Database Management Systems: A NoSQL Analysis

Volume 1 Issue 7 (September 2013

Towards a unified conceptual framework for understanding the entrepreneurship construct

Entrepreneurship is often examined from psychological, social, and economic perspectives. However, this fragmented approach limits our understanding of how these dimensions interact, especially in a world shaped by rapid technological changes and evolving market dynamics. To address this, the Yolk Entrepreneurship Framework was introduced as an integrative model that unifies diverse perspectives. This study employed a conceptual research design and systematically reviewed two decades of literature from leading journals. Through thematic analysis, it explores six key variables: entrepreneurial mindset, sociocultural influences, economic factors, intrapreneurship, sustainable entrepreneurship, and technological advancements. The findings reveal that entrepreneurship is shaped by the dynamic interplay between individual traits and broader contextual factors. Notably, social capital enhances innovation driven by a mindset, highlighting the synergy between internal attributes and external networks. The Yolk Framework visualises these interconnections and promotes a comprehensive view of entrepreneurship. This underscores the need to integrate psychological, sociological, and economic insights to fully grasp the entrepreneurial process. This framework offers a comprehensive lens for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to understand entrepreneurship as a dynamic, interconnected phenomenon that supports informed research, inclusive policy design, and context-sensitive practice

Value chain management practices and value creation in sub-Saharan African apparel firms

Purpose: This study explores value chain management (VCM) practices in the sub-Saharan African apparel industry, developing a strategic framework to enhance value creation. Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative research design was adopted, surveying 430 managers across the apparel value chain. Data were analysed using factor, correlation, and regression analyses to ascertain the impact of VCM practices on value creation. However, it is essential to notice that the study’s findings are limited to the sub-Saharan African context and may not directly apply to other regions. Findings/results: The analysis revealed a strong correlation between specific VCM practices, such as information sharing, incentive realignment, agile manufacturing, and value creation. These practices help firms to navigate the industry’s complexities and leverage regional opportunities. Practical implications: The study provides a valuable framework for managers, highlighting customer-centricity and strategic sourcing strategies. These strategies are crucial for enhancing operational efficiency and competitive positioning in the global market. Originality/value: The study offers original insights by empirically validating VCM practices and their contribution to value creation within the sub-Saharan apparel sector. The strategic framework fills a gap in the literature and aids the sector’s integration into the global value chain

Rethinking competency requirements in South African supply chain management

Background: In the realm of talent acquisition and supply chain management (SCM), the establishment of a standardised competency framework is pivotal. However, a lack of consensus in the supply chain management literature persists regarding the prioritisation of competencies for SCM professional recruitment in South Africa. This necessitates a re-evaluation of SCM competencies to align with the dynamic business environment. Objectives: To understand the competencies necessary for supply chain professionals in South Africa’s SCM job market to inform curriculum development for the training of supply chain profession at higher education institutions. Method: A qualitative, grounded theory approach was followed. Content analysis was conducted on 29 SCM job advertisements posted on various employment agents’ websites. Atlas was then used to create codes and code groups and themes describing the SCM job market needs and expectations. Results: While technical competencies maintain their significance, strategic thinking and cognitive capabilities are increasing in their importance compared with interpersonal skills in the SCM job market. Conclusion: The required competencies for SCM roles are evolving, with an increasing emphasis on strategic and cognitive skills rather than just technical abilities. Interpersonal competencies, although still important, are becoming less crucial. Training institutions should adjust their curricula to ensure well-rounded SCM professionals. Contribution: The literature reflecting the fast evolving nature of SCM competencies is sparse. This study challenges the prevailing narrative that emphasizes technical and interpersonal competencies thereby opening new pathways for curriculum development and professional training of SCM professionals

