Exploring the management-union relationship at a large automotive manufacturer
- Authors: Le Roux, Loreen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial relations -- South Africa , Labor unions -- South Africa Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa Organizational behavior -- South Africa Psychology, Industrial
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40382 , vital:36154
- Description: The South African labour environment makes a significant contribution to the country’s ability to function within a social market economy. Labour instability deters foreign investment and has had a negative impact on productivity levels. It would, therefore, be of value to the field of labour relations to consider how the management-union relationship at an organisational level can be improved to encourage a stable, effective and collective relationship. A qualitative approach was adopted to explore and describe the nature of the management-union relationship, including both the confrontational and cooperative elements of interaction, at a large automotive MANUFACTURER that operates within a multinational group. The study explored the effectiveness of the Industrial Relations Framework, which was once or is regarded as the benchmark of Industrial Relations structures within the South African context. This was due to its implementation of an adapted Co-determination Model of employee participation from as early as 1994; thus, providing an opportunity to study a long-established and mature management-union relationship. The relationship was regarded as an aspect of the Industrial Relations climate and focused on interaction within the MANUFACTURER’s Industrial Relations Framework (three committees being the Joint Strategic Workshop, Plant Committee and Negotiating Committee). The aim of the study is to describe the specific factors identified by the parties as having influenced their relationship. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the Industrial Relations Framework was considered in terms of its contribution towards achieving the parties’ goals and lastly, suggestions for improvement were shared to improve the effectiveness of the relationship. The literature reviewed considered the nature of the collective relationship. Firstly, the characteristics of a collective relationship were described to appreciate the complexity and multifaceted, simultaneous influences of the external and internal elements, which impact on the relationship. Secondly, frames of reference were identified that contextualised the chosen industrial relations ideology adopted. Thirdly, typical industrial relations relationship patterns were described which explained the selected approach adopted in the management-union interaction. Fourthly, the South African legislative context was highlighted to appreciate the South African Government’s support for the primacy of the collective relationship. Lastly, a few academic models that included seminal work, were considered to recognise key factors influencing the collective relationship. The most common factors identified were attitudinal dimensions (attitudes, behaviours, and perceptions), goals, sharing common objectives, trust, recognition of legitimacy, access to information, voice, equity (fairness), and communication. The sample consisted of Human Resource Management and NUMSA representatives who participated in the Industrial Relations Framework. Semi-structured, individual interviews were used as a research instrument for data gathering. On conclusion of this phase, a thematic analysis was conducted and themes were identified. This assisted in the description of key factors that had an impact on this particular collective relationship within a pluralistic industrial relations context. The findings revealed that the nature of the relationship differed at the various committees. It was influenced by the functioning of the committee, the effectiveness in achieving the parties’ goals, the level of management represented and the nature of the processes involved in the interaction (information-sharing, consultation and negotiation). Positive changes are underway whereby union capacity building is being addressed to aid and elevate the level of engagement. Operational improvements to benefit the functioning of the committees and afford the union increased input. A joint organisational vision is also being drafted as the first step towards a closer, future partnership as the MANUFACTURER faces competitive challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Le Roux, Loreen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial relations -- South Africa , Labor unions -- South Africa Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa Organizational behavior -- South Africa Psychology, Industrial
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40382 , vital:36154
- Description: The South African labour environment makes a significant contribution to the country’s ability to function within a social market economy. Labour instability deters foreign investment and has had a negative impact on productivity levels. It would, therefore, be of value to the field of labour relations to consider how the management-union relationship at an organisational level can be improved to encourage a stable, effective and collective relationship. A qualitative approach was adopted to explore and describe the nature of the management-union relationship, including both the confrontational and cooperative elements of interaction, at a large automotive MANUFACTURER that operates within a multinational group. The study explored the effectiveness of the Industrial Relations Framework, which was once or is regarded as the benchmark of Industrial Relations structures within the South African context. This was due to its implementation of an adapted Co-determination Model of employee participation from as early as 1994; thus, providing an opportunity to study a long-established and mature management-union relationship. The relationship was regarded as an aspect of the Industrial Relations climate and focused on interaction within the MANUFACTURER’s Industrial Relations Framework (three committees being the Joint Strategic Workshop, Plant Committee and Negotiating Committee). The aim of the study is to describe the specific factors identified by the parties as having influenced their relationship. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the Industrial Relations Framework was considered in terms of its contribution towards achieving the parties’ goals and lastly, suggestions for improvement were shared to improve the effectiveness of the relationship. The literature reviewed considered the nature of the collective relationship. Firstly, the characteristics of a collective relationship were described to appreciate the complexity and multifaceted, simultaneous influences of the external and internal elements, which impact on the relationship. Secondly, frames of reference were identified that contextualised the chosen industrial relations ideology adopted. Thirdly, typical industrial relations relationship patterns were described which explained the selected approach adopted in the management-union interaction. Fourthly, the South African legislative context was highlighted to appreciate the South African Government’s support for the primacy of the collective relationship. Lastly, a few academic models that included seminal work, were considered to recognise key factors influencing the collective relationship. The most common factors identified were attitudinal dimensions (attitudes, behaviours, and perceptions), goals, sharing common objectives, trust, recognition of legitimacy, access to information, voice, equity (fairness), and communication. The sample consisted of Human Resource Management and NUMSA representatives who participated in the Industrial Relations Framework. Semi-structured, individual interviews were used as a research instrument for data gathering. On conclusion of this phase, a thematic analysis was conducted and themes were identified. This assisted in the description of key factors that had an impact on this particular collective relationship within a pluralistic industrial relations context. The findings revealed that the nature of the relationship differed at the various committees. It was influenced by the functioning of the committee, the effectiveness in achieving the parties’ goals, the level of management represented and the nature of the processes involved in the interaction (information-sharing, consultation and negotiation). Positive changes are underway whereby union capacity building is being addressed to aid and elevate the level of engagement. Operational improvements to benefit the functioning of the committees and afford the union increased input. A joint organisational vision is also being drafted as the first step towards a closer, future partnership as the MANUFACTURER faces competitive challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Nonlinear optical responses of targeted phthalocyanines when conjugated with nanomaterials or fabricated into polymer thin films
- Authors: Nwaji, Njemuwa Njoku
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electrochemistry , Phthalocyanines , Nanoparticles , Bioconjugates , Thin films , Polymers , Nonlinear optics , Nonlinear optical spectroscopy , Nanostructured materials , Raman effect
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/71625 , vital:29926
- Description: A number of zinc, gallium and indium metallophthalocyanines (MPcs) with diverse substituents have been synthesized and characterized using various characterization tools such as proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1HNMR), matrix assisted laser desorption time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry, Fourier-transformed infra-red (FT-IR), Ultraviolet-visible (Uv-vis) spectrophotometry, magnetic circular dichroism and CHNS elemental analysis. The time dependent density functional theory was employed to probe the origin of spectroscopic information in these complexes. Complexes with gallium and indium as central metal showed higher triplet quantum yield compared to the zinc derivatives. Some of the MPcs were covalently linked to nanomaterials such as CdTe, CdTeSe, CdTeSe/ZnO, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) as well as metallic gold (AuNPs) and silver (AgNPs) nanoparticles. Others were either surface assembled onto AuNPs and AgNPs or embedded into polystyrene as polymer source. The phthalocyanine-nanomaterial composites (Pc-NMCs) were characterized with FT-IR, UV-visible spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). The thickness of the thin films was determined by utilization of the knife edge attachment of the A Bruker D8 Discover X-ray diffraction. The optical limiting properties (using the open-aperture Z-scan technique) of the MPcs and the Pc-NMCs were investigated. The investigated MPcs complexes generally showed good optical limiting properties. The nonlinear optical response of the MPcs were improved in the presence of nanomaterials such as the semiconductor quantum dots (SQDs), graphene quantum dots (GQDs) as well as metallic AuNPs and AgNPs with MPc-QDs showing the best optical limiting behavior. The optical limiting properties of the MPcs were greatly enhanced in the presence of polymer thin films.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nwaji, Njemuwa Njoku
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electrochemistry , Phthalocyanines , Nanoparticles , Bioconjugates , Thin films , Polymers , Nonlinear optics , Nonlinear optical spectroscopy , Nanostructured materials , Raman effect
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/71625 , vital:29926
- Description: A number of zinc, gallium and indium metallophthalocyanines (MPcs) with diverse substituents have been synthesized and characterized using various characterization tools such as proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1HNMR), matrix assisted laser desorption time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry, Fourier-transformed infra-red (FT-IR), Ultraviolet-visible (Uv-vis) spectrophotometry, magnetic circular dichroism and CHNS elemental analysis. The time dependent density functional theory was employed to probe the origin of spectroscopic information in these complexes. Complexes with gallium and indium as central metal showed higher triplet quantum yield compared to the zinc derivatives. Some of the MPcs were covalently linked to nanomaterials such as CdTe, CdTeSe, CdTeSe/ZnO, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) as well as metallic gold (AuNPs) and silver (AgNPs) nanoparticles. Others were either surface assembled onto AuNPs and AgNPs or embedded into polystyrene as polymer source. The phthalocyanine-nanomaterial composites (Pc-NMCs) were characterized with FT-IR, UV-visible spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). The thickness of the thin films was determined by utilization of the knife edge attachment of the A Bruker D8 Discover X-ray diffraction. The optical limiting properties (using the open-aperture Z-scan technique) of the MPcs and the Pc-NMCs were investigated. The investigated MPcs complexes generally showed good optical limiting properties. The nonlinear optical response of the MPcs were improved in the presence of nanomaterials such as the semiconductor quantum dots (SQDs), graphene quantum dots (GQDs) as well as metallic AuNPs and AgNPs with MPc-QDs showing the best optical limiting behavior. The optical limiting properties of the MPcs were greatly enhanced in the presence of polymer thin films.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Culturally-informed coping strategies of posttraumatic stress disorders among the black Africans in the greater Accra region of Ghana and black Africans in the eastern cape of South Africa
- Authors: Thompson, Sandra
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Posttraumatic stress disorder
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44625 , vital:38154
