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Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to explore the interplay of psychological conditions that influenced personal engagement among university students. As a theoretical lens through which to investigate this, the study used the job demands-resources model, the study demands-resources model, and the leader-member exchange theory. This study further aimed to explore outcomes that supported students in becoming lifelong learners (i.e., deep-learning approach). Method: Participants were undergraduate students registered at a South African university. We used a purposive, non-probability sampling strategy and employed a cross-sectional survey research design. This study used Mplus version 8.6 for the statistical analyses. Results: Results showed that the psychological conditions of meaningfulness (study resources), availability (burnout risk), and safety (student-leader-member exchange) influenced student engagement. In addition, the results showed that study demands were positively associated with student engagement, although this association can be regarded as small. Furthermore, study resources and student engagement were associated with a deep approach to learning. Conclusions: Findings from the present study demonstrated that Kahn's theory carried implications beyond the workplace and held true in a student learning environment. Further, an exploration of the psychological conditions that led to engagement showed that the job demands-resources model and the study demands-resources model could be used to operationalise study resources as psychological meaningfulness and burnout risk as availability. Similarly, in the context of exploring the student-lecturer relationship, student leader-member exchange could be operationalised as psychological safety. Implication for Practice: Leaders in higher education are encouraged to focus not only on ensuring that students receive adequate support in terms of structures and physical resources during periods of uncertainty, such as the global COVID-19 pandemic, but to adopt a holistic approach that includes considering all the psychological conditions that encourage and promote students' engagement.

Biological control practitioners are required to demonstrate that candidate agents are not only safe for release, but will establish widely in their new range with a significant impact on the target weed.We conducted this study in quarantine to provide insight into the impact and distribution of the root‐feeding flea beetle Heikertingerella sp. (Chrysomelidae), released in early 2023 against the invasive tree Tecoma stans (L.) (Bignoniaceae) in South Africa. We studied the effects of low and high beetle densities on plant growth and biomass, and F1 progeny production by the beetle.There were significant reductions in plant growth and biomass accumulation in the beetle‐exposed plants, relative to the controls. P1 adults damaged significantly more leaflets, with significantly higher F1 progeny production, at high beetle densities.The MaxEnt model predictions suggested that most of South Africa is climatically highly suitable for Heikertingerella sp., particularly along the southern and eastern coasts where the weed is most prevalent. Only the inland regions of the Northern Cape Province, depicting the driest and hottest part of the country where the weed does not occur, were predicted to be unsuitable for Heikertingerella sp. The beetle's thermal physiology, as determined by its critical thermal minimum and maximum temperatures and lower and upper lethal temperatures (LT50), suggests tolerance to temperature extremes in at least four of the eight provinces that fall within the range of T. stans in South Africa.Our results further justify the release of Heikertingerella sp. in areas predicted as suitable in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The invasive tree Tecoma stans (L.) Juss. ex Kunth var stans (Bignoniaceae) has been targeted for biological control in South Africa since 2003. Plant nutrients contained in fertilizers typically improve host-plant quality, thereby enhancing the fitness of insect herbivores deployed as weed biocontrol agents. We investigated the effect of increasing nutrient levels (fertilizer treatments) on the growth of potted T. stans plants and on the subsequent performance of the root-feeding beetle Heikertingerella sp. (Chrysomelidae). Enhanced performance of Heikertingerella sp. in culture will improve mass-rearing initiatives for releases in South Africa. Ten newly emerged mating pairs of Heikertingerella sp. were exposed under glasshouse conditions to caged plants that were treated with four regimes of nitrogen: phosphorus: potassium 2:3:2 (14%) + carbon (8%) fertilizer, namely zero (control), low (5.6 g/m2), medium (9.4 g/m2) and high (13.2 g/m2). Increasing nutrient levels significantly increased leaf production and above – and below-ground biomass accumulation in T. stans plants. Similarly, the performance of Heikertingerella sp. was improved substantially, with significantly and progressively higher levels of P1 adult feeding and F1 progeny production, and significantly and progressively reduced F1 developmental times, under increasing nutrient levels. While F1 adult size was significantly increased by fertilizer application relative to the controls, there were no significant differences between the three nutrient levels. Although the high fertilizer application rates were the most suitable for the culturing and mass-rearing of Heikertingerella sp. adults, medium fertilizer applications may prove more economical to improve host-plant quality and boost beetle numbers for release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Age influences host-plant quality, which is a key determinant of the fitness of herbivorous insects and hence biological control agents of invasive plants. We assessed the effect of host-plant age on the performance of the root-feeding flea beetle Heikertingerella sp. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae), which was recently approved for release against the invasive tree Tecoma stans (L.) Juss ex Kunth var. stans (Bignoniaceae) in South Africa. Using similar-sized plants that were aged from one to three years, our aim was to determine an optimal host-plant age to facilitate mass-rearing of the beetle for impending releases. While significantly more F1 progeny were produced with increasing plant age, presumably due to larger root masses in progressively older plants, plant age did not influence the size of the F1 adults. There was no significant effect of plant age on the survival and percentage of leaves damaged by the P1 adults. Tecoma stans plants of all ages produced significantly fewer leaves when exposed to feeding by Heikertingerella sp. adults and their larval progeny, relative to the unexposed control plants. Irrespective of plant age, adults displayed higher feeding intensity on the younger leaves at the top sections of the plants than on the older leaves on the middle and bottom sections. Although plants of all three ages were suitable for adult feeding and survival in quarantine cultures, progressively older plants are best suited for F1 progeny production and therefore for the mass-rearing of Heikertingerella sp. for releases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We reflect on our experience of running a remote volunteer counseling service, known as the Counseling Collective, to support patients and their families during the second wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic in Cape Town, South Africa, and the learning and implications for practice and policy regarding the effective utilization of volunteers during a crisis or disaster context. Background: The Beta SARS‐Co‐2 variant dominated the second COVID‐19 wave which gained momentum in December 2020, as public sector health teams prepared to deescalate services over the South African summer season. The ferocity with which the wave hit the city soon made it clear that volunteers would be needed to assist with counseling services as the Beta variant caused serious disease, resulting in a significant upswing in hospitalisations and deaths. Methods: Four counselors and a colleague with oversight responsibilities of the volunteers reflected on the service we provided. This was done with the benefit of hindsight a year after the activities of the Counseling Collective were wrapped up. Lessons Learned Virtual volunteers are a largely untapped resource in the South African health care system. Much is to be gained by using this underutilized resource to deliver patient‐centred services, especially in times of crisis. Conclusion: Networks of retired and self‐employed health professionals, particularly nurses,—skilled volunteers—are a valuable resource and can be deployed for critical work using their versatile skillsets, in public health emergencies. Telephonic consultations are a useful modality for providing quality care and need to be built into the business of health services. Skills to conduct such consultations and for the provision of palliative care services need to be mainstreamed into the skillsets of health professionals. Policy and clinical relevance: Public health disaster plans should include a blueprint for the rapid recruitment and deployment of volunteer counselors to assist permanent staff in providing crucial patient‐centred care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Native to South Africa and Madagascar, the invasive fireweed, Senecio madagascariensis Poiret (Asteraceae), is a target for biological control in Australia and Hawaii, where substantial infestations persist. Earlier studies in the weed's region of origin, namely KwaZulu-Natal Province in South Africa, assessed the seasonal abundance of stem-boring insect herbivores in S. madagascariensis populations. The weevil Gasteroclisus tricostalis (Thunberg) (Curculionidae) and moth Metamesia elegans (Walsingham) (Tortricidae) were prioritised as candidate agents for Australia due to their persistence across seasons. In this study, the host ranges of these two candidate agents were assessed by comparing the stem-boring curculionids and lepidopterans