High-throughput modelling and structural investigation of cysteine protease complexes with protein inhibitors
- Authors: Kroon, Matthys Christoffel
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cysteine proteinases Cysteine proteinases -- Inhibitors Papain Cystatins Malaria -- Chemotherapy Homology (Biology) Protein-protein interactions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3885 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001619
- Description: The papain-like cysteine protease family (C1 proteases) is highly important because of its involvement in research and industrial applications and its role in various human diseases. Protein inhibitors are an important aspect of C1 protease biology and are relevant to its clinical, industrial and research importance. To study the interaction between the proteases and the inhibitors it is very useful to have accurate structural models of the protease-inhibitor complexes. To this end, a high-throughput pipeline for modelling complexes of papain-like cysteine proteases and protein inhibitors was implemented and tested (Tastan Bishop & Kroon, 2011). The pipeline utilizes a novel technique for obtaining modelling templates by using superpositioning to combine coordinates from separate experimental structures. To test the pipeline, models of complexes with known structures (test set) were modelled using many different templates and the resultant models evaluated to compare the quality of the different templates. It was found that use of the new technique to obtain templates did not introduce significant errors, while allowing closer homologs to be used for modelling - leading to more accurate models. The test set models were also used to evaluate certain steps of the modelling protocol. The effect of Rosetta energy minimization on model accuracy and the use of Rosetta energy and DOPE Z-score values to identify accurate models were investigated. Several complexes were then modelled using the best available templates according to criteria informed by the previous results. A website was built that allows a user to download any of the metrics or models produced in the study. This website is accessible at http://rubi.ru.ac.za/cpmdb
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Kroon, Matthys Christoffel
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cysteine proteinases Cysteine proteinases -- Inhibitors Papain Cystatins Malaria -- Chemotherapy Homology (Biology) Protein-protein interactions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3885 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001619
- Description: The papain-like cysteine protease family (C1 proteases) is highly important because of its involvement in research and industrial applications and its role in various human diseases. Protein inhibitors are an important aspect of C1 protease biology and are relevant to its clinical, industrial and research importance. To study the interaction between the proteases and the inhibitors it is very useful to have accurate structural models of the protease-inhibitor complexes. To this end, a high-throughput pipeline for modelling complexes of papain-like cysteine proteases and protein inhibitors was implemented and tested (Tastan Bishop & Kroon, 2011). The pipeline utilizes a novel technique for obtaining modelling templates by using superpositioning to combine coordinates from separate experimental structures. To test the pipeline, models of complexes with known structures (test set) were modelled using many different templates and the resultant models evaluated to compare the quality of the different templates. It was found that use of the new technique to obtain templates did not introduce significant errors, while allowing closer homologs to be used for modelling - leading to more accurate models. The test set models were also used to evaluate certain steps of the modelling protocol. The effect of Rosetta energy minimization on model accuracy and the use of Rosetta energy and DOPE Z-score values to identify accurate models were investigated. Several complexes were then modelled using the best available templates according to criteria informed by the previous results. A website was built that allows a user to download any of the metrics or models produced in the study. This website is accessible at http://rubi.ru.ac.za/cpmdb
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
How community participation and stakeholder involvement can improve recycling : an investigation of initiatives and opportunities in Simunye
- Authors: Myeni, Jabu R
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Swaziland Refuse and refuse disposal -- Swaziland -- Citizen participation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:803 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006457
- Description: This report presents the findings of a research project whereby the initiatives and opportunities for municipal solid waste (MSW) recycling were investigated in the town of Simunye, in Swaziland with a view to establish how recycling, in particular household waste recycling, can be improved through stakeholder involvement and community participation during the planning and implementation of a sustainable system for household waste recycling in Simunye. The reason for focusing on household waste was because source separation of household waste was identified as a potential area for improving efficiencies and cutting costs by the local authority. It was deemed necessary to conduct research because there was a history of failure in respect of household recycling. In 2006 an initiative, by the local authority, for separating household waste at source had ended up in failure. The participation rates of the households turned out to be very low even though they had been issued, free of charge, some plastic bags for sorting the waste. Some of the households were found using the bags for other purposes rather than recycling. As a result, the initiative had to be suspended (White, 2010). There is a new move to revive the project in order to cut costs and minimize wastages. This time around the local authority is determined for the new project to be a success story. Since the underlying causes for the failure of the previous initiative were never investigated formally (Khumalo, 2010), the starting point would be to identify and try to eliminate all the potential barriers to recycling through a consultative process to start with.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Myeni, Jabu R
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Swaziland Refuse and refuse disposal -- Swaziland -- Citizen participation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:803 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006457
- Description: This report presents the findings of a research project whereby the initiatives and opportunities for municipal solid waste (MSW) recycling were investigated in the town of Simunye, in Swaziland with a view to establish how recycling, in particular household waste recycling, can be improved through stakeholder involvement and community participation during the planning and implementation of a sustainable system for household waste recycling in Simunye. The reason for focusing on household waste was because source separation of household waste was identified as a potential area for improving efficiencies and cutting costs by the local authority. It was deemed necessary to conduct research because there was a history of failure in respect of household recycling. In 2006 an initiative, by the local authority, for separating household waste at source had ended up in failure. The participation rates of the households turned out to be very low even though they had been issued, free of charge, some plastic bags for sorting the waste. Some of the households were found using the bags for other purposes rather than recycling. As a result, the initiative had to be suspended (White, 2010). There is a new move to revive the project in order to cut costs and minimize wastages. This time around the local authority is determined for the new project to be a success story. Since the underlying causes for the failure of the previous initiative were never investigated formally (Khumalo, 2010), the starting point would be to identify and try to eliminate all the potential barriers to recycling through a consultative process to start with.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
How community participation influences the success and sustainability of the Ilitha farming project
- Nsanzya, Brenda Monde Kabika
- Authors: Nsanzya, Brenda Monde Kabika
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- Citizen participation , Economic development projects , Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9208 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020622
- Description: In recent decades, development thinking has shifted from mainstream development strategies to more alternative development approaches incorporating various aspects of development such as equity, gender, sustainability, and participation. In South Africa, a country emerging from a past of injustice, community participation has become a central theme in social development as a way of addressing past inequalities. However, despite its popularity, there are concerns that its benefits are less visible. The literature on community participation shows that there are a number of factors why community participation in development projects has not been successful in many communities. On the other hand, literature on participatory development also shows that there are benefits of participation in development projects; community participation can be successful when the community has genuine participation in the process. However, there is evidence that even where participatory development has been successful, is not necessarily easy to replicate in other areas. This study sought to evaluate participation and how this affects the sustainability and success of the Ilitha farming project. Using the qualitative and quantitative indicators of participation by Oakley et al. (1991), which were adapted from various sources, I have shown that there was a high level of participation by members of this project who started on a small-scale basis, with minimal contributions in order to address the problem of unemployment, lack of skills and income opportunities, and growing poverty in the Ilitha community. The study has shown that success in participation is linked to the success and sustainability of the Ilitha farming project. This project is a success because it has achieved its initial objectives and has potential for expansion. In addition, the expansion of project activities has increased and sustains the project income throughout the year, benefiting not only project members but other members of the Ilitha community including the old age home, the HIV Aids awareness centre and households with patients needing assistance. Project success can be sustained on a long-term basis with a high level of participation through commitment, hard work, quality leadership, consultation, team work and respect for each project member as an equal partner irrespective of differences in age, gender and length of membership in the project. The level of internal sustainability i.e. the ability for the project to maintain its own developmental momentum is evidently high. The executive has led the project from its inception in 2003 to date with a clear vision and long-term commitment. However, there is a need for a succession plan in order to ensure continuity of the project as the current executive may not be able to continue due to old age. Secondary partnerships in the Ilitha farming project have had a significant impact on the level of success and sustainability of the project through the provision of funds, training and technical assistance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Nsanzya, Brenda Monde Kabika
