bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fuzzy Control-Based Synchronization of Fractional-Order Chaotic Systems With Input Nonlinearities
Authors: Boulkroune Abdesselem , Boubellouta Amina
Published: April 2018

This chapter addresses the fuzzy adaptive controller design for the generalized projective synchronization (GPS) of incommensurate fractional-order chaotic systems with actuator nonlinearities. The considered master-slave systems are with different fractional-orders, uncertain models, unknown bounded disturbances, and non-identical form. The suggested controller includes two keys terms, namely a fuzzy adaptive control and a fractional-order variable structure control. The fuzzy logic systems are exploited for approximating the system uncertainties. A Lyapunov approach is employed for determining the parameter adaptation laws and proving the stability of the closed-loop system. At last, simulation results are given to demonstrate the validity of the proposed synchronization approach.
Safety-Critical, Dependable, and Fault-Tolerant Cyber-Physical Systems
Authors: Bhandari Guru Prasad , Gupta Ratneshwer
Published: April 2018

Cyber-physical systems (CPSs) are co-engineered integrating with physical and computational components networks. Additionally, a CPS is a mechanism controlled or monitored by computer-based algorithms, tightly interacting with the internet and its users. This chapter presents the definitions relating to dependability, safety-critical and fault-tolerance of CPSs. These definitions are supplemented by other definitions like reliability, availability, safety, maintainability, integrity. Threats to dependability and security like faults, errors, failures are also discussed. Taxonomy of different faults and attacks in CPSs are also presented in this chapter. The main objective of this chapter is to give the general information about secure CPS to the learners for the further enhancement in the field of CPSs.
Protecting Big Data Through Microaggregation Technique for Secured Cyber-Physical Systems
Authors: Tonni Shakila Mahjabin , Parvin Sazia , Gawanmeh Amjad , Jackson Joanna
Published: April 2018

Secured cyber-physical systems (CPS) requires reliable handling of a high volume of sensitive data, which is in many cases integrated from several distributed sources. This data can usually be interconnected with physical applications, such as power grids or SCADA systems. As most of these datasets store records using numerical values, many of the microaggregation techniques are developed and tested on numerical data. These algorithms are not suitable when the data is stored as it is containing both numerical and categorical data are stored. In this chapter, the available microaggregation techniques are explored and assessed with a new microaggregation technique which can provide data anonymity regardless of its type. In this method, records are clustered into several groups using an evolutionary attribute grouping algorithm and groups are aggregated using a new operator.
Autonomous Hexapod Robot With Artificial Vision and Remote Control by Myo-Electric Gestures
Authors: Franzoni Valentina
Published: April 2018

The robot gAItano is an intelligent hexapod robot, able to move in an environment of unknown size and perform some autonomous actions. It uses the RoboRealm software in order to filter and recognize color blobs in its artificial vision stream, activate a script (VBScript in our case, or C or Python scripts) to compute decisions based on perception, and send the output to actuators using the PIP protocol. gAItano is thus a rational computerized agent: autonomous, or semi-autonomous when remote controlled; reactive; based on model (e.g., the line). gAItano moves in an environment which is partially observable, stochastic, semi-episodic, static, or semi-dynamic in case of human intervention, continuous both on perceptions and actions, multi-agent, because of human intervention that can have collaborative nature (e.g., when the human moves a block or the robot to increase his performance), or competitive (e.g., when the human moves a block or the robot to inhibit his performance).
PD-L1/B7-H1 Inhibits Viral Clearance by Macrophages in HSV-1–Infected Corneas
Authors: Jeon Sohyun , Rowe Alexander M. , Carroll Kate L. , Harvey Stephen A. K. , Hendricks Robert L.
Published: April 2018

Immune privilege helps protect the cornea from damaging inflammation but can also impair pathogen clearance from this mucosal surface. Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1 or B7-H1) contributes to corneal immune privilege by inhibiting the function of a variety of immune cells. We asked whether programmed death-1 (PD-1)/PD-L1 interaction regulates HSV-1 clearance from infected corneas. We show that PD-L1 is constitutively expressed in the corneal epithelium and is upregulated upon HSV-1 corneal infection, with peak expression on CD45+ cells NK cells, dendritic cells, neutrophils, and macrophages and CD45− corneal epithelial cells at 4 d postinfection (dpi). As early as 1 dpi, HSV-1–infected corneas of B7-H1−/− mice as compared with wild-type mice showed increased chemokine expression and this correlated with increased migration of inflammatory cells into the viral lesions and decreased HSV-1 corneal titers. Local PD-L1 blockade caused a similar increase in viral clearance, suggesting a local effect of PD-1/PD-L1 in the cornea. The enhanced HSV-1 clearance at 2 dpi resulting from PD-1/PD-L1 blockade is mediated primarily by a monocyte/macrophage population. Studies in bone marrow chimeras demonstrated enhanced viral clearance when PD-L1 was absent only from nonhematopoietic cells. We conclude that PD-L1 expression on corneal cells negatively impacts the ability of the innate immune system to clear HSV-1 from infected corneas.
Increasing Cultural Competence: Implementation of Study Away/Abroad in an Athletic Training Program
Authors: Abe-Hiraishi Sayuri , Grahovec Nicholas E. , Anson Denis , Kahanov Leamor
Published: April 2018

Context:

Traditional athletic training programs (ATPs) typically use a cohort model, which may create difficulty in integrating a study away/abroad program or international experiences into the model.

