ICT-driven interactions: on the dynamics of mediated control

Interactions driven by Information Communications Technologies (ICT) have gained significant acceptance and momentum in contemporary organisational settings, this is illustrated by their massive adoption and varied deployment across the various levels of an organisation’s hierarchy. ICTs such as mobile telephones, Personal Digital Assistants (PDA), videoconferencing, BlackBerries and other forms of portable and immovable computing technologies provide enduring bases for mediated interactions in human activities. This thesis looks into the dynamics of ICT-driven interactions and, distinctively, focuses on the manifestations and implications of mediated control in a collaborative environment. The study draws on the concept of administrative behaviour which leads to the observation that the nature of mediated control is not static, but evolutionarily dynamic that springs from highly unpredictable contexts of work. Thus, interactions driven by ICTs influence and change the dynamics of mediated control against the background of the rhythm, structure and direction of an organisation’s purposeful undertakings. Findings indicate, quite paradoxically, that networks set up through the instrumentality of technology mediated interaction discourage domination and inspire individual discretion in spite of their promise of electronic chains. The analysis reflects the notion that mediated control is not only about the predetermination of targets that are attained at the subordinate level. Indeed, the study advocates a fundamental conceptualisation of mediated control as double-sided concept, integrating the use of discretion that, occasionally, makes subordinates drive and initiate key control techniques that steer organisational life. Therefore, through the application of philosophical hermeneutics for a rigorous data interpretation, this study develops an innovative and holistic understanding of mediated control which not only adds to, but also extends, the current organisational perception of control by the incorporation of discretion and, in the process, makes a distinctive contribution to scholarship

Examining the Relationship Between Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Implementation: The Role ofBig Data Analytics Capabilities and Firm Performance

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) implementation continues to hold attraction from information systems enthusiasts. Perhaps due to the rising budget dedicated to the implementation in many an organization in recent times. However, understanding the critical role that ERP implementation plays in Big Data Analytics Capabilities and firm performance is lacking sufficient treatment in the literature. By applying quantitative research techniques in a case study research orientation through the use of resource-based view theoretical insights, the study takes on three key hypotheses: That ERP implementation has a positive relationship with organizational big data analytics capabilities; Big data analytics capability has a positive effect on firm performance and ERP implementation is positively related to organizational performance. Using Partial Least Squared Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM)data analysis techniques the study established a direct link between big data analytics capabilities and firm performance, and that ERP has a direct positive and significant effect on big data analytics capabilities. Lastly, it is the claim of this study that big data analytics capabilities have a direct positive and significant effect on firm performance. Part of the implications of the study highlights the need for a qualitative or even mixed method research undertakings to broaden the frontiers of our understanding in terms of ERP implementation and big data analytics capabilities in similar organizational contexts

ZRANB3 is an African-specific type 2 diabetes locus associated with beta-cell mass and insulin response.

Genome analysis of diverse human populations has contributed to the identification of novel genomic loci for diseases of major clinical and public health impact. Here, we report a genome-wide analysis of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in sub-Saharan Africans, an understudied ancestral group. We analyze ~18 million autosomal SNPs in 5,231 individuals from Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya. We identify a previously-unreported genome-wide significant locus: ZRANB3 (Zinc Finger RANBP2-Type Containing 3, lead SNP p = 2.831 × 10-9). Knockdown or genomic knockout of the zebrafish ortholog results in reduction in pancreatic β-cell number which we demonstrate to be due to increased apoptosis in islets. siRNA transfection of murine Zranb3 in MIN6 β-cells results in impaired insulin secretion in response to high glucose, implicating Zranb3 in β-cell functional response to high glucose conditions. We also show transferability in our study of 32 established T2D loci. Our findings advance understanding of the genetics of T2D in non-European ancestry populations

ZRANB3 is an African-specific type 2 diabetes locus associated with beta-cell mass and insulin response

Abstract: Genome analysis of diverse human populations has contributed to the identification of novel genomic loci for diseases of major clinical and public health impact. Here, we report a genome-wide analysis of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in sub-Saharan Africans, an understudied ancestral group. We analyze ~18 million autosomal SNPs in 5,231 individuals from Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya. We identify a previously-unreported genome-wide significant locus: ZRANB3 (Zinc Finger RANBP2-Type Containing 3, lead SNP p = 2.831 × 10−9). Knockdown or genomic knockout of the zebrafish ortholog results in reduction in pancreatic β-cell number which we demonstrate to be due to increased apoptosis in islets. siRNA transfection of murine Zranb3 in MIN6 β-cells results in impaired insulin secretion in response to high glucose, implicating Zranb3 in β-cell functional response to high glucose conditions. We also show transferability in our study of 32 established T2D loci. Our findings advance understanding of the genetics of T2D in non-European ancestry populations

Non-farm livelihood diversification: strategies and constraints in selected rural and peri-urban communities, Ghana

Non-farm livelihood diversification is an important livelihood strategy for rural households in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, the available evidence suggests that these strategies have received less attention; therefore, the constraints rural people face in venturing into the non-farm sector also remain unaddressed. In order to understand the livelihood strategies and constraints in the sector, this paper used crosssectional survey data from 251 randomly sampled farmers from the Sunyani West District, Ghana. Focus Group Discussions were also conducted in order to collect qualitative data to support quantitative analysis. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics: frequencies, percentages and cross tabulation. The study found that the non-farm sector was heterogeneous and highly gendered and involved several activities, with trading being the most prominent one. Gender disaggregation of non-farm activities has underlying cultural and social bases resulting in different production roles for males and females. Although farmers are predominantly engaged in farming as their major livelihood strategy, they also pursue non-farm livelihood activities due to push, rather than pull, factors. Inadequate access to credit and limited business opportunities were the major constraints impeding the development of the non-farm sector in the district. In order to propel rural development, policy makers and researchers should give attention to the development of the non-farm sector since it is an important source of income for many people. Apart from that, the study recommends that banking and micro-finance institutions design special credit programmes for rural people