- Description: The influence of culture in coping with Posttraumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD) has been highlighted in literature. However, these culture specific coping strategies are not as yet, extensively explored. The research sought to explore and describe the culturally - informed coping strategies of PTS D among the black Africans in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana and black Africans in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. A qualitative methodological approach was used to explore the phenomenon under study. Purposive non - probability sampling was employed to obtain access to participants who could inform the objectives of the study. Data was collected using semi - structured interviews with traumatised individuals and focus group discussions with cultural leaders. All interviews were audio - recorded, transcribed, translated and analysed using thematic content analysis to facilitate the description and comparison of the similarities and distinctive features emerging from the two African communities. The findings indicated that a number of cultural factors influence interpretation of symptoms of PTSD and the adopted coping strategies. Participants’ understanding of symptoms of PTSD relied heavily on Christian Religious and African cultural understandings. It was evident that almost all explanations were purely spiritual and minimal knowledge was expressed on cognitive interpretations. A great deal of emphasis by the Ghanaians and isiXhosa of South Africa, was on dreams and such interpretations were deferred to an authoritative individual (especially the traditional healer). An obvious hierarchy for coping emerged with the traditional healer playing a major role for the Ghanaian and isiXhosa participants. Performing rites and the use of plants were essential to healing for these group of individuals. Whereas, the Coloured - Afrikaans made reference to a higher power “God”. An outstanding observation was the extent to which Ghanaian and isiXhosa participants have incorporated Christian and traditional practices (i.e. praying to God, performing rites and using herbs or plants). Even where an individual did not wish to mix practice because of upbringing, they acknowledged the existence and effectiveness of these practices. Colonisation was drawn on as an explanation for such mixed practices. The advent of Christianity was explained as having established Western culture (specifically Christianity) that is incorporated by participants. The Coloured - Afrikaans on the other hand, were consistent with the Christian practices “prayers to God”. A great deal of consistency however existed among all participants. Social support was considered very important. Talking with family and friends were relevant to the healing process as it gets rid of distorted thought patterns and avoids isolation considered as a serious current threat to healing. While there was an element of cognitive understanding, Western based treatment using cognitive restructuring was not a treatment option. Clinical practitioners or Psychologists that come into contact with the black Ghanaians and black South Africans should consider collaborative treatment strategies using the draft checklist as a guide.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Thompson, Sandra
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Posttraumatic stress disorder
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44625 , vital:38154
- Description: The influence of culture in coping with Posttraumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD) has been highlighted in literature. However, these culture specific coping strategies are not as yet, extensively explored. The research sought to explore and describe the culturally - informed coping strategies of PTS D among the black Africans in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana and black Africans in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. A qualitative methodological approach was used to explore the phenomenon under study. Purposive non - probability sampling was employed to obtain access to participants who could inform the objectives of the study. Data was collected using semi - structured interviews with traumatised individuals and focus group discussions with cultural leaders. All interviews were audio - recorded, transcribed, translated and analysed using thematic content analysis to facilitate the description and comparison of the similarities and distinctive features emerging from the two African communities. The findings indicated that a number of cultural factors influence interpretation of symptoms of PTSD and the adopted coping strategies. Participants’ understanding of symptoms of PTSD relied heavily on Christian Religious and African cultural understandings. It was evident that almost all explanations were purely spiritual and minimal knowledge was expressed on cognitive interpretations. A great deal of emphasis by the Ghanaians and isiXhosa of South Africa, was on dreams and such interpretations were deferred to an authoritative individual (especially the traditional healer). An obvious hierarchy for coping emerged with the traditional healer playing a major role for the Ghanaian and isiXhosa participants. Performing rites and the use of plants were essential to healing for these group of individuals. Whereas, the Coloured - Afrikaans made reference to a higher power “God”. An outstanding observation was the extent to which Ghanaian and isiXhosa participants have incorporated Christian and traditional practices (i.e. praying to God, performing rites and using herbs or plants). Even where an individual did not wish to mix practice because of upbringing, they acknowledged the existence and effectiveness of these practices. Colonisation was drawn on as an explanation for such mixed practices. The advent of Christianity was explained as having established Western culture (specifically Christianity) that is incorporated by participants. The Coloured - Afrikaans on the other hand, were consistent with the Christian practices “prayers to God”. A great deal of consistency however existed among all participants. Social support was considered very important. Talking with family and friends were relevant to the healing process as it gets rid of distorted thought patterns and avoids isolation considered as a serious current threat to healing. While there was an element of cognitive understanding, Western based treatment using cognitive restructuring was not a treatment option. Clinical practitioners or Psychologists that come into contact with the black Ghanaians and black South Africans should consider collaborative treatment strategies using the draft checklist as a guide.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A novel axially palladium (II)-Schiff base complex substituted silicon (IV) phthalocyanine
- Sen, Pinar, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Sen, Pinar , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/186813 , vital:44536 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.poly.2019.114135"
- Description: In this study, a novel silicon(IV) phthalocyanine is reported for the first time as a phthalocyanine derivative bearing axially a palladium(II)-Schiff base complex. The photophysical and photochemical properties of the new Si(IV)Pc, such as absorption, fluorescence, singlet oxygen quantum yields, triplet state quantum yields and exited state lifetimes were measured in DMSO. The new silicon phthalocyanine displayed very low fluorescence, showing efficient intersystem crossing resulting in high triplet and high singlet oxygen quantum yields in DMSO. When compared with the unsubstituted SiPcCl2, the singlet oxygen quantum yield value (UD = 0.47) in relation to the triplet quantum yield (UT = 0.82), which is an important determinant for PDT applications, increased. The photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy activity (PACT) of new Si(IV)Pc towards Staphylococcus aureus was determined in comparison to the unsubstituted SiPcCl2. The results of the photodynamic antimicrobial effect study demonstrated that the Pd(II) complex substituted SiPc (5) possesses excellent photodynamic activity with a reduction percentage value of 99.94% and a log red value of 3.26.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sen, Pinar , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/186813 , vital:44536 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.poly.2019.114135"
- Description: In this study, a novel silicon(IV) phthalocyanine is reported for the first time as a phthalocyanine derivative bearing axially a palladium(II)-Schiff base complex. The photophysical and photochemical properties of the new Si(IV)Pc, such as absorption, fluorescence, singlet oxygen quantum yields, triplet state quantum yields and exited state lifetimes were measured in DMSO. The new silicon phthalocyanine displayed very low fluorescence, showing efficient intersystem crossing resulting in high triplet and high singlet oxygen quantum yields in DMSO. When compared with the unsubstituted SiPcCl2, the singlet oxygen quantum yield value (UD = 0.47) in relation to the triplet quantum yield (UT = 0.82), which is an important determinant for PDT applications, increased. The photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy activity (PACT) of new Si(IV)Pc towards Staphylococcus aureus was determined in comparison to the unsubstituted SiPcCl2. The results of the photodynamic antimicrobial effect study demonstrated that the Pd(II) complex substituted SiPc (5) possesses excellent photodynamic activity with a reduction percentage value of 99.94% and a log red value of 3.26.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Exploring how Grade 11 Biology teachers mediate learning of osmosis when using easily accessible resources in the Oshikoto Region, Namibia
- Authors: Nangolo, Rosalia Ndawapeka
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Biology -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia , Osmosis -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia , Ethnobiology -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/92595 , vital:30740
- Description: Exploring the use easily accessible resources to carry out the hands-on practical activities to science learning has become one of the significant aspects in the educational research, particularly in science education. It could be deduced from the literature that hands-on practical activities are useful, enjoyable and foster conceptual understanding. The National Curriculum for Basic Education advocates empowering teachers to be knowledgeable on use of hands-on practical activities to produce learners who are scientifically equipped. Yet, the performance of the learners in Science and Mathematics continues to be worrisome and has not been improving over years as reported in TIMSS reports. For instance, the Namibian Examiners’ Reports have repeatedly reported that Biology is one of the subjects that are poorly performed. Essentially, the section on osmosis has been identified as one of the scientific concepts that is problematic to learners. In my view, in order for learners to understand osmosis and its associated concepts, there is a need to strengthen the use of hands-on practical activities. It is recognized that this is something that is lacking in most rural Namibian schools especially where laboratory resources are scarce. It is against this background that the goal of this study was to explore how Grade 11 Biology teachers mediate learning of osmosis when using easily accessible resources. This study is underpinned by an interpretive paradigm. Within the interpretive paradigm, a qualitative case study approach was employed to obtain in-depth understanding on how Biology teachers mediate learning. This study was conducted in two conveniently selected secondary schools in the Oshikoto region, which I could easily access. It focused on four Grade 11 Biology teachers. Data were generated through semi-structured interviews, workshop discussions, lesson observation and stimulated interviews. Vygotsky’s (1978) socio-cultural theory was used as a lens to analyse my data. The findings from semi-structured interviews revealed that teachers demonstrated positive attitudes towards teaching of osmosis using easily accessible resources. However, challenges regarding inadequate materials that hinder the teaching and learning process were registered. Another finding of this study was that teachers used a variety of mediation tools such as prior and local knowledge, language and easily accessible resources to enhance learning. The study thus recommends that, if teachers are exposed to numerous professional development platforms that include the use of easily accessible resources might improve their pedagogical approaches.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nangolo, Rosalia Ndawapeka
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Biology -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia , Osmosis -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia , Ethnobiology -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/92595 , vital:30740
- Description: Exploring the use easily accessible resources to carry out the hands-on practical activities to science learning has become one of the significant aspects in the educational research, particularly in science education. It could be deduced from the literature that hands-on practical activities are useful, enjoyable and foster conceptual understanding. The National Curriculum for Basic Education advocates empowering teachers to be knowledgeable on use of hands-on practical activities to produce learners who are scientifically equipped. Yet, the performance of the learners in Science and Mathematics continues to be worrisome and has not been improving over years as reported in TIMSS reports. For instance, the Namibian Examiners’ Reports have repeatedly reported that Biology is one of the subjects that are poorly performed. Essentially, the section on osmosis has been identified as one of the scientific concepts that is problematic to learners. In my view, in order for learners to understand osmosis and its associated concepts, there is a need to strengthen the use of hands-on practical activities. It is recognized that this is something that is lacking in most rural Namibian schools especially where laboratory resources are scarce. It is against this background that the goal of this study was to explore how Grade 11 Biology teachers mediate learning of osmosis when using easily accessible resources. This study is underpinned by an interpretive paradigm. Within the interpretive paradigm, a qualitative case study approach was employed to obtain in-depth understanding on how Biology teachers mediate learning. This study was conducted in two conveniently selected secondary schools in the Oshikoto region, which I could easily access. It focused on four Grade 11 Biology teachers. Data were generated through semi-structured interviews, workshop discussions, lesson observation and stimulated interviews. Vygotsky’s (1978) socio-cultural theory was used as a lens to analyse my data. The findings from semi-structured interviews revealed that teachers demonstrated positive attitudes towards teaching of osmosis using easily accessible resources. However, challenges regarding inadequate materials that hinder the teaching and learning process were registered. Another finding of this study was that teachers used a variety of mediation tools such as prior and local knowledge, language and easily accessible resources to enhance learning. The study thus recommends that, if teachers are exposed to numerous professional development platforms that include the use of easily accessible resources might improve their pedagogical approaches.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Application of computational methods in elucidating the isomerization step in the biosynthesis of coumarins
- Authors: Tshiwawa, Tendamudzimu
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Coumarins , Isomerization , Biosynthesis , Organic compounds -- Synthesis , Cinnamic acid
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/67646 , vital:29124
