA and myfA virulence genes. High antimicrobial resistance frequency was observed for ampicillin (94%), cephalothin (83%) and amoxicillin (41%), respectively. Of the 18 tested antimicrobial resistance genes, blaTEM was the most predominant (40%) followed by cmlA (21%). This study reveals the presence of antimicrobial resistant Y. enterocolitica possessing virulent genes of public health importance in products of animal origin, therefore, health monitoring and surveillance of this pathogen is required.
Climate change and primary health care in Chakama, Kilifi County, Kenya
Authors: Sheriff Muhsin , Mash Robert
Published: October 2022

Chakama is an area of 46 small villages in Kilifi County, Kenya. Climate change has led to more frequent and longer periods of drought in this semi-arid region as well as locust invasions. This has led to a lack of water, with many rivers drying up and poor water quality as a result of pollution of the remaining river water. The lack of water and locust invasion have led to a failure of the crops and loss of livestock. Many pastoralists and farmers have lost their livelihood. Wild animals from local nature reserves have also come into conflict with the community over water scarcity. Many families have migrated in search of water and income. The health effects are seen in the rising number of people suffering from malnutrition and gastroenteritis as well as in terms of mental health problems. Primary health care services are not always available, and the quality of such services is poor. Facilities and healthcare workers also struggle to be resilient in the face of the same environmental challenges. Local nongovernment organisations are attempting to assist through health and social services, community engagement and multisectoral action.
Climate change, disaster management and primary health care in Zimbabwe
Authors: Ray Sunanda , Goronga Tinashe , Chigiya Phillip T. , Madzimbamuto Farai D.
Published: October 2022

The health crises related to climate change in African countries are predicted to get worse and more prevalent. The response to catastrophic events such as cyclones, flooding and landslides must be rapid and well-coordinated. Slower adverse events such as droughts, heat stress and food insecurity must similarly be anticipated, planned for and resourced. There are lessons to be learnt by the health system following the crisis created by Cyclone Idai in Zimbabwe during March 2019, which required a massive humanitarian response to mitigate the impact of torrential rainfall on lives and livelihoods. Several researchers and organisations documented the emergency response in detail. They reported that the government response was hampered by a lack of preparedness, poor planning, inadequate resource mobilisation and weak coordination. Rural communities did not access the early warning cyclone alerts disseminated through television, print and social media, nor did they appreciate the seriousness of events until it was too late. Primary health care (PHC) teams are familiar and trusted by the communities they serve and have a critical role in raising public awareness and in documenting the evolving impact of climate change, using established health indicators and local narratives. PHC leaders and providers have the knowledge and skills to mediate between government bodies, international agencies, other stakeholders and communities on the predicted impact of climate change on health outcomes, highlighting the vulnerability of disadvantaged and impoverished groups. They are also able to work with community leaders, using indigenous knowledge on weather patterns, to build local engagement in protection plans.Contribution: This article describes the role health professionals and civil society can play in educating the public on the dangers faced in the near future as a result of climate change and actions that can be taken to become more resilient and to mitigate this impact.
Entrepreneurial learning outcomes in the transition from hybrid to full-time entrepreneurship
Authors: Rugpath Naomi , Mamabolo Anastacia
Published: October 2022