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- Citizen participation , Economic development projects , Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9208 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020622
- Description: In recent decades, development thinking has shifted from mainstream development strategies to more alternative development approaches incorporating various aspects of development such as equity, gender, sustainability, and participation. In South Africa, a country emerging from a past of injustice, community participation has become a central theme in social development as a way of addressing past inequalities. However, despite its popularity, there are concerns that its benefits are less visible. The literature on community participation shows that there are a number of factors why community participation in development projects has not been successful in many communities. On the other hand, literature on participatory development also shows that there are benefits of participation in development projects; community participation can be successful when the community has genuine participation in the process. However, there is evidence that even where participatory development has been successful, is not necessarily easy to replicate in other areas. This study sought to evaluate participation and how this affects the sustainability and success of the Ilitha farming project. Using the qualitative and quantitative indicators of participation by Oakley et al. (1991), which were adapted from various sources, I have shown that there was a high level of participation by members of this project who started on a small-scale basis, with minimal contributions in order to address the problem of unemployment, lack of skills and income opportunities, and growing poverty in the Ilitha community. The study has shown that success in participation is linked to the success and sustainability of the Ilitha farming project. This project is a success because it has achieved its initial objectives and has potential for expansion. In addition, the expansion of project activities has increased and sustains the project income throughout the year, benefiting not only project members but other members of the Ilitha community including the old age home, the HIV Aids awareness centre and households with patients needing assistance. Project success can be sustained on a long-term basis with a high level of participation through commitment, hard work, quality leadership, consultation, team work and respect for each project member as an equal partner irrespective of differences in age, gender and length of membership in the project. The level of internal sustainability i.e. the ability for the project to maintain its own developmental momentum is evidently high. The executive has led the project from its inception in 2003 to date with a clear vision and long-term commitment. However, there is a need for a succession plan in order to ensure continuity of the project as the current executive may not be able to continue due to old age. Secondary partnerships in the Ilitha farming project have had a significant impact on the level of success and sustainability of the project through the provision of funds, training and technical assistance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
How do teachers characterise their teaching for conceptual understanding and procedural fluency?: a case study of two teachers
- Junius, Daniel Franscius, Danie Junius
- Authors: Junius, Daniel Franscius , Danie Junius
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1360 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001426
- Description: Over many years the practice or art of teaching Mathematics posed itself as, not only being different from the practice of teaching any other subject, but to have many challenges and opportunities that ask for exploration and understanding. Just after independence in 1990, Namibia has embarked upon a reform process for the entire education system. Many changes were brought about to create a uniform, equal system for all. However, many challenges still remain to be addressed. Mathematics education remains one of the key areas where Namibian teachers can contribute towards the improvement of the subject. Unsatisfactory results, under-qualified teachers, and a negative disposition towards Mathematics are some of the challenges. These challenges are not unique to Namibia. Across the globe psychologists, philosophers and educators continue to engage in debates and research projects in search of answers and solutions for the improvement of Mathematics education. Despite encountering numerous obstacles, many teachers are dedicated and achieve outstanding results with their learners. This thesis reports on a research project that focused on the Mathematics teaching practice of two teachers whose experiences can make a positive contribution to the improvement of Mathematics teaching in Namibia. Furthermore, this case study investigated and attempted to understand the Mathematics teaching practices of two proficient teachers who each claimed to have a specific and unique approach to teaching Mathematics. The one claimed to be mainly procedural in her Mathematics teaching, while the other one claimed to teach mainly in a conceptual manner. Both achieve very good results with their classes and attribute their own teaching orientations to a process of several experiences they went through as students and in their careers. The study revealed that both claims are substantiated and that each teacher was consistent in her claimed approach. Many challenges and constraints were encountered by both teachers, but in their unique and specific ways each teacher’s chosen teaching approach supported them to overcome these. It was evident from the findings that each teacher’s practice came about as an evolutionary process over an extended period of time. As many challenges and limitations are universal, it is believed that in sharing experiences, teachers can benefit from each other by improving their practice. It was clearly stated by both participants that the re-thinking of and reflecting on their own practices provided them with new insights and motivation. Peer support and sharing of practices contribute positively towards the improvement of the teachers’ classroom practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Junius, Daniel Franscius , Danie Junius
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1360 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001426
- Description: Over many years the practice or art of teaching Mathematics posed itself as, not only being different from the practice of teaching any other subject, but to have many challenges and opportunities that ask for exploration and understanding. Just after independence in 1990, Namibia has embarked upon a reform process for the entire education system. Many changes were brought about to create a uniform, equal system for all. However, many challenges still remain to be addressed. Mathematics education remains one of the key areas where Namibian teachers can contribute towards the improvement of the subject. Unsatisfactory results, under-qualified teachers, and a negative disposition towards Mathematics are some of the challenges. These challenges are not unique to Namibia. Across the globe psychologists, philosophers and educators continue to engage in debates and research projects in search of answers and solutions for the improvement of Mathematics education. Despite encountering numerous obstacles, many teachers are dedicated and achieve outstanding results with their learners. This thesis reports on a research project that focused on the Mathematics teaching practice of two teachers whose experiences can make a positive contribution to the improvement of Mathematics teaching in Namibia. Furthermore, this case study investigated and attempted to understand the Mathematics teaching practices of two proficient teachers who each claimed to have a specific and unique approach to teaching Mathematics. The one claimed to be mainly procedural in her Mathematics teaching, while the other one claimed to teach mainly in a conceptual manner. Both achieve very good results with their classes and attribute their own teaching orientations to a process of several experiences they went through as students and in their careers. The study revealed that both claims are substantiated and that each teacher was consistent in her claimed approach. Many challenges and constraints were encountered by both teachers, but in their unique and specific ways each teacher’s chosen teaching approach supported them to overcome these. It was evident from the findings that each teacher’s practice came about as an evolutionary process over an extended period of time. As many challenges and limitations are universal, it is believed that in sharing experiences, teachers can benefit from each other by improving their practice. It was clearly stated by both participants that the re-thinking of and reflecting on their own practices provided them with new insights and motivation. Peer support and sharing of practices contribute positively towards the improvement of the teachers’ classroom practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
How does subjective well-being evolve with age? A literature review
- López Ulloa, Beatriz Fabiola, Moller, Valerie, Sousa-Poza, Alfonso
- Authors: López Ulloa, Beatriz Fabiola , Moller, Valerie , Sousa-Poza, Alfonso
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/67185 , vital:29056 , https://doi.org/10.1007/s12062-013-9085-0
- Description: publisher version , This literature review provides an overview of the theoretical and empirical research in several disciplines on the relation between ageing and subjective well-being, i.e., how subjective well-being evolves across the lifespan. Because of the different methodologies, data sets and samples used, comparison among disciplines and studies is difficult. However, extant studies do show either a U-shaped, inverted U-shaped or linear relation between ageing and subjective well-being.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: López Ulloa, Beatriz Fabiola , Moller, Valerie , Sousa-Poza, Alfonso