- Description: The identity of the enzyme(s) responsible for the biosynthetic transformation of cinnamic acid derivatives to important, naturally occurring coumarins has yet to be established. This study constitutes a high-level theoretical analysis of the possibility that a recently reported molecular mechanism of the synthesis of coumarins from Baylis-Hillman adducts, may provide a viable model for three critical phases in the biosynthetic pathway Particular attention has been given to the first of these phases: i) E→Z isomerisation of the cinnamic acid precursor; ii) Cyclisation (lactonisation) to the hemi-acetal intermediate; and ii) Dehydration to afford the coumarin derivative. In order to accomplish this analysis, an enzyme capable, theoretically, of effecting this E→Z isomerisation required identification, and its potential involvement in the transformation mechanism explored. Combined Molecular Mechanics and high-level Quantum Mechanical/DFT calculations were used to access complementary models of appropriate complexes and relevant processes within the enzyme active sites of a range of eleven Chalcone Isomerase (CHI) enzyme candidates, the structures of which were downloaded from the Protein Data Bank. Detailed B3LYP/6-31+G(d,p) calculations have provided pictures of the relative populations of conformations within the ensemble of conformations available at normal temperatures. Conformations of several protonation states of cinnamic acid derivatives have been studied in this way, and the results obtained showed that coupled protonation and deprotonation of (E)-o-coumaric acid provides a viable approach to achieve the E→Z isomerization. In silico docking of the B3LYP/6-31+G(d,p) optimized (E)-o-coumaric acid derivatives in the active sites of each of the candidate CHI enzymes (CHI) revealed that (E)-o-coumaric acid fits well within the active sites of Medicago Sativa CHI crystallographic structures with 1FM8 showing best potential for not only accommodating (E)-o-coumaric acid , but also providing appropriate protein active site residues to effect the simultaneous protonation and deprotonation of the substrate , two residues being optimally placed to facilitate these critical processes. Further exploration of the chemical properties and qualities of selected CHI enzymes, undertaken using High Throughput Virtual Screening (HTVS), confirmed 1FM8 as a viable choice for further studies of the enzyme-catalysed E→Z isomerization of (E)-o-coumaric acid. A molecular dynamics study, performed to further evaluate the evolution of (E)-o-coumaric acid in the CHI active site over time, showed that the ligand in the 1FM8 active site is not only stable, but also that the desired protein-ligand interactions persist throughout the simulation period to facilitate the E→Z isomerization. An integrated molecular orbital and molecular mechanics (ONIOM) study of the 1FM8-(E)-o-coumaric acid complex, involving the direct protonation and deprotonation of the ligand by protein residues; has provided a plausible mechanism for the E → Z isomerization of (E)-o-coumaric acid within the 1FM8 active site; a transition state complex (with an activation energy of ca. 50 kCal.mol-1) has been located and its connection with both the (E)- and (Z)-o-coumaric acid isomer has been confirmed by Intrinsic Reaction Coordinate (IRC) calculations. More realistic models of the 1FM8-(E)-o-coumaric acid complex, with the inclusion of water solvent molecules, have been obtained at both the QM/MM and adaptive QM/MM levels which simulate the dynamic active site at the QM level. The results indicate that the simultaneous protonation and deprotonation of (E)-o-coumaric acid within the CHI enzyme is a water-mediated process – a conclusion consistent with similar reported processes. Visual inspection of the 1FM8-(Z)-o-coumaric acid complex reveals both the necessary orientation of the phenolic and carboxylic acid moieties of the (Z)-o-coumaric acid and the presence of appropriate, proximal active site residues with the potential to permit catalysis of the subsequent lactonisation and dehydration steps required to generate coumarin.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Tshiwawa, Tendamudzimu
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Coumarins , Isomerization , Biosynthesis , Organic compounds -- Synthesis , Cinnamic acid
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/67646 , vital:29124
- Description: The identity of the enzyme(s) responsible for the biosynthetic transformation of cinnamic acid derivatives to important, naturally occurring coumarins has yet to be established. This study constitutes a high-level theoretical analysis of the possibility that a recently reported molecular mechanism of the synthesis of coumarins from Baylis-Hillman adducts, may provide a viable model for three critical phases in the biosynthetic pathway Particular attention has been given to the first of these phases: i) E→Z isomerisation of the cinnamic acid precursor; ii) Cyclisation (lactonisation) to the hemi-acetal intermediate; and ii) Dehydration to afford the coumarin derivative. In order to accomplish this analysis, an enzyme capable, theoretically, of effecting this E→Z isomerisation required identification, and its potential involvement in the transformation mechanism explored. Combined Molecular Mechanics and high-level Quantum Mechanical/DFT calculations were used to access complementary models of appropriate complexes and relevant processes within the enzyme active sites of a range of eleven Chalcone Isomerase (CHI) enzyme candidates, the structures of which were downloaded from the Protein Data Bank. Detailed B3LYP/6-31+G(d,p) calculations have provided pictures of the relative populations of conformations within the ensemble of conformations available at normal temperatures. Conformations of several protonation states of cinnamic acid derivatives have been studied in this way, and the results obtained showed that coupled protonation and deprotonation of (E)-o-coumaric acid provides a viable approach to achieve the E→Z isomerization. In silico docking of the B3LYP/6-31+G(d,p) optimized (E)-o-coumaric acid derivatives in the active sites of each of the candidate CHI enzymes (CHI) revealed that (E)-o-coumaric acid fits well within the active sites of Medicago Sativa CHI crystallographic structures with 1FM8 showing best potential for not only accommodating (E)-o-coumaric acid , but also providing appropriate protein active site residues to effect the simultaneous protonation and deprotonation of the substrate , two residues being optimally placed to facilitate these critical processes. Further exploration of the chemical properties and qualities of selected CHI enzymes, undertaken using High Throughput Virtual Screening (HTVS), confirmed 1FM8 as a viable choice for further studies of the enzyme-catalysed E→Z isomerization of (E)-o-coumaric acid. A molecular dynamics study, performed to further evaluate the evolution of (E)-o-coumaric acid in the CHI active site over time, showed that the ligand in the 1FM8 active site is not only stable, but also that the desired protein-ligand interactions persist throughout the simulation period to facilitate the E→Z isomerization. An integrated molecular orbital and molecular mechanics (ONIOM) study of the 1FM8-(E)-o-coumaric acid complex, involving the direct protonation and deprotonation of the ligand by protein residues; has provided a plausible mechanism for the E → Z isomerization of (E)-o-coumaric acid within the 1FM8 active site; a transition state complex (with an activation energy of ca. 50 kCal.mol-1) has been located and its connection with both the (E)- and (Z)-o-coumaric acid isomer has been confirmed by Intrinsic Reaction Coordinate (IRC) calculations. More realistic models of the 1FM8-(E)-o-coumaric acid complex, with the inclusion of water solvent molecules, have been obtained at both the QM/MM and adaptive QM/MM levels which simulate the dynamic active site at the QM level. The results indicate that the simultaneous protonation and deprotonation of (E)-o-coumaric acid within the CHI enzyme is a water-mediated process – a conclusion consistent with similar reported processes. Visual inspection of the 1FM8-(Z)-o-coumaric acid complex reveals both the necessary orientation of the phenolic and carboxylic acid moieties of the (Z)-o-coumaric acid and the presence of appropriate, proximal active site residues with the potential to permit catalysis of the subsequent lactonisation and dehydration steps required to generate coumarin.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Effect of dietary Mucuna pruriens seed meal on the serum lipid profile and bone quality traits of broiler chickens
- Authors: Hempe, Chumani
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Legumes Lipoproteins
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17213 , vital:40866
- Description: This study aimed at evaluating the effects of heated Mucuna pruriens seed meal on the blood serum lipid profile and bone quality parameters of broiler chickens. A total of 120 day-old unsexed Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly allocated for the 4 treatment diets (T1, T2, T3 and T4) containing 0, 10, 15, and 20% heated Mucuna pruriens seed meal. The birds were reared on wood shaving floor pens for 35 days. Birds were humanely slaughtered by severing the jugular vein using a sharp knife. Blood was collected into a tube, centrifuge and analyzed for a lipid profile analysis (total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoproteins (HDL), low density lipoproteins (LDL), triglycerides (TCD) as well as aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT)) by enzymatic diagnostic kits (Diasys diagnostic kits). Both drumsticks severed using a sharp knife. After boiling in the water at 100°C for 10 mins the tibia bones were taken, air-dried for 96 hrs at room temperature and measured for weights. Bone length, strength, moisture and ash content as well as morphology were measured. The blood lipid profile of birds fed T1 was high (P < 0.05) for all the parameters measured, while T3 had the lowest (P < 0.05) profile. T2 and T4 had the same profile. ALT was found to be highest (P < 0.05) for T4 (5.27 ± 0.207/L) and lowest (P < 0.05) for T2 (4.67 ± 0.333/L) while AST was highest (P < 0.05) for T2 (320.13 ± 28.851/L) and lowest (P < 0.05) for T3 (208.47 ± 10.059/L). Treatment diet 3 (T3) was observed decreased bone quality among all diets; with the lowest (P < 0.05) bone strength (188.55 ± 12.039N), bone length (8.59 ± 0.131cm) and morphology (1.69 ± 0.058). Mucuna pruriens seed meal inclusion in broiler diets reduces blood serum lipids and 20% inclusion levels have no adverse effects on the bone quality attributes
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Hempe, Chumani
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Legumes Lipoproteins
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17213 , vital:40866
- Description: This study aimed at evaluating the effects of heated Mucuna pruriens seed meal on the blood serum lipid profile and bone quality parameters of broiler chickens. A total of 120 day-old unsexed Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly allocated for the 4 treatment diets (T1, T2, T3 and T4) containing 0, 10, 15, and 20% heated Mucuna pruriens seed meal. The birds were reared on wood shaving floor pens for 35 days. Birds were humanely slaughtered by severing the jugular vein using a sharp knife. Blood was collected into a tube, centrifuge and analyzed for a lipid profile analysis (total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoproteins (HDL), low density lipoproteins (LDL), triglycerides (TCD) as well as aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT)) by enzymatic diagnostic kits (Diasys diagnostic kits). Both drumsticks severed using a sharp knife. After boiling in the water at 100°C for 10 mins the tibia bones were taken, air-dried for 96 hrs at room temperature and measured for weights. Bone length, strength, moisture and ash content as well as morphology were measured. The blood lipid profile of birds fed T1 was high (P < 0.05) for all the parameters measured, while T3 had the lowest (P < 0.05) profile. T2 and T4 had the same profile. ALT was found to be highest (P < 0.05) for T4 (5.27 ± 0.207/L) and lowest (P < 0.05) for T2 (4.67 ± 0.333/L) while AST was highest (P < 0.05) for T2 (320.13 ± 28.851/L) and lowest (P < 0.05) for T3 (208.47 ± 10.059/L). Treatment diet 3 (T3) was observed decreased bone quality among all diets; with the lowest (P < 0.05) bone strength (188.55 ± 12.039N), bone length (8.59 ± 0.131cm) and morphology (1.69 ± 0.058). Mucuna pruriens seed meal inclusion in broiler diets reduces blood serum lipids and 20% inclusion levels have no adverse effects on the bone quality attributes
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Determination of social, environmental and economic benefits for community participation in forestry in Mpumalanga, South Africa
- Long, Leo Searle, Chirwa, Paxie
- Authors: Long, Leo Searle , Chirwa, Paxie
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Forests and forestry -- South Africa -- Mpumalanga
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34339 , vital:33307
- Description: Rural communities living adjacent to commercial forestry operations are often affected by numerous negative social issues such as poverty, unemployment, poor healthcare, and limited infrastructure, amongst others. In excess of 61% of forestry land managed by the state owned SAFCOL SOC Ltd is under land claim, as part of the Restitution of Land Rights Act (Act 22 of 1994). It is therefore necessary for forest companies to seek active means of engaging and partnering with these communities through a participatory forest management (PFM) approach. This study explored the sustainable (social, environmental and economic), benefits of such an approach as perceived (experienced) by these local rural communities, and specifically land claimants. The study was conducted in communities adjacent to SAFCOL plantations in the Mpumalanga Province of South Africa. Data were collected between May and June 2017 by means of a structured questionnaire. Surveys were conducted on 46 households within the identified communities so as to verify and evaluate perceived benefits in terms of forest products, ecosystem services and amenities/services/infrastructure provided by SAFCOL and the broader forest industry. The results indicated that these communities recognize and obtain numerous social, environmental and economic benefits from the forest including Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) such as firewood; forest provisioning ecosystem services (FPESs) such as improved water quality; and more metaphysical benefits such as access to gravesites and the protection of traditions and customs. These benefits have the ability to improve the social well-being, economic independence, and the quality of environmental services obtained by the associated communities. It was however found that the utilization of these benefits was widely differentiated according to gender and land claimant status. Whilst males and females largely benefitted equally, there was a distinct benefit preference between genders for different NTFPs. For example males showed preference for the collection of building material, bush meat and for livestock husbandry, whilst females showed preference for the collection of firewood, medicinal plants and fruit, amongst others. Similarly, it was found that overall, non-land claimants benefited more than land claimants. Reasons for this are primarily due to the increased distance with which the land claimants live from the forest resource when compared to non-land claimants. The empirical value of the data produced through this study will be invaluable in negotiations with the land claimant communities on land settlement agreements, joint venture proposals, including Participatory Forest Management, and future land tenure. Through such inclusivity and vested interest in the sustainable management of the forests, corporate risk is reduced and community/land claimant relationships are reinforced. Such Participatory Forest Management arrangements are key to ensuring the longevity and resilience to the forest sector post-transfer of claimed land.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Long, Leo Searle , Chirwa, Paxie