Purpose: Hybrid entrepreneurship is a career transition path and a learning ground for entrepreneurs moving towards full-time entrepreneurship. Although previous studies have highlighted the benefits of a learning process, the learning during the hybrid phase is mainly underexplored. This study aimed to explore the learning outcomes during the transition from hybrid to full-time entrepreneurship in a South African context.Design/methodology/approach: This narrative qualitative study collected data from a purposive sample of 15 South African entrepreneurs who transitioned from hybrid to full-time entrepreneurship.Findings/results: There are three primary learning outcomes during the transition process. Firstly, the meaning-making outcomes in the early transition stage rely on spiritual guidance in the decision-making process and refining the entrepreneurs’ purpose. Secondly, the applied entrepreneurial learning outcomes in the mid-transition stage focus on the entrepreneurial competencies and operating as a jack of all trades to manage the business. Lastly, the constructive entrepreneurial leadership outcomes in the late transition stage are about the entrepreneurs leading themselves, others and the organisation. The findings show that the entrepreneurs’ narratives of the learning outcomes align with the transition stages.Practical implications: This study contributes to the entrepreneurial practice by developing a framework on learning outcomes during the transition process. Entrepreneurs in the transition process should build some of the identified competencies.Originality/value: The study addresses an overlooked research area on learning experienced during the transition from hybrid to full-time entrepreneurship. It also suggests propositions that contribute to the growing body of research on hybrid entrepreneurship.
Youth participation in agriculture, accounting for entrepreneurial dimensions
Authors: Henning Johannes I.F. , Jammer Brent D. , Jordaan Henry
Published: October 2022

Background: Despite the high youth unemployment levels, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, participation in the agricultural sector remains low. The agricultural sector provides valuable opportunities of employment, which could contribute towards relieving the high levels of unemployment and enhancing livelihoods of families in rural areas. Youth are also seen as the future of the agricultural sector and food production.Aim: To determine whether entrepreneurial dimensions, along with assets within the sustainable livelihoods framework, influences participation of youth in the agricultural sector.Setting: Focus is on youth and the influence of endogenous and exogenous factors on their participation in the agricultural sector.Methods: Entrepreneurial dimensions of 440 youth participants were derived from statements related to entrepreneurial skills and competencies by means of principal component analysis and combined with factors from the sustainable livelihood framework in a multinomial logistic regression.Results: It was found that the youth are heterogeneous in their endogenous and exogenous resources. Youth involved in the sector are more likely to have access to land and extension services, experience in the sector and support initiatives. In terms of entrepreneurial dimensions, youth involved are more inclined to believe in themselves and are more likely to take advantage of opportunities (pull entrepreneurship). The results show that policies and programmes should consider both endogenous and exogenous factors and combinations thereof to attract and enhance youth participation in the agricultural sector.Conclusion: Policy and programme development should consider the heterogeneity of youth in terms of their access to resources and entrepreneurial dimensions to enhance their participation in the agricultural sector. Participation in agriculture requires more than only access to land, and other individual physical resources attention should also be given to endogenous factors of individuals and combinations of different resources.
Delays in third-line antiretroviral therapy and outcomes in North West province
Authors: Majova Babalwa , Variava Ebrahim , Martinson Neil
Published: October 2022

Background: Rapid switching from second-line to third-line antiretroviral therapy (TLART) is crucial for achieving viral suppression and reducing illness related to ART failure.Objectives: This retrospective cohort study quantified the waiting periods for TLART initiation after virological failure on second-line therapy was detected, assessed factors associated with delays and assessed the outcomes of patients started on TLART.Method: Data were abstracted from records of individuals eligible for TLART, and the time to TLART initiation was calculated. Reasons for delays were categorised according to patient, clinician and administrative processes.Results: Fifty-four patients were eligible for TLART. The median delay from the date of first viral load 1000 copies/mL on second-line therapy to the start of TLART was 640 days (interquartile range [IQR]: 451–983 days). Of the patients that failed second-line and had an application for TLART, 41 (75.6%) were eventually initiated on TLART, and 11 (20.4%) died while waiting. Delays were primarily due to non-response to the first unsuppressed viral load while on second-line ART: 467 days (IQR: 232–803 days).Conclusion: This study showed a prolonged waiting period for TLART initiation mainly between detected high viral load to requesting of resistance tests; many factors could have contributed, including clinicians’ delayed responses to elevated viral loads. Mortality was high before TLART could be initiated. The process of TLART initiation needs to be made more efficient. Healthcare services should be strengthened to (1) recognise and manage virological failure early and identify those eligible for resistance testing, (2) ensure access to resistance testing and appropriately skilled clinicians, and (3) streamline approvals and delivery of TLART.
Exploring academic staff retention strategies: The case of Ghanaian technical universities
Authors: Kuuyelleh Esmond N. , Alqahtani Mohammed , Akanpaadgi Emmanuel
Published: October 2022