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/67185 , vital:29056 , https://doi.org/10.1007/s12062-013-9085-0
- Description: publisher version , This literature review provides an overview of the theoretical and empirical research in several disciplines on the relation between ageing and subjective well-being, i.e., how subjective well-being evolves across the lifespan. Because of the different methodologies, data sets and samples used, comparison among disciplines and studies is difficult. However, extant studies do show either a U-shaped, inverted U-shaped or linear relation between ageing and subjective well-being.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2013
How much its own and to what end?: SADC and the culture of security and regional organisation in Southern Africa
- Authors: Bischoff, Paul, 1954-
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/161650 , vital:40650 , ISBN 9781134118656
- Description: This book aims to examine the conceptions and practices of security adopted by Regional Organisations (ROs) across the globe. Since the end of the Cold War, there has been an increased focus on regions as a relevant realm for security, with actors within regional contexts identifying a significant degree of interdependency between one another. As a consequence, international security has taken on a distinct regionally institutionalised character, as seen by the increase in calls for greater utilisation of ‘Chapter VIII: Regional Arrangements’ of the UN, in order to create a devolved UN-led system of global security management. However, the idea of a system of global security management is a remote prospect, because divergence seems to be as important as commonality in terms of regional security.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Bischoff, Paul, 1954-
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/161650 , vital:40650 , ISBN 9781134118656
- Description: This book aims to examine the conceptions and practices of security adopted by Regional Organisations (ROs) across the globe. Since the end of the Cold War, there has been an increased focus on regions as a relevant realm for security, with actors within regional contexts identifying a significant degree of interdependency between one another. As a consequence, international security has taken on a distinct regionally institutionalised character, as seen by the increase in calls for greater utilisation of ‘Chapter VIII: Regional Arrangements’ of the UN, in order to create a devolved UN-led system of global security management. However, the idea of a system of global security management is a remote prospect, because divergence seems to be as important as commonality in terms of regional security.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Human capital: workforce level of education in non-profit organisations operating in South Africa; a comparative study of civil societies in Cape Town
- Dominic, Mario-Princewill Patrick
- Authors: Dominic, Mario-Princewill Patrick
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Nonprofit organizations -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Human capital -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9230 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021000
- Description: A descriptive research with quantitative approach examined human capital in Non-profit organisations with three objectives: to ascertain the qualifications and skills essential in the non-profit sector; to determine if Non-profit organisations provide training and education support for its workforce and to describe formal education level of NPO workforce in South Africa. The study population were employees of Non-Profit organisation (NPO’s) operating in Cape Town. In order to evaluate human capital, workforce level of education of the non-profit organisations in South Africa, significant to addressing most Non-profit organisations challenges in recent time, a survey has been conducted among the South Africa non-profits, identified on the basis of the simple random sampling. 300 questionnaires were sent out, and 147 valid responses received. Empirical results from the selected civil society organisation seem to suggest and concluded that Non-profit organisations workforce are educated up to Honours degree level on average. However, that education may not be priority for the workforce, rather passion for the job and that satisfactory human capital management reduces turnover, in order word attract and enable retention of productive workforce for non-profit organisation effectiveness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Dominic, Mario-Princewill Patrick
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Nonprofit organizations -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Human capital -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9230 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021000
- Description: A descriptive research with quantitative approach examined human capital in Non-profit organisations with three objectives: to ascertain the qualifications and skills essential in the non-profit sector; to determine if Non-profit organisations provide training and education support for its workforce and to describe formal education level of NPO workforce in South Africa. The study population were employees of Non-Profit organisation (NPO’s) operating in Cape Town. In order to evaluate human capital, workforce level of education of the non-profit organisations in South Africa, significant to addressing most Non-profit organisations challenges in recent time, a survey has been conducted among the South Africa non-profits, identified on the basis of the simple random sampling. 300 questionnaires were sent out, and 147 valid responses received. Empirical results from the selected civil society organisation seem to suggest and concluded that Non-profit organisations workforce are educated up to Honours degree level on average. However, that education may not be priority for the workforce, rather passion for the job and that satisfactory human capital management reduces turnover, in order word attract and enable retention of productive workforce for non-profit organisation effectiveness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Human Rights and Conflict Transformation in Africa
- Authors: Juma, Laurence
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/127449 , vital:36012 , ISBN 9789956790418 , http://www.africanbookscollective.com/books/human-rights-and-conflict-transformation-in-africa
- Description: This study maps the interactions between human rights norms and values, on the one hand, and conflict resolution, post–conflict peace-building and reconstruction, on the other. It advances the view both from a theoretical and practical standpoint, that human rights have a role to play throughout the life of any conflict: from the pre-conflict to the post-conflict and reconstruction stages. Identifying entry points for human rights in the pre-conflict stage leading up to the establishment of the rule of law and societal reconstruction after the conflict, this book uses Sierra Leone and Democratic Republic of Congo experiences to illustrate the obstacles, the successes, and the significance of human rights norms to the overall peace agenda in societies afflicted by conflict.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Juma, Laurence
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/127449 , vital:36012 , ISBN 9789956790418 , http://www.africanbookscollective.com/books/human-rights-and-conflict-transformation-in-africa
- Description: This study maps the interactions between human rights norms and values, on the one hand, and conflict resolution, post–conflict peace-building and reconstruction, on the other. It advances the view both from a theoretical and practical standpoint, that human rights have a role to play throughout the life of any conflict: from the pre-conflict to the post-conflict and reconstruction stages. Identifying entry points for human rights in the pre-conflict stage leading up to the establishment of the rule of law and societal reconstruction after the conflict, this book uses Sierra Leone and Democratic Republic of Congo experiences to illustrate the obstacles, the successes, and the significance of human rights norms to the overall peace agenda in societies afflicted by conflict.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2013
Human rights implications of the compulsory HIV/AIDS testing policy: a critical appraisal of the law and practice in South Africa, Uganda and Canada
- Authors: Chiringa, Kudakwashe E M
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: HIV infections -- Prevention , HIV-positive persons -- Civil rights , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Legal status, laws, etc. , AIDS (Disease) -- Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11106 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1017298 , HIV infections -- Prevention , HIV-positive persons -- Civil rights , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Legal status, laws, etc. , AIDS (Disease) -- Law and legislation
- Description: HIV/AIDS has been an obstacle to socio-economic development and a major cause of loss of human life. It has also caused vast inequities and frustration to the public health sector. One of the significant efforts made by the public health sector to combat the epidemic is the implementation of a mandatory HIV/AIDS testing policy to scale-up HIV treatment. This dissertation examines the impact of this policy on the human rights of people infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Coercive government policies aimed at controlling the AIDS pandemic often infringe on the rights of individuals known to be or suspected of living with HIV/AIDS and this decreases the effectiveness of public health measures. The research methodology involved the study of written literature and a comparative literature study of the law and practice obtaining in South Africa, Uganda and Canada. It revealed that voluntary testing is effective and suitable in South Africa. This dissertation aimed to show that any public health approach that aims to achieve a comprehensive prevention strategy must be consistent with respect for human rights as enshrined in regional and international human rights law. Public health and human rights should, therefore, not be regarded as opposing forces; rather they should be seen as a unified system of protection of human welfare under the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. The solution to the crisis lies not only in testing every single person but also requires a shift of focus to more pressing issues that include gender equality, stigma and discrimination; prioritizing human rights, institutional capacity and resources; and an end to extreme poverty. A human rights-based approach to HIV/AIDS testing, such as the Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) is recommended. Therefore, failure to adhere to the core principles of testing - which are informed consent, counselling and confidentiality of the test result - will only hinder the global fight against HIV/AIDS. The rights of those affected by HIV/AIDS need to be protected in order to address public health imperatives. This can be done through the use of the law as an instrument of social change as well as education and awareness. Key words, HIV/AIDS, mandatory testing, Voluntary Counselling and Testing, public health, human rights-based approach.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Chiringa, Kudakwashe E M