Having a child with orofacial cleft: Initial reaction and psychosocial experiences of Ghanaian mothers

Background: Orofacial cleft are the most prevalent congenital deformity of the orofacial region. The birth of a child with orofacial cleft elicit emotional trauma in mothers. Objectives: The study explored the reactions and psychosocial experiences of Ghanaian mothers’ having children with cleft lip or/and palate in the Kumasi metropolis. Methods: The study employed a qualitative exploratory descriptive design to realize its objectives. Purposive sampling method was used and data saturation was achieved with 12 informants aged 18 years to above 40 years. All interviews were audio-taped and transcribed. Data analysis was done concurrently applying the techniques of thematic analysis. Results: Mothers’ described their initial reaction to the birth of the child as unexpected event with culminated experiences such as shock and disappointment, leading to rejection of the child. Mothers’ experienced emotional reactions such as sadness, anxiety and worry. Also, feeding challenges were experienced. Perceived and actual stigma were expressed which led to social isolation. They received support from their spouses and health professionals. Six main themes emerged were unexpected event, nutritional challenges, emotional reactions, participation restriction, losses and support. Conclusion: Mothers need supportive care from husbands, families and healthcare providers. There is also the need to educate the general public on orofacial cleft. Keywords: Qualitative research, Ghana, Experiences, Mother, Orofacial cleft, Chil

Type 2 diabetes complications and comorbidity in Sub-Saharan Africans

Background: Context-specific evidence of the spectrum of type 2 diabetes (T2D) burden is essential for setting priorities and designing interventions to reduce associated morbidity and mortality. However, there are currently limited data on the burden of T2D complications and comorbidity in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Methods: T2D complications and comorbidities were assessed in 2,784 participants with diabetes enrolled from tertiary health centres and contextualised in 3,209 individuals without diabetes in Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya. T2D complications and comorbidities evaluated included cardiometabolic, ocular, neurological and renal characteristics. Findings: The most common complications/comorbidities among the T2D participants were hypertension (71%; 95% CI 69–73), hyperlipidaemia (34%; 95% CI 32–36), and obesity (27%; 95% CI 25–29). Additionally, the prevalence of cataracts was 32% (95% CI 30–35), diabetic retinopathy 15% (95% CI 13–17), impaired renal function 13% (95% CI 12–15), and erectile dysfunction (in men) 35% (95% CI 32–38). T2D population-attributable fraction for these comorbidities ranged between 6 and 64%. Interpretation: The burden of diabetes complications and comorbidity is substantial in SSA highlighting the urgent need for innovative public health strategies that prioritise promotion of healthy lifestyles for prevention and early detection of T2D. Also needed are strategies to strengthen health care system capacities to provide treatment and care for diabetes complications

Variation in APOL1 Contributes to Ancestry-Level Differences in HDLc-Kidney Function Association

Low levels of high-density cholesterol (HDLc) accompany chronic kidney disease, but the association between HDLc and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in the general population is unclear. We investigated the HDLc-eGFR association in nondiabetic Han Chinese (HC, n=1100), West Africans (WA, n=1497), and African Americans (AA, n=1539). There were significant differences by ancestry: HDLc was positively associated with eGFR in HC (β=0.13, P<0.0001), but negatively associated among African ancestry populations (WA: −0.19, P<0.0001; AA: −0.09, P=0.02). These differences were also seen in nationally-representative NHANES data (among European Americans: 0.09, P=0.005; among African Americans −0.14, P=0.03). To further explore the findings in African ancestry populations, we investigated the role of an African ancestry-specific nephropathy risk variant, rs73885319, in the gene encoding HDL-associated APOL1. Among AA, an inverse HDLc-eGFR association was observed only with the risk genotype (−0.38 versus 0.001; P=0.03). This interaction was not seen in WA. In summary, counter to expectation, an inverse HDLc-eGFR association was observed among those of African ancestry. Given the APOL1 × HDLc interaction among AA, genetic factors may contribute to this paradoxical association. Notably, these findings suggest that the unexplained mechanism by which APOL1 affects kidney-disease risk may involve HDLc

ZRANB3 is an African-specific type 2 diabetes locus associated with beta-cell mass and insulin response

Genome analysis of diverse human populations has contributed to the identification of novel genomic loci for diseases of major clinical and public health impact. Here, we report a genome-wide analysis of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in sub-Saharan Africans, an understudied ancestral group. We analyze ~18 million autosomal SNPs in 5,231 individuals from Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya. We identify a previously-unreported genome-wide significant locus: ZRANB3 (Zinc Finger RANBP2-Type Containing 3, lead SNP p = 2.831 × 10−9). Knockdown or genomic knockout of the zebrafish ortholog results in reduction in pancreatic β-cell number which we demonstrate to be due to increased apoptosis in islets. siRNA transfection of murine Zranb3 in MIN6 β-cells results in impaired insulin secretion in response to high glucose, implicating Zranb3 in β-cell functional response to high glucose conditions. We also show transferability in our study of 32 established T2D loci. Our findings advance understanding of the genetics of T2D in non-European ancestry populations