Orientation: The crippling effects of staff turnover on higher education performance and success are disruptive and influence the core of national human capital development and thus call for a swift response using retention strategies.Research purpose: This article sought to explore the nature of academic staff retention strategies of technical universities in Ghana.Motivation for the study: Literature on academic staff retention strategies in the context of Ghanaian technical universities appears to be limited, scattered and lack theoretical underpinning. This exploration is needed especially that institutions in the sector has been upgraded to the status of universities; and thus, attracting and retaining highly skilled academic staffs remains key.Research approach/design and method: Using organisational equilibrium theory, this qualitative research drew primary data from four technical universities through semi-structured interviews and applied the thematic analysis technique.Main findings: Although Ghanaian technical universities are making considerable effort towards the development of feasible retention strategies to retain academic staff, the evidence points to the role of two major sets of factors (work-related and economic factors) that form the crux of managements’ strategic policy response.Practical/managerial implications: Work-related and economic factors were the main factors that encourages retention of academic staff of Ghanaian technical universities. Retention strategies of technical universities should be deepened and correspond with the recognised factors that enhance academic staff retention.Contribution/value-add: This study, with the findings, articulates retention strategies of technical universities which can be adopted to retain highly skilled and talented academic staffs. The body of knowledge on retention strategies is extended from both empirical and theoretical perspective.
Professional personas and capabilities of the future people practitioner: A thematic review
Authors: Veldsman Dieter , Coetzee Melinde
Published: October 2022

Orientation: The transformation of the technology-enabled workplace has a significant impact on the future professional roles, services and capabilities of both the human resource professional (HRP) and industrial/organisational psychologist (IOP).Research purpose: The present study aimed to identify the intersecting professional personas and capabilities that speak to both the HRP and IOP as people practitioners of the digital era.Motivation for the study: An integrated 2020s capabilities framework outlining IOP and HRP services-linked personas and capabilities in their conjoint roles as people practitioners seems to be lacking.Research approach/design and method: The study utilised a configurative thematic review analysis methodology to identify convergences among contemporary scholarly and empirical views on the professional personas and capabilities of the 2020s multidisciplinary people practitioner.Main findings: The thematic analysis revealed professional development in terms of four digitally-dexterous capabilities proficiency domains and six professional personas relevant to the technology-enabled working environment.Practical/managerial implications: The proposed integrative conceptual personas and capabilities model may inform the context-relevant professional development of the digital-era people practitioner.Contributions/value-add: The study adds to the research literature on the shifting roles and capabilities of IOPs and HRP as future people practitioners in technology-enabled hybrid and virtualised work environments.
Characteristics of hospitalised COVID-19 patients during the first two pandemic waves, Gauteng
Authors: Sikhosana Mpho L. , Jassat Waasila , Makatini Zinhle
Published: October 2022