that are associated with S. madagascariensis with those associated with non-target Senecio species in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands region. DNA barcoding of the adults and endophagous larvae recovered during field sampling of S. madagascariensis and 17 non-target Senecio species in 2017/18, as well as those from earlier field surveys, was used to differentiate the insect species and elucidate their host-plant affinities. Although weevil larvae were recovered from the stems of seven non-target Senecio species, G. tricostalis was associated only with Senecio inaequidens DC. and Senecio skirrhodon DC., both in the S. madagascariensis species complex. Lepidopteran larvae were associated with three non-target Senecio species, all in the S. madagascariensis species complex, with M. elegans associated only with Senecio harveianus MacOwan and S. inaequidens. These results suggest that G. tricostalis and M. elegans have restricted host ranges and that further host-specificity studies in quarantine are warranted to demonstrate their suitability for release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 crisis has resulted in radical changes within the higher education system, requiring academia to rapidly transition from the traditional learning model to a distance or blended model of learning to ensure continuity of educational processes. These changes have placed additional demands on academic staff who already have a heavy workload. According to the job demands-resources model, these additional demands may have an impact on the burnout risk, engagement, and well-being of academic staff. In alignment with the premises of positive psychology the primary objective of this study was to explore the interplay of three psychological conditions (meaningfulness, safety, and availability) needed to stimulate engagement. To investigate this interplay, the researchers connected Kahn's theory on engagement with current concepts that focus on the person-role relationship, such as those dealt with in the job demands-resources model, organisational support theory, and perceptions of reciprocity. Mediating effects between burnout risk, engagement, and psychological well-being, as well as the moderating effect of lack of reciprocity, were tested using structural equation modelling. The study used a purposive, non-probability sampling method and a cross-sectional survey research design. Participants were 160 academic staff members employed at a university in South Africa. The findings of this study revealed that the three psychological conditions (meaningfulness, safety, and availability), which were operationalised as lack of reciprocity, perceived organisational support, and burnout risk, were significantly related to emotional engagement. Perceived organisational support (job resources), which met the criteria for psychological safety and some components of meaningfulness, displayed the strongest association with engagement. Policymakers within higher education institutions should be sensitive to the issues this study focused on, especially as regards the need to provide organisational support in times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During the perinatal period, common mental disorders (CMDs) such as depression and anxiety are highly prevalent, especially in low-resource settings, and are associated with domestic violence, poverty, and food insecurity. Perinatal CMDs have been associated with several adverse maternal and child outcomes. While the Department of Health in South Africa provides healthcare workers with the tools to detect psychological distress and experiences of domestic violence, few healthcare workers routinely screen pregnant women at clinic visits, citing discomfort with mental health issues and the lack of standardised referral pathways as the key barriers. The aim of this study is to select and evaluate a set of health systems strengthening (HSS) interventions aimed at improving the care and outcomes for perinatal women with CMDs and experiences of domestic violence, attending public healthcare facilities in Cape Town. Methods: This study consists of a pre-implementation, development, and implementation phase. Contextual barriers identified during the pre-implementation phase included poor patient knowledge and health-seeking behaviour, high levels of stigma, and poor detection, referral, and treatment rates. Implementation science determinant frameworks were applied to findings from the pre-implementation phase to identify determinants and gaps in delivering high-quality evidence-informed care. A participatory Theory of Change workshop was used to design a HSS programme, consisting of awareness raising, detection, referral, and treatment. HSS interventions selected to support the delivery of the HSS programme includes training, health promotion, change to the healthcare environment, task-sharing, audit and feedback, and performance monitoring. The implementation phase will be used to assess several implementation and clinical outcomes associated with the delivery of the HSS programme, which will be piloted at three healthcare facilities. Qualitative and quantitative methods will be used to evaluate the implementation and clinical outcomes. Discussion: This pilot implementation study will inform us about a range of implementation and clinical outcome measures that are relevant for assessing HSS interventions for perinatal women with depression, anxiety, or experiences of domestic violence in low-resource settings. Lessons learnt from the pilot study will be incorporated into the design of a cluster randomised control trial for which further funding will be sought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Native to South Africa, fireweed (Senecio madagascariensis Poiret; Asteraceae) is an annual or short‐lived perennial herb that is highly invasive in Australia, where it is a target for biological control. Preliminary research indicates that fireweed may be undergoing adaptive changes along its invasion gradient in Australia. Changes, such as a shift in plant chemical defence, may influence fireweed's interaction with specialist insect herbivores, and hence the efficacy of a biocontrol program. As the testing of biocontrol candidates is a rigorous and lengthy process, confirmation of fireweed's susceptibility to insect attack may assist in fast tracking candidate suitability, where changes in plant defensive chemistry are found. In a large experimental field study in fireweed's native range, we compared the susceptibility of Australian and South African populations to insect natural enemy attack (in terms of plant biomass, insect richness and composition). Simultaneously, we assessed the variation in plant pyrrolizidine alkaloid concentrations and composition to rationalise any differences in natural enemy attack between populations. We found no significant differences in plant biomass across fireweed populations, despite significantly higher alkaloid concentrations in Australian populations. The composition of the endophagous (specialist) insect herbivore assemblage was related to alkaloid composition, but there were only minor differences in the assemblage between Australian and South African fireweed populations. Moreover, we found no significant differences in the abundance, richness or Shannon diversity indices of endophagous or ectophagous (generalist) insect herbivores between Australian and South African fireweed populations. Our results suggest that despite variations in chemical defence, Australian fireweed populations displayed neither reduced nor increased susceptibility to specialist insect herbivore attack, supporting the notion that if host‐specific biocontrol agents are released, their impact in Australia is unlikely to be influenced by any changes in plant chemical defence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Tithonia rotundifolia (Mill.) S.F. Blake (Asteraceae) is among the three Tithonia species from Mexico that are invasive in many countries, including South Africa. To curb the invasiveness and negative impact of T. rotundifolia in South Africa, two chrysomelid beetles, Zygogramma signatipennis (Stål) and Zygogramma piceicollis (Stål), from Mexico were assessed to determine their suitability for release against this invader. Biological attributes such as a short pre-oviposition period, short egg incubation period, short lifecycle and long longevity suggest that the two beetle species could successfully establish in their introduced range. Feeding, oviposition and development of both beetle species were confined within the tribe Heliantheae, but showed a very strong preference for the invasive T. rotundifolia. The only non-target species that supported development to adulthood was the exotic weed Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray, itself a target for biocontrol. Although some sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) cultivars were partially utilized during host-specificity tests, none supported complete development. Since their potential threats to H. annuus cultivars are minimal, both Zygogramma species were cleared for release in South Africa in 2014. Tithonia rotundifolia (Mill.) S.F. Blake (Asteraceae) is among the three Tithonia species from Mexico that are invasive in South Africa. To curb its invasiveness and negative impact in South Africa, two chrysomelid beetles, Zygogramma signatipennis (Stål) and Zygogramma piceicollis (Stål), from Mexico were investigated as candidate biological control agents. The life histories and host ranges of these beetles were studied under laboratory conditions to determine their suitability for release. The two beetle species displayed very similar life histories, including a short pre-oviposition period (13–14 days), incubation period (4–5 days) and lifecycle (40–45 days). The longevity of Z. signatipennis and Z. piceicollis was 113 and 125 days, while their fecundities were 1146 and 1133 eggs per female, respectively. Feeding, oviposition and development of both beetle species were confined within the tribe Heliantheae, but showed a very strong preference for the invasive T. rotundifolia. The only non-target species that supported development to adulthood was the exotic weed Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray, itself a target for biocontrol. Although some sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) cultivars were partially utilized during host-specificity tests, none supported complete development, suggesting that both Zygogramma species are suitable for release in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