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: HIV infections -- Prevention , HIV-positive persons -- Civil rights , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Legal status, laws, etc. , AIDS (Disease) -- Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11106 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1017298 , HIV infections -- Prevention , HIV-positive persons -- Civil rights , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Legal status, laws, etc. , AIDS (Disease) -- Law and legislation
- Description: HIV/AIDS has been an obstacle to socio-economic development and a major cause of loss of human life. It has also caused vast inequities and frustration to the public health sector. One of the significant efforts made by the public health sector to combat the epidemic is the implementation of a mandatory HIV/AIDS testing policy to scale-up HIV treatment. This dissertation examines the impact of this policy on the human rights of people infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Coercive government policies aimed at controlling the AIDS pandemic often infringe on the rights of individuals known to be or suspected of living with HIV/AIDS and this decreases the effectiveness of public health measures. The research methodology involved the study of written literature and a comparative literature study of the law and practice obtaining in South Africa, Uganda and Canada. It revealed that voluntary testing is effective and suitable in South Africa. This dissertation aimed to show that any public health approach that aims to achieve a comprehensive prevention strategy must be consistent with respect for human rights as enshrined in regional and international human rights law. Public health and human rights should, therefore, not be regarded as opposing forces; rather they should be seen as a unified system of protection of human welfare under the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. The solution to the crisis lies not only in testing every single person but also requires a shift of focus to more pressing issues that include gender equality, stigma and discrimination; prioritizing human rights, institutional capacity and resources; and an end to extreme poverty. A human rights-based approach to HIV/AIDS testing, such as the Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) is recommended. Therefore, failure to adhere to the core principles of testing - which are informed consent, counselling and confidentiality of the test result - will only hinder the global fight against HIV/AIDS. The rights of those affected by HIV/AIDS need to be protected in order to address public health imperatives. This can be done through the use of the law as an instrument of social change as well as education and awareness. Key words, HIV/AIDS, mandatory testing, Voluntary Counselling and Testing, public health, human rights-based approach.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Human Trafficking: narratives of non-governmental organisation caregivers in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Nabo, Sandisiwe Sifanelwe
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Human trafficking , Caregivers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human trafficking -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human trafficking -- Prevention , Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Psych)
- Identifier: vital:11613 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005987 , Human trafficking , Caregivers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human trafficking -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human trafficking -- Prevention , Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economy
- Description: Human trafficking is a social problem that has left no state or country immune to its effects. Literature indicates that human trafficking causes economic social and physical disruptions. Families are left broken and communities divided and children left homeless. Its victims are mostly women and children who come from low socio-economic status. Studies have been conducted on the roles of Non-Governmental Organisation`s across the globe but reports on the roles of NGOs in the Eastern Cape are unknown. This study reports on the roles of Non-Governmental Organisation`s (caregivers) in the Eastern Cape. This investigation is an exploratory qualitative study. A purposeful sampling strategy was used to recruit the Non-governmental organization (caregivers). In depth open ended interviews were conducted. The theories of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and socio-ecological theory were used to discuss the findings of the study. The findings of the study were categorized into four main themes including; knowledge of human trafficking, causes of human trafficking, roles of non-governmental organization (caregivers) in the Eastern Cape and strategies available in the Eastern Cape Province. The findings showed that human trafficking is present in the Eastern Cape. Abused and neglected children are more likely to become potential victims of human trafficking. The caregivers play a huge vital role in the fight against human trafficking. Lastly, the strategies implemented are not as effective as they would have been if adequate legislation was passed against human trafficking.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Nabo, Sandisiwe Sifanelwe
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Human trafficking , Caregivers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human trafficking -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human trafficking -- Prevention , Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Psych)
- Identifier: vital:11613 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005987 , Human trafficking , Caregivers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human trafficking -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Human trafficking -- Prevention , Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economy
- Description: Human trafficking is a social problem that has left no state or country immune to its effects. Literature indicates that human trafficking causes economic social and physical disruptions. Families are left broken and communities divided and children left homeless. Its victims are mostly women and children who come from low socio-economic status. Studies have been conducted on the roles of Non-Governmental Organisation`s across the globe but reports on the roles of NGOs in the Eastern Cape are unknown. This study reports on the roles of Non-Governmental Organisation`s (caregivers) in the Eastern Cape. This investigation is an exploratory qualitative study. A purposeful sampling strategy was used to recruit the Non-governmental organization (caregivers). In depth open ended interviews were conducted. The theories of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and socio-ecological theory were used to discuss the findings of the study. The findings of the study were categorized into four main themes including; knowledge of human trafficking, causes of human trafficking, roles of non-governmental organization (caregivers) in the Eastern Cape and strategies available in the Eastern Cape Province. The findings showed that human trafficking is present in the Eastern Cape. Abused and neglected children are more likely to become potential victims of human trafficking. The caregivers play a huge vital role in the fight against human trafficking. Lastly, the strategies implemented are not as effective as they would have been if adequate legislation was passed against human trafficking.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Hungry but silent: a content analysis of media reporting on the 2011-2012 famine in Somalia
- Authors: Stupart, Richard
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Famines -- Political aspects -- Somalia Somalia -- In mass media Famines in mass media
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3500 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006054
- Description: This dissertation examines media coverage of the 2011- 2012 famine in Somalia by the websites of BBC News, CNN and Al Jazeera. Using both quantitative and qualitative content analyses, it asks why coverage of the famine began as late as it did, despite ample evidence of the coming famine. It further surveys the famine-related news reports for evidence of four paradigms through which the causes of famine can be understood; as a Malthusian competition between population and land, as a failure of food entitlements as conceived of by Sen (1981), as critical political event (Edkins, 2004), or as an issue of criminality (Alex de Waal, 2008). Findings include a dramatic silencing of victim’s accounts of famine, despite a reliance on their photographic images, as well as an overwhelming preference for Malthusian accounts of the famine. Late media coverage is explored via a new-values paradigm which links the sudden outburst of media coverage for the famine to a formal UN declaration, and suggests that this may have created a new elite-relevance to the event which did not exist before, and therefore making it of relevance to domestic publics.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Stupart, Richard
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Famines -- Political aspects -- Somalia Somalia -- In mass media Famines in mass media
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3500 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006054