Background: Gauteng province (GP) was one of the most affected provinces in the country during the first two pandemic waves in South Africa. We aimed to describe the characteristics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients admitted in one of the largest quaternary hospitals in GP during the first two waves.Objectives: Study objectives were to determine factors associated with hospital admission during the second wave and to describe factors associated with in-hospital COVID-19 mortality.Method: Data from a national hospital-based surveillance system of COVID-19 hospitalisations were used. Multivariable logistic regression models were conducted to compare patients hospitalised during wave 1 and wave 2, and to determine factors associated with in-hospital mortality.Results: The case fatality ratio was the highest (39.95%) during wave 2. Factors associated with hospitalisation included age groups 40–59 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.14, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08–4.27), 60–79 years (aOR: 2.49, 95% CI: 1.23–5.02) and ≥ 80 years (aOR: 3.39, 95% CI: 1.35–8.49). Factors associated with in–hospital mortality included age groups 60–79 years (aOR: 2.55, 95% CI: 1.11–5.84) and ≥ 80 years (aOR: 5.66, 95% CI: 2.12–15.08); male sex (aOR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.22–1.99); presence of an underlying comorbidity (aOR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.37–2.26), as well as being admitted during post–wave 2 (aOR: 2.42, 95% CI: 1.33–4.42).Conclusion: Compared to the recent omicron-driven pandemic waves characterised by lower admission rates and less disease severity among younger patients, COVID-19 in-hospital mortality during the earlier waves was associated with older age, being male and having an underlying comorbidity.Contribution: This study showed how an active surveillance system can contribute towards identifying changes in disease trends.
Maternal vaccination: A narrative review
Authors: Ashkir Sahra , Khaliq Olive P. , Hunter Mehreen , Moodley Jagidesa
Published: October 2022

Background: Vaccinations in general are considered to be one of the greatest achievements in medicine, saving millions of lives globally.Aim: This narrative review highlights issues related to vaccination in pregnancy and provides information on those vaccines registered for use in pregnancy.Method: Published articles on vaccinations in pregnancy are included in this review. The search engines used included PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect.Results: Vaccinations during pregnancy are more likely to be administered in high income countries (HICs) compared to low-income countries (LICs) due to easier access to healthcare services and better communicable disease awareness. Maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality rates associated with infectious diseases are higher in LICs with access to maternal care services, infrastructure and hospital equipment lacking in these settings.Conclusion: Suitable vaccinations are recommended for use in pregnancy to prevent harm to women, their foetuses and newborns from some communicable diseases, and they have resulted in declines in maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, this review has shown that vaccination during pregnancy is not only safe for both the woman and her foetus but also effective. Therefore, health professionals and national governments should strongly consider approved vaccinations prior to or during pregnancy.Contribution: This review provides insight on the necessity of vaccination during pregnancy. In addition, it urges health professionals to inform patients of the importance of regular antenatal visits, and to receive the required vaccinations for a better health outcome.
Organisational support and teachers’ performance: The moderating role of job crafting
Authors: Du Toit Annette , Redelinghuys Kleinjan , Van der Vaart Leoni
Published: October 2022

Orientation: Teachers fulfil an essential role in students’ learning and the prosperity of nations. Hence, teacher performance, and the determinants thereof, are vital to understand.Research purpose: To extend the conversation on teacher performance in a non-WEIRD (Western, educated, industrialised and democratic) nation, the authors aimed to investigate potential factors that may influence teachers’ performance, specifically from the perspective of perceived organisational support (POS) and job crafting.Motivation for the study: Due to the widespread impact of teacher performance and the potential of both POS and job crafting to enable it, it is valuable to investigate the collective effect of these variables on individual work performance.Research approach/design and method: This quantitative cross-sectional study involved 207 teachers conveniently sampled from private educational organisations in Gauteng. The Survey of Perceived Organisational Support, Job Crafting Questionnaire and an Individual Work Performance Subscale were administered to assess the study variables. Structural equation modelling was employed to confirm the dimensionality of the scales, followed by moderation analysis for hypothesis testing.Main findings: The results of the moderation analysis showed that the effect of POS on teachers’ performance is conditional upon teachers’ job crafting behaviours in the organisation. More specifically, organisational support matters for teachers’ performance but only for those with low to moderate levels of job crafting.Practical/managerial implications: Organisations could implement interventions to enhance teachers’ perceptions of support from the organisation to improve their performance. Simultaneously, organisations can invest in interventions that teach teachers to craft their jobs and create organisational environments that foster job crafting behaviours.Contribution/value-add: The study contributes to the limited body of literature on teachers’ performance in a developing context and literature on organisational support and job crafting.
Nonspecific chronic low back pain conditions and therapeutic practices in Burkina Faso
Authors: Kaboré Pegdwendé A. , Zanga Orokiatou B. , Schepens Bénédicte
Published: October 2022

