An investigation into the family life cycle within a South African context
- Authors: Koekemoer, Evan
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Consumer behavior -- South Africa , Market segmentation , Consumers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9352 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/191 , Consumer behavior -- South Africa , Market segmentation , Consumers -- South Africa
- Description: Each individual/household progresses through the family life cycle (FLC). This progression, which is characterized by various stages and varying consumption portfolios, can be traditional or non-traditional in nature. In the general marketing sense, the FLC concept has great value. The concept is utilized in a variety of marketing activities, particularly in segmentation, and is also applied in consumer behaviour. The lack of research regarding the FLC in South Africa and the need to investigate the concept’s applicability to different environments motivated this research. The aim of the study was to determine how the FLC within a South African context compared to the theoretical depiction of the concept. The evaluation of literature revealed five distinct traditional stages and an array of non-traditional stages, determined by a combination of life stage determining variables. Regarding the empirical approach, self-administered questionnaires were distributed to a convenience sample consisting of 225 students and staff members of the then Port Elizabeth Technikon. The empirical findings revealed the following. {u100083} Non-traditional stages were more prevalent than traditional stages. ii {u100083} Marital status, the presence/absence of children and living arrangement appear to be sufficient life stage determining variables for both current and prospective life stage classifications. {u100083} The consumption portfolios of individuals in the traditional FLC were similar to theory. The research provided insight into the consumption portfolios of individuals in the non-traditional FLC. {u100083} Based on the intentions of certain individuals regarding marriage, having children and living arrangements, it appears as though the future FLC will include an integration of traditional and non-traditional progressions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Koekemoer, Evan
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Consumer behavior -- South Africa , Market segmentation , Consumers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9352 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/191 , Consumer behavior -- South Africa , Market segmentation , Consumers -- South Africa
- Description: Each individual/household progresses through the family life cycle (FLC). This progression, which is characterized by various stages and varying consumption portfolios, can be traditional or non-traditional in nature. In the general marketing sense, the FLC concept has great value. The concept is utilized in a variety of marketing activities, particularly in segmentation, and is also applied in consumer behaviour. The lack of research regarding the FLC in South Africa and the need to investigate the concept’s applicability to different environments motivated this research. The aim of the study was to determine how the FLC within a South African context compared to the theoretical depiction of the concept. The evaluation of literature revealed five distinct traditional stages and an array of non-traditional stages, determined by a combination of life stage determining variables. Regarding the empirical approach, self-administered questionnaires were distributed to a convenience sample consisting of 225 students and staff members of the then Port Elizabeth Technikon. The empirical findings revealed the following. {u100083} Non-traditional stages were more prevalent than traditional stages. ii {u100083} Marital status, the presence/absence of children and living arrangement appear to be sufficient life stage determining variables for both current and prospective life stage classifications. {u100083} The consumption portfolios of individuals in the traditional FLC were similar to theory. The research provided insight into the consumption portfolios of individuals in the non-traditional FLC. {u100083} Based on the intentions of certain individuals regarding marriage, having children and living arrangements, it appears as though the future FLC will include an integration of traditional and non-traditional progressions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation into the financial management competencies of teachers in Port Elizabeth
- Joka, Monalisa Phumla Portia
- Authors: Joka, Monalisa Phumla Portia
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance, Personal , Finance, Personal , Finance -- Decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8581 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/526 , Teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance, Personal , Finance, Personal , Finance -- Decision making
- Description: The media and the Government have voiced their feelings against micro-lenders, which they refer to as “abomashonisa”. The cry has been that they enslave the poor making their lives unbearable. The fact of the matter is that it is not only the poor who find themselves slaves to the micro-lenders. The educated with better paying jobs than the poor, including teachers are also micro-lending clients. This prompted the researcher to investigate the financial management competencies of teachers. Although teachers are better paid than the poor, the manner in which they conduct their financial affairs will determine whether they live like the poor or not. Even for the poor, poor financial management skills is one of the important factors that cause them to be enslaved by micro-lenders. To meet the dissertation’s aims a literature study focusing on the origin and the development of micro-lending in South Africa and the financial management acumen of teachers in South Africa, was conducted. An empirical study was then undertaken to investigate the financial management competencies of teachers in Port Elizabeth. Based on the information obtained from the literature study and the results from the empirical survey, various recommendations and conclusions were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Joka, Monalisa Phumla Portia
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance, Personal , Finance, Personal , Finance -- Decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8581 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/526 , Teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance, Personal , Finance, Personal , Finance -- Decision making
- Description: The media and the Government have voiced their feelings against micro-lenders, which they refer to as “abomashonisa”. The cry has been that they enslave the poor making their lives unbearable. The fact of the matter is that it is not only the poor who find themselves slaves to the micro-lenders. The educated with better paying jobs than the poor, including teachers are also micro-lending clients. This prompted the researcher to investigate the financial management competencies of teachers. Although teachers are better paid than the poor, the manner in which they conduct their financial affairs will determine whether they live like the poor or not. Even for the poor, poor financial management skills is one of the important factors that cause them to be enslaved by micro-lenders. To meet the dissertation’s aims a literature study focusing on the origin and the development of micro-lending in South Africa and the financial management acumen of teachers in South Africa, was conducted. An empirical study was then undertaken to investigate the financial management competencies of teachers in Port Elizabeth. Based on the information obtained from the literature study and the results from the empirical survey, various recommendations and conclusions were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation into the impact of employment equity within Telkom: Eastern Cape
- Authors: Joseph, Gavin David
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Telkom (Firm : South Africa) -- Officials and employees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8538 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/192 , Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Telkom (Firm : South Africa) -- Officials and employees
- Description: As a country, South Africa has undergone major social and political changes, specifically over the past two decades. Along with these changes, new legislation such as the scrapping of the Group Areas Act, changed the face of residential areas to one where suburbs now reflect the demographics of the country. Inevitably, changes in the business world also came about, one significant change being the promulgation of the Employment Equity Act (No.55 of 1998) which regulates employment practices in an attempt to make the workforce a true reflection of the South African population. The change in labour legislation came at a time when the effects of globalisation increased levels of competition amongst organisations. Understandably, certain business leaders raised concerns that the introduction of the Employment Equity Act could lead to a lowering of standards and therefore competitive advantage. The purpose of this research was to establish if these early concerns were indeed valid and if the implementation of this legislation had any negative impact on Telkom SA Limited (Telkom), the organisation selected for this study. Particular attention was paid to investigate the impact of the implementation of the Act on three critical areas of business, namely: Productivity; Profitability; and Customer satisfaction. In order to achieve the objectives of the research, the following approach was followed: Firstly, a comprehensive literature study was conducted to determine what led to the passing of this legislation and to establish what the literature revealed about the advantages and challenges of a diverse workforce; Secondly, the views of Telkom management in the Eastern Cape on the impact of the implementation of employment equity were obtained by means of an empirical study which involved the completion of a comprehensive questionnaire; and Lastly, the responses to the questionnaire were collated and analysed to determine the extent to which Telkom had implemented the legislation, and if the company had experienced any negative effects due to this implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Joseph, Gavin David