Objective:

To propose a model of study away/abroad and international opportunities embedded within the current athletic training curriculum.

Background:

Cultural competence (CC) became a component of the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education 5 years ago in the fifth edition competencies. The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education-accredited ATPs, however, struggle to teach this concept effectively to students. The implementation of study away/abroad models in the athletic training curriculum may maximize students' exposure to other cultures.

Synthesis:

A review of the current study away/abroad programs and international opportunities, as well as educational values of short-term study away/abroad programs in athletic training education.

Results:

Study away/abroad/international experiences may provide opportunities for athletic training students to increase cultural awareness.

Recommendations:

Professional ATPs should consider integrating study away/abroad and international experiences into the athletic training curriculum and offer both didactic and clinical experiences internationally.

Conclusions:

The curricular integration of study away/abroad and international experiences provides athletic training students the opportunity to increase cultural competence with a programmatic and efficient approach.
Model of facilitation of emotional intelligence to promote wholeness of neophyte critical care nurses in South Africa
Authors: Towell A. , Nel W. E. , Muller A.
Published: April 2018

This study was undertaken in order to develop a model of facilitation of emotional intelligence to promote wholeness in neophyte critical care nurses in South Africa. A theory generative, explorative, descriptive, contextual research design was used. The model was developed utilising the four steps of theory generation as proposed by Dickoff, James, and Wiedenbach (1968), Chinn and Kramer (2011) and Walker and Avant (2011). Step one dealt with the empirical phase in which the concepts were distilled. The facilitation of inherent affective and mental resourcefulness and resilience was the main concept of the model. Step two comprised the definition and classification of central and related concepts. Step three provides a description of the model. The model operates in three phases namely the dependent phase, partially dependent phase and the independent phase. Step four entailed the description of guidelines for operationalizing the model. During the three phases of the model a new nurse who starts to work in critical care moves from a latent ability to develop an inherent affective and mental resourcefulness and resilience to a state of developing an inherent affective and mental resourcefulness and resilience. This model provides a structured framework for the facilitation of emotional intelligence (EI) to promote wholeness in nurses who commence to work in critical care units.
Guidelines to facilitate self-care among older persons in South Africa
Authors: Rabie Tinda , Klopper Hester C.
Published: April 2018

Background: The number of older persons is growing at an alarming rate, yet the South African healthcare sector is not giving this issue the required attention. Moreover, the healthcare sector serves four-fifths of the country's population and primary healthcare (PHC) facilities are overcrowded, and thus professional nurses are prevented from providing sufficient self-care health education to older persons.Aim: To develop guidelines for the three role players — the public health sector, professional nurse and older person — to facilitate self-care among older persons in South Africa.Design: Quantitative, descriptive, explorative and contextual research design.Methods: A literature review followed by a self-care assessment of a sample of older persons using the Appraisal of Self-care Agency (ASA-A) and Exercise of Self-care Agency (ESCA) questionnaires which led to the identification of conclusions and self-care deficits.Results: Based on Menon's psychological health empowerment model, and from the conclusions and self-care deficits, nine self-care guidelines were developed for the public health sector, professional nurses and older persons.Conclusion: This is the first systematic development of guidelines to facilitate self-care among older persons in South Africa.Implications for practice: The implementation of the self-care guidelines by the public health sector, professional nurses and older persons will improve the healthcare of older persons at home which will in turn improve their quality of life, reduce unintentional self-neglect, as well as assist in alleviating overcrowding in clinics because unnecessary visits to the clinic will drop.
Parenting experiences of mothers living with a chronic mental illness
Authors: Rampou Angelina M. , Havenga Yolanda
Published: April 2018

Background: Intrapersonal, interpersonal, social and economic factors associated with chronic mental illness influence mothers' parenting abilities which in turn influence childhood mental health.Aim: The aim of the study was to explore and describe the parenting experiences of mothers with a chronic mental illness.Methods: An explorative, descriptive and qualitative research design was used. Ten participants were purposively sampled until saturation occurred. Data was collected using indepth individual interviews and a content analysis was carried out.Results: Mothers with a chronic mental illness experienced various challenges and expressed their family support needs.Conclusion: A family-centred approach to mental healthcare, treatment and rehabilitation is proposed.
Scholarship in nursing: Degree-prepared nurses versus diploma-prepared nurses
Authors: Roets Lizeth , Botma Yvonne , Grobler Cecilna
Published: April 2018

