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We investigated the mediating effect of vocational identity in the relationship between mindfulness and career adaptability among graduates in the early career stage. A quantitative survey research design was used to obtain data from 200 participants who were graduates from a higher education institution in South Africa. Variance-based structural equation modelling (SEM) was employed to investigate the conceptual model. Vocational identity acted as a mediator in the relationship between mindfulness and career adaptability. More specifically, a full mediation model was supported. We found that mindfulness does not have a direct relationship with career adaptability. However, being mindful predicts vocational identity, which in turn predicts career adaptability.

Background: Cervical cancer is the third most common gynaecologic malignancy worldwide and is the second most common cancer among South African women. Although entirely preventable, cervical cancer is responsible for the death of approximately 3 027, 53% of those diagnosed, South Africa women annually. A variety of factors influence women's cervical screening adherence. Methods: A focus group discussion was conducted with female residents in Khayelitsha. Data from the focus group discussion was analysed using thematic analysis whereby emergent themes and subthemes were identified and reported. Results: The study confirmed previous findings around screening barriers amongst women residing in other Cape Town peri-urban settlements. New information regarding the influence of gender inequalities and traditional healers on screening adherence also emerged. Conclusion: The incorporation of men into cervical screening intervention programmes and the integration of traditional healers meaningfully into the health care system appear to be vital in improving adherence to screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Can markets assist by providing support for ecological restoration, and if so, under what conditions? The first step in addressing this question is to develop a consistent methodology for economic evaluation of ecological restoration projects. A risk analysis process was followed in which a system dynamics model was constructed for eight diverse case study sites where ecological restoration is currently being pursued. Restoration costs vary across each of these sites, as do the benefits associated with restored ecosystem functioning. The system dynamics model simulates the ecological, hydrological and economic benefits of ecological restoration and informs a portfolio mapping exercise where payoffs are matched against the likelihood of success of a project, as well as a number of other factors (such as project costs and risk measures). This is the first known application that couples ecological restoration with system dynamics and portfolio mapping. The results suggest an approach that is able to move beyond traditional indicators of project success, since the effect of discounting is virtually eliminated. We conclude that systems dynamic modelling with portfolio mapping can guide decisions on when markets for restoration activities may be feasible. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]