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Telkom (Firm : South Africa) -- Officials and employees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8538 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/192 , Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Telkom (Firm : South Africa) -- Officials and employees
- Description: As a country, South Africa has undergone major social and political changes, specifically over the past two decades. Along with these changes, new legislation such as the scrapping of the Group Areas Act, changed the face of residential areas to one where suburbs now reflect the demographics of the country. Inevitably, changes in the business world also came about, one significant change being the promulgation of the Employment Equity Act (No.55 of 1998) which regulates employment practices in an attempt to make the workforce a true reflection of the South African population. The change in labour legislation came at a time when the effects of globalisation increased levels of competition amongst organisations. Understandably, certain business leaders raised concerns that the introduction of the Employment Equity Act could lead to a lowering of standards and therefore competitive advantage. The purpose of this research was to establish if these early concerns were indeed valid and if the implementation of this legislation had any negative impact on Telkom SA Limited (Telkom), the organisation selected for this study. Particular attention was paid to investigate the impact of the implementation of the Act on three critical areas of business, namely: Productivity; Profitability; and Customer satisfaction. In order to achieve the objectives of the research, the following approach was followed: Firstly, a comprehensive literature study was conducted to determine what led to the passing of this legislation and to establish what the literature revealed about the advantages and challenges of a diverse workforce; Secondly, the views of Telkom management in the Eastern Cape on the impact of the implementation of employment equity were obtained by means of an empirical study which involved the completion of a comprehensive questionnaire; and Lastly, the responses to the questionnaire were collated and analysed to determine the extent to which Telkom had implemented the legislation, and if the company had experienced any negative effects due to this implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation into the implementation of participative management in a rural school in the Pietermaritzburg district
- Ngubane, Weekend Sehlulamanye
- Authors: Ngubane, Weekend Sehlulamanye
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Rural schools -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal -- Case studies Rural schools -- Thailand -- Case studies Education, Rural -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal -- Case studies Black people -- Education -- South Africa School management and organization -- South Africa School principals -- South Africa Educational leadership -- South Africa Educational change -- South Africa Management -- Employee participation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1607 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003489
- Description: The primary purpose of this research was to investigate the extent to which rural schools understand and perceive the concept of participative management. The concept of participative management has been viewed as an ideal style of leadership and management for school development purposes. In South Africa’s case, it is an educational policy which is expected to reign in all school management bodies. Many theorists envisaged participative management as enhancing active involvement of relevant stakeholders and it has been advocated by many scholars who believe it is the best leadership style in implementing democratic values to education, particularly South African rural education, which is still in a transitional stage. As an interpretive orientated study, this research had an interest in understanding the research participants’ subjective experiences as well as their general perception of participative management. As case-study-driven research, it sought to investigate their understanding of the concept in their natural setting. This included various meanings they aligned with and attached to participative management, their attitudes, their interpretations and feelings towards it. The study employed a focus group data gathering technique in collecting data. The findings of this study suggest that participative management has been embraced by rural school management to a certain extent. There are potentially positive aspects that have been brought by participative management to the school, namely, shared vision, common goals, shared decision-making and general involvement of relevant stakeholders. However, the study has depicted a lack of ethical values on the side of some stakeholders and this hinders the smooth implementation of participative management. The study has also revealed that there are challenges facing rural schools in terms of parental involvement in school governance. Challenges such as lack of commitment to the school, illiteracy among adults and communication breakdown between the school and its parents are still rife in rural schools. Besides these challenges, the blood of participative management is flowing steadily in the veins of the rural school communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Ngubane, Weekend Sehlulamanye
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Rural schools -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal -- Case studies Rural schools -- Thailand -- Case studies Education, Rural -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal -- Case studies Black people -- Education -- South Africa School management and organization -- South Africa School principals -- South Africa Educational leadership -- South Africa Educational change -- South Africa Management -- Employee participation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1607 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003489
- Description: The primary purpose of this research was to investigate the extent to which rural schools understand and perceive the concept of participative management. The concept of participative management has been viewed as an ideal style of leadership and management for school development purposes. In South Africa’s case, it is an educational policy which is expected to reign in all school management bodies. Many theorists envisaged participative management as enhancing active involvement of relevant stakeholders and it has been advocated by many scholars who believe it is the best leadership style in implementing democratic values to education, particularly South African rural education, which is still in a transitional stage. As an interpretive orientated study, this research had an interest in understanding the research participants’ subjective experiences as well as their general perception of participative management. As case-study-driven research, it sought to investigate their understanding of the concept in their natural setting. This included various meanings they aligned with and attached to participative management, their attitudes, their interpretations and feelings towards it. The study employed a focus group data gathering technique in collecting data. The findings of this study suggest that participative management has been embraced by rural school management to a certain extent. There are potentially positive aspects that have been brought by participative management to the school, namely, shared vision, common goals, shared decision-making and general involvement of relevant stakeholders. However, the study has depicted a lack of ethical values on the side of some stakeholders and this hinders the smooth implementation of participative management. The study has also revealed that there are challenges facing rural schools in terms of parental involvement in school governance. Challenges such as lack of commitment to the school, illiteracy among adults and communication breakdown between the school and its parents are still rife in rural schools. Besides these challenges, the blood of participative management is flowing steadily in the veins of the rural school communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation into the neuroprotective effects of dehydroepiandrosterone
- Authors: Palvie, Stefanie Michelle