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Forests and forestry -- South Africa -- Mpumalanga
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34339 , vital:33307
- Description: Rural communities living adjacent to commercial forestry operations are often affected by numerous negative social issues such as poverty, unemployment, poor healthcare, and limited infrastructure, amongst others. In excess of 61% of forestry land managed by the state owned SAFCOL SOC Ltd is under land claim, as part of the Restitution of Land Rights Act (Act 22 of 1994). It is therefore necessary for forest companies to seek active means of engaging and partnering with these communities through a participatory forest management (PFM) approach. This study explored the sustainable (social, environmental and economic), benefits of such an approach as perceived (experienced) by these local rural communities, and specifically land claimants. The study was conducted in communities adjacent to SAFCOL plantations in the Mpumalanga Province of South Africa. Data were collected between May and June 2017 by means of a structured questionnaire. Surveys were conducted on 46 households within the identified communities so as to verify and evaluate perceived benefits in terms of forest products, ecosystem services and amenities/services/infrastructure provided by SAFCOL and the broader forest industry. The results indicated that these communities recognize and obtain numerous social, environmental and economic benefits from the forest including Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) such as firewood; forest provisioning ecosystem services (FPESs) such as improved water quality; and more metaphysical benefits such as access to gravesites and the protection of traditions and customs. These benefits have the ability to improve the social well-being, economic independence, and the quality of environmental services obtained by the associated communities. It was however found that the utilization of these benefits was widely differentiated according to gender and land claimant status. Whilst males and females largely benefitted equally, there was a distinct benefit preference between genders for different NTFPs. For example males showed preference for the collection of building material, bush meat and for livestock husbandry, whilst females showed preference for the collection of firewood, medicinal plants and fruit, amongst others. Similarly, it was found that overall, non-land claimants benefited more than land claimants. Reasons for this are primarily due to the increased distance with which the land claimants live from the forest resource when compared to non-land claimants. The empirical value of the data produced through this study will be invaluable in negotiations with the land claimant communities on land settlement agreements, joint venture proposals, including Participatory Forest Management, and future land tenure. Through such inclusivity and vested interest in the sustainable management of the forests, corporate risk is reduced and community/land claimant relationships are reinforced. Such Participatory Forest Management arrangements are key to ensuring the longevity and resilience to the forest sector post-transfer of claimed land.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The impact of policies on development-induced resettlement processes and outcomes: a Lesotho-India comparative study
- Tsietsi, Teboho Priscilla Mosuoe
- Authors: Tsietsi, Teboho Priscilla Mosuoe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Forced migration -- Lesotho , Forced migration -- India , Dams -- Social aspects -- Lesotho , Dams -- Social aspects -- India , Irrigation projects -- Economic aspects -- Lesotho , Irrigation projects -- Economic aspects -- India , Land settlement -- Government policy -- Lesotho , Land settlement -- Government policy -- India
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/72307 , vital:30032
- Description: The practice of Development-Induced Displacement and Resettlement (DIDR), historically, has often led to negative consequences for those affected by development projects, including but not limited to, the construction of large dams. Although DIDR arises from the need to provide goods and services that characterise development, it often leaves those who are forced to give up their assets, resources, and long standing social networks in dire socio-economic conditions as a result of resettlement. In many such cases, the provision for losses suffered by those primarily affected is often insufficient, leading to further losses experienced as a result of the complete life change experienced by those affected by resettlement. Research has shown that the insufficiency of such provisions for losses is attributable to not only the value of the provision itself, but also the manner in which resettlement processes are implemented. While early on, researchers believed that the development of policies would have a significant, positive impact on the practice of resettlement and its outcomes, evidence would later show that the development of policies alone is not a panacea for all challenges associated with forced resettlement. Further research revealed that resettlement is characterised by inherent and active complexities which are often at play, and may impede effective implementation. Hence, while the development of policies is essential, both the development and implementation of policies must be undertaken in a manner that seeks to actively address the inherent complexities of resettlement. This thesis aims to explore the implementation of resettlement policies in two case studies, where in one case, resettlement was informed by national policy, and in the other, by policies developed by a parastatal tasked with the responsibility of executing resettlement. The study makes a comparative analysis between the two cases, and explores the factors at play in the implementation of resettlement policies – whether such factors serve to facilitate or impede effective implementation – as well as the nature of the outcomes on the ground. As an overarching goal, the research aims to provide a basis upon which a framework for the development of a national level policy of resettlement may be developed. In this regard, the thesis undertakes a comparison of the Indian resettlement case with the Lesotho case. The former, in addition to having developed a resettlement policy at the national level, has a long history of experience in forced resettlement and displacement, from which invaluable lessons have been learned. The latter, on the other hand, has no resettlement policy at the national level, although the country has also experienced forced resettlement dating back to nearly three decades ago. Although India and Lesotho have distinct social, cultural, economic and demographic characteristics, research has shown that the complexities of forced resettlement, and their outcomes on affected people, are largely applicable across the different contexts. Hence, certain dimensions and lessons can be transferable from the Indian case to the Lesotho case, and vice versa. However, for the purpose of this thesis, the focus is on providing a basis for national policy development in Lesotho, in light of Indian policies and practice. The empirical basis of the thesis is an ethnographic study undertaken in relation to the Chandil Dam resettlement case in Jharkhand, India and the Mohale Dam resettlement case in Maseru, Lesotho. The thesis engaged both qualitative and quantitative research methods, as well as four, complementary theoretical tools that analyse the effects of forced resettlement on affected people. The thesis reveals that the negative consequences of forced resettlement resulting from its inherent complexities continue to manifest with concerning effects on the lives of those affected. It shows that the implementation of policies is a complex process that requires collaborative effort from a wide range of stakeholders in a given context. National policies of resettlement are, thus, instrumental in this regard, as they can create an enabling environment for the facilitation of collaborative efforts towards sustainable livelihood re-establishment for those who involuntarily suffer losses to resettlement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Tsietsi, Teboho Priscilla Mosuoe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Forced migration -- Lesotho , Forced migration -- India , Dams -- Social aspects -- Lesotho , Dams -- Social aspects -- India , Irrigation projects -- Economic aspects -- Lesotho , Irrigation projects -- Economic aspects -- India , Land settlement -- Government policy -- Lesotho , Land settlement -- Government policy -- India
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/72307 , vital:30032
- Description: The practice of Development-Induced Displacement and Resettlement (DIDR), historically, has often led to negative consequences for those affected by development projects, including but not limited to, the construction of large dams. Although DIDR arises from the need to provide goods and services that characterise development, it often leaves those who are forced to give up their assets, resources, and long standing social networks in dire socio-economic conditions as a result of resettlement. In many such cases, the provision for losses suffered by those primarily affected is often insufficient, leading to further losses experienced as a result of the complete life change experienced by those affected by resettlement. Research has shown that the insufficiency of such provisions for losses is attributable to not only the value of the provision itself, but also the manner in which resettlement processes are implemented. While early on, researchers believed that the development of policies would have a significant, positive impact on the practice of resettlement and its outcomes, evidence would later show that the development of policies alone is not a panacea for all challenges associated with forced resettlement. Further research revealed that resettlement is characterised by inherent and active complexities which are often at play, and may impede effective implementation. Hence, while the development of policies is essential, both the development and implementation of policies must be undertaken in a manner that seeks to actively address the inherent complexities of resettlement. This thesis aims to explore the implementation of resettlement policies in two case studies, where in one case, resettlement was informed by national policy, and in the other, by policies developed by a parastatal tasked with the responsibility of executing resettlement. The study makes a comparative analysis between the two cases, and explores the factors at play in the implementation of resettlement policies – whether such factors serve to facilitate or impede effective implementation – as well as the nature of the outcomes on the ground. As an overarching goal, the research aims to provide a basis upon which a framework for the development of a national level policy of resettlement may be developed. In this regard, the thesis undertakes a comparison of the Indian resettlement case with the Lesotho case. The former, in addition to having developed a resettlement policy at the national level, has a long history of experience in forced resettlement and displacement, from which invaluable lessons have been learned. The latter, on the other hand, has no resettlement policy at the national level, although the country has also experienced forced resettlement dating back to nearly three decades ago. Although India and Lesotho have distinct social, cultural, economic and demographic characteristics, research has shown that the complexities of forced resettlement, and their outcomes on affected people, are largely applicable across the different contexts. Hence, certain dimensions and lessons can be transferable from the Indian case to the Lesotho case, and vice versa. However, for the purpose of this thesis, the focus is on providing a basis for national policy development in Lesotho, in light of Indian policies and practice. The empirical basis of the thesis is an ethnographic study undertaken in relation to the Chandil Dam resettlement case in Jharkhand, India and the Mohale Dam resettlement case in Maseru, Lesotho. The thesis engaged both qualitative and quantitative research methods, as well as four, complementary theoretical tools that analyse the effects of forced resettlement on affected people. The thesis reveals that the negative consequences of forced resettlement resulting from its inherent complexities continue to manifest with concerning effects on the lives of those affected. It shows that the implementation of policies is a complex process that requires collaborative effort from a wide range of stakeholders in a given context. National policies of resettlement are, thus, instrumental in this regard, as they can create an enabling environment for the facilitation of collaborative efforts towards sustainable livelihood re-establishment for those who involuntarily suffer losses to resettlement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Genetic diversity, resistance profile of hiv and risk assessment of mother-to-child transmission in pregnant women on antiretroviral therapy in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Adeniyi, Oladele Vincent
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Antiretroviral agents HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15120 , vital:40183
- Description: Despite the initiation of life-long ART in HIV-infected pregnant women, the rate and determinants of infant HIV transmission are not known, especially in the poor resource settings of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Maternal anti-retroviral therapy (ART) is crucial for elimination of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV. However, the inevitable risks of emergence of HIV drug resistance poses significant threat to achieving this goal of HIV-free generation and keeping mothers alive. Also, it is unclear if women with high viral load at delivery have acquired clinically relevant mutations, which could confer resistance to the ART, thus, further increasing the risks of motherto-child transmission of HIV-drug resistance strains. In addition to the gaps identified in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) context, the understanding of regional epidemics is crucial to the broader epidemiological profiling of HIV infections in the country. Despite the rapid influx of foreign nationals to South African and Eastern Cape Province, there has not been any molecular epidemiological studies profiling the HIV diversity in the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Adeniyi, Oladele Vincent