- Description: This dissertation examines media coverage of the 2011- 2012 famine in Somalia by the websites of BBC News, CNN and Al Jazeera. Using both quantitative and qualitative content analyses, it asks why coverage of the famine began as late as it did, despite ample evidence of the coming famine. It further surveys the famine-related news reports for evidence of four paradigms through which the causes of famine can be understood; as a Malthusian competition between population and land, as a failure of food entitlements as conceived of by Sen (1981), as critical political event (Edkins, 2004), or as an issue of criminality (Alex de Waal, 2008). Findings include a dramatic silencing of victim’s accounts of famine, despite a reliance on their photographic images, as well as an overwhelming preference for Malthusian accounts of the famine. Late media coverage is explored via a new-values paradigm which links the sudden outburst of media coverage for the famine to a formal UN declaration, and suggests that this may have created a new elite-relevance to the event which did not exist before, and therefore making it of relevance to domestic publics.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Hydrellia lagarosiphon Deeming (Diptera: Ephydridae), a potential biological control agent for the submerged aquatic weed, Lagarosiphon major (Ridl.) Moss ex Wager (Hydrocharitaceae)
- Martin, Grant D, Coetzee, Julie A, Baars, Jan-Robert
- Authors: Martin, Grant D , Coetzee, Julie A , Baars, Jan-Robert
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/103912 , vital:32322 , https://doi.org/10.4001/003.021.0118
- Description: The leaf-mining fly, Hydrellia lagarosiphon Deeming (Diptera: Ephydridae), was investigated in its native range in South Africa, to determine its potential as a biological control agent for Lagarosiphon major (Ridl.) Moss ex Wager (Hydrocharitaceae), an invasive submerged macrophyte that is weedy in many parts of the world. The fly was found throughout the indigenous range of the plant in South Africa. High larval abundance was recorded at field sites with nearly all L. major shoots sampled ontaining larvae, with densities of up to 10 larvae per shoot. Adults laid batches of up to 15 eggs, usually on the abaxial sides of L. major leaves. The larvae mined internally, leaving the epidermal tissues of the upper and lower leaves intact. The larvae underwent three instars which took an average of 24 days and pupated within the leaf tissue, from which the adults emerged. Impact studies in the laboratory showed that H. lagarosiphon larval feeding significantly restricted the formation of L. major side branches. Based on its biology and damage caused to the plant, Hydrellia lagarosiphon could be considered as a useful biological control candidate for L. major in countries where the plant is invasive.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Martin, Grant D , Coetzee, Julie A , Baars, Jan-Robert
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/103912 , vital:32322 , https://doi.org/10.4001/003.021.0118
- Description: The leaf-mining fly, Hydrellia lagarosiphon Deeming (Diptera: Ephydridae), was investigated in its native range in South Africa, to determine its potential as a biological control agent for Lagarosiphon major (Ridl.) Moss ex Wager (Hydrocharitaceae), an invasive submerged macrophyte that is weedy in many parts of the world. The fly was found throughout the indigenous range of the plant in South Africa. High larval abundance was recorded at field sites with nearly all L. major shoots sampled ontaining larvae, with densities of up to 10 larvae per shoot. Adults laid batches of up to 15 eggs, usually on the abaxial sides of L. major leaves. The larvae mined internally, leaving the epidermal tissues of the upper and lower leaves intact. The larvae underwent three instars which took an average of 24 days and pupated within the leaf tissue, from which the adults emerged. Impact studies in the laboratory showed that H. lagarosiphon larval feeding significantly restricted the formation of L. major side branches. Based on its biology and damage caused to the plant, Hydrellia lagarosiphon could be considered as a useful biological control candidate for L. major in countries where the plant is invasive.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Hydrothermal liquefaction of scenedesmus obliquus in a continuous reactor system
- Authors: Kaufmann, Gideon
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Biomass chemicals Microalgae -- Biotechnology , Supercritical fluids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47878 , vital:40393
- Description: In 2009 InnoVenton, a research institute at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) set out to establish a technological concept of micro-algae to fuel, at which point an algae farm was established. The overall research strategy is envisaged to focus on a number of potential uses of algae biomass and related processes such as water treatment can take place, the binding of the biomass to coal fines to create briquettes are possible, and bio crude production from direct liquefaction. This project will focus on the latter. In 2010 a partnership between NMMU and the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Department of Chemical Engineering was established to design, construct and commission a test unit that could convert the algae biomass into a pumpable bio crude by the liquefaction process. During the initial operation of this test unit, flow problems of the reaction product were observed. As such, the aim of this study is to investigate a number of process conditions and develop strategies to minimise or alleviate this problem. As part of this study, UCT will replicate the NMMU test unit in Cape Town in order to start focussing on finding relevant solutions to the problems which exist. Presently continuous reactor systems are not used for the liquefaction of micro-algae. According to Toor, et al(2011)¹ Other feedstocks have been placed in continuous reactor systems with good end results. They continue to write in their review that batch systems were used in most experiments. If micro-algae are to become a competitive alternative to crude oil then batch systems are not the way forward. From a commercial and efficiency standpoint, there are significant advantages to move from typical batch reactors to continuous reactors, specifically in terms of downtime and loading/unloading of vessels. From the evidence gathered in Port Elizabeth, the nature of the reaction product caused typical plugflow reactor systems to block. The aim of this study is to investigate possible solutions to the problem of the reactor system blockage and thus pave the way for the implementation of a continuous reactor system. There are many variables which can be manipulated to achieve success for example the use of catalysts, co-feeding of reactant gases like hydrogen, residence time, temperature or pressure. Manipulating these variable can help to change conversion and/or product spectrum. The results of this study will be compared to results obtained by typical batch experimentation conducted at NMMU. This research varied temperature only. This variation was effective enough to find solutions to the obstacles that were present. Once the algae feedstock was being diverted to the vent pot via the safety relief valve, it was understood that something was blocked. Once the reactor was cooled and removed, it was apparent that the reactor was not blocking up however the exit line to the product catch pot was. To solve this problem a new heated zone was created. This heated the exit line and the top of the product catch pot to around 50°C below the reaction temperature. This upgrade to the system made the oil liquor less vicous and flow easier. The exit line never blocked up again during the research. Energy values of the product were comparable to that of coal. Higher reaction temperatures favoured the production of paraffins and olefins while lower reaction temperatures favoured the production of oxygenates. An ampoule sampler was introduced to take samples of the gas exit line. The comprehensive gas chromatography analysis of the gas in the ampoules revealed that eventhough the concentration of the products present were low, there were significant quantities of paraffins present in the gas stream. More research and the variation of variables discussed previously need to be conducted. It is also apparent that the test unit needs to be upgraded to a bigger reactor and possibly to use materials of construction which do not corrode easily. A computer model could be developed in conjunction with the current test unit and then a bigger reactor might not be needed. The reducing of the oxygen content in the final bio crude also needs to be investigated. Overall the research is very promising in the fact that the final bio crude that was produced is comparable to coal. With further research it will be possible to create a product that is comparable to fossil crude oil and then could be used as a supplement to crude oil.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Kaufmann, Gideon
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Biomass chemicals Microalgae -- Biotechnology , Supercritical fluids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47878 , vital:40393
- Description: In 2009 InnoVenton, a research institute at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) set out to establish a technological concept of micro-algae to fuel, at which point an algae farm was established. The overall research strategy is envisaged to focus on a number of potential uses of algae biomass and related processes such as water treatment can take place, the binding of the biomass to coal fines to create briquettes are possible, and bio crude production from direct liquefaction. This project will focus on the latter. In 2010 a partnership between NMMU and the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Department of Chemical Engineering was established to design, construct and commission a test unit that could convert the algae biomass into a pumpable bio crude by the liquefaction process. During the initial operation of this test unit, flow problems of the reaction product were observed. As such, the aim of this study is to investigate a number of process conditions and develop strategies to minimise or alleviate this problem. As part of this study, UCT will replicate the NMMU test unit in Cape Town in order to start focussing on finding relevant solutions to the problems which exist. Presently continuous reactor systems are not used for the liquefaction of micro-algae. According to Toor, et al(2011)¹ Other feedstocks have been placed in continuous reactor systems with good end results. They continue to write in their review that batch systems were used in most experiments. If micro-algae are to become a competitive alternative to crude oil then batch systems are not the way forward. From a commercial and efficiency standpoint, there are significant advantages to move from typical batch reactors to continuous reactors, specifically in terms of downtime and loading/unloading of vessels. From the evidence gathered in Port Elizabeth, the nature of the reaction product caused typical plugflow reactor systems to block. The aim of this study is to investigate possible solutions to the problem of the reactor system