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Aging -- Physiological aspects , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Steroid hormones , Dehydroepiandrosterone , Dehydroepiandrosterone -- Therapeutic use , Neurosciences , Neuroanatomy , Apoptosis , Pineal gland -- Physiology , Neurotoxic agents , Free radicals (Chemistry) -- Physiological effect
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003260 , Aging -- Physiological aspects , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Steroid hormones , Dehydroepiandrosterone , Dehydroepiandrosterone -- Therapeutic use , Neurosciences , Neuroanatomy , Apoptosis , Pineal gland -- Physiology , Neurotoxic agents , Free radicals (Chemistry) -- Physiological effect
- Description: Dehydroepiandrosterone, a C-19 steroid, is found endogenously with the highest circulating serum levels. It is converted to important steroids such as the sex hormones oestrogen and testosterone. DHEA has come under the spotlight as a purported “fountain of youth” due to its well-characterised age-related decline. The supplementation of DHEA in both the elderly and those with a pathophysiological deficiency has been shown to be of benefit, particularly with regard to wellbeing and depression. The role of DHEA in the periphery has not been elucidated beyond its role as a precursor hormone in sex steroid biosynthesis, though it has been established as a neuroactive neurosteroid, capable of exerting neuroprotective effects in the brain. Since the importance of free radicals in aging and neurodegeneration is well established, investigations were conducted on the ability of DHEA to inhibit free radical generation or scavenge existing free radicals. DHEA was able to significantly inhibit quinolinic acid-induced lipid peroxidation, a measure of membrane damage, over a range of concentrations, although the reduction did not appear to be dose-dependent. This was observed in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Thus, the ability of a compound to reduce the degree of lipid peroxidation may indicate its value as a neuroprotectant. However, DHEA did not significantly reduce cyanide induced generation of the superoxide free radical, suggesting that DHEA is not an effective free radical scavenger of the superoxide anion and that the reduction in lipid peroxidation does not occur through a scavenging mechanism. Apoptosis is a physiological process which is necessary for development and homeostasis. However, this form of programmed cell death can be initiated through various mechanisms and too much apoptotic cell death results in deleterious effects in the body. DHEA was shown not to induce apoptosis. Even the lowest concentration of DHEA investigated in this thesis shows a remarkable decrease in the degree of apoptosis caused by intrahippocampal chemical insult by the neurotoxin quinolinic acid. Cresyl violet was used to visualise tissue for histological examination which revealed that DHEA is able to preserve the normal healthy morphology of hippocampal cells which have been exposed to quinolinic acid. Cells maintained their integrity and showed little evidence of swelling associated with necrosis. Organ culture studies were performed by assessing the impact of DHEA on several pineal metabolites. The study revealed that DHEA exerted an effect on the metabolism of indoleamines in the pineal gland. Melatonin, the chief pineal hormone, did not appear to be affected while the concentrations of N-acetylserotonin, serotonin and methoxytryptamine showed significant alterations. Thus, the neuroprotective mechanism of DHEA does not appear to be mediated by an increase in the presence of melatonin. The biological importance of metal ions in neurodegeneration is also well established and thus the potential interaction between DHEA and metal ions was considered as a mechanism of action. Spectroscopic and electrochemical analyses were performed to determine whether DHEA is able to interact with metal ions as a ligand. These reveal that DHEA does not form a strong bond with the metals investigated, namely copper (II) and iron (III), but that a weak interaction is evident. These investigations were conducted in a rodent model, which has neither large amounts of endogenous DHEA, nor the enzymatic infrastructure present in humans. Thus, the theory that DHEA exerts its effects through downstream metabolic products is unlikely. However, these investigations reveal that there is merit in the statement that DHEA itself is a neuroprotective molecule, and confirm that the further investigation of DHEA is an advisable strategy in the war against neurodegeneration and aging.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Palvie, Stefanie Michelle
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Aging -- Physiological aspects , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Steroid hormones , Dehydroepiandrosterone , Dehydroepiandrosterone -- Therapeutic use , Neurosciences , Neuroanatomy , Apoptosis , Pineal gland -- Physiology , Neurotoxic agents , Free radicals (Chemistry) -- Physiological effect
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003260 , Aging -- Physiological aspects , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Steroid hormones , Dehydroepiandrosterone , Dehydroepiandrosterone -- Therapeutic use , Neurosciences , Neuroanatomy , Apoptosis , Pineal gland -- Physiology , Neurotoxic agents , Free radicals (Chemistry) -- Physiological effect
- Description: Dehydroepiandrosterone, a C-19 steroid, is found endogenously with the highest circulating serum levels. It is converted to important steroids such as the sex hormones oestrogen and testosterone. DHEA has come under the spotlight as a purported “fountain of youth” due to its well-characterised age-related decline. The supplementation of DHEA in both the elderly and those with a pathophysiological deficiency has been shown to be of benefit, particularly with regard to wellbeing and depression. The role of DHEA in the periphery has not been elucidated beyond its role as a precursor hormone in sex steroid biosynthesis, though it has been established as a neuroactive neurosteroid, capable of exerting neuroprotective effects in the brain. Since the importance of free radicals in aging and neurodegeneration is well established, investigations were conducted on the ability of DHEA to inhibit free radical generation or scavenge existing free radicals. DHEA was able to significantly inhibit quinolinic acid-induced lipid peroxidation, a measure of membrane damage, over a range of concentrations, although the reduction did not appear to be dose-dependent. This was observed in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Thus, the ability of a compound to reduce the degree of lipid peroxidation may indicate its value as a neuroprotectant. However, DHEA did not significantly reduce cyanide induced generation of the superoxide free radical, suggesting that DHEA is not an effective free radical scavenger of the superoxide anion and that the reduction in lipid peroxidation does not occur through a scavenging mechanism. Apoptosis is a physiological process which is necessary for development and homeostasis. However, this form of programmed cell death can be initiated through various mechanisms and too much apoptotic cell death results in deleterious effects in the body. DHEA was shown not to induce apoptosis. Even the lowest concentration of DHEA investigated in this thesis shows a remarkable decrease in the degree of apoptosis caused by intrahippocampal chemical insult by the neurotoxin quinolinic acid. Cresyl violet was used to visualise tissue for histological examination which revealed that DHEA is able to preserve the normal healthy morphology of hippocampal cells which have been exposed to quinolinic acid. Cells maintained their integrity and showed little evidence of swelling associated with necrosis. Organ culture studies were performed by assessing the impact of DHEA on several pineal metabolites. The study revealed that DHEA exerted an effect on the metabolism of indoleamines in the pineal gland. Melatonin, the chief pineal hormone, did not appear to be affected while the concentrations of N-acetylserotonin, serotonin and methoxytryptamine showed significant alterations. Thus, the neuroprotective mechanism of DHEA does not appear to be mediated by an increase in the presence of melatonin. The biological importance of metal ions in neurodegeneration is also well established and thus the potential interaction between DHEA and metal ions was considered as a mechanism of action. Spectroscopic and electrochemical analyses were performed to determine whether DHEA is able to interact with metal ions as a ligand. These reveal that DHEA does not form a strong bond with the metals investigated, namely copper (II) and iron (III), but that a weak interaction is evident. These investigations were conducted in a rodent model, which has neither large amounts of endogenous DHEA, nor the enzymatic infrastructure present in humans. Thus, the theory that DHEA exerts its effects through downstream metabolic products is unlikely. However, these investigations reveal that there is merit in the statement that DHEA itself is a neuroprotective molecule, and confirm that the further investigation of DHEA is an advisable strategy in the war against neurodegeneration and aging.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation into the neuroprotective effects of estrogen and progesterone in a model of homocysteine-induced neurodegeration
- Authors: Wu, Wing Man