Background: The nursing profession needs nurses with a higher level of education and not merely more nurses to enhance patient outcomes. To improve quality patient care the nursing discipline needs to be advanced through theory development and knowledge generation, thus graduate nurses. Nursing scholarship cannot be limited to nurse academics, but is the responsibility of every nurse. Although the world is looking towards combating the decline in nursing numbers with better educated nurses, South Africa is planning to address the problem with more lower qualified nurses.Aim: The aim of this study being reported here was to establish whether degree-prepared nurses in South-Africa partake more often in scholarly activities than diploma-prepared nurses.Method: A cross-sectional descriptive design was used. The population was all professional nurses registered with the South African Nursing Council who obtained either a four year degree or four year diploma in nursing. Data were gathered from 479 respondents, using aself-administrative questionnaire.Results: Three times more nursing educators (n = 19) achieved a degree as first qualification than their colleagues (n = 6) who achieved a diploma as first qualification. All but one (n = 18) nursing educators who obtained a degree as first qualification are educators in the private sector that include both universities as well as nursing colleges of private hospital groups. Data further revealed that most nurse educators and those in managerial positions were degree prepared. More degree prepared nurses than diploma prepared nurses were actively involved in scholarly activities such as research (30,5% compared to 25,5%) andimplementing best practice guidelines (62,2% compared to 55,9%).Conclusion: The global nursing crisis, nor the nursing profession, will benefit by only training more nurses. The profession and the health care sector need more degree prepared nurses to improve scholarship in nursing.
Experiences of women living with borderline personality disorder
Authors: Ntshingila N. , Poggenpoel M. , Myburgh C. P.H. , Temane A.
Published: April 2018

There is limited understanding of the experiences of women living with borderline personality disorder. It was therefore decided to discover how women living with this disorder would tell their life story. For the researcher, who worked in a psychotherapy ward where most women were living with borderline personality disorder, the care of these women was of vital importance, as they were less understood by mental health care providers.The research aimed to explore and describe the experiences of women living with borderline personality disorder. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual study design was used. Data was collected through in-depth phenomenological interviews that focused on the central question, “Tell me your life story”. Eight participants living with borderline personality disorder were interviewed. Tesch's method for data analysis was used (Creswell, 2009:186), along with an independent coder. Measures to ensure trustworthiness and ethical principles were applied throughout the research. From the findings obtained by means of the interviews of women living with borderline personality disorder, it was evident that there were childhood experiences of living in an unsafe space, related to unhealthy family dynamics, boundary violations and educational challenges. They experienced chronic feelings of emptiness in their relationships with theself. They also presented with a pattern of unstable interpersonal relationships and compromised mental health, which was apparent through the early on set of mental problems, emotional upheaval, looking for emotional escape and having different triggerfactors. Lastly, all these women yearned for facilitated mental health.
The relationship between cardiovascular risk factors and knowledge of cardiovascular disease in African men in the North-West Province
Authors: Burger Adele , Pretorius Ronel , Fourie Carla M.T. , Schutte Aletta E.
Published: April 2018

Background: South Africa has an established high prevalence of cardiovascular disease(CVD), particularly amongst urban African communities. However, it was unknown whether African men's CVD knowledge was associated with their CV health profiles.Objective: To investigate the possible relationships between CV risk factors and CVD knowledge in a group of African men.Method: Questionnaires were completed by 118 African men from the North-West Province, South Africa, and health screening, including anthropometry, blood pressure, fasting blood sugar and cholesterol measurements, were done.Results: The mean CVD knowledge score was 75%. Participants' mean BP was 146/92 mmHg, falling within hypertensive ranges. Their mean fasting blood glucose of 5.8 ± 2.0 mmol/L exceeded the normal cut-off value of 5.6 mmol/L. There was a lack of association between CV risk factors and CVD knowledge, except for a borderline significant association between triglycerides and CVD knowledge (r ¼ 0.167; p ¼ 0.071), implying that men with higher CVD knowledge had higher levels of triglycerides.Conclusion: Despite African men's high CV risk and a relatively good understanding of CVD risk factors, there was no significant correlation between their CV risk factors and CVD knowledge.
The GAMMA® nursing measure: Its calibration for construct validity with Rasch analyses*
Authors: Loubser Hendrik J. , Casteleijn Daleen , Bruce Judith C.
Published: April 2018