The epidemiology and knowledge of cervical cancer in Zimbabwe

Background: Chronic and persistent infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most important factor associated with the development of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer deaths have been on the rise in recent years with 85% of about 270 000 annual deaths occurring in developing countries. The rise in cervical cancer trends in the past two decades has coincided with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic especially in the sub-Saharan African region. With the advent of HIV especially among young people in most of these developing countries, the incidence, morbidity and burden of cervical cancer are likely to continue increasing. Although cervical cancer prevention/screening and treatment is available in most developing countries, challenges and constraints still exist when it comes to HIV-positive women. Most developing countries, Zimbabwe included, do not have adequate infrastructure, funds, human resources, proper guidelines, and policies, which facilitate the adoption of effective prevention and treatment methods for cervical cancer among HIV-positive women. Therefore, the first part of this study involved two systematic reviews to weigh current evidence on screening and treatment of cervical cancer in HIV-seropositive women. In addition to the burden in HIVpositive women, the rise in HIV-incidence and risky sexual behaviour (multiple sexual partners, early sexual debut and use of contraceptives) among young people (15 to 24 years old), pose as barriers to successful establishment and implementation of cervical cancer control initiatives. In Zimbabwe, there is underutilisation of available cervical cancer services (although some are expensive) due to lack of knowledge and information about cervical cancer, a patriarchal and conservative society that views cervical cancer as a women’s issue. Adding to these issues, Zimbabwe does not have a cancer communication strategy that focuses on cancer risks factors as a cancer primary prevention. The National Cancer Prevention and Control Strategy for Zimbabwe (2014-2018) highlighted that underfunding has resulted in health education on cervical cancer to be unstructured. Therefore, as Zimbabwe sets out to strengthen cervical cancer prevention with the launch of the National Mass HPV Vaccination drive in May 2018, a number of questions still exists; how can a culturally patriarchal society aid and accept vaccination freely? How can young boys, men and the rest of the community be integrated within cervical cancer prevention programmes? Are there opportunities for HIV-positive women in these initiatives? How can the issue of health inequity which is associated with cervical cancer incidence be addressed? Aim: This PhD study weighed current evidence on screening and treatment of cervical cancer in HIV-seropositive women in developing countries through two systematic reviews; and assessed the knowledge, attitude and practices of young people towards cervical cancer, prevention/screening, HPV and vaccination. Methods: The research design was an integrative approach, which utilised a combination of two systematic reviews and a cross-sectional survey. The two systematic reviews explored cervical cancer prevention and treatment modalities for HIV-positive women, whilst the crosssectional survey assessed young people’s knowledge, attitude and practices concerning cervical cancer. Study participants for the cross-sectional survey were recruited through a three-stage cluster design from high schools and universities in Zimbabwe. Knowledge, attitudes and practices were assessed using questions based and adapted from the concepts of the Health Belief Model (HBM) and the Cervical Cancer Measuring tool kit-United Kingdom (UK). Results: The study found that HPV Deoxyribonucleic acid/Messenger RNA (DNA/mRNA) testing (n=16, 64.0%), visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) (n=13, 52.0%) and Pap smear (n=11, 44.0%) are the mostly used cervical cancer screening methods. HPV testing has a better accuracy/efficiency than other methods with a sensitivity of between 80.0-97.0% and specificity of 51.0-78.0%. In addition, the study found that sequential screening using VIA or visual inspection with Lugol’s iodine (VILI) and HPV testing has shown better clinical performance in screening HIV-seropositive women. Whilst radiation, chemotherapy, chemoradiation, and surgery have shown the possibility of effectiveness among HIVseropositive women, cervical cancer stage, immunosuppressive level, and multisystem toxicities due to treatment are associated with treatment completion, prognosis and survival outcomes. Those infected with HIV are of a younger age and have more advanced cervical cancer as compared to those who are HIV-negative. The majority of young people, 87.47% (656/750), claimed to know what cervical cancer is. However, only 43.14% (324/751) had ever heard of cervical cancer prevention/screening and 53% (398/751) did not know about HPVhow it is transmitted or prevented. Misconceptions regarding cervical cancer causes exist, with some young people attributing cervical cancer to use of detergents, certain foodstuffs and having sex with an uncircumcised man. Conclusion and Recommendations: This research not only reports on the current screening and treatment modalities for cervical cancer among HIV-positive women, but it also offers a lens through which government can generate behavioural changes around cervical cancer among young people. Although cervical cancer screening exists in almost all developing countries, what is missing is both opportunistic and systematic organized population-based screening. Cervical cancer screening programmes need to be integrated into already existing HIV services, to enable early detection and treatment. The study suggests a need to offer opportunistic and coordinated screening programmes that are provider-initiated to young women (from 15 years), especially those who are HIV-infected, to promote early identification of cervical precancerous lesions. Opportunities to include young boys and HIV-positive middle-aged women in the recently launched mass HPV vaccination programmes exist and can be utilised. Ring-fencing budgets or introducing cancer levies and investing resources in evidence-based screen and treat strategies for precancerous lesions in HIV-seropositive women and young people will reduce morbidity and mortality due to cervical cancer. Developing a standard cervical cancer primary prevention tool that can be integrated into schools can be a step towards addressing health inequity. Research on cervical cancer management of HIVseropositive patients focusing on the quality of life of those treated, the effectiveness of the treatment method taking into account CD4+ count and ART is required.Thesis (PhD)--University of Pretoria, 2018.School of Health Systems and Public Health (SHSPH)PhDUnrestricte