South Africa supports a rich floral diversity, with 21 643 native plant taxa that include a high proportion (76.3%) of endemic species, and many of these favoured as ornamentals, both locally and globally. Consequently, South Africa has contributed substantially to global plant invasions, with 1093 native taxa (5% of all species) naturalized in other countries. At least 80 taxa are invasive in natural or semi-natural ecosystems elsewhere, while an additional 132 taxa are potentially invasive. Of the global naturalized flora, 8.2% originate from South Africa and largely comprise species of Poaceae, Asteraceae, Iridaceae and Fabaceae. Australia, in particular, but also Europe and North America are major recipients of South African weeds. However, few countries have targeted South African plants for biological control (biocontrol), with most efforts undertaken by Australia. Previous and current targets have involved only 26 species with 17 agents (15 insects, one mite and one rust fungus) of South African origin released on five target species in Australia and the United States of America. South Africa's history of weed biocontrol, together with a large cohort of active scientists, is currently facilitating several internationally funded programmes targeting invasive plants of South African origin. In particular, the recently inaugurated Centre for Biological Control at Rhodes University and the University of KwaZulu-Natal have provided the impetus for novel efforts on five new target species and renewed efforts on four previously targeted species. In this contribution, we review the history of earlier biocontrol programmes against weeds of South African origin and the status of projects currently in progress in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solanum mauritianum Scop. (Solanaceae), colloquially referred to as bugweed in South Africa, remains a widespread invasive tree of global significance. Although biological control (biocontrol) efforts were undertaken from 1984 -2003 in South Africa, the programme eventually only released two agents, the sap-sucking lace bug Gargaphia decoris Drake (Hemiptera: Tingidae) and flowerbud-feeding weevil Anthonomus santacruzi Hustache (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). To date, these agents have been relatively ineffective in controlling S. mauritianum, largely due to low establishment success due to climatic incompatibility in relation to the widespread distribution of S. mauritianum. This has prompted the revival of S. mauritianum biocontrol research in 2018, with the programme focused largely on sourcing additional agents from climatically suitable regions in the plant's native range in South America. Climate matching between cooler regions of South Africa and known S. mauritianum sites in South America identified Uruguay as a promising source of new agents. Field collections in Uruguay focused mainly on Anthonomus spp. but included stem-boring and shoot-galling weevils. Low incidence in the field and difficulties in culturing candidate species temporarily precluded research into stem-boring and shoot-galling candidates, but the rearing and assessment of the flowerbud-feeding weevil Anthonomus morticinus Clark (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is ongoing. Host-specificity testing of A. morticinus has thus far confirmed a narrow host range, suggesting it has potential as a new agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This special issue is the fourth decadal review of biological control of invasive alien plants (biocontrol of weeds) in South Africa, following those published in 1991, 1999 and 2011. Including this introduction, there are 24 papers covering the weed biocontrol programmes, or important developments in the science and practice, from the period 2011-2020. Seventy-two target weed species are covered, including 25 species on which projects were initiated during the past decade. Developments in regulations, mass-rearing and implementation, and community engagement are also reviewed. An updated catalogue of agents released, rejected and under consideration is presented and reflects the most recent methods of quantifying success in weed biocontrol. Key events over the last decade include the hosting of the XIV International Symposium on Biological Control of Weeds to celebrate 100 years of weed biocontrol in South Africa, as well as the establishment of the Centre for Biological Control at Rhodes University. The science and practice of weed biocontrol has expanded significantly in the past decade, with growth in the number of researchers and practitioners, increased funding, and an increased number of scholarly outputs. Unlike many other countries in the world, South Africa has largely avoided constraints due to restrictive and risk averse legislation and bureaucracy, and has continued to release new biocontrol agents at a similar rate to that in previous years. Much of the success of weed biocontrol in South Africa is due to the sustained and increasing support of the Natural Resource Management Programme of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (Working for Water Programme). However, gaps in funding, where no funds are available for months at a time, are a major concern as the weed biocontrol community loses human capital in these periods, and research programmes suffer significant set-backs. Weed biocontrol is an essential component of South Africa's strategy to reduce the negative impacts of invasive alien plants and has contributed significantly towards the protection of the country's ecosystems, indigenous biodiversity, water security, agricultural productivity, and society in general. If the trend of increasing support for weed biocontrol in South Africa continues, we can expect that the benefits for the country at large will increase substantially in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthonomus santacruzi Hustache (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) was released in South Africa in 2008 to curb the spread of the invasive alien weed Solanum mauritianum Scopoli (Solanaceae) and is widely established in warmer regions. In KwaZulu-Natal Province (KZN), where S. mauritianum populations are particularly abundant, weevil populations display seasonal peaks in autumn, thrive at coastal locations, but barely persist at colder inland locations. Besides substantial winter declines and poor compatibility with colder areas, native parasitoids may be constraining weevil populations. In this study, A. santacruzi populations were surveyed during late summer at six coastal and three inland sites in KZN to determine the levels of parasitism. Also, weevil population densities were compared with those recorded during post-release surveys conducted since 2015. Parasitoid recruitment was negligible, with <1% of weevil-infested buds parasitised. Significant differences in A. santacruzi numbers between 2016, 2018 and 2020 across the same nine sites were due to lower numbers in 2020, as a result of earlier sampling (i.e. two months before the autumn peak) than in preceding years. Four sites that were sampled during late summer in 2015 displayed significant increases in weevil abundance, but significant decreases in floral and fruit production, over the six years preceding 2020. The significant negative correlation between weevil densities and fruiting, across all sites surveyed between 2015 and 2020, suggests some impact, albeit moderate, on the weed's reproductive output. Climatic limitations rather than recruited parasitoids are currently limiting the distribution and densities of A. santacruzi in KZN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, there has been a move toward 'open science' that includes the sharing of health data for research. The importance of data sharing for research is generally acknowledged, but this must only be done with legal and ethical procedures and protections in place. The use and sharing of health data for research in South Africa has changed with the coming into force of the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). POPIA should ensure greater transparency and accountability in the use of personal information. POPIA, however, adopts a principle-based approach to the regulation of personal information, and there is a lack of clarity and uncertainty in the application of some of these principles to the use of health data for research. POPIA provides for sector-specific responses through the development of codes of conduct. In this article, we discuss the need for a code of conduct for health research, and an approach that could be adopted in its development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Native to Central America, Tecoma stans (L.) Juss ex Kunth var. stans (Bignoniaceae) is a small tree that is invasive in South Africa and neighbouring countries. The plant was targeted for biological control in South Africa in 2003, with two insect agents released and established so far. The root‐feeding flea beetle, Heikertingerella sp. (Coleoptera: Galerucinae: Alticini), was imported from Mexico as an additional biocontrol agent and its biology and host specificity was assessed under quarantine conditions. The beetle displayed a generation time (i.e. from adult to adult) of 49 to 67 days, ensuring four annual generations under laboratory conditions. The beetle's larval and adult stages inflicted high levels of damage on the root system and the leaves of T. stans, respectively. No‐choice tests with 40 test‐plant species revealed adult feeding on only two non‐target species, Tecoma × alata and T. capensis (Thunb.) Spach, with feeding four times higher on T. stans. Larvae developed to adulthood on T. stans only. Multi‐choice tests involving the three Tecoma species confirmed these