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Homocysteine , Estrogen , Estrogen -- Therapeutic use , Progesterone , Hormone receptors , Methyl aspartate , Oxidative stress , Alzheimer's disease -- Treatment , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3806 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003284 , Homocysteine , Estrogen , Estrogen -- Therapeutic use , Progesterone , Hormone receptors , Methyl aspartate , Oxidative stress , Alzheimer's disease -- Treatment , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Prevention
- Description: Homocysteine (Hcy) is a sulfur containing amino acid and is a potent neurotoxin. It has been shown that elevated levels of Hcy, termed hyperhomocysteinemia, plays a role in the pathologies of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and age-related cognitive decline. Hcy is a glutamate agonist, which causes in increase in Ca[superscript (2+)] influx via the activation of NMDA class of excitatory amino acid receptors, which results in neuronal cell death and apoptosis. Estrogen and progesterone are female hormones that are responsible for reproduction and maternal behaviour. However, in the last decade, it is evident that both female hormones have neuroprotective properties in many animal models of neurodegeneration. Collectively, both estrogen and progesterone reduce the consequences of the oxidative stress by enhancing the antioxidant defence mechanisms, reducing excitotoxicity by altering glutamate receptor activity and reducing the damage caused by lipid peroxidation. However, the mechanisms by which estrogen and progesterone provide such neuroprotection probably depend on the type and concentration of hormone present. Moreover, numerous studies have shown that hormone replacement therapy (HRT, estrogen and progestins) or estrogen-only replacement therapy (ERT) may prevent or delay the onset of AD and improve cognition for women with AD. Clinical trials have also shown that women taking HRT may modify the effects of Hcy levels on cognitive functioning. Oxidative stress increases in the aging brain and thus has a powerful effect on enhanced susceptibility to neurodegenerative disease. The detection and measurement of lipid peroxidation and superoxide anion radicals in the brain tissue supports the involvement of free radical reactions in neurotoxicity and in neurodegenerative disorders. The hippocampus is an important region of the brain responsible for the formation of memory. However, agents that induce stress in this area have harmful effects and could lead to dementia. This study aims to investigate and clarify the neuroprotective effects of estrogen and progesterone, using Hcy-induced neurodegenerative models. The initial studies demonstrate that estrogen and progesterone have the ability to scavenge potent free radicals. Histological studies undertaken reveal that both estrogen and progesterone protect against Hcy-induced neuronal cell death. In addition, immunohistochemical investigations show that Hcy-induced apoptosis in the hippocampus can be inhibited by both estrogen and progesterone. However, estrogen also acts at the NMDA receptor as an agonist, while progesterone blocks at the NMDA receptor. These mechanisms reduce the ability of Hcy to cause damage to neurons, since Hcy-induced neurotoxicity is dependent on the overstimulation of the NMDA receptor. SOD and GPx are important enzymatic antioxidants which can react with ROS and neutralize them before these inflict damage in the brain. Hcy can increase oxidative stress by inhibiting expression and function of these antioxidants. However, it has been shown that the antioxidant abilities of both estrogen and progesterone can up-regulate the activities of SOD and GPx. These results provide further evidence that estrogen and progesterone act as antioxidants and are free radical scavengers. The discovery of neuroprotective agents is becoming important as accumulating evidence indicates the protective role of both estrogen and progesterone in Hcy-induced neurodegeneration. Thus further work in clinical trials is needed to examine whether reducing Hcy levels with HRT can become the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Wu, Wing Man
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Homocysteine , Estrogen , Estrogen -- Therapeutic use , Progesterone , Hormone receptors , Methyl aspartate , Oxidative stress , Alzheimer's disease -- Treatment , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3806 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003284 , Homocysteine , Estrogen , Estrogen -- Therapeutic use , Progesterone , Hormone receptors , Methyl aspartate , Oxidative stress , Alzheimer's disease -- Treatment , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Prevention
- Description: Homocysteine (Hcy) is a sulfur containing amino acid and is a potent neurotoxin. It has been shown that elevated levels of Hcy, termed hyperhomocysteinemia, plays a role in the pathologies of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and age-related cognitive decline. Hcy is a glutamate agonist, which causes in increase in Ca[superscript (2+)] influx via the activation of NMDA class of excitatory amino acid receptors, which results in neuronal cell death and apoptosis. Estrogen and progesterone are female hormones that are responsible for reproduction and maternal behaviour. However, in the last decade, it is evident that both female hormones have neuroprotective properties in many animal models of neurodegeneration. Collectively, both estrogen and progesterone reduce the consequences of the oxidative stress by enhancing the antioxidant defence mechanisms, reducing excitotoxicity by altering glutamate receptor activity and reducing the damage caused by lipid peroxidation. However, the mechanisms by which estrogen and progesterone provide such neuroprotection probably depend on the type and concentration of hormone present. Moreover, numerous studies have shown that hormone replacement therapy (HRT, estrogen and progestins) or estrogen-only replacement therapy (ERT) may prevent or delay the onset of AD and improve cognition for women with AD. Clinical trials have also shown that women taking HRT may modify the effects of Hcy levels on cognitive functioning. Oxidative stress increases in the aging brain and thus has a powerful effect on enhanced susceptibility to neurodegenerative disease. The detection and measurement of lipid peroxidation and superoxide anion radicals in the brain tissue supports the involvement of free radical reactions in neurotoxicity and in neurodegenerative disorders. The hippocampus is an important region of the brain responsible for the formation of memory. However, agents that induce stress in this area have harmful effects and could lead to dementia. This study aims to investigate and clarify the neuroprotective effects of estrogen and progesterone, using Hcy-induced neurodegenerative models. The initial studies demonstrate that estrogen and progesterone have the ability to scavenge potent free radicals. Histological studies undertaken reveal that both estrogen and progesterone protect against Hcy-induced neuronal cell death. In addition, immunohistochemical investigations show that Hcy-induced apoptosis in the hippocampus can be inhibited by both estrogen and progesterone. However, estrogen also acts at the NMDA receptor as an agonist, while progesterone blocks at the NMDA receptor. These mechanisms reduce the ability of Hcy to cause damage to neurons, since Hcy-induced neurotoxicity is dependent on the overstimulation of the NMDA receptor. SOD and GPx are important enzymatic antioxidants which can react with ROS and neutralize them before these inflict damage in the brain. Hcy can increase oxidative stress by inhibiting expression and function of these antioxidants. However, it has been shown that the antioxidant abilities of both estrogen and progesterone can up-regulate the activities of SOD and GPx. These results provide further evidence that estrogen and progesterone act as antioxidants and are free radical scavengers. The discovery of neuroprotective agents is becoming important as accumulating evidence indicates the protective role of both estrogen and progesterone in Hcy-induced neurodegeneration. Thus further work in clinical trials is needed to examine whether reducing Hcy levels with HRT can become the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation into the neuroprotective properties of acyclovir
- Authors: Müller, Adrienne Carmel
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Acyclovir -- Therapeutic use , Acyclovir -- Physiological effect , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Memory disorders -- Treatment , Quinolinic acid
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3776 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003254 , Acyclovir -- Therapeutic use , Acyclovir -- Physiological effect , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Memory disorders -- Treatment , Quinolinic acid