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Antiretroviral agents HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15120 , vital:40183
- Description: Despite the initiation of life-long ART in HIV-infected pregnant women, the rate and determinants of infant HIV transmission are not known, especially in the poor resource settings of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Maternal anti-retroviral therapy (ART) is crucial for elimination of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV. However, the inevitable risks of emergence of HIV drug resistance poses significant threat to achieving this goal of HIV-free generation and keeping mothers alive. Also, it is unclear if women with high viral load at delivery have acquired clinically relevant mutations, which could confer resistance to the ART, thus, further increasing the risks of motherto-child transmission of HIV-drug resistance strains. In addition to the gaps identified in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) context, the understanding of regional epidemics is crucial to the broader epidemiological profiling of HIV infections in the country. Despite the rapid influx of foreign nationals to South African and Eastern Cape Province, there has not been any molecular epidemiological studies profiling the HIV diversity in the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Effect of a physical activity intervention on the physical fitness of primary schoolchildren in disadvantaged communities in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Joubert, Nandi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Physical fitness -- Research , Physical fitness for children Exercise for children Health behavior in children Child development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39962 , vital:35602
- Description: Physical activity is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, and schools are ideal settings for promoting activity and wellness. Only half of South African children meet global activity recommendations and overweightness and obesity remain a growing challenge. Disadvantaged communities are at even greater risk, as environmental- and socioeconomic challenges further influence children’s health and activity levels. This study investigated the effect of a physical activity intervention on the following health-related physical fitness parameters of primary schoolchildren: cardiorespiratory fitness, upper- and lower body strength, lower body flexibility, and body composition. More specifically the objectives were to describe and compare the intervention and control groups, at baseline, mid- and post intervene. A cluster randomised controlled trial determined the effect of the intervention. Testing was phased in three cross sectional surveys, baseline, mid and post-intervention. The study sample consisted of 157 children, aged 8-12 years, from two primary schools in the township of Motherwell, Port Elizabeth. The physical activity intervention consisted of two intervention periods, each 10-weeks in duration, and included physical education lessons, move-to-music dance classes, in-class physical activity breaks, and physical activity ‘homework’. Furthermore, a low-cost physical activity-friendly school environment was created with play structures, painted games, and the upgrade of sporting facilities and equipment. The intervention was shown to have significant positive effects on the number of laps ran (p < 0.05), indicating cardiorespiratory fitness, and handgrip strength (p < 0.001), an indicator of upper body musculature strength. No significant effects were found for lower body musculature strength (p > 0.05), lower body flexibility (p > 0.05) or body mass index (p > 0.05). Schoolchildren’s level of health-related physical fitness should be regularly assessed, and effective interventions should be implemented and monitored to ensure that children meet recommended activity and fitness standards. Physical education in South African schools is currently compromised, with children having low levels of in-school activity and high levels of sedentary behaviour. The majority of physical activity and health-related physical fitness measures are poor, with even lower scores for girls and children from lower socioeconomic areas. Interventions are thus essential and should focus on extended durations and higher activity intensities in order to achieve health enhancing benefits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Joubert, Nandi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Physical fitness -- Research , Physical fitness for children Exercise for children Health behavior in children Child development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39962 , vital:35602
- Description: Physical activity is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, and schools are ideal settings for promoting activity and wellness. Only half of South African children meet global activity recommendations and overweightness and obesity remain a growing challenge. Disadvantaged communities are at even greater risk, as environmental- and socioeconomic challenges further influence children’s health and activity levels. This study investigated the effect of a physical activity intervention on the following health-related physical fitness parameters of primary schoolchildren: cardiorespiratory fitness, upper- and lower body strength, lower body flexibility, and body composition. More specifically the objectives were to describe and compare the intervention and control groups, at baseline, mid- and post intervene. A cluster randomised controlled trial determined the effect of the intervention. Testing was phased in three cross sectional surveys, baseline, mid and post-intervention. The study sample consisted of 157 children, aged 8-12 years, from two primary schools in the township of Motherwell, Port Elizabeth. The physical activity intervention consisted of two intervention periods, each 10-weeks in duration, and included physical education lessons, move-to-music dance classes, in-class physical activity breaks, and physical activity ‘homework’. Furthermore, a low-cost physical activity-friendly school environment was created with play structures, painted games, and the upgrade of sporting facilities and equipment. The intervention was shown to have significant positive effects on the number of laps ran (p < 0.05), indicating cardiorespiratory fitness, and handgrip strength (p < 0.001), an indicator of upper body musculature strength. No significant effects were found for lower body musculature strength (p > 0.05), lower body flexibility (p > 0.05) or body mass index (p > 0.05). Schoolchildren’s level of health-related physical fitness should be regularly assessed, and effective interventions should be implemented and monitored to ensure that children meet recommended activity and fitness standards. Physical education in South African schools is currently compromised, with children having low levels of in-school activity and high levels of sedentary behaviour. The majority of physical activity and health-related physical fitness measures are poor, with even lower scores for girls and children from lower socioeconomic areas. Interventions are thus essential and should focus on extended durations and higher activity intensities in order to achieve health enhancing benefits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Teacher practices and human capital acquisition: evidence from the international association for evaluation of educational achievement
- Authors: Tsikai,Epiphania
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Human capital Academic achievement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17011 , vital:40811
- Description: Human capital is considered as the measure of education, skills, capacity and attributes of labour which impact people’s productive capacity and earning potential. The study used mathematics student academic performance as a proxy to measure human capital across countries using the Trends in International Mathematics and Science study (TIMSS) dataset. African countries participating in TIMSS are performing poorly as they are always at the bottom. The budget allocation of African countries is more than that of Asian countries, but the student outcomes do not correlate with the input. This is so disappointing considering the amount of money the governments invest in the education sectors. The study investigated teacher practices and human capital acquisition in four African countries that participated in TIMSS from 2007 to 2015. The four countries were South Africa, Botswana, Egypt and Morocco. In addition, the study included the best performing countries from East Asia that also participated in TIMSS. These four countries were Singapore, South Korea, Japan and Hong Kong Sar. The best performing countries were included in the analysis in order to determine best practice from the best performing countries. Using Stata 14, pooled OLS cross sections methodology was used to generate results on whether teacher practices influence students’ mathematics achievement by using grade 8 test scores per country, student and teacher background. The study found that some teacher practices significantly explain academic performance in mathematics especially in African countries whilst socio economic status significantly affect performance across all the countries. Future research will investigate some other measures that can promote good performance of mathematics in African countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Tsikai,Epiphania
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Human capital Academic achievement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17011 , vital:40811
- Description: Human capital is considered as the measure of education, skills, capacity and attributes of labour which impact people’s productive capacity and earning potential. The study used mathematics student academic performance as a proxy to measure human capital across countries using the Trends in International Mathematics and Science study (TIMSS) dataset. African countries participating in TIMSS are performing poorly as they are always at the bottom. The budget allocation of African countries is more than that of Asian countries, but the student outcomes do not correlate with the input. This is so disappointing considering the amount of money the governments invest in the education sectors. The study investigated teacher practices and human capital acquisition in four African countries that participated in TIMSS from 2007 to 2015. The four countries were South Africa, Botswana, Egypt and Morocco. In addition, the study included the best performing countries from East Asia that also participated in TIMSS. These four countries were Singapore, South Korea, Japan and Hong Kong Sar. The best performing countries were included in the analysis in order to determine best practice from the best performing countries. Using Stata 14, pooled OLS cross sections methodology was used to generate results on whether teacher practices influence students’ mathematics achievement by using grade 8 test scores per country, student and teacher background. The study found that some teacher practices significantly explain academic performance in mathematics especially in African countries whilst socio economic status significantly affect performance across all the countries. Future research will investigate some other measures that can promote good performance of mathematics in African countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The development of a socio-economic model to promote women empowerment initiatives in the renewable energy sector of South Africa
- Authors: Keown, Harvey
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women -- Employment -- South Africa , Women in development -- South Africa Equality -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 2000-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40621 , vital:36199
- Description: The objective of this research was, therefore, to evaluate and recommend new approaches to mainstream gender in the renewable energy sector. This objective would be achieved by introducing a model of the factors that contribute to the perceived success of the socio-economic empowerment of women within the renewable energy sector of the RSA. This study is equally beneficial to any Country that might be embarking on a Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program. Also, the research findings and recommendations are equally relevant to the mining, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors who wish to mainstream gender in their sectors. From the empirical evidence, Executive Leadership (ethical leadership) positively influences Good Governance and Successful Women’s Empowerment. Therefore, the inference can be made that the respondents deemed Executive Leadership to be a primary contributing factor to both Good Governance and Successful Women’s Empowerment. According to the empirical results, Social Investment (funding) and Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (policy) positively influence Successful Women’s Empowerment. Finally, the empirical results indicate that Sustainable Programmes are a positive contributing factor to Good Governance. The respondents did not consider Stakeholder Engagement statistically significant in relation to Good Governance or Successful Women’s Empowerment. This could be a case of misinterpretation, or lack of experience regarding the importance of Stakeholder Engagement. However, the literature indicates the criticality of Stakeholder Engagement, as well as Change Management. Further research should be conducted to establish the lack of appreciation by respondents for the importance of Stakeholder Engagement and Change Management. These findings shed light on the opportunities for the socio-economic empowerment of women in the renewable energy sector of the RSA, by developing women-led Independent Power Producers.The South African Constitution is lauded as one of the most progressive in the world, and in some respects considered better than the Constitution of the United States of America with regards to Human and Socio-Economic Rights. Yet, South Africa exhibits the highest incidence of recorded rape in the world, with an increase in femicides, violence against women and children, and even more barbaric acts of burning their victims, and cannibalism in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. This research argues that if women were economically empowered, they would be able to extricate themselves from these perilous situations. The paradox between the South African Constitution and the reality, is indicative of deep structural challenges that will require exceptional solutions that will address the systemic issues that this study will discuss. The renewable energy sector, which is one of the fastest growing business sectors in South Africa, could be that catalyst for this change, and, more importantly, change the stereotypical paradigm of women entrepreneurs as owners of ‘chicken coops’ and ‘veggie patches’, to become owner-operators of their own power generation facilities, thereby making a meaningful contribution to women-led Independent Power Producers. However, it would be a lost opportunity if the renewable energy sector were to follow a similar trajectory to the mining sector in failing to mainstream gender, or if the renewable energy sector were to repeat the errors of the mining sector in attempting to empower women. Based on the literature review, guidance from subject matter experts, survey data, and personal field experience, I examine the primary research question: What are the main contributors and variables which can positively influence the socioeconomic empowerment of women initiatives in the renewable energy sector in the Republic of South Africa? In order to respond to this primary research question, a theoretical model was developed, which was informed by the academic literature, reports and studies from the public and private sectors, data garnered through a questionnaire, as well as face-to-face dialogue sessions. In order to address the primary objective of developing the theoretical model, several secondary goals were established by developing a conceptual model that comprised of variables determined through a detailed review of the related gender and renewable energy literature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Keown, Harvey