trends, demonstrating that Heikertingerella sp. is host specific. Since T. × alata is a hybrid of T. stans with invasive tendencies, any unlikely attacks by Heikertingerella sp. would be inconsequential in South Africa. The native T. capensis, which suffered little leaf damage and produced no F1 adults, is also at minimal risk of attack. We conclude that Heikertingerella sp. is a suitable biocontrol agent for T. stans and that permission for its release in South Africa be sought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Realisation of the value and the commercialisation potential of data is gaining exponential momentum. The combination of historical data exploitations and the use of technologies that allow for the triangulation of data results in the collection, storage, and processing of massive amounts of data require diligent data management, including adherence to privacy and other laws, both nationally and internationally. The intrinsic value of scientific data, especially in genomics, becomes apparent when data are shared, often in collaboration with international partners, and compiled into big data sets that are subsequently used for benefit, including commercial benefit. The purpose of this article is to explore the commercialisation of data in South Africa against the backdrop of the legal framework governing the protection of personal information, confidentiality and privacy, with a specific focus on genetic and genomic information. Related issues, such as the collection and sharing of data, ownership of data and challenges about informed consent are also considered. After a brief evaluation of the African regulatory landscape relating to the protection of personal information, the article concludes with a few recommendations aimed at improving the status quo and sensitising the South African public as to the value of their data and personal information, as well as the potential uses and abuses to which their personal information may be subjected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Delairea odorata Lemaire, Cape ivy (Asteraceae: Senecioneae), is native to South Africa but invasive in several countries. The plant is a target for biological control in the USA (California and Hawaii) and Australia, where its aggressive smothering tendencies threaten native ecosystems. The beetle Ageniosa cf. badenii (Vogel) (Chrysomelidae) was investigated in South Africa as a potential agent for D. odorata in invaded countries. Adults are wingless and nocturnal. Females deposit clusters of 1–10 eggs on the leaf undersides. Neonate larvae are highly mobile and feed on the leaves during the four instars, before pupating in the soil. Mean (± SE) developmental time from egg hatch to adult emergence was 30.8 ± 0.4 days on D. odorata. During larval no-choice tests with 34 asteraceous plant species, survival to adulthood was confined to 10 species in the tribe Senecioneae. Neonate larvae completed development (with sustained fitness ≥ 65% in relation to the highest ranked host) on three native (Senecio tamoides DC., D. odorata and S. skirrhodon DC.) and one exotic (Gynura procumbens (Lour.) Merr.) species. The beetle's narrow host range was confirmed by larval paired-choice and adult multi-choice tests and field observations. Ageniosa cf. badenii may be a suitable agent for Hawaii, where the tribe Senecioneae is not represented in the native flora. However, since Senecioneae are well represented in the native flora of Australia and California, more intensive testing is needed to determine if the beetle is a candidate for introduction into these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Competition, herbivory and their interaction play a significant role in determining the competitive ability and survival of individual plant species. Understanding these processes and interactions can improve the efficacy of biocontrol programs against invasive weeds. Senecio madagascariensis (fireweed) is an invasive weed of South African origin that reduces pastoral productivity and poisons livestock in several countries, notably Australia. Although competitive pastures can suppress the weed's growth in Australia, its competitive nature is poorly understood in relation to its invasion success. This greenhouse study assessed the growth and reproductive yield of fireweed growing in competition with six native and introduced grasses present in both South Africa and Australia. Since fireweed is a target for biocontrol in Australia, we examined whether its response to grass competition changed with herbivory (simulated by 40% leaf removal). The effect of grass competition and herbivory on the weed's biomass and floral productivity was examined during a 12‐week pot trial in South Africa. Floral numbers were unaffected by both grass competition and herbivory. Biomass was used to calculate Relative Interaction Indices (RII) to quantify the weed's competitive or facilitative response. This index compares a specific measurable trait, such as biomass, of fireweed growing alone, to fireweed growing with grass to determine the level of competitive suppression or facilitation resulting from the interaction. Despite the lack of species‐specific effects of grass competition, the presence of grass suppressed fireweed's foliar, root and whole plant biomass the most when herbivory was absent. With herbivory, fireweed did not suffer from any measurable competitive suppression. This lack of competitive suppression may be due to an induced allelopathic response, given the levels of pyrrolizidine alkaloids common in many Senecio species. Since this result may weaken the case for biocontrol, the weed's competitive responses should be verified in relation to actual insect herbivory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Acanthoscelides macrophthalmus caused erratic and limited damage to leucaena seeds. • Damage was moderately but negatively correlated with seed availability. • Parasitism was not correlated with seed beetle infestation. • The beetles are unable to track their seed resources, hampering biocontrol. Introduced from Central America for agroforestry, Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) De Wit (Fabaceae) has become invasive in several tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The seed beetle Acanthoscelides macrophthalmus (Schaeffer) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) was released in South Africa in 1999 to curb the plant's high seed production. Monthly sampling was conducted during 2011/2012 at four sites in KwaZulu-Natal Province to determine the reproductive phenology of L. leucocephala populations, the levels of seed damage inflicted by A. macrophthalmus , and the extent to which the beetle has recruited native parasitoids. There were typically two podding cycles annually, with variations in peak pod production between sites and periods of very low seed availability. The levels of pre-dispersal seed damage on canopy-held pods were erratic, fluctuating greatly between months and sites, and seldom exceeding 50%. Levels of post-dispersal damage on soil-surface seeds were substantially lower, seldom exceeding 5%. Parasitism of the larval/pupal stages of A. macrophthalmus also varied between months and sites, reaching a maximum of 45%. There was a moderate but significant negative correlation between percentage seed damage and seed availability, indicating higher damage during periods of seed scarcity. In contrast, there was no significant correlation between percentage parasitism and seed infestation by A. macrophthalmus. These trends suggest that neither A. macrophthalmus nor its recruited parasitoids are tracking resource availability, ensuring a negligible impact on seedling recruitment. Additional seed-reducing agents, particularly insects that exploit green pods, are required to regulate L. leucocephala populations in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthonomus santacruzi Hustache (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) was released in South Africa to offset the extensive reproductive output of the invasive tree Solanum mauritianum Scopoli (Solanaceae). Widespread establishment has occurred predominantly in the coastal areas of KwaZulu-Natal province, with limited success in higher-altitude inland areas. Irrespective of location, populations exhibit peaks in the austral autumn and decline during winter. In this study, we evaluated the persistence of A. santacruzi populations in climatically-optimal coastal areas versus climatically-marginal inland areas. The weevil's pre- and post-winter abundance was surveyed at six coastal and six inland sites during 2018, and compared between areas and seasons. The 2018 pre-winter data were also compared to 2016 pre-winter data collected at the same sites. During 2018, pre- and post-winter numbers were six times and 22 times higher, respectively, at optimal sites than at marginal sites, with substantial winter declines at all sites. Post-winter weevil numbers at optimal sites were significantly higher than pre-winter numbers at marginal sites. Pre-winter numbers at optimal sites were not significantly different between 2016 and 2018, but at marginal sites were significantly lower in 2018. Inflorescences of S. mauritianum at marginal sites contained significantly more floral material and fruit than those at optimal sites, during both seasons in 2018. Significant negative correlations between A. santacruzi numbers and floral/fruit production suggest some impact on the reproductive output of S. mauritianum. Since A. santacruzi populations are barely persisting in marginal areas, releases in other South African provinces should target locations that are below 300 m in altitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In South Africa, forensic scientists have joined forces to form a professional body that represents the forensic science sector. The negative impact of an unaccredited national deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) laboratory and unregulated forensic science profession will take a significant effort to undo and will not be accomplished without interventions at various levels. In this regard, science has not served justice. At present, despite the