Background: The GAMMA nursing measure was developed to routinely score a person's ability to independently perform activities of daily living. The nursing utility of the scale has been established as being satisfactory and it has been recommended that its use be extended to home-based care where restorative nursing is required for rehabilitation and elderly care.Purpose: To subject the GAMMA nursing measure to the Rasch Measurement Model and to report if the measure can function as an interval scale to provide metric measurements of patients' ability to perform instrumental activities of daily living.Method: A quantitative design was followed whereby GAMMA raw scores were collected from persons (n = 428) living in seven retirement villages and patients (n = 334) receiving home-based care after an acute or sub-acute nursing episode. In most of the retirement villages only cross-sectional data were collected; however, in the home-based care patients both admission and discharge data were collected. The data were prepared for Rasch analyses and imported into WINSTEP® Software version 3.70.1.1 (2010). Persons with extreme scores were eliminated, resulting in a final sample of 570 persons. The calibration and analyses of the final reports are illustrated with figures and graphs.Results: The Rasch analyses revealed that the GAMMA functions optimally as an interval scale with a four-category structure across all eight items, rather than a seven-category structure as originally intended. Overall, the GAMMA satisfies the Rasch Model with a good to excellent fit.
Barriers and facilitators associated with HIV testing uptake in South African health facilities offering HIV Counselling and Testing
Authors: Mohlabane Neo , Tutshana Bomkazi , Peltzer Karl , Mwisongo Aziza
Published: April 2018

Background: The scale-up of HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) in South Africa to 4500 public health facilities and the service's provision in mobile and non-medical sites was aimed at increasing HCT uptake. However, some people still have never had an HIV test.Objective: An HCT survey was carried out to ascertain barriers and facilitators for HIV testing in South Africa.Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 67 HCT-offering health facilities in 8 South African provinces was undertaken. Individuals (n = 489) who had not tested for HIV on the day of the site visit were interviewed on awareness of HCT services, HIV testing history and barriers to HIV testing. Frequencies were run to describe the sample characteristics, barriers and facilitators to HIV testing. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was usedt o identify the association between never tested for HIV with socio-demographics, awareness of HCT services and type of HCT facilities.Results: In all 18.1% participants never had an HIV test. Major barriers to HCT uptake comprise being scared of finding out one's HIV test result or what people may say, shyness or embarrassment, avoidance of divulging personal information to health workers and fear of death. In multivariate analysis the age group 55 years and older, and not being recommended to have an HIV test were associated with never had an HIV test. Potential facilitators for HIV testing include community or household HIV testing, providing incentives for those who test for HIV, mandatory HIV testing and disclosure of HIV status by those who test HIV positive.Conclusion: The benefits of HCT which include the reduction of HIV transmission, the availability of HIV care and treatment needs to be emphasized to enhance HCT uptake.
Knowledge and attitudes about HIV infection and prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV in an urban, low income community in Durban, South Africa: Perspectives of residents and health care volunteers
Authors: Haffejee Firoza , Ports Katie A. , Mosavel Maghboeba
Published: April 2018

Background: HIV prevalence is high among South African women of reproductive age and transmission of HIV from mothers to children is a concern. This study ascertained the level of knowledge about HIV infection and prevention, particularly prevention of mother toc hild transmission (PMTCT) amongst South African women from a low income community. It also established the challenges in delivering HIV education from the perspectives of health care volunteers.Method: Female residents (n = 67) from Kenneth Gardens, a low income community in Durban, South Africa were interviewed. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 health care volunteers who were either health care workers or residents who provided some form of social support in the community.Results: The majority of respondents indicated that a mother could transmit HIV to her child but were unable to specify how. Many women had general HIV/AIDS knowledge but were unable to identify essential prevention behaviours and were not very receptive to more information on HIV/AIDS. They were supportive of routine testing procedures and child bearing amongst HIV positive women. Health care volunteers indicated a need for a community clinic in the area.They also had limited knowledge of PMTCT and indicated that there was a need for more education on HIV, particularly to encourage the youth and men to use preventative measures.Conclusion: Innovative ways to impart knowledge particularly of PMTCT and updated standards of practice are essential. It is important that the community understands how transmission occurs so that prevention can follow.
The prevalence of risky sexual behaviours amongst undergraduate students in Jigjiga University, Ethiopia
Authors: Mavhandu-Mudzusi Azwihangwisi H. , Asgedom Teka T.
Published: April 2018

Young adults including university students are at high risk of acquiring HIV due to their risky sexual practices. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of risky sexual behaviours amongst regular undergraduate students in Jigjiga University. The researcher used a quantitative, univariate cross-sectional descriptive study. Two hundred and thirty six (236) students were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using a standardised structured questionnaire. The study revealed that 70.53% of respondents were sexually experienced. Majority (54.8%) of the sexually experienced respondents were sexually active within 3 months of the study. Up to 30.14% of sexually experienced respondents have had sex with a person other than their currentpartner in the past 12 months. Only 59.6% of the sexually experienced respondents used condom in their most recent sexual engagement. The findings of this study showed that university students are involved in sexual behaviours that may increase their risk of contracting HIV infection. Based on the above results, researchers recommended the designing of interventions which are contextually relevant to Jigjiga University to mitigate risky sexual practices amongst university students.
Selection criteria for a radiography programme in South Africa: Predictors for academic success in the first year of study
Authors: Kridiotis Carol A. , Bezuidenhout Johan , Raubenheimer Jacques
Published: April 2018