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women -- Employment -- South Africa , Women in development -- South Africa Equality -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 2000-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40621 , vital:36199
- Description: The objective of this research was, therefore, to evaluate and recommend new approaches to mainstream gender in the renewable energy sector. This objective would be achieved by introducing a model of the factors that contribute to the perceived success of the socio-economic empowerment of women within the renewable energy sector of the RSA. This study is equally beneficial to any Country that might be embarking on a Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program. Also, the research findings and recommendations are equally relevant to the mining, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors who wish to mainstream gender in their sectors. From the empirical evidence, Executive Leadership (ethical leadership) positively influences Good Governance and Successful Women’s Empowerment. Therefore, the inference can be made that the respondents deemed Executive Leadership to be a primary contributing factor to both Good Governance and Successful Women’s Empowerment. According to the empirical results, Social Investment (funding) and Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (policy) positively influence Successful Women’s Empowerment. Finally, the empirical results indicate that Sustainable Programmes are a positive contributing factor to Good Governance. The respondents did not consider Stakeholder Engagement statistically significant in relation to Good Governance or Successful Women’s Empowerment. This could be a case of misinterpretation, or lack of experience regarding the importance of Stakeholder Engagement. However, the literature indicates the criticality of Stakeholder Engagement, as well as Change Management. Further research should be conducted to establish the lack of appreciation by respondents for the importance of Stakeholder Engagement and Change Management. These findings shed light on the opportunities for the socio-economic empowerment of women in the renewable energy sector of the RSA, by developing women-led Independent Power Producers.The South African Constitution is lauded as one of the most progressive in the world, and in some respects considered better than the Constitution of the United States of America with regards to Human and Socio-Economic Rights. Yet, South Africa exhibits the highest incidence of recorded rape in the world, with an increase in femicides, violence against women and children, and even more barbaric acts of burning their victims, and cannibalism in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. This research argues that if women were economically empowered, they would be able to extricate themselves from these perilous situations. The paradox between the South African Constitution and the reality, is indicative of deep structural challenges that will require exceptional solutions that will address the systemic issues that this study will discuss. The renewable energy sector, which is one of the fastest growing business sectors in South Africa, could be that catalyst for this change, and, more importantly, change the stereotypical paradigm of women entrepreneurs as owners of ‘chicken coops’ and ‘veggie patches’, to become owner-operators of their own power generation facilities, thereby making a meaningful contribution to women-led Independent Power Producers. However, it would be a lost opportunity if the renewable energy sector were to follow a similar trajectory to the mining sector in failing to mainstream gender, or if the renewable energy sector were to repeat the errors of the mining sector in attempting to empower women. Based on the literature review, guidance from subject matter experts, survey data, and personal field experience, I examine the primary research question: What are the main contributors and variables which can positively influence the socioeconomic empowerment of women initiatives in the renewable energy sector in the Republic of South Africa? In order to respond to this primary research question, a theoretical model was developed, which was informed by the academic literature, reports and studies from the public and private sectors, data garnered through a questionnaire, as well as face-to-face dialogue sessions. In order to address the primary objective of developing the theoretical model, several secondary goals were established by developing a conceptual model that comprised of variables determined through a detailed review of the related gender and renewable energy literature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Hearing silenced voices: a learning-centred approach to sustainable land rehabilitation and natural resource management
- Authors: Wolff, Margaret Gascoyne
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Watershed management -- South Africa -- Citizen participation , Water-supply -- Management -- Citizen participation , Environmental education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/94958 , vital:31101
- Description: South Africa is a semi-arid country with dysfunctional water management. The National Water Act encourages integrated water resource management and public participation in contributing to strategies for managing water within delineated areas. Various challenges hamper progress of integrated water resource management and meaningful participation by residents in catchments across the country. One of the challenges is the lack of knowledge about their role in water resource management. By viewing catchments as complex social-ecological systems, this case study investigates how to establish a learning-centred approach to catchment management forum (CMF) formation. The study addressed three sub-questions: What activity systems need to be prioritised for community participation in CMF formation? What existing learning can be identified within the activity systems? What are the sources for expansive social learning in and between the activity systems? The study draws on social learning theory, and on cultural historical activity theory as it offers a methodological approach to identifying a learning-centred approach to learning in a catchment context. Drawing on this theoretical framework, for research question 1, I identified five activity systems that are present in the study area, are partly representative of the people who live in the area, and are linked to land and water governance either through their positions as government employees within the sector, or the NLEIP in ways that influence communities’ lives and livelihoods. To address question 2, I ran learning-centred workshops and interviewed people who lived in the study area. Careful, respectful listening and participants’ use of home language created the safe space in which residents revealed that they know which water resources are important to protect and where breakdowns in communication happen. For question 3, I analysed the data from the workshops and interviews using a cultural historical activity theory framework to identify discursive manifestations of contradictions within and between activity systems which illuminate the potential for expansive social learning. This study recommends developing an understanding of the complex social-ecological context and prioritising co-learning and community participation in a learning-centred approach to catchment management forum formation. For this, there is need to develop in-depth insight into activity systems associated with water governance in local contexts. In this study I identified five of these activity systems, but the study points to a further range of activity systems that need to be considered for a learning-centred approach to be fully established. The study also found that communities are learning via engaging in the rehabilitation work, through engagements in workshops and within the municipal structures. Additionally, the study identified a number of contradictions that can provide sources of learning for taking an expansive learning approach further in CMF formation. Such an approach may provide the space to build bridges of trust between diverse knowledge systems, and has the potential to encourage sustainable co-operation in natural resource management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Wolff, Margaret Gascoyne
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Watershed management -- South Africa -- Citizen participation , Water-supply -- Management -- Citizen participation , Environmental education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/94958 , vital:31101
- Description: South Africa is a semi-arid country with dysfunctional water management. The National Water Act encourages integrated water resource management and public participation in contributing to strategies for managing water within delineated areas. Various challenges hamper progress of integrated water resource management and meaningful participation by residents in catchments across the country. One of the challenges is the lack of knowledge about their role in water resource management. By viewing catchments as complex social-ecological systems, this case study investigates how to establish a learning-centred approach to catchment management forum (CMF) formation. The study addressed three sub-questions: What activity systems need to be prioritised for community participation in CMF formation? What existing learning can be identified within the activity systems? What are the sources for expansive social learning in and between the activity systems? The study draws on social learning theory, and on cultural historical activity theory as it offers a methodological approach to identifying a learning-centred approach to learning in a catchment context. Drawing on this theoretical framework, for research question 1, I identified five activity systems that are present in the study area, are partly representative of the people who live in the area, and are linked to land and water governance either through their positions as government employees within the sector, or the NLEIP in ways that influence communities’ lives and livelihoods. To address question 2, I ran learning-centred workshops and interviewed people who lived in the study area. Careful, respectful listening and participants’ use of home language created the safe space in which residents revealed that they know which water resources are important to protect and where breakdowns in communication happen. For question 3, I analysed the data from the workshops and interviews using a cultural historical activity theory framework to identify discursive manifestations of contradictions within and between activity systems which illuminate the potential for expansive social learning. This study recommends developing an understanding of the complex social-ecological context and prioritising co-learning and community participation in a learning-centred approach to catchment management forum formation. For this, there is need to develop in-depth insight into activity systems associated with water governance in local contexts. In this study I identified five of these activity systems, but the study points to a further range of activity systems that need to be considered for a learning-centred approach to be fully established. The study also found that communities are learning via engaging in the rehabilitation work, through engagements in workshops and within the municipal structures. Additionally, the study identified a number of contradictions that can provide sources of learning for taking an expansive learning approach further in CMF formation. Such an approach may provide the space to build bridges of trust between diverse knowledge systems, and has the potential to encourage sustainable co-operation in natural resource management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Effects of 99-year leases on newly resettled farmers’ farm improvement, productivity and empowerment in Zimbabwe, 2007 to 2013
- Authors: Makaye, Peter
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Land reform - -Zimbabwe , Land tenure -- Zimbabwe Farmers -- Zimbabwe Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40812 , vital:36239