national DNA laboratory testifying (since 2001) that accreditation is under way, to our knowledge the only independent audit of data generated by this national laboratory has been when independent experts were contracted to perform technical audits on a case-by-case basis. This situation is untenable in the pursuit of justice at the national level. A lack of accountability, both at the professional and institutional levels, in any sector, breeds complacency and eventually has detrimental effects on the delivery of justice to citizens. Despite the late hour, concerted actions can turn the tide and allow science to serve justice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forensic Science practitioners in South Africa did not have a representative or a regulatory body and for many years some individuals have vocalized the need for such a representative body. In 2016, a small working group came together to take the first coordinated steps towards a body that can represent and address this need. The small working group enabled the first meeting of interested parties and established an electronic means of communication and of conducting surveys. Several issues were discussed and a steering body of five members were elected which replaced the Forensic Science Workgroup. The mandate of the Steering Committee was to establish a Constitution and Code of Ethics for the body, to arrange the founding meeting and to investigate possible affiliation with a professional council, who will have the responsibility to regulate the professionals in the field, by preparation and practice. The establishment of SAAFS was eagerly anticipated and now a reality. The management of the body, its affiliation with a professional council and the empowerment of the members are in the hands of its first duly elected officials. It is entering an exciting period of self-regulation and establishing collaborations with similar bodies in the international arena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The practice of forensic science has changed irrevocably in South Africa in 2017 with the request by the media to live-stream the State vs van Breda court case. The entire trial was broadcast and continues to be accessible on YouTube. Legal professionals are not formally trained with respect to DNA-specific testimony or DNA evidence. Although DNA experts are familiar with presenting DNA evidence to the legal profession and to Court in order to serve justice, the addition of live streaming by the media in the Court environment is a recent development. It is evident that the goals of practitioners of science, law and media are different in a court case. It would be ideal to have informed journalists reporting on the scientific and legal aspects of a case. In the absence of this, the public primarily receives information that is presented for other purposes, rather than for its accuracy. It is thus crucial that forensic scientists in South Africa, and elsewhere, engage in public forums as well as with the media in order to achieve appropriate dissemination of scientific evidence delivered in Court. A concerted effort is required by forensic experts to adapt to this new reality in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A biotype of the flower-galling mite, Aceria lantanae (Cook) (Trombidiformes: Eriophyidae) collected in Florida (U.S.A.) was released in South Africa in 2007 against Lantana camara L. (Verbenaceae) but has displayed patchy establishment. The occurrence of different L. camara varieties and their susceptibility to A. lantanae were assessed across four provinces with dense infestations. Surveys were undertaken at 113 sites during the mite’s peak infestation period (April-May) in 2013-2015. The occurrence of 13 recorded L. camara varieties differed substantially across and within these provinces. Overall, five varieties accounted for 7-45% of the sampled plants at 9-51% of the surveyed sites. The remaining eight varieties accounted for <1-4% of the plants at 2-9% of the sites. The establishment and impact of A. lantanae differed significantly between L. camara varieties. The mite established best on three varieties (163 LP, 021 WP and 015 OR), with 60-90% of plants infested. Reduced establishments were observed on seven varieties, with 18-50% of plants infested, while no establishment was recorded on three varieties. Where established, A. lantanae inflicted considerable levels of damage (i.e. 51-75% of buds infested) on the most widespread and abundant L. camara variety (163 LP) and on one less common variety (021 WP). Two uncommon varieties (015 OR, 021 P) suffered moderate levels of damage with the remainder suffering only trivial levels. The mite’s impact in South Africa could be improved by complementing the established biotype with others from Central and South America that are better matched with the poorly attacked L. camara varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biology and host range of the defoliating beetlePhysonota maculiventrisBoheman (Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae) were studied in quarantine to determine its suitability for release as a biological control agent against Mexican sunflower,Tithonia diversifolia(Hemsl.) A. Gray (Asteraceae), in South Africa. Females laid 5.25 ± 0.25 (mean ± SE) egg batches during their lifetimes, with each batch consisting of approximately 33 eggs. Larvae were highly gregarious as early instars and both larvae and adults fed voraciously, often defoliating the plants completely. The life cycle of the beetle was completed in 67.5 ± 7.5 days under quarantine conditions. Among the 58 test plant species subjected to no-choice tests,P. maculiventrisdeveloped successfully onT. diversifoliaand some sunflower (Helianthus annuusL.) cultivars. However, only minor damage was recorded on non-target species, notably the exotic weedXanthium strumariumL. and someH. annuuscultivars. Also, survival to adulthood was considerably lower on sunflower cultivars than on the target weed during these tests. During choice tests,P. maculiventrisoviposited and developed successfully onT. diversifoliaonly, with only minor feeding damage on someH. annuuscultivars, suggesting that the beetle’s field host range will be confined to the target weed. Risk analysis also showed thatP. maculiventrispresents an extremely low risk to non-target plant species (e.g. within the tribe Heliantheae and other close relatives). The study concluded thatP. maculiventrisis safe for release in South Africa and an application for its release is being considered by the relevant South African regulatory authorities. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The flowerbud-feeding weevilAnthonomus santacruziHustache (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) was released in South Africa in 2008 for the biological control of the invasive treeSolanum mauritianumScopoli (Solanaceae). The weevil was widely deployed throughout KwaZulu-Natal province, which supports largeS. mauritianuminfestations, and has become well established in its warmer coastal regions. The aim of this study was to provide field evidence that climate is constraining the weevil’s distribution in South Africa.Solanum mauritianumpopulations were sampled at 23 sites across an altitudinal gradient in KwaZulu-Natal to determineA. santacruzidensities in relation to food availability and climatic variables. Despite significantly higher amounts of floral material onS. mauritianumat the higher altitude inland sites,A. santacruzinumbers were significantly higher at the lower altitude coastal sites. There was thus a significant negative relationship betweenA. santacruzinumbers and altitude and significant positive relationships betweenA. santacruzinumbers and both temperature and humidity. Neither rainfall nor food availability influencedA. santacruzinumbers, although lower amounts of floral material at the coastal sites may well have been caused by higher weevil densities at these sites.Anthonomus santacruziwas absent at only three sites, all at higher altitudes, further demonstrating that conditions in coastal or low-altitude regions are favourable for establishment and population proliferation. Future release efforts in KwaZulu-Natal, but also in other South African provinces, should thus be focused on coastal regions and inland regions that are below 1000 m above sea level. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The flower-galling mite, Aceria lantanae (Cook) (Acari: Trombidiformes: Eriophyidae), was released as a biological control agent of Lantana camara L. (Verbenaceae) in the Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces of South Africa, between 2007 and 2012. Flower galls were subsequently observed at several sites where the mite had not been released, providing evidence of dispersal. This study was therefore conducted to determine the establishment, seasonal performance and dispersal rate of A. lantanae in the aforementioned South African provinces and neighbouring Swaziland. The effect of A. lantanae along with the other previously-established biological control agents on inflorescence and seed production of susceptible L. camara varieties was determined by insecticide exclusion experiments in the field. Aceria lantanae became established at 58.6% of the original release sites located in the four provinces. The mite has also established widely within the geographic range of L. camara in South Africa and Swaziland, with dispersal rates of up to 40.6 km per annum. Infestations of inflorescences varied substantially between sites, provinces and seasons and ranged from 2.7% to 97%. Inflorescence and seed production declined significantly by up to 97% and 94%, respectively, on untreated biological control stands compared to the insecticide-treated exclusion stands. Although A. lantanae has become widespread within the geographic range of L. camara in South Africa, different L. camara plants appeared to vary in their susceptibility to A. lantanae , suggesting that genetic differences among plants may have affected the performance of the mite. If this is true, additional mite strains will be required to control resistant varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The