Background: The management of nonspecific chronic low back pain (NCLBP) is complex because of its multifactorial origin.Objectives: To investigate NCLBP care by evaluating patients’ condition and therapeutic management of health practitioners.Method: A cross-sectional survey was carried out among 92 patients with NCLBP, 30 medical practitioners (MP) and 20 physiotherapists (PT) from four public health institutions in Burkina Faso. Patients completed the Visual Analogue Scale, Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire and Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire. Practitioners were asked about therapy and continuing professional training.Results: Pain was moderate to intense for 80% of participants with NCLBP. They were functionally affected and showed fear-avoidance beliefs related to physical and work activities. The majority (97%) of medical practitioners prescribed analgesics and 53% prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Physiotherapy was the most frequently recommended nonpharmacological treatment. Forty-three per cent of medical practitioners referred to physiotherapy; 20% never did. Physiotherapists practised both passive treatments, such as massage (50%), electrotherapy (55%) and thermotherapy (50%), as well as active treatments, such as general exercises (55%), specific exercises (70%), functional revalidation (50%) and back school (40%). Having had recent continuing professional training and assessing risk factors for chronicity were associated with MPs’ and PTs’ therapeutic choices.Conclusion: Participants with NCLBP showed fear-avoidance beliefs, correlated with their algo-functional status. Prescribing habits of MPs were drug-based. Treatments by PTs were passive and active. Continuing professional training of healthcare practitioners and assessment of risk factors had a positive impact on therapeutic choices.Clinical implications: Our study is an invitation to the health care system to improve the relationship between a patient’s NCLBP and therapeutic choices.
Erratum: The structure of Ezra-Nehemiah as a literary unit
Authors: Wünch Hans-Georg
Published: October 2022

No abstract available.
Pillars of our Faith
Authors: Oliver Erna
Published: October 2022

The fourth revolution world turned our comfortable lives into a rollercoaster ride of challenges, changes and choices. Apart from the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the Fourth Communication Revolution and the Fourth Self-awareness Revolution brought major disruptions to our world to which we were just coming to terms with when coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) struck and brought a firm halt to almost everything, including the way we were used to practice our faith. This confluence of circumstances has provided Christians in South Africa with an opportunity to do introspection and carve a new way forward for being followers of Christ and doing what their faith requires from them to be true to their religion and regain credibility in a time when the institutionalised churches are struggling to survive. The need to redefine what it means to be church, and the role Christians should play in society are on the table since the last decade of the previous century. This article identified four basics and, to a great extent, neglected pillars – two from the New Testament Scriptures and two from the Reformation movements – that could form the foundation for a transformed and alternative way of being ecclesia in the current fast-paced, demanding world. This article serves as an introduction and broad overview to stimulate debate and further development of the ideas presented to contribute towards positive reformation and transformation of South African Christianity. The study was conducted through historical research and document analysis.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: A call to discuss the pillars of faith that could assist the traditional or mainstream institutional churches to do introspection at the current crossroads. Four pillars of faith are identified to assist in carving a new path forward for South African Christianity, drawing from the disciplines of Church History, Practical Theology and Missiology.
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T polymorphism across acute leukemia
Authors: Frikha Rim
Published: October 2022

Background

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is the key enzyme for folate metabolism and also plays a role in DNA biosynthesis and the epigenetic process of DNA methylation. MTHFR gene polymorphisms, mainly the C677T, have been implicated as risk factors for several types of cancers such as the acute leukemia (AL).

Main body of the abstract

This study was conducted to examine the extent of the association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and AL across a comprehensive literature of meta-analysis. Relevant English-language literature was searched and retrieved from PubMed using the terms MTHFR, the C677T polymorphism, and AL. Several parameters have been studied in the assessment of correlation between AL and the MTHFR polymorphism, such as folate intake, ethnicity, age, and sex. Nevertheless, the results are contrasting.