- Description: This study seeks to interrogate the effects of 99-year leases on newly resettled farmers, with focus on Zimbabwe’s Fast Track Land Reform programme, shifting from its causes and processes to its variegated outcomes., The focus was on how the leasehold system has impinged on three variables: farm improvement, productivity, and empowerment. Quantitative data was collected from 92 newly resettled farmers randomly selected from three different farming regions in Zimbabwe: Region 2, an agriculturally well-endowed area concentrating on crop production, Region 4, an arid and hot region concentrating on livestock, and Region 5, specialising in sugar cane production under irrigation. To corroborate the survey findings, follow-up interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) were carried out in these regions. Interviews with purposively sampled experts in agriculture in Zimbabwe were also conducted. Data are presented in charts and graphs as well as detailed descriptions. The study found that the 99-year leases influenced the fortunes of the farmers in different ways. In some areas, depending on the crop grown, the 99-year leases were accepted as a basis for a loan. In other instances, the leases have not been accepted as collateral and this has constrained the farmers’ ability to optimally utilise their farms optimally. Despite a general sense of insecurity, the farmers have shown a willingness to re-invest in the farms., Many improvements such as new accommodation for employees, the erection of fire guards, and the development of water sources are being made on the farms, all pointing to a desire for sustained utilisation of the A2 farms. The researcher proposes that serious effort has to be made towards making the 99-year leases acceptable as collateral for loans because otherwise, in the context of general undercapitalisation among the farmers, their ability to make the medium-scale farms optimally contribute to national accumulation will remain constrained. The form of tenure is related to the empowerment of the farmers, both materially and socially. This is in turn related to the sustainable use of the land and hence to sustainable development in Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Makaye, Peter
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Land reform - -Zimbabwe , Land tenure -- Zimbabwe Farmers -- Zimbabwe Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40812 , vital:36239
- Description: This study seeks to interrogate the effects of 99-year leases on newly resettled farmers, with focus on Zimbabwe’s Fast Track Land Reform programme, shifting from its causes and processes to its variegated outcomes., The focus was on how the leasehold system has impinged on three variables: farm improvement, productivity, and empowerment. Quantitative data was collected from 92 newly resettled farmers randomly selected from three different farming regions in Zimbabwe: Region 2, an agriculturally well-endowed area concentrating on crop production, Region 4, an arid and hot region concentrating on livestock, and Region 5, specialising in sugar cane production under irrigation. To corroborate the survey findings, follow-up interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) were carried out in these regions. Interviews with purposively sampled experts in agriculture in Zimbabwe were also conducted. Data are presented in charts and graphs as well as detailed descriptions. The study found that the 99-year leases influenced the fortunes of the farmers in different ways. In some areas, depending on the crop grown, the 99-year leases were accepted as a basis for a loan. In other instances, the leases have not been accepted as collateral and this has constrained the farmers’ ability to optimally utilise their farms optimally. Despite a general sense of insecurity, the farmers have shown a willingness to re-invest in the farms., Many improvements such as new accommodation for employees, the erection of fire guards, and the development of water sources are being made on the farms, all pointing to a desire for sustained utilisation of the A2 farms. The researcher proposes that serious effort has to be made towards making the 99-year leases acceptable as collateral for loans because otherwise, in the context of general undercapitalisation among the farmers, their ability to make the medium-scale farms optimally contribute to national accumulation will remain constrained. The form of tenure is related to the empowerment of the farmers, both materially and socially. This is in turn related to the sustainable use of the land and hence to sustainable development in Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Legal position of TES employees
- Authors: Sidloyi, Sicelo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Temporary employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Temporary help services -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Employees -- South Africa Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43478 , vital:36896
- Description: This paper focuses on the legal position of employees of a Temporary Employment Services (hereinafter referred to as “TES”), also referred to as a labour broker defined as a person or entity that provides workers to others, (their clients) to perform duties for the benefit of the client for compensation. This tripartite relationship is established by an employment contract between the employee and the TES (this forms the basis of the employment relationship) and a commercial contract between the TES and the client. This relationship is regulated by S198 of the Labour Relations Act1 (hereinafter referred to as “LRA”). This section provides protection to employees of a labour broker, where before it, such protection did not exist. This section along with its subsections will be discussed in length in this paper and this section will be criticized and its shortcomings will be highlighted. Due to S198’s shortcomings, The South African Government introduced proposed amendments to the LRA (hereinafter referred to as “LRAA”).2 These proposed amendments and the effect thereof on TES are studied to determine whether it will better the current issues experienced with TES. The amendments provide difficulty in its interpretation, particularly S198A (3) (b), also referred to as the deeming provision. This paper will study the amendments and its subsections. S198A(3)(b) is problematic in its interpretation because due to the manner in which it is drafted, strong arguments can be made for either a sole employment interpretation or a dual employer interpretation. The main focus of the paper will be to study provisions of S198 (A) (3) (b) and look at who the employer is, of employees in a TES relationship, between the TES and the client. This question will also ultimately indicate what the legal position is of employees in TES relationship. This paper will also look at how courts have interpreted the deeming provision and their findings will be highlighted and criticised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sidloyi, Sicelo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Temporary employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Temporary help services -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Employees -- South Africa Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43478 , vital:36896
- Description: This paper focuses on the legal position of employees of a Temporary Employment Services (hereinafter referred to as “TES”), also referred to as a labour broker defined as a person or entity that provides workers to others, (their clients) to perform duties for the benefit of the client for compensation. This tripartite relationship is established by an employment contract between the employee and the TES (this forms the basis of the employment relationship) and a commercial contract between the TES and the client. This relationship is regulated by S198 of the Labour Relations Act1 (hereinafter referred to as “LRA”). This section provides protection to employees of a labour broker, where before it, such protection did not exist. This section along with its subsections will be discussed in length in this paper and this section will be criticized and its shortcomings will be highlighted. Due to S198’s shortcomings, The South African Government introduced proposed amendments to the LRA (hereinafter referred to as “LRAA”).2 These proposed amendments and the effect thereof on TES are studied to determine whether it will better the current issues experienced with TES. The amendments provide difficulty in its interpretation, particularly S198A (3) (b), also referred to as the deeming provision. This paper will study the amendments and its subsections. S198A(3)(b) is problematic in its interpretation because due to the manner in which it is drafted, strong arguments can be made for either a sole employment interpretation or a dual employer interpretation. The main focus of the paper will be to study provisions of S198 (A) (3) (b) and look at who the employer is, of employees in a TES relationship, between the TES and the client. This question will also ultimately indicate what the legal position is of employees in TES relationship. This paper will also look at how courts have interpreted the deeming provision and their findings will be highlighted and criticised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Contributions of the pars lateralis, pars basilaris and femur to age estimations of the immature skeleton within a South African forensic setting:
- Thornton, Roxanne, Edkins, Adrienne L, Hutchinson, E F
- Authors: Thornton, Roxanne , Edkins, Adrienne L , Hutchinson, E F
- Date: 2020
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/165451 , vital:41245 , https://0-doi.org.wam.seals.ac.za/10.1007/s00414-019-02143-9
- Description: Dental development and eruption sequences have prevailed as the gold standard in age estimations of previously unidentified immature individuals within a legal context. However, in the absence of the dentition, skeletal assessments have served as a frequently applied alternative. While various cranial and postcranial skeletal elements have been used in estimating age of the immature skeleton, little is known about the anthropometric value of the pars basilaris, pars lateralis and femur as skeletal age estimation tools. Thus, this study aimed to assess if these bones of the immature human skeleton were useful elements in estimating the age of prenatal and postnatal individuals. These bones were excised from the remains of 74 unclaimed human immature individuals and evaluated using traditional anthropometric methods. The study sample was sourced from the Johannesburg Forensic Pathology Services (JFPS) and the Johannesburg Forensic Paediatric Collection (JFPC), University of the Witwatersrand and subdivided into an early prenatal (younger than 30 gestational weeks); late prenatal (30 to 40 gestational weeks) and postnatal (birth to 7.5 months) age ranges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Thornton, Roxanne , Edkins, Adrienne L , Hutchinson, E F
- Date: 2020
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/165451 , vital:41245 , https://0-doi.org.wam.seals.ac.za/10.1007/s00414-019-02143-9
- Description: Dental development and eruption sequences have prevailed as the gold standard in age estimations of previously unidentified immature individuals within a legal context. However, in the absence of the dentition, skeletal assessments have served as a frequently applied alternative. While various cranial and postcranial skeletal elements have been used in estimating age of the immature skeleton, little is known about the anthropometric value of the pars basilaris, pars lateralis and femur as skeletal age estimation tools. Thus, this study aimed to assess if these bones of the immature human skeleton were useful elements in estimating the age of prenatal and postnatal individuals. These bones were excised from the remains of 74 unclaimed human immature individuals and evaluated using traditional anthropometric methods. The study sample was sourced from the Johannesburg Forensic Pathology Services (JFPS) and the Johannesburg Forensic Paediatric Collection (JFPC), University of the Witwatersrand and subdivided into an early prenatal (younger than 30 gestational weeks); late prenatal (30 to 40 gestational weeks) and postnatal (birth to 7.5 months) age ranges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Determining the effects of debt-to-GDP ratio on the economic growth of Greece, Italy and South Africa
- Mowoe, Merioboroghene Oreoluwa
- Authors: Mowoe, Merioboroghene Oreoluwa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Debts, Public -- Greece , Debts, Public -- Italy Debts, Public -- South Africa Economic development Greece -- Economic conditions Italy -- Economic conditions South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41942 , vital:36611
- Description: A major challenge that most countries currently face, is to bring their economies out of indebtedness. In this study, the impact of public debt on the economic growth of Greece, Italy, and South Africa, and any similarities between them, was analysed. Two models were adopted for this purpose, the ARDL model and the VEC model. The ARDL was used to conduct a co-integration relationship between public debts, economic growth, with four controlled variables: inflation, government spending, net export, and investment. The results showed a negative co-integrating relationship for all three countries. In addition, the VEC model was adopted to determine whether there was causation between public debt and economic growth in each of the three countries. It was found that a unidirectional causality between public debt and economic growth exists for all three countries. For Greece, a long-run causality was found moving from economic growth to public debt. For Italy, short-run and long-run causalities were found, moving from economic growth to public debt. For South Africa, both a long-run and a short-run causality were found moving from public debt to economic growth. The economic growth and development policies for reducing the public debt of these countries, are recommended in accordance with the findings of the research results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mowoe, Merioboroghene Oreoluwa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Debts, Public -- Greece , Debts, Public -- Italy Debts, Public -- South Africa Economic development Greece -- Economic conditions Italy -- Economic conditions South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41942 , vital:36611
- Description: A major challenge that most countries currently face, is to bring their economies out of indebtedness. In this study, the impact of public debt on the economic growth of Greece, Italy, and South Africa, and any similarities between them, was analysed. Two models were adopted for this purpose, the ARDL model and the VEC model. The ARDL was used to conduct a co-integration relationship between public debts, economic growth, with four controlled variables: inflation, government spending, net export, and investment. The results showed a negative co-integrating relationship for all three countries. In addition, the VEC model was adopted to determine whether there was causation between public debt and economic growth in each of the three countries. It was found that a unidirectional causality between public debt and economic growth exists for all three countries. For Greece, a long-run causality was found moving from economic growth to public debt. For Italy, short-run and long-run causalities were found, moving from economic growth to public debt. For South Africa, both a long-run and a short-run causality were found moving from public debt to economic growth. The economic growth and development policies for reducing the public debt of these countries, are recommended in accordance with the findings of the research results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of Raymond Mhlaba municipality indigent policy on water service delivery: a case study of free basic water policy (FBWP) in selected areas of Golf Course and Bhofolo.