- Description: Accumulating evidence suggests that quinolinic acid has a role to play in disorders involving impairment of learning and memory. In the present study, the effect of the guanosine analogue antiherpetic, acyclovir, on quinolinic acid-induced spatial memory deficits was investigated, as well as some of the mechanisms which underlie this effect. Behavioural studies using a Morris water maze show that post-treatment of rats with acyclovir significantly improves spatial memory deficits induced by intrahippocampal injections of quinolinic acid. Histological analysis of the hippocampi show that the effect of acyclovir is related to its ability to alleviate quinolinic acid-induced necrotic cell death, through interference with some of the mechanisms of neurodegeneration. However, acyclovir is unable to alter a quinolinic acid-induced increase in glutamate release in the rat hippocampus, even though it alleviates quinolinic acid induced oxidative stress by scavenging the superoxide anion in vitro and in vivo in whole rat brain and hippocampus respectively. Due to the inverse relationship which exists between superoxide anion and glutathione levels, acyclovir also curtails the quinolinic acid-induced decrease in hippocampal glutathione levels. Acyclovir suppresses quinolinic acid-induced lipid peroxidation in vitro and in vivo, in whole rat brain and hippocampus respectively, through its alleviation of oxidative stress and possibly through the binding of iron (II) and / or iron (III), preventing the participation and redox recycling of iron (II) in the Fenton reaction, which quinolinic acid is thought to enhance by weak binding of ferrous ions. This argument is further strengthened by the ability of the drug to suppress iron (II)-induced lipid peroxidation in vitro directly. Inorganic studies including ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy, electrochemistry and the ferrozine assay show that acyclovir binds to iron (II) and iron (III) and that quinolinic acid forms an easily oxidisable association with iron (II). Acyclovir inhibits the endogenous biosynthesis of quinolinic acid by inhibiting the activity of liver tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase, intestinal indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase and rat liver 3-hydroxyanthranillic acid oxygenase in vitro and in vivo, possibly through competitive inhibition of haeme, scavenging of superoxide anion and binding of iron (II) respectively. An inverse relationship exists between tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase activity and brain serotonin levels. Acyclovir administration in rats induces a rise in forebrain serotonin and 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid and reduces the turnover of forebrain serotonin to 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid. Furthermore, it shows that acyclovir does not alter forebrain norepinephrine levels. The results of the pineal indole metabolism study show that acyclovir increases 5-hydroxytryptophol, N-acetylserotonin and the neurohormone melatonin, but decreases 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid. The results of this study show that acyclovir has some neuroprotective properties which may make it useful in the alleviation of the anomalous neurobiology in neurodegenerative disorders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Müller, Adrienne Carmel
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Acyclovir -- Therapeutic use , Acyclovir -- Physiological effect , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Memory disorders -- Treatment , Quinolinic acid
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3776 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003254 , Acyclovir -- Therapeutic use , Acyclovir -- Physiological effect , Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Treatment , Memory disorders -- Treatment , Quinolinic acid
- Description: Accumulating evidence suggests that quinolinic acid has a role to play in disorders involving impairment of learning and memory. In the present study, the effect of the guanosine analogue antiherpetic, acyclovir, on quinolinic acid-induced spatial memory deficits was investigated, as well as some of the mechanisms which underlie this effect. Behavioural studies using a Morris water maze show that post-treatment of rats with acyclovir significantly improves spatial memory deficits induced by intrahippocampal injections of quinolinic acid. Histological analysis of the hippocampi show that the effect of acyclovir is related to its ability to alleviate quinolinic acid-induced necrotic cell death, through interference with some of the mechanisms of neurodegeneration. However, acyclovir is unable to alter a quinolinic acid-induced increase in glutamate release in the rat hippocampus, even though it alleviates quinolinic acid induced oxidative stress by scavenging the superoxide anion in vitro and in vivo in whole rat brain and hippocampus respectively. Due to the inverse relationship which exists between superoxide anion and glutathione levels, acyclovir also curtails the quinolinic acid-induced decrease in hippocampal glutathione levels. Acyclovir suppresses quinolinic acid-induced lipid peroxidation in vitro and in vivo, in whole rat brain and hippocampus respectively, through its alleviation of oxidative stress and possibly through the binding of iron (II) and / or iron (III), preventing the participation and redox recycling of iron (II) in the Fenton reaction, which quinolinic acid is thought to enhance by weak binding of ferrous ions. This argument is further strengthened by the ability of the drug to suppress iron (II)-induced lipid peroxidation in vitro directly. Inorganic studies including ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy, electrochemistry and the ferrozine assay show that acyclovir binds to iron (II) and iron (III) and that quinolinic acid forms an easily oxidisable association with iron (II). Acyclovir inhibits the endogenous biosynthesis of quinolinic acid by inhibiting the activity of liver tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase, intestinal indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase and rat liver 3-hydroxyanthranillic acid oxygenase in vitro and in vivo, possibly through competitive inhibition of haeme, scavenging of superoxide anion and binding of iron (II) respectively. An inverse relationship exists between tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase activity and brain serotonin levels. Acyclovir administration in rats induces a rise in forebrain serotonin and 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid and reduces the turnover of forebrain serotonin to 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid. Furthermore, it shows that acyclovir does not alter forebrain norepinephrine levels. The results of the pineal indole metabolism study show that acyclovir increases 5-hydroxytryptophol, N-acetylserotonin and the neurohormone melatonin, but decreases 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid. The results of this study show that acyclovir has some neuroprotective properties which may make it useful in the alleviation of the anomalous neurobiology in neurodegenerative disorders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation into the neuroprotective properties of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents tolmetin, sulindac and turmeric
- Authors: Dairam, Amichand
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents Antioxidants Tolmetin -- Therapeutic use Sulindac -- Therapeutic use Turmeric -- Therapeutic use Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Prevention Alzheimer's disease
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3752 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003230
- Description: Accumulating evidence suggests that anti-inflammatory agents and antioxidants have neuroprotective properties and may be beneficial in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. In the present study, the possible neuroprotective properties of tolmetin, sulindac and turmeric were investigated. The antioxidant effects of tolmetin and sulindac were determined by inducing free radical generation with quinolinic acid (QA), cyanide or iron (II) in rat brain homogenates or primary hippocampal neurons. Tolmetin and sulindac significantly reduce lipid peroxidation and scavenge the superoxide anion. Metal binding studies were conducted to determine whether metal chelation is a possible mechanism through which these agents reduce QA and iron (II)-induced lipid peroxidation. UV/VIS, infrared spectroscopy as well as electrochemical studies show that both agents bind to iron (II) and/or iron (III). Histological examination of the hippocampus showed that pre-treatment of animals with tolmetin or sulindac offers protection against intrahippocampal injections of QA. These agents also attenuate QA-induced apoptosis and reduce the loss of neurons in the hippocampus. The co-incubation of primary hippocampal neurons with the NSAIDS also enhanced cell viability which is significantly reduced by QA. Behavioural studies using a water maze showed that the treatment of animals after QA-induced neurotoxicity reduces QA-induced spatial memory loss. Tolmetin and sulindac also reduced glutathione depletion and protein oxidation in rat hippocampus. Both NSAIDS inhibit liver tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase activity in vitro and in vivo and subsequently increased hippocampal serotonin levels. However, both NSAIDS also reduce dopamine levels in rat striatum. Tolmetin but not sulindac increased the synthesis of melatonin by the pineal gland. The active components of turmeric known as the curcuminoids were separated using preparative thin layer chromatography (TLC). The purity was confirmed by TLC, NMR and mass spectrometry. The environmental toxin lead, induces lipid peroxidation and reduces primary hippocampal neuronal viability. The co-incubation of the neurons with the curcuminoids significantly reduces lead-induced lipid peroxidation and enhances neuronal cell viability in the presence of lead. Lead-induced spatial memory deficit is also attenuated with curcumin, demethoxycurcumin but not bisdemethoxycurcumin. The curcuminoids also reduce lead-induced hippocampal glutathione depletion and protein oxidation. Metal binding studies show that the curcuminoids bind to lead and is another possible mechanism through which the curcuminoids reduce lead-induced neurotoxicity. The findings of this study indicate a possible role of tolmetin, sulindac and turmeric in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. However, tolmetin and sulindac reduce dopamine levels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Dairam, Amichand