The effects of benfotiamine in attenuating hyperglycemia-induced cardiac pathology

Type 2 diabetes is a major global health problem. It is also a risk factor for the onset of cardiovascular diseases, the current leading cause of global mortality. The first part of this mini-review describes hyperglycemia-induced cellular alterations and its effects on cardiac function. In particular, we emphasize the role of hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress in the activation of non-oxidative glucose pathways (NOGPs), that may contribute to cardiac pathology. For the second part, we evaluate the utility of benfotiamine (a vitamin B1 derivative) in treating diabetes-related cardiac pathology. The focus is on its role in activating the pentose phosphate pathway, which may reduce flux though the NOGPs. A possible role for benfotiamine in activating pro-survival signaling and reducing cell death in the heart is also described. We also discuss benfotiamine’s potential cardioprotective role in preventing the diabetic cardiomyopathy, treating myocardial infarction and maintaining the viability of cardiac progenitor cells. These findings warrant further investigation into the therapeutic potential of benfotiamine in treating diabetes-related cardiac complications.Keywords: Diabetes; cardiovascular disease; hyperglycemia; oxidative stress; non-oxidative glucose pathways; benfotiamin

Hypoglycaemic and renal effects of a bioactive plant extract in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.

Thesis (M.Med.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, 2008.Background: Evidence from our laboratories indicates that triterpene constituents of Syzygium cordatum (Hochst.) [Myrtaceae] crude leaf extracts can be used to treat diabetes mellitus. For the plant derived triterpenes to have further potential in diabetes management, they should, however, additionally alleviate or prevent some of the complications of diabetes mellitus such as impaired kidney function and cardiovascular disorders. Accordingly, this study was designed to isolate the triterpene, oleanolic acid (OA) from S. cordatum leaves and evaluate its effects on blood glucose, renal function and blood pressure in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. OA was studied because it is the major constituent of many African plant species used in traditional medicine. Materials and Methods S. cordatum crude leaf ethyl acetate solubles (EAS) were obtained after defatting the leaves with hexane followed by dichloromethane before maceration with ethyl acetate. Preliminary experiments indicated that EAS contained triterpenes with hypoglycaemic properties. Solvent extraction and fractionation of EAS yielded mixtures of oleanolic acid/ursolic acid (OA/UA) and methyl maslinate/methyl corosolate. Recrystallisation of the OA/UA mixture using ethanol yielded OA, the structure of which was confirmed by NMR spectroscopy ('H & 13C). Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) responses to various doses of OA (40, 80 and 120 mg/kg) were monitored in separate groups of non-diabetic and STZ-induced diabetic rats given a glucose load (0.86 g/kg, p.o.) after an 18-h fast. Rats treated with deionized water (3 ml/kg p.o.), or standard drugs, (insulin, 200 Hg/kg, s.c; metformin, 500 mg/kg, p.o. and glibenclamide, 500 f^g/kg, p.o.) acted as untreated and treated positive controls, respectively. To investigate the possible interaction between OA and standard drugs in lowering blood glucose, OGTT responses were studied in separate groups of animals simultaneously treated with OA at either 40 or 80 mg/kg and insulin (100 or 200 ug/kg, s.c), metformin, (250 or 500 mg/kg, p.o.) or glibenclamide (250 or 500 mg/kg, p.o.). Blood glucose was monitored at 15-min intervals for the first hour, and hourly thereafter for 3 h. Plasma insulin concentrations were measured in separate parallel groups