- Authors: Ncube, Mary Silibaziso
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Community development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Development Studies)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16974 , vital:40799
- Description: The study was looking at the Free Basic Water policy (FBWP) in the Eastern Cape which was introduced in July 2001 in South Africa. FBWP was introduced to all provinces, however people living in rural areas, poor areas and villages are still suffering from lack of clean and safe drinking water. People lack adequate supplies of water and this creates conditions under which the diseases thrive. The researcher used mixed research methodology which comprises of qualitative (interview) and quantitative (questionnaire) approaches. The reason for the use of mixed methodology was to get adequate information both from the municipality (the provider of water) and the residents (the receivers of the services provided by the municipality) in order to assess how the unreliable water provision affect residents and the challenges being faced by the municipality in providing water. The findings of the study are that both people under Golf course and Bhofolo have little knowledge about FBW and most of the residents are unable to pay their water bills. Residents in the two research areas suffer from medical problems due to unreliable water provision. The study is therefore, of view that South Africa needs to prioritise improvement of access to water in rural areas, poor areas and villages. There is a need to educate people about FBW and on how to save water.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ncube, Mary Silibaziso
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Community development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Development Studies)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16974 , vital:40799
- Description: The study was looking at the Free Basic Water policy (FBWP) in the Eastern Cape which was introduced in July 2001 in South Africa. FBWP was introduced to all provinces, however people living in rural areas, poor areas and villages are still suffering from lack of clean and safe drinking water. People lack adequate supplies of water and this creates conditions under which the diseases thrive. The researcher used mixed research methodology which comprises of qualitative (interview) and quantitative (questionnaire) approaches. The reason for the use of mixed methodology was to get adequate information both from the municipality (the provider of water) and the residents (the receivers of the services provided by the municipality) in order to assess how the unreliable water provision affect residents and the challenges being faced by the municipality in providing water. The findings of the study are that both people under Golf course and Bhofolo have little knowledge about FBW and most of the residents are unable to pay their water bills. Residents in the two research areas suffer from medical problems due to unreliable water provision. The study is therefore, of view that South Africa needs to prioritise improvement of access to water in rural areas, poor areas and villages. There is a need to educate people about FBW and on how to save water.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Comparison of leg dominance and fatigue state on lower extremity kinematics during cutting manoeuvres in male soccer players
- Authors: Nienaber, Madeleine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Human mechanics , Kinematics Kinesiology Sports injuries Soccer players -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42880 , vital:36702
- Description: Soccer is one of the most popular sports played in South Africa and around the world. Soccer is a high intensity, semi-contact sport which is associated with an increased prevalence of injuries, especially to the lower extremities. Central and neuromuscular fatigue is believed to cause changes to kinetic and kinematic patterns of soccer players which may increase the risk for injuries, specifically related to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). To investigate the effects of fatigue on knee joint kinematics during the stance phase of a cutting manoeuvre of the dominant and non-dominant legs. A quantitative approach, more specifically, an experimental study design was adopte and a quasi-experimental study design was selected. A ‘within-participants post-test only design’ was used, which is also known as a ‘repeated measures design’ because all participants were ‘repeatedly’ measured under each experimental condition. Due to the non-randomization of the quasi-experimental design, non-probability sampling was utilized to sample the population group for the proposed study. A total of 13 male soccer players volunteered for the study. The participants had the following characteristics (mean ± SD): age 22.15 ± 2.77 years; height 169.64 ± 5.75 cm and weight 64.60 ± 7.04 kg. Non-significant differences within hip joint kinematics were observed between the dominant and non-dominant legs in a non-fatigued state in all three planes of motion (F = 0.61, p = 0.55). Similar kinematic characteristics were observed for the knee joint (F = 1.25, p = 0.48) and the ankle joint (F = 3.33, p = 0.64). Non-significant differences were also observed during the fatigued state in all three planes of motion for the hip joints (F = 8.98, p = 0.72), knee joints (F = 5.21, p = 0.41) and ankle joints (F = 0.21, p = 0.12). Peak vertical forces were however significantly different between the fatigued state compared to the non-fatigued state during the cutting manoeuvre (F = 23.51, p = 0.035), thereby indicating that neuromuscular fatigue may influence landing forces on impact during a directional change. The effect of leg dominance did not have a statistically significant impact on any kinematic measures as well as the interactions between fatigue and non-fatigue trials were also not observed for any of the kinematic parameters. Several initial contact and peak stance–phase lower limb-joint rotations were influenced by fatigue during the execution of the sub-maximal 60° cutting manoeuvre. The main effect of fatigue produced an increase in knee internal rotation and hip abduction and a decrease in peak knee abduction angles compared to non-fatigue, but they were not statistically significant. Significant differences were found between dominant and non-dominant legs as well as between fatigue and non-fatigue with ankle pronation (p=0.007) and ankle external rotation (p=0.033). Knee abduction angle during cutting (p=0.061) also showed an effect even though not statistically significant. The purpose was to examine the combined effects of leg dominance and fatigue on lower-limb biomechanics during a sub-maximal 60° cutting manoeuvre. The conclusion of the present study related to limb dominance was that no statistically significant differences were evident for any of the dependent variables (limb dominance; fatigue state) related to the independent variables (i.e. joint [hip, knee, ankle], contact time, ground reaction however, between-subject fatigue variations that is large enough could negatively impact the biomechanical data comparisons. Future research should target specific locations of fatigue within a general fatigue paradigm and develop standardized tasks to achieve this.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nienaber, Madeleine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Human mechanics , Kinematics Kinesiology Sports injuries Soccer players -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42880 , vital:36702
- Description: Soccer is one of the most popular sports played in South Africa and around the world. Soccer is a high intensity, semi-contact sport which is associated with an increased prevalence of injuries, especially to the lower extremities. Central and neuromuscular fatigue is believed to cause changes to kinetic and kinematic patterns of soccer players which may increase the risk for injuries, specifically related to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). To investigate the effects of fatigue on knee joint kinematics during the stance phase of a cutting manoeuvre of the dominant and non-dominant legs. A quantitative approach, more specifically, an experimental study design was adopte and a quasi-experimental study design was selected. A ‘within-participants post-test only design’ was used, which is also known as a ‘repeated measures design’ because all participants were ‘repeatedly’ measured under each experimental condition. Due to the non-randomization of the quasi-experimental design, non-probability sampling was utilized to sample the population group for the proposed study. A total of 13 male soccer players volunteered for the study. The participants had the following characteristics (mean ± SD): age 22.15 ± 2.77 years; height 169.64 ± 5.75 cm and weight 64.60 ± 7.04 kg. Non-significant differences within hip joint kinematics were observed between the dominant and non-dominant legs in a non-fatigued state in all three planes of motion (F = 0.61, p = 0.55). Similar kinematic characteristics were observed for the knee joint (F = 1.25, p = 0.48) and the ankle joint (F = 3.33, p = 0.64). Non-significant differences were also observed during the fatigued state in all three planes of motion for the hip joints (F = 8.98, p = 0.72), knee joints (F = 5.21, p = 0.41) and ankle joints (F = 0.21, p = 0.12). Peak vertical forces were however significantly different between the fatigued state compared to the non-fatigued state during the cutting manoeuvre (F = 23.51, p = 0.035), thereby indicating that neuromuscular fatigue may influence landing forces on impact during a directional change. The effect of leg dominance did not have a statistically significant impact on any kinematic measures as well as the interactions between fatigue and non-fatigue trials were also not observed for any of the kinematic parameters. Several initial contact and peak stance–phase lower limb-joint rotations were influenced by fatigue during the execution of the sub-maximal 60° cutting manoeuvre. The main effect of fatigue produced an increase in knee internal rotation and hip abduction and a decrease in peak knee abduction angles compared to non-fatigue, but they were not statistically significant. Significant differences were found between dominant and non-dominant legs as well as between fatigue and non-fatigue with ankle pronation (p=0.007) and ankle external rotation (p=0.033). Knee abduction angle during cutting (p=0.061) also showed an effect even though not statistically significant. The purpose was to examine the combined effects of leg dominance and fatigue on lower-limb biomechanics during a sub-maximal 60° cutting manoeuvre. The conclusion of the present study related to limb dominance was that no statistically significant differences were evident for any of the dependent variables (limb dominance; fatigue state) related to the independent variables (i.e. joint [hip, knee, ankle], contact time, ground reaction however, between-subject fatigue variations that is large enough could negatively impact the biomechanical data comparisons. Future research should target specific locations of fatigue within a general fatigue paradigm and develop standardized tasks to achieve this.
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- Date Issued: 2019