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents Antioxidants Tolmetin -- Therapeutic use Sulindac -- Therapeutic use Turmeric -- Therapeutic use Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Prevention Alzheimer's disease
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3752 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003230
- Description: Accumulating evidence suggests that anti-inflammatory agents and antioxidants have neuroprotective properties and may be beneficial in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. In the present study, the possible neuroprotective properties of tolmetin, sulindac and turmeric were investigated. The antioxidant effects of tolmetin and sulindac were determined by inducing free radical generation with quinolinic acid (QA), cyanide or iron (II) in rat brain homogenates or primary hippocampal neurons. Tolmetin and sulindac significantly reduce lipid peroxidation and scavenge the superoxide anion. Metal binding studies were conducted to determine whether metal chelation is a possible mechanism through which these agents reduce QA and iron (II)-induced lipid peroxidation. UV/VIS, infrared spectroscopy as well as electrochemical studies show that both agents bind to iron (II) and/or iron (III). Histological examination of the hippocampus showed that pre-treatment of animals with tolmetin or sulindac offers protection against intrahippocampal injections of QA. These agents also attenuate QA-induced apoptosis and reduce the loss of neurons in the hippocampus. The co-incubation of primary hippocampal neurons with the NSAIDS also enhanced cell viability which is significantly reduced by QA. Behavioural studies using a water maze showed that the treatment of animals after QA-induced neurotoxicity reduces QA-induced spatial memory loss. Tolmetin and sulindac also reduced glutathione depletion and protein oxidation in rat hippocampus. Both NSAIDS inhibit liver tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase activity in vitro and in vivo and subsequently increased hippocampal serotonin levels. However, both NSAIDS also reduce dopamine levels in rat striatum. Tolmetin but not sulindac increased the synthesis of melatonin by the pineal gland. The active components of turmeric known as the curcuminoids were separated using preparative thin layer chromatography (TLC). The purity was confirmed by TLC, NMR and mass spectrometry. The environmental toxin lead, induces lipid peroxidation and reduces primary hippocampal neuronal viability. The co-incubation of the neurons with the curcuminoids significantly reduces lead-induced lipid peroxidation and enhances neuronal cell viability in the presence of lead. Lead-induced spatial memory deficit is also attenuated with curcumin, demethoxycurcumin but not bisdemethoxycurcumin. The curcuminoids also reduce lead-induced hippocampal glutathione depletion and protein oxidation. Metal binding studies show that the curcuminoids bind to lead and is another possible mechanism through which the curcuminoids reduce lead-induced neurotoxicity. The findings of this study indicate a possible role of tolmetin, sulindac and turmeric in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. However, tolmetin and sulindac reduce dopamine levels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation into the popularity of American action movies shown in informal video houses in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Authors: Assefa, Emrakeb
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Motion pictures -- Ethiopia , Mass media -- Ethiopia , Popular culture -- Ethiopia , Mass media and youth -- Ethiopia , Mass media and culture -- Ethiopia , Mass media -- Sociological aspects , Ethiopia -- History
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3418 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002871 , Motion pictures -- Ethiopia , Mass media -- Ethiopia , Popular culture -- Ethiopia , Mass media and youth -- Ethiopia , Mass media and culture -- Ethiopia , Mass media -- Sociological aspects , Ethiopia -- History
- Description: The early 1990s saw a major change in the Ethiopian history in so far as Ethiopian media consumption practices was concerned. With the change of government in 1991, the ‘Iron Curtail’ prohibiting the dissemination of Western symbolic products within the country was lifted which in turn led to a surge in demand for Western predominantly American media texts. In order to supply this new demand, informal video houses showing primarily American action movies were opened in Addis Ababa. There was a significant shift in Ethiopians’ films consumption practices which were previously limited to watching films produced by socialist countries mainly the former Soviet Union. This study set out to probe reasons for the attraction of American action movies shown in video-viewing houses in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia amongst the urban unemployed male youth. Particularly, it examines how the meanings produced by and embedded in the cultural industries of the West are appropriated in the day-to-day lives of the youth. The importance of video houses as a shared male cultural space for Ethiopian unemployed youth and the watching of American action movies in this space are the main entry and focus of this study. Using qualitative methods such as observation, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, the study explores what happens in this cultural space and how one makes sense of the impact of American media on local audiences. The findings of the study point to the embeddedness of viewing practice in everyday life and the importance of local contexts in understanding text-reader interaction. This is shown by the male youth’s tendency to use media messages as a mode of escape and a symbolic distancing from their lived impoverished reality. The study also seeks to highlight that the video houses as cultural space have contributed to the creation of marginal male youth identities in the Ethiopian patriarchal society. As such, these and other findings, the study argues, highlight the deficiencies of the media imperialism thesis with its definitive claims for cultural homogenisation as effect of globalisation of media. As such, this study should be read as emphasising the capability of local audience groups in Third World country like Ethiopia to construct their own meanings and thus their own local cultures and identities, even in the face of their virtually complete dependence on the image flows distributed by the transnational culture industries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Assefa, Emrakeb
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Motion pictures -- Ethiopia , Mass media -- Ethiopia , Popular culture -- Ethiopia , Mass media and youth -- Ethiopia , Mass media and culture -- Ethiopia , Mass media -- Sociological aspects , Ethiopia -- History
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3418 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002871 , Motion pictures -- Ethiopia , Mass media -- Ethiopia , Popular culture -- Ethiopia , Mass media and youth -- Ethiopia , Mass media and culture -- Ethiopia , Mass media -- Sociological aspects , Ethiopia -- History
- Description: The early 1990s saw a major change in the Ethiopian history in so far as Ethiopian media consumption practices was concerned. With the change of government in 1991, the ‘Iron Curtail’ prohibiting the dissemination of Western symbolic products within the country was lifted which in turn led to a surge in demand for Western predominantly American media texts. In order to supply this new demand, informal video houses showing primarily American action movies were opened in Addis Ababa. There was a significant shift in Ethiopians’ films consumption practices which were previously limited to watching films produced by socialist countries mainly the former Soviet Union. This study set out to probe reasons for the attraction of American action movies shown in video-viewing houses in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia amongst the urban unemployed male youth. Particularly, it examines how the meanings produced by and embedded in the cultural industries of the West are appropriated in the day-to-day lives of the youth. The importance of video houses as a shared male cultural space for Ethiopian unemployed youth and the watching of American action movies in this space are the main entry and focus of this study. Using qualitative methods such as observation, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, the study explores what happens in this cultural space and how one makes sense of the impact of American media on local audiences. The findings of the study point to the embeddedness of viewing practice in everyday life and the importance of local contexts in understanding text-reader interaction. This is shown by the male youth’s tendency to use media messages as a mode of escape and a symbolic distancing from their lived impoverished reality. The study also seeks to highlight that the video houses as cultural space have contributed to the creation of marginal male youth identities in the Ethiopian patriarchal society. As such, these and other findings, the study argues, highlight the deficiencies of the media imperialism thesis with its definitive claims for cultural homogenisation as effect of globalisation of media. As such, this study should be read as emphasising the capability of local audience groups in Third World country like Ethiopia to construct their own meanings and thus their own local cultures and identities, even in the face of their virtually complete dependence on the image flows distributed by the transnational culture industries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation into the validity of life tables used for the calculation of personal injury damages