of rats prepared as for OGTT studies to examine whether there was an association between OA treatment and pancreatic insulin secretion. Acute effects of OA on kidney function and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) were investigated in anaesthetized rats challenged with hypotonic saline after a 3'/2-h equilibration for 4 h consisting of 1 h control, 1XA h treatment and 1 Vi h recovery periods. OA was added to the infusate during the treatment period. Short-term effects of OA were studied in individually-caged rats treated twice daily with OA (80 mg/kg, p.o.) for 5 weeks. Results OA decreased blood glucose concentrations of both non-diabetic and diabetic rats, as did some standard drugs except glibenclamide which did not exhibit any effects in STZ-induced diabetic animals. The blood glucose lowering effects were most potent in STZ-induced rats treated with combined OA and insulin by comparison with all other treatments. Short-term treatment of non-diabetic and STZ-induced diabetic rats with OA alone for 5 weeks decreased blood glucose concentrations, but the reduction in non-diabetic rats was to values that did not achieve statistical significance. Except for non-diabetic rats treated with insulin alone or in combination with OA, plasma insulin concentrations were not altered by treatment in non-diabetic and STZ-induced diabetic animals. Hepatic glycogen concentrations of non-diabetic and STZ-induced diabetic rats were significantly increased by all treatments at the end of 5 weeks. Acute intravenous infusion of OA in anaesthetized rats significantly increased Na+ excretion outputs of non-diabetic and STZ-induced diabetic rats without affecting urine flow, K+ or CI" excretion rates. Similarly, daily OA treatment (80 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly increased Na+ excretion rates of non-diabetic and STZ-induced diabetic rats throughout the 5 week experimental period without affecting urine flow, K+ or CI" excretion rates. By comparison with respective control animals, Short-term administrations of OA significantly (p<0.05) increased GFR of non-diabetic (2.88±0.14 vs 3.71±0.30 ml/min) and STZ-diabetic rats (1.81± 0.32 vs 3.07±0.16 ml/min, n=6 in all groups) with concomitant reduction of plasma creatinine concentrations. Acute and Short-term administrations of OA non-diabetic and STZinduced diabetic rats reduced mean arterial blood pressure by comparison with respective control animals. Discussion The results suggest that S. cordatum leaf derived OA not only has the potential to lower blood glucose in diabetes, but also has beneficial effects on kidney function and blood pressure. We suggest that the hypoglycaemic effects of OA mimic those of metformin as evidenced by the fact that neither of these treatments altered plasma insulin concentration of non-diabetic rats. OA-evoked increases in urinary Na+ outputs of STZ-diabetic rats and elevation of GFR suggest up-regulation of renal function by the triterpene. The findings are of considerable importance because they suggest the hypoglycaemic, renal and hypotensive effects of OA in the management of diabetes mellitus. Conclusion The results demonstrated that the oleanolic acid extracted from S. cordatum leaf has blood glucose-lowering effects comparable to standard anti-diabetic drugs in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Furthermore, OA augmented the hypoglycaemic effects of insulin in STZ-induced diabetic rats. These findings suggest that OA may have beneficial effects on some of the processes that are associated with renal derangement in STZ-induced diabetic rats. The results introduce the first in vivo evidence that OA ameliorates kidney function in STZinduced diabetic rats. Keywords: Renal function; diabetes mellitus; triterpenoids; oleanolic acid, hypoglycaemi

Plastic pollution mitigation strategies in global supply chains: A thematic analysis