Background: Selection criteria used to admit students to a radiography programme at the Central University of Technology (CUT) included academic criteria, as well as the General Scholastic Aptitude Test (GSAT) and Self-directed Search (SDS) Questionnaire.Aims and objectives: The aim of the study was to identify which selection criteria were predictors of academic success in the first year of study. As a four year Bachelor's degree in Radiography (480 credits) was to replace the three year National Diploma (NDip) in Radiography (360 credits), selection criteria would come under review.Design and method: Data from 130 students were gathered in a retrospective quantitative study. Data were edited, categorised and summarised. A statistical analysis was undertaken to identify which selection criteria predicted academic success in the first year of study.Results: Statistics showed that the matriculation Admission Points Score (National Senior Certificate/NCS APS) and core matriculation subject results in Mathematics, Physical Sciences and English were adequate predictors for first-year academic success, and the subjects Life Sciences for the NSC and Biology for the Senior Certificate (SC), showed strong predictive values for first-year academic success. According to the statistical analysis, the GSAT and SDS Questionnaire did not contribute any significant information which could predict academic success.Conclusion: Matriculation marks and NSC APS were adequate predictors for academic success, with a focus on Life Sciences or Biology marks as the strongest predictor. The usefulness of the GSAT and SDS Questionnaire could be questioned, and a recommendation was made to replace these tests with alternative student selection methods.
Community care worker perceptions of their roles in tuberculosis care and their information needs
Authors: Okeyo Ida , Dowse Ros
Published: April 2018

Background: Community care workers (CCWs) inhabit a central role in the management of tuberculosis (TB) patients in South Africa. CCWs attend training courses, but training is not standardised at either the national or provincial level.Objective: To explore perceptions of CCWs of their role in TB care and TB information needs.Methods: CCWs working with TB patients were recruited from Grahamstown Hospice and local primary healthcare clinics in Grahamstown. Focus group discussions and semistructured interviews were conducted with 14 CCWs using a question guide. Data were thematically analysed.Results: Three themes emerged from data analysis. Firstly, altruism was identified as the major motivational factor, with a desire to help others often stimulated by previously caring for sick relatives. Some CCWs had experienced being patients needing care, which motivated them to become involved in offering patient care. Secondly, CCWs reported great fulfilment and pride in their work as they believed they made a meaningful impact on patients' lives and in the surrounding community, and were respected for this contribution. Thirdly, most identified a need for further training and access to additional information about TB, particularly MDR- and XDR-TB, in order to reinforce both their own knowledge and to educate patients about drug-resistant TB.Conclusion: CCWs were motivated and proud of their contribution to TB patient management and the education they provided to patients and to lay community members.Ongoing training was identified as a need, along with access to quality information materials to improve their knowledge and facilitate patient counselling.
Case studies on the homeopathic treatment of binge eating in adult males
Authors: Razlog Radmila , Pellow Janice , Patel Reshma , Caminsky Marelize , Van Heerden Hertzog J.
Published: April 2018

Background: Homeopathy seeks to treat holistically. The role of homeopathy for treating binge eating however remains poorly explored.Objective: To determine the efficacy of individualized homeopathic treatment on binge eating.Method: This was a nine-week pilot study using a case study design. Individualized homeopathic remedies were prescribed to each participant for six weeks and case analysis evaluated changes over time.Results: All participants reported a decrease in the severity and frequency of binging behaviour; concurrent improvements in general health were also noted.Conclusion: This pilot study shows the potential benefits of individualized homeopathic treatment in binge eating in males.
Perceptions of patient-centred care at public hospitals in Nelson Mandela Bay
Authors: Jardien-Baboo Sihaam , Van Rooyen Dalena , Ricks Esmeralda
Published: April 2018