blockage and thus pave the way for the implementation of a continuous reactor system. There are many variables which can be manipulated to achieve success for example the use of catalysts, co-feeding of reactant gases like hydrogen, residence time, temperature or pressure. Manipulating these variable can help to change conversion and/or product spectrum. The results of this study will be compared to results obtained by typical batch experimentation conducted at NMMU. This research varied temperature only. This variation was effective enough to find solutions to the obstacles that were present. Once the algae feedstock was being diverted to the vent pot via the safety relief valve, it was understood that something was blocked. Once the reactor was cooled and removed, it was apparent that the reactor was not blocking up however the exit line to the product catch pot was. To solve this problem a new heated zone was created. This heated the exit line and the top of the product catch pot to around 50°C below the reaction temperature. This upgrade to the system made the oil liquor less vicous and flow easier. The exit line never blocked up again during the research. Energy values of the product were comparable to that of coal. Higher reaction temperatures favoured the production of paraffins and olefins while lower reaction temperatures favoured the production of oxygenates. An ampoule sampler was introduced to take samples of the gas exit line. The comprehensive gas chromatography analysis of the gas in the ampoules revealed that eventhough the concentration of the products present were low, there were significant quantities of paraffins present in the gas stream. More research and the variation of variables discussed previously need to be conducted. It is also apparent that the test unit needs to be upgraded to a bigger reactor and possibly to use materials of construction which do not corrode easily. A computer model could be developed in conjunction with the current test unit and then a bigger reactor might not be needed. The reducing of the oxygen content in the final bio crude also needs to be investigated. Overall the research is very promising in the fact that the final bio crude that was produced is comparable to coal. With further research it will be possible to create a product that is comparable to fossil crude oil and then could be used as a supplement to crude oil.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
ICT and education in a less privileged school of NMBA
- Authors: Mahleza, Nomfundo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Educational technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational innovations -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communication -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6237 , vital:21058
- Description: Today’s society requires citizens to have a greater knowledge of information technology (IT) than in previous decades. Strategy programs at a national level define the skill needed in an information society and encourage people to learn these skills (Ministry of Education, 2004). In order for everybody to have the opportunity to learn the basics of the new technology, computer science should be included in general education. The development of technology, like Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has turned the world into a global village (Hashem, 2006). The key instrument in this globalisation is the personal computer. Computer–mediated communication is increasingly becoming the dominant means of communication, particularly in the developed and in some developing countries (Adebisi, 2008). In a developing country, ICT is one of the prime ingredients for development. This generally means improvement of people’s lifestyle through improved education, income, skills development and employment. Development should now also be viewed as a multidimensional process involving major changes in social structures, popular attitudes and a national progression of life from unsatisfactory to satisfactory (Servaes, 1999). Since one of the goals of education is to prepare students for work and citizenship, schools are attempting to change their policies, practices and a curriculum to meet the challenge of making pupils ready for a future quite different than the immediate past (Turker & Codding, 1998). The integration of ICT into the teaching and learning environment in secondary education in Port Elizabeth could change learning and teaching attitudes of learners and teachers and help to prepare them for future challenges. However, the success of this integration will depend on how the learners and teachers adapt to the changes and whether they can make ICT technologies part of their daily life. As it is, there is little or no information available regarding the extent of current ICT usage and access in these secondary schools. The research focuses on the availability, usage and the impact of ICT in education, particularly at a secondary school in the poverty-stricken area of Zwide in Port Elizabeth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mahleza, Nomfundo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Educational technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational innovations -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communication -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6237 , vital:21058
- Description: Today’s society requires citizens to have a greater knowledge of information technology (IT) than in previous decades. Strategy programs at a national level define the skill needed in an information society and encourage people to learn these skills (Ministry of Education, 2004). In order for everybody to have the opportunity to learn the basics of the new technology, computer science should be included in general education. The development of technology, like Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has turned the world into a global village (Hashem, 2006). The key instrument in this globalisation is the personal computer. Computer–mediated communication is increasingly becoming the dominant means of communication, particularly in the developed and in some developing countries (Adebisi, 2008). In a developing country, ICT is one of the prime ingredients for development. This generally means improvement of people’s lifestyle through improved education, income, skills development and employment. Development should now also be viewed as a multidimensional process involving major changes in social structures, popular attitudes and a national progression of life from unsatisfactory to satisfactory (Servaes, 1999). Since one of the goals of education is to prepare students for work and citizenship, schools are attempting to change their policies, practices and a curriculum to meet the challenge of making pupils ready for a future quite different than the immediate past (Turker & Codding, 1998). The integration of ICT into the teaching and learning environment in secondary education in Port Elizabeth could change learning and teaching attitudes of learners and teachers and help to prepare them for future challenges. However, the success of this integration will depend on how the learners and teachers adapt to the changes and whether they can make ICT technologies part of their daily life. As it is, there is little or no information available regarding the extent of current ICT usage and access in these secondary schools. The research focuses on the availability, usage and the impact of ICT in education, particularly at a secondary school in the poverty-stricken area of Zwide in Port Elizabeth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Identification and evaluation of key factors for rehabilitation of shores denuded of mussels (Perna perna) along the Transkei Coast, South Africa
- Authors: Macala, Lukholo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Mussels -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Conservation -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Growth -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Effect of human beings on -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Reproduction -- South Africa -- Transkei , Perna -- South Africa -- Transkei
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5611 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002966 , Mussels -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Conservation -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Growth -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Effect of human beings on -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Reproduction -- South Africa -- Transkei , Perna -- South Africa -- Transkei
- Description: Mussels play an important supplementary role in the diet of local communities on the Transkei coast in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The exploitation of mussels date back to about 1350 years ago, but in the last 3 decades, exploitation of the brown mussel Perna perna has become unsustainable with mussels collected as small as 30-40mm when they are only just sexually mature. Dye and Dyantyi (2002) developed a technique to rehabilitate areas denuded of adult mussels. The government sponsored Mussel Rehabilitation Project (MRP) to use this technique but only some sites have been successfully rehabilitated, reaching c. 80 % cover within a year whilst others only reach about 5%. At an unexploited site (Riet River), I tested the effects of mussel size and wave strength on the effectiveness of the rehabilitation technique, hypothesizing that different size classes may respond differently due to differences in their energy allocation (growth vs reproduction), while wave action determines food supply. Small (1-2cm) and large mussels (3-4cm) were deployed for rehabilitation at 2 exposed and 2 sheltered sites, separated by 100s m. A similar study was repeated in Coffee Bay where shores are exploited. Six sites were selected, 3 sites that had been successfully rehabilitated and 3 that were unsuccessful according to the MRP. Again, two size classes were used but these differed from the first experiment. Mussels of 3-4cm size were now rated as small and 5-6cm as large. Two methods were used to re-attach mussels, the original and the same method with the addition of mesh bags during mussel deployment. Treatments were examined on three occasions at approximately one month intervals. At Riet River, the sites chosen did not show differences in wave strength (measured using dynamometers) or water flux (measured using erosion of cement balls) so that water motion was excluded from the analyses. Small mussels grew faster and had weaker attachment than large mussels. There was no difference in condition index between small and large mussels, or in the numbers of recruits settling among the byssus threads of deployed mussels of the two size classes. In Coffee Bay, there was no relationship between rehabilitation success and maximum wave force, and no difference in bulk water flux among sites. Small mussels deployed using mesh bags survived better than non-meshed or large mussels of either treatment. There was no difference in condition index (CI) between mesh and no-mesh, or between small and large mussels. As in the case of Riet River, small mussels grew faster than large mussels, but large mussels attached stronger than small mussels, with no effect of mesh. Although the factors that improve reseeding of mussels can be identified (use of mesh, use of small mussels, choice of sites with high recruitment rates), successful long-term rehabilitation requires appropriate subsequent management of re-seeded sites.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Macala, Lukholo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Mussels -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Conservation -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Growth -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Effect of human beings on -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Reproduction -- South Africa -- Transkei , Perna -- South Africa -- Transkei