- Authors: Forshaw, Timothy James
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Torts -- South Africa , Damages -- South Africa , Damages -- South Africa -- Accounting , Mortality -- Tables , Personal injuries -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1077 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008371 , Torts -- South Africa , Damages -- South Africa , Damages -- South Africa -- Accounting , Mortality -- Tables , Personal injuries -- South Africa
- Description: Currently in South Africa when an individual is injured due to the acts of another they may claim damages for the losses which they may incur. These can be claimed from a variety of institutions, such as the Road Accident Fund, Workmen's compensation or an individual's private insurance. In all the afore-mentioned cases the calculation of damages are along the same lines, whereby the damages are quantified first, and thereafter reduced to reflect future possibilities that may occur. Traditionally future losses are reduced to reflect the possibility that the claimant may die at an age prior to the loss being incurred. To account for this risk awards for future losses are reduced using standard South African mortality tables. The set of tables currently being used were calculated from the 1985 South African census, and as such encapsulate the mortality of the population at that period. When the tables were calculated no reliable statistics were available for the Black population the result is that the tables currently being used do not contain a sample of the majority of the population. The thesis first examines, in detail, the calculation methods used to arrive at the value for damages to be awarded using the current set of life tables. Thereafter an analysis is conducted looking at differences between racial groups in the country and geographic locations, in order to uncover the mortality differences between groups to confirm or disprove the proposition that the exclusion of the Black population results in lower levels of mortality being reflected in the South African 1984-1986 life tables. This is accompanied by a review of mortality trenps in South African since 1986. Following from the findings of the expected increase in mortality since 1986, alternative life tables shall be used to show what impact these would have on the calculation of damages. Due to the fact that none of the alternatives return satisfactory results, structured settlements shall be reviewed to illustrate how the shortcomings of the lump sum approach can be circumvented, and altogether avoid the problems of out dated life tables being used as a basis for damage calculations. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Authors: Forshaw, Timothy James
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Torts -- South Africa , Damages -- South Africa , Damages -- South Africa -- Accounting , Mortality -- Tables , Personal injuries -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1077 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008371 , Torts -- South Africa , Damages -- South Africa , Damages -- South Africa -- Accounting , Mortality -- Tables , Personal injuries -- South Africa
- Description: Currently in South Africa when an individual is injured due to the acts of another they may claim damages for the losses which they may incur. These can be claimed from a variety of institutions, such as the Road Accident Fund, Workmen's compensation or an individual's private insurance. In all the afore-mentioned cases the calculation of damages are along the same lines, whereby the damages are quantified first, and thereafter reduced to reflect future possibilities that may occur. Traditionally future losses are reduced to reflect the possibility that the claimant may die at an age prior to the loss being incurred. To account for this risk awards for future losses are reduced using standard South African mortality tables. The set of tables currently being used were calculated from the 1985 South African census, and as such encapsulate the mortality of the population at that period. When the tables were calculated no reliable statistics were available for the Black population the result is that the tables currently being used do not contain a sample of the majority of the population. The thesis first examines, in detail, the calculation methods used to arrive at the value for damages to be awarded using the current set of life tables. Thereafter an analysis is conducted looking at differences between racial groups in the country and geographic locations, in order to uncover the mortality differences between groups to confirm or disprove the proposition that the exclusion of the Black population results in lower levels of mortality being reflected in the South African 1984-1986 life tables. This is accompanied by a review of mortality trenps in South African since 1986. Following from the findings of the expected increase in mortality since 1986, alternative life tables shall be used to show what impact these would have on the calculation of damages. Due to the fact that none of the alternatives return satisfactory results, structured settlements shall be reviewed to illustrate how the shortcomings of the lump sum approach can be circumvented, and altogether avoid the problems of out dated life tables being used as a basis for damage calculations. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
An investigation of a framework for the implementation of service management in the information and communication technology sector
- Authors: Benyon, Robert Victor
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Support services (Management) , Service industries -- Management , Information technology -- Management , Management information systems , Communication in management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1137 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002766 , Support services (Management) , Service industries -- Management , Information technology -- Management , Management information systems , Communication in management
- Description: Service Management (SM) is an integrated, cyclical and collaborative approach to the management of service requirements and levels. It involves the definition of client expectations, the satisfying of those expectations and the perpetual refining of the business agreement (Sturm 2001). SM in the ICT sector is a comprehensive process that extends beyond the development of Service Agreements (SAs). A number of identifiable steps constitute the progressive implementation of a managed services environment, the key components of which are a readiness to provide services, the accurate elicitation, management and satisfying of client requirements and the continual improvements to the business relationship. Unfortunately, a number of SM initiatives fail. These failures can be attributed to a lack of SM understanding, the absence of a fully implemented SM strategy, poor communication and people issues. This research describes an investigation of SM implementation. A number of recognised frameworks are explored and critically analysed. The common strengths of these frameworks and the results of an exploratory pilot study are used to construct an SM implementation framework. This framework is then tested empirically by means of an online survey, and revised in the light of the results of this survey. The framework comprises two distinct phases, namely a Foundation phase and a Managed Services phase. The Foundation phase comprises 8 critical preparatory activities that take a service provider to state of readiness to provide and manage ICT services. The Managed Services phase comprises 5 key cyclical steps for the management of ICT services, including Planning, Analysis, Design, Implementation and Review.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Benyon, Robert Victor
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Support services (Management) , Service industries -- Management , Information technology -- Management , Management information systems , Communication in management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1137 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002766 , Support services (Management) , Service industries -- Management , Information technology -- Management , Management information systems , Communication in management