In South Africa, the quality of health care is directly related to the concept of patient-centred care and the enactment of the Batho Pele Principles and the Patients' Rights Charter. Reports in the media indicate that public hospitals in the Eastern Cape Province are on the brink of collapse, with many patients being treated in condemned hospitals which lacked piped water, electricity and essential medical equipment. Receiving quality care, and principally patient-centred care, in the face of such challenges is unlikely and consequently leads to the following question: “Are patients receiving patient-centred care in public hospitals?”A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual study was conducted to explore and describe the perceptions of professional nurses regarding patient-centred care in public hospitals in Nelson Mandela Bay. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a total of 40 purposively selected professional nurses working in public hospitals in Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape Province. Interviews were analysed according to the method described by Tesch in Creswell (2009:192).Professional nurses perceive patient-centred care as an awareness of the importance of the patient's culture, involving the patient's family, incorporating values of love and respect, optimal communication in all facets of patient care and accountability to the patient. Factors which enable patient-centred care were a positive work environment for staff, nursing manager's demonstrating exemplary professional leadership, continuous in service education for staff and collaborative teamwork within the interdisciplinary team. Barriers to patient-centred care were a lack of adequate resources, increased administrative work due to fear of litigation and unprofessional behaviour of nursing staff.
A review of the transportability of cognitive therapy for the treatment of PTSD among South African rape survivors
Authors: Padmanabhanunni Anita
Published: April 2018

This study aimed to evaluate the transportability of cognitive therapy (CT) for rape survivors with PTSD to South African conditions. Ten local treatment outcome studies investigating the transportability of CT were identified and appraised. The common elements of CT for PTSD including psychoeducation, exposure therapy and cognitive restructuring oft rauma-related appraisals were found to be transportable to local contexts. Contextual factors that can complicate treatment delivery were also identified namely exposure to multiple traumatic events, HIV, absence of safety and support in the external environment and language barriers. The augmentations made to an existing evidence-based treatment protocol to address these contextual factors are described.
Strengths of families to limit relapse in mentally ill family members
Authors: Tlhowe Tlhalefi T. , Du Plessis Emmerentia , Koen Magdalene P.
Published: April 2018

Background: Relapse prevention in mental health care is important. Utilising the strengths of families can be a valuable approach in relapse prevention. Studies on family strengths have been conducted but little has been done on the strengths of family members to help limit relapse in mental health care users. The purpose of this research was to explore and describe the strengths of family members in assisting mental health care users to limit relapses.Methods: A phenomenological design was followed. Purposive sampling was used and 15 family members of mental health care users who have not relapsed in the previous two years participated. Individual unstructured interviews were conducted. Data were analyse dusing thematic analysis.Results: Four main themes were identified, namely accepting the condition of the mental health care users, having faith, involving the mentally ill family members in daily activities and being aware of what aggravates the mentally ill family members.Conclusions: Family members go through a process of acceptance and receive educational information and assistance from health professionals. In this process families discover and apply their strengths to limit relapses of mentally ill family members. It is important that family members caring for mentally ill family members are involved in their treatment from the onset, and that they are guided through a process of acceptance.
The quality of life of HIV-infected and non-infected women post-caesarean section delivery
Authors: Reddy Preshani , Frantz Jose M.
Published: April 2018

There is a dearth of literature on the postnatal quality of life (QoL) of women. This study aimed to determine to QoL of HIV-infected and non-infected women post-caesarean section delivery.This prospective, longitudinal and comparative study was conducted at four public hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal. The participants were followed for six-months post-delivery and the QoL was measured using the SF-36 and the pelvic floor impact questionnaire (PFIQ-7). The results showed that the QoL of women were negatively affected post-operatively with the HIV-infected group scoring lower over the six-months. Understanding postpartum QoL problems is essential in efforts to provide effective comprehensive care.
A student-facilitated community-based support group initiative for Mental Health Care users in a Primary Health Care setting
Authors: Meiring Leana , Visser Maretha , Themistocleous Nicola
Published: April 2018

Background: South African Mental Health Care (MHC) legislation advocates for supportive rehabilitative services in Primary Health Care (PHC) settings. PHC settings are often understaffed and MHC nurses in these settings overburdened with high patient loads. Alternative cost-effective psycho-social intervention strategies must be explored to supplement the overstrained MHC sector to meet the rehabilitative and supportive needs of service users in community settings. Using a social constructionist epistemology, this study aimed to highlight the value of a community-based support group for MHC users at a Tshwane District Community Health Centre. This was done by exploring the meaning group members attached to the group. The intervention was a collaborative partnership between a local University Psychology Department and the Department of Health, Tshwane District, utilising post-graduate psychology students as group facilitators.Methods: Qualitative research methods were applied. Data were collected using semistructured interviews and a collage-making and storytelling method. Thematic analysis highlighted the main themes representing the meaning the five participants ascribed to the group.Results: The findings suggest that the group offered the participants a sense of belonging and a means of social and emotional support. The group also created opportunity for learning, encouraged mental and physical mobilisation and stimulation, and served as an additional link to professional services. Conclusion: The findings suggest that student-facilitated support groups could offer a viable supplement for offering support to service users in PHC settings. The group assisted MHC users to cope with symptoms, social integration, and participating in meaningful activities as part of rehabilitation services.
Community caregivers' perspectives of community well-being in a mining community
Authors: Koen Vicki , Ryke Elizabeth Hermina , Watson Martha Jacoba , Van Eeden Elize Sonja
Published: April 2018