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5611 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002966 , Mussels -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Conservation -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Growth -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Effect of human beings on -- South Africa -- Transkei , Mussels -- Reproduction -- South Africa -- Transkei , Perna -- South Africa -- Transkei
- Description: Mussels play an important supplementary role in the diet of local communities on the Transkei coast in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The exploitation of mussels date back to about 1350 years ago, but in the last 3 decades, exploitation of the brown mussel Perna perna has become unsustainable with mussels collected as small as 30-40mm when they are only just sexually mature. Dye and Dyantyi (2002) developed a technique to rehabilitate areas denuded of adult mussels. The government sponsored Mussel Rehabilitation Project (MRP) to use this technique but only some sites have been successfully rehabilitated, reaching c. 80 % cover within a year whilst others only reach about 5%. At an unexploited site (Riet River), I tested the effects of mussel size and wave strength on the effectiveness of the rehabilitation technique, hypothesizing that different size classes may respond differently due to differences in their energy allocation (growth vs reproduction), while wave action determines food supply. Small (1-2cm) and large mussels (3-4cm) were deployed for rehabilitation at 2 exposed and 2 sheltered sites, separated by 100s m. A similar study was repeated in Coffee Bay where shores are exploited. Six sites were selected, 3 sites that had been successfully rehabilitated and 3 that were unsuccessful according to the MRP. Again, two size classes were used but these differed from the first experiment. Mussels of 3-4cm size were now rated as small and 5-6cm as large. Two methods were used to re-attach mussels, the original and the same method with the addition of mesh bags during mussel deployment. Treatments were examined on three occasions at approximately one month intervals. At Riet River, the sites chosen did not show differences in wave strength (measured using dynamometers) or water flux (measured using erosion of cement balls) so that water motion was excluded from the analyses. Small mussels grew faster and had weaker attachment than large mussels. There was no difference in condition index between small and large mussels, or in the numbers of recruits settling among the byssus threads of deployed mussels of the two size classes. In Coffee Bay, there was no relationship between rehabilitation success and maximum wave force, and no difference in bulk water flux among sites. Small mussels deployed using mesh bags survived better than non-meshed or large mussels of either treatment. There was no difference in condition index (CI) between mesh and no-mesh, or between small and large mussels. As in the case of Riet River, small mussels grew faster than large mussels, but large mussels attached stronger than small mussels, with no effect of mesh. Although the factors that improve reseeding of mussels can be identified (use of mesh, use of small mussels, choice of sites with high recruitment rates), successful long-term rehabilitation requires appropriate subsequent management of re-seeded sites.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Identification of a uniquely southern African clade of coastal pipefishes Syngnathus spp.
- Mwale, Monica, Kaiser, Horst, Barker, Nigel P, Wilson, A B, Teske, Peter R
- Authors: Mwale, Monica , Kaiser, Horst , Barker, Nigel P , Wilson, A B , Teske, Peter R
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/445499 , vital:74393 , https://doi.org/10.1111/jfb.12130
- Description: The taxonomic status of two southern African coastal pipefish species, Syngnathus temminckii and Syngnathus watermeyeri, was investigated using a combination of morphological and genetic data. Morphological data showed that S. temminckii is distinct from the broadly distributed European pipefish Syngnathus acus, and a molecular phylogeny reconstructed using mitochondrial DNA recovered S. temminckii and S. watermeyeri as sister taxa. The southern African species share an evolutionary origin with north‐eastern Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea species, including S. acus. These data support the existence of a distinct southern African clade of Syngnathus pipefishes that has diverged in situ to form the two species present in the region today.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mwale, Monica , Kaiser, Horst , Barker, Nigel P , Wilson, A B , Teske, Peter R
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/445499 , vital:74393 , https://doi.org/10.1111/jfb.12130
- Description: The taxonomic status of two southern African coastal pipefish species, Syngnathus temminckii and Syngnathus watermeyeri, was investigated using a combination of morphological and genetic data. Morphological data showed that S. temminckii is distinct from the broadly distributed European pipefish Syngnathus acus, and a molecular phylogeny reconstructed using mitochondrial DNA recovered S. temminckii and S. watermeyeri as sister taxa. The southern African species share an evolutionary origin with north‐eastern Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea species, including S. acus. These data support the existence of a distinct southern African clade of Syngnathus pipefishes that has diverged in situ to form the two species present in the region today.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Identification of the determinants of customer satisfaction with services provided by a selected pension fund agency
- Authors: Mayekiso, Pumza
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa , Customer relations -- Management , Trust companies -- Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8913 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021059
- Description: Understanding customers’ views on service quality is important for any business providing service and interested in making sure that they are being responsive to customers. Continuous evaluation of customer satisfaction is an important factor in the service sector. To date, most attempts have focused on what determines customer satisfaction in services rendered by organisations. The primary objective of the current study was to identify the determinants of customer satisfaction with services at Government Employees Pension Fund. The study investigated how customer satisfaction (the dependent variable) is influenced by the different elements, namely service quality, perceived value, and customer expectations, which represented the independent variables. The significance of the study hinges on three area i.e. management, policy makers and stakeholders. The study will also provide a justifiably valid and reliable guide to designing workable service delivery improvement strategies for creating and delivering customer value, achieving customer satisfaction and achieving sustainable business growth of Government Employees Pension Fund. The data collection was made using the questionnaire. A total of 150 questionnaires was distributed and 108 were completed and returned. This translated to a response rate of 72 percent. The empirical results showed that service quality and perceived value have a positive impact on customer satisfaction. On the other hand, the results revealed that customer expectations do not have a positive influence on customer satisfaction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mayekiso, Pumza
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa , Customer relations -- Management , Trust companies -- Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8913 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021059
- Description: Understanding customers’ views on service quality is important for any business providing service and interested in making sure that they are being responsive to customers. Continuous evaluation of customer satisfaction is an important factor in the service sector. To date, most attempts have focused on what determines customer satisfaction in services rendered by organisations. The primary objective of the current study was to identify the determinants of customer satisfaction with services at Government Employees Pension Fund. The study investigated how customer satisfaction (the dependent variable) is influenced by the different elements, namely service quality, perceived value, and customer expectations, which represented the independent variables. The significance of the study hinges on three area i.e. management, policy makers and stakeholders. The study will also provide a justifiably valid and reliable guide to designing workable service delivery improvement strategies for creating and delivering customer value, achieving customer satisfaction and achieving sustainable business growth of Government Employees Pension Fund. The data collection was made using the questionnaire. A total of 150 questionnaires was distributed and 108 were completed and returned. This translated to a response rate of 72 percent. The empirical results showed that service quality and perceived value have a positive impact on customer satisfaction. On the other hand, the results revealed that customer expectations do not have a positive influence on customer satisfaction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Identifying and evaluating risk factors that predict traumatic stress severity in South Africa
- Authors: Van Wyk, Rozelle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Risk factors , Medical personnel -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9968 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020937