foliage-deforming thripsLiothrips tractabilisMound and Pereyra (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) was recently released in South Africa as the first classical biological control agent against the invasive South American herb,Campuloclinium macrocephalum(Less.) DC. (Asteraceae). The impact of the thrips on young plants and regrowth ofC. macrocephalumwas assessed under outdoor conditions, and the results were compared to those of earlier laboratory trials that were conducted while the agent was still under investigation in quarantine. The outdoor trials revealed that feeding byL. tractabilisreduced the growth and biomass accumulation ofC. macrocephalum, particularly in young plants and to a lesser extent in regrowth, which was largely consistent with the results of the earlier laboratory trials. Thrips-infested young plants were significantly shorter, produced fewer leaves and displayed significantly lower wet root masses and lower below- and above-ground dry masses, compared to the control plants. Although thrips-infested regrowth were significantly shorter, produced fewer leaves and displayed significantly lower above-ground dry masses than the control plants, the differences in wet root masses and below-ground dry masses were not significant. Although laboratory-based impact assessments are not necessarily an accurate reflection of field impact, in this instance the results were largely validated by the outdoor assessments. The results suggest thatL. tractabiliswill have a negative impact onC. macrocephalumpopulations in the field and thus contribute towards the weed’s biological control. The establishment ofL. tractabilishas recently been confirmed in South Africa, providing the opportunity to verify these predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The leaf-mining flyCalycomyza eupatorivoraSpencer (Diptera: Agromyzidae) has become widely established in the eastern regions of South Africa, following its release for the biological control of the invasive shrubChromolaena odorata(L.) King and Robinson. This study was conducted to gain some insight into the impact ofC. eupatorivorapopulations, by assessing their seasonal activity, habitat preferences, levels of leaf exploitation and extent of larval mortality in the field over a 1-year period. Leaf mining intensity was poorly synchronised with leaf availability, with leaf exploitation peaking at the end of the growing season ofC. odorata. Although significantly more mines were recovered on plants growing in shaded situations, the percentage of available leaves that were exploited for mining was not significantly different between plants growing in shaded versus open situations. Overall, the levels of leaf damage were trivial with mines recovered from <5% of available leaves that were sampled during the study. Besides leaf-quality requirements, these low levels of leaf exploitation may have been influenced by high larval mortality which varied between 60 and 83%, depending on whether lower or higher estimates were used. These evaluations have verified the results of earlier laboratory studies which suggested that the impact ofC. eupatorivoraon mature populations ofC. odoratain South Africa will be negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background New forms of leadership are required to bring about the fundamental health system changes demanded by primary health care (PHC). Using theory about complex adaptive systems and policy implementation, this paper considers how actors' sensemaking and the exercise of discretionary power currently combine to challenge PHC re-orientation in the South African health system; and provides examples of leadership practices that promote sensemaking and power use in support of PHC. Methods The paper draws on observational, interview, and reflective data collected as part of the District Innovation and Action Learning for Health Systems Development (DIALHS) project being implemented in Cape Town, South Africa. Undertaken collaboratively between health managers and researchers, the project is implemented through cycles of action-learning, including systematic reflection and synthesis. It includes a particular focus on how local health managers can better support front line facility managers in strengthening PHC. Results The results illuminate how the collective understandings of staff working at the primary level - of their working environment and changes within it - act as a barrier to centrally-led initiatives to strengthen PHC. Staff often fail to take ownership of such initiatives and experience them as disempowering. Local area managers, located between the centre and the service frontline, have a vital role to play in providing a leadership of sensemaking to mediate these challenges. Founded on personal values, such leadership entails, for example, efforts to nurture PHC-aligned values and mind-sets among staff; build relationships and support the development of shared meanings about change; instil a culture of collective inquiry and mutual accountability; and role-model management practices, including using language to signal meaning. Conclusions PHC will only become a lived reality within the South African health system when frontline staff are able to make sense of policy intentions and incorporate them into their everyday routines and practices. This requires a leadership of sensemaking that enables front line staff to exercise their collective discretionary power in strengthening PHC. We hope this theoretically-framed analysis of one set of experiences stimulates wider thinking about the leadership needed to sustain primary health care in other settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The florivorous weevilAnthonomus santacruziis being released in South Africa to reduce the reproductive capacity of the invasive tree,Solanum mauritianum. Initiated to allay concerns about biotic interference, our study suggests that inflorescence-inhabiting spiders pose no risk to the survival and proliferation ofA. santacruzipopulations in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Introduced into several countries worldwide for agroforestry,Leucaena leucocephala(Lam.) de Wit is a typical ‘conflict species’ that invades several riparian, forested and disturbed habitats in South Africa. The seed beetleAcanthoscelides macrophthalmus(Schaeffer) (Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) was subsequently deployed as a seed-reducing agent to offset its excessive seed output. However, exploratory egg-exposure trials, in which nativeAcacia s.l.trees were used as ‘surrogate host plants’, suggested that high egg mortality is reducing the beetle's impact. The aims of this study were to (1) verify this suspicion by comparing the mortality of eggs exposed inL. leucocephalaandAcacia nilotica(L.) Willd ex Del. stands and (2) determine whether height of exposure in the canopy (i.e. oviposition site selection) influences the different mortality factors. Although lower than in the exploratory trials, egg mortality was considerable, ranging from 30 to 50% in most instances. While unaffected by height of exposure, the overall egg mortality (i.e. all factors) was significantly lower in seeds exposed onL. leucocephala. Mortality was not only mostly attributed to parasitism (51% of mortality), but also predation (30%) and unknown factors (19%). While unexplained mortality and predation were not influenced by tree species or height of exposure, parasitism increased significantly with height above ground and was significantly lower in seeds exposed onL. leucocephala. Egg mortality is thus one of several factors that appears to be limiting the efficacy ofA. macrophthalmusin South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The invasive tree Solanum mauritianum Scop, has been targeted for biological control in South Africa and New Zealand, by deploying insect agents that could constrain its excessive reproductive output. The flower-feeding weevil Anthonomus santacruzi (Curculionidae) was approved for release in South Africa in 2007 but following the loss of the original culture in quarantine, new stocks were introduced from Argentina in 2008-2009. This study was initiated to confirm that the host range of the new culture was the same as that of the previous one, but also to assess the risks associated with the weevil's release in New Zealand. Different testing procedures, including no-choice tests and multi-choice tests in different arenas, produced inconsistent and ambiguous results. During no-choice tests, oviposition and larval development to adulthood occurred on three non-target species including two native South African and one native New Zealand Solanum species. However, subsequent multi-choice tests and a risk assessment suggested that the risks of anything more than collateral damage to non-target Solanum species are low. Overall, these data do not deviate substantially from the results of the original quarantine tests which facilitated the release of A. santacruzi in South Africa in 2009. Although we argue that none of the New Zealand native and cultivated species are at risk, stronger evidence from open-field trials and chemical ecology studies may be required to convince the regulatory authorities that A. santacruzi is suitable for release in New Zealand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orientation: Empathy is a core competency in aiding individuals to address the challenges of social living. An indicator of emotional intelligence, it is useful in a globalising and cosmopolitan world. Moreover, managing staff, stakeholders and conflict in many social settings relies on communicative skills, of which empathy forms a large part. Empathy plays a pivotal role in negotiating, persuading and influencing behaviour. The skill of being able to empathise thus enables the possessor to attune to the needs of clients and employees and provides opportunities to become responsive to these needs. Research purpose: This study attempted to determine the construct validity of the Multi-dimensional Emotional Empathy Scale within the South African context. Motivation for the study: In South Africa, a large number of psychometrical instruments