Background: The extensive use of plastic in global supply chains (GSCs) has a profound impact on ecosystems and human well-being. Therefore, it is essential to implement an integrated strategy that takes into account the intricate interplay between economic factors, consumer behaviours, industrial practices, and environmental consequences to effectively address the plastic problem in global supply chains. Objectives: This study explored the factors that contribute to plastic pollution in GSCs and proposed solutions. Method: A thematic analysis of peer-reviewed articles, grey literature, and case studies of corporations implementing measures to reduce plastic pollution was conducted. Results: Variables including production, material economics, marketing techniques, consumer choices, insufficient recycling facilities, regulatory frameworks, and GSC complexities have an impact on plastic pollution. Remedies like sustainable alternatives, circular economy methods, and extended producer accountability confront obstacles such as expenses, scalability, consumer acceptance, technological constraints, and policy fragmentation. Conclusion: Addressing the issue of plastic pollution in GSCs is a challenging task that demands extensive and collaborative solutions. Currently, the mitigation strategies in place have several limitations, such as the absence of personalisation, cooperation, consumer involvement, and technological progress. Contribution: This study provides a holistic analysis of plastic pollution in GSCs, establishing a theoretical framework that incorporates environmental, economic, and social aspects of sustainability. It also offers practical suggestions for businesses to adopt more effective plastic waste reduction strategies and to enhance supply chain management practices

Ethical Dimensions of Metaverse in Business Education in the Global South: A Thematic Content Analysis

The incorporation of metaverse technologies into business education transforms educational paradigms and offers immersive learning experiences. However, this innovation also raises ethical concerns that require careful analysis to promote responsible implementation and ethical practices. This study examines key ethical dimensions, explores their impact on educational practices, and proposes recommendations for ethical metaverse integration in the global South. Thematic content analysis was utilised to systematically analyse the literature on metaverse integration in business education, focusing on ethical dimensions. Relevant articles were analysed to extract themes related to the ethical dimensions necessary when implementing a metaverse in business education. The analysis involved categorising and synthesising the findings to uncover insights into the ethical complexities of metaverse integration. The key findings revealed data privacy concerns, emphasising the need for robust safeguards to protect user privacy and ensure data security in metaverse-enabled educational environments. Inclusivity and diversity were identified as critical dimensions that highlight the importance of creating inclusive learning environments that cater to diverse learners. Cultural sensitivity was highlighted as significant, emphasising the need to respect cultural diversity and foster cross- cultural understanding. Furthermore, the ethical dimensions surrounding AI and virtual agents were explored, emphasising the necessity of ethical frameworks to guide responsible conduct and decision-making in metaverse-integrated educational contexts. This study underscores the importance of ethical dimensions in metaverse technology integration in business education. By prioritising ethics, educators and stakeholders can ensure that metaverse integration promotes equity, inclusivity, and ethical integrity in educational settings. The practical insights and recommendations provided in this study facilitate responsible metaverse integration and promote ethical practices in education. This highlights the significance of ethical dimensions in the development and implementation of emerging technologies for enhancing learning experiences and upholding ethical integrit

Unleashing the power of the 4IR in organisational value chains: A conceptual analysis

Background: The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) has transformed value chains across various industries. However, there is still a lack of knowledge on how to effectively utilise 4IR technologies in organisational value chains. Research must explore how organisations can use 4IR technologies to optimise their value chain performance. Objectives: The primary aim of this study is to explore the holistic impact of 4IR technologies on the structural transformation of value chains. Method: Applying the principles of the resource-based view and the VRIO (Valuable, Rare, Inimitable and Organisation) framework, a systematic literature review was conducted to map the intersection of 4IR technologies and value chain performance. It utilised resource-based view theory and the VRIO framework to assess the role of 4IR in transforming value chains. This study focused on the VRIO integration of 4IR resources, such as advanced data analytics, Internet of Things (IoT), proprietary technologies and skilled workforces. Results: The research shows that 4IR resources are valuable and rare assets that require meticulous organisational integration, adaptable organisational structures, innovation-driven cultures and cross-functional collaboration. Conclusion: The strategic integration of 4IR resources within value chains can lead to innovation, efficiency and enduring competitive advantage. Contribution: This study provides a strategic roadmap for integrating emerging 4IR technologies into business value chains, cultivating a deeper understanding and maximising the benefits of these technologies to achieve sustained value creation and competitive advantage