- Description: Background: This study identified, addressed and validated risk factors that can be measured in the peri-traumatic period which may eventually be used in predicting the development of traumatic stress. Many people in South Africa possibly suffer from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) if we consider the extent of trauma exposures that is apparent within the South African population. Traumatised individuals are at risk but may remain undiagnosed and untreated. It makes sense for first line and primary health care practitioners (i.e., not highly qualified psychological practitioners) to screen for risk since they have the initial contact with trauma individuals. A relatively easy screening instrument that can be administered time efficiently would be useful in this regard. The principles of this instrument are that it needs to be objectively measurable, quick and easy to administer. No consistent measure geared towards identifying risk factors in such a manner immediately post trauma currently exists in South Africa. Objectives: The overall aim was to start a process of designing a psychometric instrument that is valid in predicting the development of traumatic stress. Since this is the initial stage of constructing a new measure, content validity was of utmost importance. It became imperative to ensure that items were not only relevant and appropriate, but also accurate and capable in identifying at-risk individuals. The proposed end goal is to develop effective identification strategies in South Africa geared towards helping victims of traumatic events. Method: A pilot psychometric questionnaire was compiled using three major international reviews, South African research on known risk factors, and literature on PTSD risk assessment considerations. This preliminary assembled item pool was used as a departure point and evaluated quantitatively as well as qualitatively by expert reviewers who have research and/or clinical experience with PTSD in a South African context. Their feedback resulted in either the omission or the modification of certain items; for some items, further exploration was recommended. The questionnaire was further scrutinised and modified accordingly after qualitative interviews with and critical feedback from the intended administrators or primary health care professionals, namely Registered Counsellors (RCs) and/or nursing staff from a participating general government hospital and a non-government organisation. Findings: Expert reviewers did not agree consistently across all the items. At times they rated certain items as relevant according to the necessity of the information rather than with regards to the relevance of the content of the item – in terms of prediction of PTSD. It was also observed that intended administrators did not always agree with expert reviewers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Van Wyk, Rozelle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Risk factors , Medical personnel -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9968 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020937
- Description: Background: This study identified, addressed and validated risk factors that can be measured in the peri-traumatic period which may eventually be used in predicting the development of traumatic stress. Many people in South Africa possibly suffer from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) if we consider the extent of trauma exposures that is apparent within the South African population. Traumatised individuals are at risk but may remain undiagnosed and untreated. It makes sense for first line and primary health care practitioners (i.e., not highly qualified psychological practitioners) to screen for risk since they have the initial contact with trauma individuals. A relatively easy screening instrument that can be administered time efficiently would be useful in this regard. The principles of this instrument are that it needs to be objectively measurable, quick and easy to administer. No consistent measure geared towards identifying risk factors in such a manner immediately post trauma currently exists in South Africa. Objectives: The overall aim was to start a process of designing a psychometric instrument that is valid in predicting the development of traumatic stress. Since this is the initial stage of constructing a new measure, content validity was of utmost importance. It became imperative to ensure that items were not only relevant and appropriate, but also accurate and capable in identifying at-risk individuals. The proposed end goal is to develop effective identification strategies in South Africa geared towards helping victims of traumatic events. Method: A pilot psychometric questionnaire was compiled using three major international reviews, South African research on known risk factors, and literature on PTSD risk assessment considerations. This preliminary assembled item pool was used as a departure point and evaluated quantitatively as well as qualitatively by expert reviewers who have research and/or clinical experience with PTSD in a South African context. Their feedback resulted in either the omission or the modification of certain items; for some items, further exploration was recommended. The questionnaire was further scrutinised and modified accordingly after qualitative interviews with and critical feedback from the intended administrators or primary health care professionals, namely Registered Counsellors (RCs) and/or nursing staff from a participating general government hospital and a non-government organisation. Findings: Expert reviewers did not agree consistently across all the items. At times they rated certain items as relevant according to the necessity of the information rather than with regards to the relevance of the content of the item – in terms of prediction of PTSD. It was also observed that intended administrators did not always agree with expert reviewers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Identifying drivers of corporate social responsibility for community involvement
- Authors: Gwama, Mzwandile Sebastian
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business , Corporate governance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6597 , vital:21124
- Description: Organisations operate under unpredictable business environments. These business environments can be classified into internal and external environments. The decision taken by organisations to allocate resources for CSR depends on business environments. Organisations have no control of external business environments. Global financial crisis is an example of an external business environment of which organisations have no control over. The event in the business environments can influence the organisation to review its CSR operations. The beneficiaries of the organisation's CSR program get affected by such decision reviews and face even bigger challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gwama, Mzwandile Sebastian
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business , Corporate governance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6597 , vital:21124
- Description: Organisations operate under unpredictable business environments. These business environments can be classified into internal and external environments. The decision taken by organisations to allocate resources for CSR depends on business environments. Organisations have no control of external business environments. Global financial crisis is an example of an external business environment of which organisations have no control over. The event in the business environments can influence the organisation to review its CSR operations. The beneficiaries of the organisation's CSR program get affected by such decision reviews and face even bigger challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Identity and origins of introduced and native Azolla species in Florida
- Madeira, Paul T, Center, Ted D, Coetzee, Julie A, Pemberton, Robert W, Purcell, Matthew F, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Madeira, Paul T , Center, Ted D , Coetzee, Julie A , Pemberton, Robert W , Purcell, Matthew F , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419313 , vital:71634 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aquabot.2013.07.009"
- Description: Azolla pinnata, an introduced aquatic fern, is spreading rapidly causing concern that it may displace native Azolla. It is now present in the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, the northernmost portion of the Florida Everglades. Because A. pinnata subspecies are native to Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia, determining the actual geographic origin of the Florida exotic is important to the discovery of efficacious biological control agents. Both the exotic and native Azollas were examined using morphological and molecular criteria. Both criteria distinguished three A. pinnata subspecies with the Florida exotic matching the Australian A. pinnata subsp. pinnata. Molecular divergence between the A. pinnata subspecies indicates the three types should be considered separate species. The Florida native was characterized by both molecular and morphological methods as Azolla caroliniana. The discovery of a previously uncharacterized Ecuadorian Azolla, which appears to be a paternal ancestor of A. caroliniana, indicates that A. caroliniana is a hybrid species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Madeira, Paul T , Center, Ted D , Coetzee, Julie A , Pemberton, Robert W , Purcell, Matthew F , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419313 , vital:71634 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aquabot.2013.07.009"
- Description: Azolla pinnata, an introduced aquatic fern, is spreading rapidly causing concern that it may displace native Azolla. It is now present in the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, the northernmost portion of the Florida Everglades. Because A. pinnata subspecies are native to Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia, determining the actual geographic origin of the Florida exotic is important to the discovery of efficacious biological control agents. Both the exotic and native Azollas were examined using morphological and molecular criteria. Both criteria distinguished three A. pinnata subspecies with the Florida exotic matching the Australian A. pinnata subsp. pinnata. Molecular divergence between the A. pinnata subspecies indicates the three types should be considered separate species. The Florida native was characterized by both molecular and morphological methods as Azolla caroliniana. The discovery of a previously uncharacterized Ecuadorian Azolla, which appears to be a paternal ancestor of A. caroliniana, indicates that A. caroliniana is a hybrid species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013