have been adopted directly from abroad. Studies determining the construct validity of several of these imported instruments, however, have shown that these instruments are not suited for use in the South African context. Research design, approach and method: The study was based on a quantitative research method with a survey design. A convenience sample of 212 respondents completed the Multi-dimensional Emotional Empathy Scale. The constructs explored were Suffering, Positive Sharing, Responsive Crying, Emotional Attention, a Feel for Others and Emotional Contagion. The statistical procedure used was a confirmatory factor analysis. Main findings: The study showed that, from a South African perspective, the Multi-dimensional Emotional Empathy Scale lacks sufficient construct validity. Practical/managerial implications: Further refinement of the model would provide valuable information that would aid people to be more appreciative of individual contributions, to meet client needs and to understand the motivations of others. Contribution/value-add: From a South African perspective, the findings of this study are significant in that the data indicate potential for measuring emotional empathy in the workplace. Research into emotional empathy in South Africa, however, is limited and additional studies could deepen the case for the Scale's applicability and validity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past decade there has been increasing interest in assessment as a social practice. There is a growing recognition that assessment, particularly of complex tasks, is a judgment which is socially-situated and thus contingent on a variety of factors which constitute the assessment event. Drawing on the hermeneutical tradition, this article explores the interpretive processes of essay markers in two Health Science courses at the University of Cape Town, with a particular focus on markers' judgements about language. The analysis exposes multiple 'circles' of influence on markers' professional judgements, including the texts (both the written product and the student writer), the marker's interpretive framework, the interpretive community and the wider institutional discourses. The article contributes to a better understanding of the crucial role of the interpretive community in the validation of assessment interpretations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: An integrated sense of professionalism enables health professionals to draw on relevant knowledge in context and to apply a set of professional responsibilities and ethical principles in the midst of changing work environments ⊏1,2⊐. Inculcating professionalism is therefore a critical goal of health professional education. Two multi-professional courses for first year Health Science students at the University of Cape Town, South Africa aim to lay the foundation for becoming an integrated health professional ⊏3⊐. In these courses a diagram depicting the domains of the integrated health professional is used to focus the content of small group experiential exercises towards an appreciation of professionalism. The diagram serves as an organising framework for conceptualising an emerging professional identity and for directing learning towards the domains of 'self as professional' ⊏4,5⊐. Objective: This paper describes how a diagrammatic representation of the core elements of an integrated health professional is used as a template for framing course content and for organising student learning. Based on the assumption that all health care professionals should be knowledgeable, empathic and reflective, the diagram provides students and educators with a visual tool for investigating the subjective and objective dimensions of professionalism. The use of the diagram as an integrating point of reference for individual and small group learning is described and substantiated with relevant literature. Conclusion: The authors have applied the diagram with positive impact for the past six years with students and educators reporting that "it just makes sense". The article includes plans for formal evaluation. Evaluation to date is based on preliminary, informal feedback on the value of the diagram as a tool for capturing the domains of professionalism at an early stage in the undergraduate education of health professional students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological control against incipient, or emerging, weeds (plants in an early stage of invasion) has not been widely practiced in many countries, largely because limited budgets tend to be directed at invasions that have already reached detrimental levels. Because of restricted funds and few opportunities for exploration abroad in the past, South African practitioners of biological control have made the most of their survey trips by collecting as many potentially useful control agents, from as many target plants, as they could. Exploration for agents against high-priority weeds thus allowed simultaneous collection of natural enemies of Iow-priority weeds in the same region. These opportunistic programs have been beneficial for South Africa in the management of invasive alien plants. In 2003, the Working for Water program allocated funds for biological control programs against five emerging weed species. This investment has, for the first time, given formal recognition to the rationale of targeting incipient weeds and bodes well for the future of biological weed control in South Africa. This paper reviews cases where emerging weeds were targeted for biological control in this country, the successes that were achieved, and the prospects for enhancing this approach in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Females displayed an average lifetime fecundity of 383 eggs. • Floral phenological stage is important in oviposition site selection. • Oviposition peaked 7–8 weeks after adult emergence. • Seed damage increased with increasing female densities. • Larval feeding and enhanced seed abortion cause seed inviability. The seed-feeding weevil Smicronyx lutulentus Dietz (Curculionidae) was released in South Africa in 2015 to supplement the biological control programme against the invasive annual weed Parthenium hysterophorus L. (Asteraceae). Larval feeding within young, developing ovules and larval-induced abortion of adjacent seeds within the flowerheads causes seed destruction, augmenting low levels of natural seed abortion. We studied female fecundity in a glasshouse trial, to identify critical periods in oviposition and inform mass-rearing and field release protocols. Newly emerged mated females displayed a pre-oviposition period of 1–2 weeks, a peak in oviposition after 7–8 weeks and a lifetime fecundity of 324–446 eggs. We also studied the relationship between weevil density and seed damage during two separate glasshouse trials, to facilitate predictions of seed damage under field conditions. Plants exposed to 15 mating pairs of weevils harboured substantially higher proportions of larval-damaged flower buds (75 %) than plants with five pairs (45–56 %) or a single pair (19 %). Larval progeny from five adult pairs caused significantly higher seed inviability (38 %) than progeny from a single pair (14 %), versus the weevil-free control (5 %). Progeny from 15 pairs damaged 30 % of developing seeds, potentially causing up to 60 % seed inviability due to enhanced abortion of neighbouring seeds. Although ≥5 females per plant caused appreciable seed damage, the proportions of unexploited new buds (25–55 %) versus buds with multiple occupancy (≥2 larvae; 35–47 %) indicate the importance of floral phenology in oviposition site selection, as flowerbuds of 2–3 mm are preferred. Although progeny from five females per plant could cause up to 30 % seed reduction, within a week of oviposition, higher densities are required to limit the entry of viable seeds into the soil seed banks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• DNA barcoding revealed host-plant affinities in endophagous fireweed insects. • Capitulum-feeding flies and stem-boring weevils and moths had narrow host ranges. • Stem-boring flies utilized host plants outside the fireweed species complex. • Native-range surveys and COI phylogenies facilitated fireweed agent selection. Senecio madagascariensis Poiret (Asteraceae), an invasive herb from southern Africa that inflicts high economic losses in several countries worldwide, is currently a target for biological control in Australia and Hawaii. Several candidate insect agents were identified from the weed's native range in South Africa. Confirmation of narrow host ranges, prior to agent importations into quarantine, is important for Australia given its rich native Senecio flora. In particular, surveys for candidate agents on closely related non-target plants in the native range can differentiate between host specific and unsuitable agents at an early stage. This study focused on endophagous insects from families that were deployed in biocontrol programmes against other weedy Asteraceae. The host-plant affinities of stem-boring Coleoptera and stem-boring and capitulum-feeding Lepidoptera and Diptera were assessed across 18 native herbaceous Senecio species in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Since larval morphology is typically unable to confirm insect identity, DNA barcoding was used to differentiate between insect species associated with different Senecio species to determine their host-plant affinities. COI phylogenies revealed that stem-boring Curculionidae and Tortricidae and capitulum-feeding Pterophoridae and Tephritidae that are associated with S. madagascariensis were restricted to plants in the S. madagascariensis species complex. In contrast, none of the stem-boring Agromyzidae were restricted to S. madagascariensis or its species complex. This study has supported the selection of several potentially host-specific agents for S. madagascariensis that could be imported for quarantine testing in Australia and Hawaii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on optimistic vision for biosciences in South Africa including interests and rights of both the individual and the collective which are related to autonomy and privacy.