Short conclusion

Comprehensive analysis of MTHFR C677T in AL may be helpful and provide new insights for a personalized therapy based on the human genotype.
Evaluation of platelet surface glycoproteins in inherited thrombocytopathy
Authors: Osman Mohammed A. , Abd El-Azeem Hanan G. , Afifi Ola , Abdou Madleen Adel A. , Elsayh Khalid I. , Zahran Asmaa M. , Abdelaal Azza
Published: October 2022

Background

Glanzmann's thrombasthenia (GT) and Bernard-Soulier syndrome (BSS) are genetic bleeding syndromes characterized by defects in platelet aggregometry. Although these disorders are classified to be rare, their exact prevalence is still unknown; however, they are more frequent in communities where consanguineous marriages are common.

Aim

To study platelet surface glycoproteins expression using flow cytometry and to examine their correlation with bleeding severity using International Society of Thrombosis and Hemostasis–Bleeding Assessment Tools (ISTH-BAT) as bleeding score of choice.

Patients and methods

This case–control study included 51 patients with bleeding disorders recruited from the Department of Pediatric Hematology, Assiut University Hospital, in addition to 36 apparently healthy age- and sex-matched controls. All patients were tested for complete blood count (CBC), prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, platelet aggregation, and platelets surface glycoprotein analysis by flow cytometry. ISTH-BAT was used to register bleeding data for patients.

Results

GT and BSS had some similarities regarding the presentation and bleeding severity, but when CBC, platelet aggregation studies, and flow cytometric analysis were done, differentiation became much easier. GT patients showed a decrease in the expression of CD41 and CD61. Type I GT patients had more bleeding severity than type II and type III. BSS patients showed a decrease in expression of CD42b. There are correlations between the bleeding severity and CD41 in GT, and between the severity and CD42b in BSS.

Conclusion

Flow cytometric studies of platelet glycoproteins have great values in diagnosing BSS and GT, and further classifying GT cases into its three types. ISTH-BAT is a useful tool when dealing with platelet function disorders and has good sensitivity and ability to determine the severity.
Effect of iron deficiency on cell-mediated immunity in adults
Authors: Ghonaim Sara S. , Abo Ali Fawzia H. , Mahmoud Nehal E. , Mahmoud Mayada M. , Elzoghby Doaa M.A. , Ahmed Eman E.
Published: October 2022

Background

Iron plays a vital role in immune system development, integrity, as well as proper function through its growth-promoting and differentiation-inducing properties in immune cells and its interference with cell-mediated immune effector pathways and cytokine activities. In the past few decades, several studies have found that iron deficiency markedly affects the immune system. However, data on the effect of iron deficiency on immune function are still confusing and contradictory.

Aim

To assess the effect of iron-deficiency anemia on cell-mediated immunity.

Patients and methods

The percentage and count of T-lymphocytes (CD3+) and their CD4+ and CD8+ subsets and CD4+/CD8+ ratio were evaluated in 25 iron-deficient and 15 healthy adult women. The effect of iron therapy on the same parameters was also assessed in patients after correction of anemia.

Results

In our study, there was no statistically significant difference between patient and control groups regarding CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ cell counts and percentages and CD4+/CD8+ ratio, with no statistically significant difference after iron therapy. However, it was found that serum ferritin level was significantly positively correlated with CD4+/CD8+ ratio and CD4+ cell percentage and absolute count and significantly negatively correlated with CD8+ cell percentage.