Mining communities throughout the Southern African Development Community are faced with numerous challenges impacting on their wellbeing. As part of an integrative multidisciplinary research project, this study sought to explore aspects that affect community wellbeing in the informal Bekkersdal mining community in South Africa from the perspective of local community caregivers. An explorative-descriptive qualitative study including 22 mainly female (91%) participants who were purposively sampled was conducted. As part of data collection, participants answered a series of open-ended questions in a questionnaire and kept journals. Thematic analysis was used to analyze that data. The results indicate aspects that either promote (contribute to) or hinder community wellbeing.
Nurses perceptions about their behavioural counselling for HIV/AIDS, STIs and TB in eThekwini Municipality clinics KwAZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Mntlangula Margaret N. , Khuzwayo Nelisiwe , Taylor Myra
Published: April 2018

Background: HIV and AIDS, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and tuberculosis (TB) are common co-infections in South Africa, and constitute major public health problems. Nurses have frequent contact with HIV positive and TB co-infected patients, their counselling behaviour being influenced by knowledge about counselling as well as their beliefs, attitudes and perceptions about barriers to counselling.Purpose: The purpose of the survey was to assess the knowledge, attitude and beliefs of nurses about behavioural counselling for HIV and AIDS, STIs and TB (HAST) in three areas of the eThekwini Municipality.Results: This was a quantitative descriptive cross sectional study, with stratified sampling being used to select 87 nurses from 24 PHC facilities who completed self-administered questionnaires. The most significant factors associated with the knowledge, attitude and beliefs of nurses about counselling behaviour were their age and level of education. Nurses were well informed about counselling behaviour (mean scores 4.1/5). However, the potential barriers to implementing effective counselling behaviour included their negative perceptions about counselling in HAST.Conclusion: There is an urgent need for further studies to explore barriers to counselling behaviour and how these can be addressed by the nurses and their managers.
Perceptions of student nurses on the writing of reflective journals as a means for personal, professional and clinical learning development
Authors: Mahlanze Hazel T. , Sibiya Maureen N.
Published: April 2018

Background: Reflective journals are used by the students to voice their views on the daily activities during clinical placement. Reflective journals are aimed at helping the student to observe and record as many facts about daily practice as the student finds relevant. Reflective journal writing can therefore be used as a tool to evaluate that clinical learning is actually taking place and what challenges students are experiencing which may influence their learning. Findings by Harris (2006:460–461) are encouraging that through journaling students will develop ability to identify and analyse their difficulties, make suggestions for solving problems and ask and pursue questions on their own. Some of the participants confirmed improved values clarification, self-valuing and personal growth. Bulman & Schutz (2008:172) recommends journal writing for recording processes the student observe, copy and internalize in her journey towards professional development.Objectives: This study aimed to determine student nurses' perceptions of reflective journal writing as a means for personal, professional development and clinical learning development.Method: A quantitative and descriptive survey was conducted in September 2013. Forty participants were recruited from second year student nurses of a University of Technology in uMgungundlovu District of KwaZulu-Natal. Purposive convenience sampling strategy was used. A structured questionnaire was designed by the researcher from literature reviewed. The questionnaire was piloted and modified, then used after permission had been granted by the Ethics Committee of the university concerned. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 17) programme was used for data analysis.Results: Results indicated that the participants generally experienced writing of reflective journals to be a valuable tool enhancing personal development, professional growth and clinical learning. A significant number (n = 24/60%) confirmed that they improved in making proactive decisions and taking on the spot corrective actions; 52% (n = 21) of the participants were empowered to examine their attitudes and perspectives to a given situation and 55% (n = 22) participants increased in active involvement and ownership of their learning.Recommendations: It is recommended that clinical staff be reminded of their responsibility as role models for student nurses so as to enhance their personal, professional development and clinical development. The writing of reflective journals must be encouraged in nurse education and students given guidance and constructive feedback.
Supply chain solutions to improve the distribution of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) to clinics in rural areas: A case study of the QwaQwa district
Authors: Mokheseng Mamolise , Horn Gideon S. , Klopper Aileen G.
Published: April 2018

This article serves as a case study based on research that was performed in the QwaQwa district in the Free State Province where the distribution of ARVs to the regional Manapo hospital, as well as between the hospital and its peripheral clinics, was interrupted and inconsistent due to problems in the supply chain. An unreliable and interrupted ARV supply chain creates the risk of virus reactivation and eventual patient mortality.The objectives of the study were to explore the problems experienced with the ARV distribution practices at the Manapo hospital, and to recommend ways in which the distribution of ARVs can be improved so that patients can receive an uninterrupted supply. The nature of the topic researched dictated the use of mainly the quantitative research method.The main problems identified include: Wrong and no uniform practice of ordering stock by the hospital and the clinics; lack of reliable, structured transportation from the depot to the hospital; as well as poor inventory management and poor overall communication. Recommendations to address the problems include: Implementing a supply chain planning and design process; improving inventory management and warehousing practices; implementing more effective and reliable distribution and transportation processes; as well as improving supply chain coordination and overall communication.
The perceptions of professional nurses on student mentorship in clinical areas: A study in Polokwane municipality hospitals, Limpopo province
Authors: Setati Chokwe M. , Nkosi Zerish Z.
Published: April 2018