Health system governance has been recognized as a critical element of the health system strengthening agenda. To date, health governance research often focuses at national or global levels, adopting a macro-perspective that deals with governance structures, forms and principles. Little attention has been given to a micro-perspective which recognizes the role of health system actors in governance, or to considering the operational level of the health system. This article presents a South African case study of an intervention to address conflict in roles and responsibilities between multiple actors supporting service delivery at the local level, and explores the broader insights this experience generates about the nature of local health system governance. In an embedded case study, action learning and reflection theory were used to design and implement the intervention. Data in this article were drawn from minutes, observations and recorded reflections of the meetings and workshops that comprised the intervention. A theoretical governance framework was used both to understand the context of the intervention and to analyse the dimensions of governance relevant in the experience. The study shows how, through action learning and reflection, local managers in two organizations came to understand how the higher level misalignment of organizational structures and processes imposed governance constraints on them, and to see the impact this had on their organizational relationships. By re-framing the conflict as organizational, they were then able to create opportunities for staff to understand their context and participate in negotiating principles for communication and collaborative work. The result reduced conflict between staff in the two organizations, leading to improved implementation of programme support. Strengthening relationships among those working at local level by building collaborative norms and values is an important part of local health system governance for improved service delivery by multiple actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A trend was noted over the past 15 years in the South African courts. This trend has a multi-factorial origin and highlights the problems faced in the use of forensic science evidence in court. Although there have been improvements on how DNA evidence is gathered and presented in court, due to the fact that certain cases have been contested at the DNA evidence level, multiple issues remain that have not yet been addressed when DNA evidence is submitted to court. These issues include: accreditation, regulation of the forensic science profession, continued education, training of court officials, quality assurance, biased testimony, lack of transparency with regard to processes and procedures followed in the forensic community, incorrect interpretation of DNA evidence, lack of scientific knowledge (including the scientific method) by DNA experts, awareness by the legal profession and an over emphasis on the prosecuting perspective. These same aspects continue to plague current cases. Despite the above, the window of opportunity to address the above has not yet passed. However, it will take continuous and concerted efforts from the scientific and legal professions to bring about the appropriate change to facilitate justice for all in South Africa. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The forensic science profession in South Africa is currently unregulated. There is also no national body that allows for the continued development or professional interaction of forensic scientists. The above has brought about a dire need to regulate the profession, in order to achieve the specific goals listed. To attain these objectives it is envisaged that the founding of a Forensic Science Academy in South Africa is of critical importance. The creation of a Forensic Science Academy was explored as the authors believe that such an Academy will provide structure to the profession of forensic science in South Africa – as well as paving the way towards regulation of the profession. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The South African Criminal Legal System is based on Roman Dutch law. Court proceedings are led by a single presiding officer of the court. Prosecutors and defence advocates present the court with evidence in an adversarial manner. This system has inherent advantages and disadvantages and therefore the training of legal professionals in handling DNA evidence in court is important. The prosecutors resort under the National Prosecuting Authority and the defence advocates act independently or e.g. under the auspices of Legal Aid South Africa. Education curricula of legal professional do not include forensic science evidence. Principles such as evidential value in the forensic context are not addressed. Training of legal professionals with our Essential DNA Evidence™ Course has been a multiplier of forensic science knowledge in the legal profession in South Africa. We present prosecution and defence perspectives in an unbiased manner, compensating for the possible subjective interpretations of evidence that may be presented in court. Forensic evidence is subsequently carefully evaluated prior to being court presentation thus improving court efficiency, and allowing for a more focussed approach to the presentation of evidence. Approaches to the customisation of course content that adds value has been identified via evaluation of training programmes. Experience has shown that legal professionals have the ability to incorporate relatively complex scientific concepts into their legal arguments if provided with the appropriate training opportunity. Appropriate training in DNA evidence has made the court process more effective, both in terms of time and costs, and ultimately serves justice. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Examines the mtDNA variations of Kung and Khwe individuals using high-resolution RFLP analysis and control region sequencing in South Africa. Combination of the resulting data with RFLP haplotype and CR data from sub-Saharan Africa; Inclusion of Kung and Khwe mtDNA to the major mt DNA lineage; Comparison between the Kung and Khwe CR sequence with other African population.

Letter by Thaldar and Townsend, following an article by the same authors (Thaldar D, Townsend B. Genomic research and privacy: A response to Staunton et al. S Afr Med J 2020;110(3):172-174. https://doi.org/10.7196/SAMJ.2020.v110i3.14431) and both commenting on an article by Staunton et al. (Staunton C, Adams R, Botes M, et al. Safeguarding the future of genomic research in South Africa: Broad consent and the Protection of Personal Information Act No. 4 of 2013. S Afr Med J 2019;109(7):468-470. https://doi.org/10.7196/SAMJ.2019.v109i7.14148); and response to article and letter by Staunton et al.

Genomic research has been identified in South Africa (SA) as important in developing a strong bio-economy that has the potential to improve human health, drive job creation and offer potential solutions to the disease burden harboured by low- and middle-income countries. Central to the success of genomic research is the wide sharing of biological samples and data, but the true value of data can only be unlocked if there are laws and policies in place that foster the legal and ethical sharing of genomic data. The introduction and entry into force of SA's Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) No. 4 of 2013 is to be welcomed, but the wording of POPIA as it pertains to consent for the processing of personal information for research purposes has sparked a debate about the legal status of broad consent. We argue that a purposive interpretation of the legislation would permit broad consent for the processing of personal information for research. Although there are ongoing debates surrounding the ethical use of broad consent in Africa, the objective of this article is not to engage with the ethics of broad consent itself, but rather to focus on the legal status of broad consent for genomic data sharing under POPIA.

The need to transfer human biological materials (HBMs) across national boundaries has become increasingly important in view of increased biobank and commercial activities globally. In light of South Africa (SA)'s history of colonisation and racial discrimination, coupled with well-known instances of exploitation of research participants in the developing world, it is critical that the management of HBMs from and to other jurisdictions is explored and regulated. Material transfer agreements (MTAs) represent an important point of departure in such a process. This article explores the need for a uniform MTA in SA and discusses some aspects of the recently gazetted national MTA, which provides a framework that can serve as a safeguard for cross-border transfer of HBMs in the absence of the National Health Act's chapter 8 regulations in this regard.

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is characterised by weakness and atrophy of the facial and shoulder girdle muscles. The FSHD phenotype segregates as an autosomal dominant trait and is caused by a deletion of an integral number of 3.3 kilobase pair (kb) repeat units on chromosome 4q35. Haplotype and Southern blot analyses of chromosome 4 resulted in the detection of two BlnI resistant deletion fragments, of 24 kb and 34 kb respectively, in a single individual from a South African FSHD family. The patient had moderate facial weakness and marked winging and high-riding of the scapulae with prominent pectoral and proximal arm muscle atrophy and weakness. Quadriceps and anterior tibial muscles were weak and the patient had bilateral foot drop. Although none of his children were symptomatic yet and only two showed very mild clinical signs, one had inherited the 24 kb deletion fragment, while the other two had the 34 kb deletion fragment. Molecular analysis conclusively identified the first compound heterozygous case in the South African FSHD population. However, in accordance with other studies of compound heterozygotes and clinical findings, no direct correlation between the clinical severity of this patient and the number of deletion fragments was observed., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)