Conclusion

Iron deficiency has no effect on cell-mediated immunity with respect to quantitative changes in T-lymphocyte subsets and CD4/CD8 ratio.
Persistent Headache in a Young Kidney Transplant Recipient Caused by Tacrolimus Associated Pseudotumor Cerebri - A Case Report
Authors: Singh Prit Pal , Krishna Amresh , Mazumdar Prajit , Ranjan Abhay
Published: October 2022

Pseudotumor cerebri (PC) is characterized by chronic elevation of intracranial pressure with normal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examination and normal neuro-imaging. We report a case of a 22-year-old female with renal allograft and for the past 4 years on immunosuppressant including prednisolone, tacrolimus, and mycophenolate mofetil. The patient presented with persistent headache for 2 months along with nausea and vomiting. Fundoscopic examination revealed bilateral papilledema. Magnetic resonance imaging-brain with venogram was normal and cytochemical examination of CSF was also normal. Ocular coherence tomography revealed increased retinal nerve fiber layer thickness. A diagnosis of PC was made based on an elevated CSF pressure (35 cm H20). We reduced the dose of tacrolimus and added acetazolamide but the dose of prednisolone and mycophenolate mofetil was not modified. There was the gradual improvement of symptoms. On follow-up visits, papilledema disappeared and the patient is now asymptomatic with normal allograft function.
Comparison of Efficacy and Safety Between Rabbit Anti-Thymocyte Globulin and Anti-T Lymphocyte Globulin in Kidney Only Transplantation
Authors: Kumar S Sakthi Selva , Veerappan Ilangovan , Sethuraman Ramaswami , Chakravarthy T , Siddharth Vijay Aanand , Rajagopal A
Published: October 2022

Introduction:

The two formulations of antihuman thymocyte immunoglobulin that are used as T-cell depleting induction agents in renal transplantation are anti-thymocyte globulins (ATG) thymoglobulin and (antiT-lymphocyte globulin [ATLG]-Grafalon-formerly ATG-Fresenius). Very few trials have compared these two formulations. In this retrospective study, we compared the incidence of infections, rejections, graft survival, mortality, and lymphocyte profile of ATG and ATLG.

Materials and Methods:

This was a single-center retrospective study of 127 consecutive kidney-alone transplant recipients from January 2014 to June 2019. Patients received 3 mg/kg of ATG or 4 mg/kg single dose of ATLG. CD 3 counts were done on day 3 of the transplant. Most of the recipients received standard triple immunosuppression of tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and prednisolone.

Results:

Fifty-eight patients received ATG and 69 patients received ATLG. Baseline demographics were similar between the two groups. Death-censored graft survival (99%) (P = 0.258) and biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR) (32% vs. 29%, P = 0.128) were similar in both groups. Graft survival was better in ATLG group (92.7% vs. 87.5% P = 0.020). Bacterial infections (41.1% vs. 27.6%, P = 0.03) and sepsis-related mortality (11.54% vs. 4.34% P = 0.02) were significantly higher in the ATG group.

Conclusion:

ATLG, when used as an induction agent, was associated with a lesser rate of bacterial infections and sepsis-related mortality, but better graft survival as compared to ATG but has comparable BPAR, death-censored graft survival, and viral/fungal infections.
Successful Surgical Repair of Inguinal Hernia Causing Positional Obstructive Uropathy
Authors: Udhbhav K S N S , Meyyappan R M , Saravanan J , Jayaprakash V
Published: October 2022

Bladder herniation with obstructive uropathy is a relatively rare occurrence, however, urinary bladder herniation along with ureteroneocystostomy and leading to positional obstructive uropathy of the graft is an unusual presentation. This is a unique case of a 38-year-old male who presented with inguinal hernia with raised serum creatinine who had undergone renal transplant 10 years back in 2011. Magnetic resonance urogram revealed herniation of urinary bladder and hydroureteronephrosis of transplant kidney. Patient is managed by surgical exploration through inguinal incision and reduction of ureteroneocystostomy herniation after ureterolysis and hernioplasty was performed. The cause of obstructive uropathy was herniation of the bladder along with ureteroneocystostomy, and the patient has an insidious onset of symptoms, immediate exploration, and repair of hernia done without any need for percutaneous nephrostomy. Importance of this case report is that sliding herniation of the bladder with ureteroneocystostomy should be considered a diagnosis and investigated if the patient presents with positional obstructive uropathy with inguinal hernia, leading to early identification and salvaging the graft function.