The purpose of the study was to explore the perceptions of professional nurses on student mentorship in clinical areas. A qualitative hermeneutic phenomenological research was conducted to determine the meaning of mentoring as perceived by professional nurses and to identify the successes and challenges encountered by professional nurses with regard to student mentorship during clinical practice.Data was collected using in-depth individual interviews to collect data from sixteen operational managers who were managing all unit activities, including student mentoring. Each interview lasted for ±45 min. A hermeneutic data analysis (hermeneutic circle) was used to analyse data. Four (4) themes and fourteen (14) sub-themes emerged from data collected from operational managers.The findings revealed that mentoring was perceived as a valuable tool to apply in the preparation of student nurses for future professional role. In the process of mentoring, the caring attitude is important. Factors that facilitated the mentoring process were good communication, time and available resources.
Determinants of pricing objectives and price flexibility policies of pork-based agro-businesses in Mashonaland Central province, Zimbabwe
Authors: Ngarava Saul , Mushunje Abbyssinia
Published: April 2018

Background: The article focuses on the pricing strategies that are used in a dynamic institutional environment of land reform and indigenisation policies. Zimbabwe underwent a land reform incorporating new players in the pork agribusinesses, as well as indigenisation, altering agro-business decision-making structures. One such decision is effective pricing. Aim: The objective of the study was to highlight the determinants of utilising a particular pricing objective and price flexibility policy in the Zimbabwean pork industry. Setting: The study examined the pricing objectives and price flexibility policies of pig producers, pork abattoirs and butcheries in Mashonaland Central province, Zimbabwe. Methods: The study used a cross-sectional, descriptive and quantitative survey of pig producers, pork abattoirs and pork butcheries. A structured precoded questionnaire-based interview of 166 pig producers, 6 pork abattoirs and 24 butchers was used as the data collection tool and method. A logit model was used for analysis, ascertaining determinants of a binary choice model. Results: The study found that agribusinesses’ pricing objectives were determined by the product portfolio, margin, merchandise handled, distance the furthest buyer travels and consideration of other industry players’ pricing at the p < 0.01 level. Furthermore, factors such as seasonality in April to September sales, quality considerations (p < 0.05), frequency of retailers and size considerations (p < 0.1) were also significant determinants of pricing objectives. Also, the agribusinesses’ price flexibility policies were shown to be determined by agribusiness location, average weight of merchandise, frequency of individual customers, size consideration and consideration of other industry players’ pricing at the p < 0.01 level. In addition, margin, frequency of abattoir buyers (p < 0.05) as well as pork product portfolio (p < 0.1) were also observed to be major factors towards a flexible pricing policy. Conclusion: The results suggest that pork industry players in Zimbabwe are myopic in their pricing strategies, having factors such as product portfolio, margin, merchandise handled and considerations of other industry players’ strategies as dualistically determining pricing objective and price flexibility policy utilised. The study recommends that pork industry players shift from myopic pricing objectives of profit and survival and devise new pricing strategies based on sales and competitive pricing. There is also need for less rigidity in flexible price policies to take advantage of the dynamic external environment.
Evolution des anticorps chez les bovins après immunisation contre la Brucellose par le vaccin tué H. 38
Authors: Renoux G. , Valette L. R. , Goret Pierre
Published: April 2018

In five experiments on 164 cattle, each of a duration from 3 months to 2 years, the behaviour of agglutinating and C. F. antibodies créa- ted on bovine 7 to 18 months old, depending on the experiment, by Br. melitensis strain 53 H. 38 killed vaccine is studied alone or in comparison with similar effects of other antibrucellosis vaccines.

Post vaccinal antibodies due to H. 38 vaccine disapear more qui-ckely than those induced on bovine by strain 19 vaccine. There stand no specific agglutininins at the F. A. O./W. H. O. diagnostic level (100 I. U.) or C. F. antibodies (titer 1/4) 2 to 3 months after H. 38 vaccination. Five to 6 months after such a vaccination, there are no brucella antibodies at the suspicous titer (30 I. I .) retained by European and French authorities.

The are no remains of either antibodies one year after H. 38 vaccination, long before cattle has reached 30 months of age.

Thus, the killed in adjuvant, Br. melitensis strain H. 38, vaccine will not interfer with campagns of animal brucellosis control using a test policy.