- Description: Service Management (SM) is an integrated, cyclical and collaborative approach to the management of service requirements and levels. It involves the definition of client expectations, the satisfying of those expectations and the perpetual refining of the business agreement (Sturm 2001). SM in the ICT sector is a comprehensive process that extends beyond the development of Service Agreements (SAs). A number of identifiable steps constitute the progressive implementation of a managed services environment, the key components of which are a readiness to provide services, the accurate elicitation, management and satisfying of client requirements and the continual improvements to the business relationship. Unfortunately, a number of SM initiatives fail. These failures can be attributed to a lack of SM understanding, the absence of a fully implemented SM strategy, poor communication and people issues. This research describes an investigation of SM implementation. A number of recognised frameworks are explored and critically analysed. The common strengths of these frameworks and the results of an exploratory pilot study are used to construct an SM implementation framework. This framework is then tested empirically by means of an online survey, and revised in the light of the results of this survey. The framework comprises two distinct phases, namely a Foundation phase and a Managed Services phase. The Foundation phase comprises 8 critical preparatory activities that take a service provider to state of readiness to provide and manage ICT services. The Managed Services phase comprises 5 key cyclical steps for the management of ICT services, including Planning, Analysis, Design, Implementation and Review.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation of integrated development planning (IDP) as a mechanism for poverty alleviation in Grahamstown in the Makana Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Alebiosu, Olumide Ademola
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Makana Municipality , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4841 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005517 , Makana Municipality , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Poverty among individuals, households or communities is not a static condition. There are many factors which contribute to its causes and depth. In South Africa the economic gaps imposed by the previous apartheid government aggravated economic inequalities and caused considerable disparities, which has resulted in high unemployment rates. Inequalities were also manifest in the neglect of infrastructural and service provision as well in the effective absence of independent governance among some race group. This led to a call for pro-active initiatives by the post-1994 democratic government to remedy the living condition of the previously disadvantaged people. As part of its poverty relief drive the South African government has embarked on a series of developmental initiatives in bringing infrastructure related services to the poor and to reduce the enormous prevailing backlog, with the aim of increasing community participation, improving service delivery and promoting the upliftment of the lives of poor people through the medium of local governance. This study investigated the Integrated Development Planning, which has been undertaken in Grahamstown in the Makana Municipality in the Eastern Cape to respond to the prevailing poverty and underdevelopment among the poor communities. Relying on their developmental mandate to initiate and co-ordinate all development activities within their area of jurisdiction through the IDP, the Makana Municipality has drawn up a development strategic plan in conjunction with the local communities and with other stakeholders and organisations to identify and assess development backlogs within the communities with the aim of addressing such backlogs. This study revealed from the interviews conducted with some municipal personnel and questionnaires administered to sampled residents of Grahamstown that some faces of poverty, such as unemployment and lack of access to some of the most basic of infrastructure such as, sanitation facilities, water, electricity, formal house, education, security and recreation facilities are apparent in Grahamstown. However, the Makana Municipality through, the IDP has achieved some notable feats in the provision of providing some of the basic amenities such as water, housing, electricity and sanitation albeit at a slow rate. The mechanism of delivery is hampered by bureaucratic settings within government and the ambiguity attached to some of the projects. The service and infrastructural developments targeted towards the poor and the involvement of communities in the affairs of the local government might be seen as a partially panacea for poverty alleviation in South Africa. However the capacity of the local governments to effectively carry out this developmental challenge assignment might be a new twist in the developmental challenge facing local governments in South Africa. The thesis provides an overview of the Makana Municipality IDP and the degree to which is serving as one mechanism to address poverty in the Grahamstown urban area
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Alebiosu, Olumide Ademola
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Makana Municipality , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4841 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005517 , Makana Municipality , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Poverty among individuals, households or communities is not a static condition. There are many factors which contribute to its causes and depth. In South Africa the economic gaps imposed by the previous apartheid government aggravated economic inequalities and caused considerable disparities, which has resulted in high unemployment rates. Inequalities were also manifest in the neglect of infrastructural and service provision as well in the effective absence of independent governance among some race group. This led to a call for pro-active initiatives by the post-1994 democratic government to remedy the living condition of the previously disadvantaged people. As part of its poverty relief drive the South African government has embarked on a series of developmental initiatives in bringing infrastructure related services to the poor and to reduce the enormous prevailing backlog, with the aim of increasing community participation, improving service delivery and promoting the upliftment of the lives of poor people through the medium of local governance. This study investigated the Integrated Development Planning, which has been undertaken in Grahamstown in the Makana Municipality in the Eastern Cape to respond to the prevailing poverty and underdevelopment among the poor communities. Relying on their developmental mandate to initiate and co-ordinate all development activities within their area of jurisdiction through the IDP, the Makana Municipality has drawn up a development strategic plan in conjunction with the local communities and with other stakeholders and organisations to identify and assess development backlogs within the communities with the aim of addressing such backlogs. This study revealed from the interviews conducted with some municipal personnel and questionnaires administered to sampled residents of Grahamstown that some faces of poverty, such as unemployment and lack of access to some of the most basic of infrastructure such as, sanitation facilities, water, electricity, formal house, education, security and recreation facilities are apparent in Grahamstown. However, the Makana Municipality through, the IDP has achieved some notable feats in the provision of providing some of the basic amenities such as water, housing, electricity and sanitation albeit at a slow rate. The mechanism of delivery is hampered by bureaucratic settings within government and the ambiguity attached to some of the projects. The service and infrastructural developments targeted towards the poor and the involvement of communities in the affairs of the local government might be seen as a partially panacea for poverty alleviation in South Africa. However the capacity of the local governments to effectively carry out this developmental challenge assignment might be a new twist in the developmental challenge facing local governments in South Africa. The thesis provides an overview of the Makana Municipality IDP and the degree to which is serving as one mechanism to address poverty in the Grahamstown urban area
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation of the binding capacities of recombinant domain mutants of the human Polymeric Immunoglobulin Receptor (pIgR)
- Authors: Prinsloo, Earl Adin Gerard
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Immunoglobulins
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10307 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/403 , Immunoglobulins
- Description: The membrane bound glycoprotein, polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR) is the primary transport molecule of the polymeric immunoglobulins, dimeric IgA and pentameric IgM, across epithelial cells. This process, known as transcytosis, is essential in order to establish immunity at mucosal surfaces. Typically, pIgR binds to the polymeric immunoglobulin at the basolateral surface of the epithelial cell, via five homologous immunoglobulin-like domains of the ectodomain. Binding is covalent to IgA and non-covalent to IgM; the IgM binding varying among species. The pIgR-bound complex is released at the apical surface of the cell after cleavage of pIgR at Arg585, thereafter referred to as secretory component (SC). SC confers protective and immunologic functions to the polymeric immunoglobulin. Free SC, i.e. not complexed with polymeric immunoglobulins, is also known to be released into mucosal secretions; and binds to pathogenic bacteria and bacterial products. It is known that domain I of the ectodomain is the primary domain in the interaction with polymeric immunoglobulins, while domain V is involved in a covalent linkage with IgA. However, little is known of domains II-IV and their role in immunoglobulin binding, particularly to IgM. This study aimed to characterize the binding of recombinant human pIgR domain mutants to polymeric IgM using immunological, biophysical and cell based techniques; thereby allowing greater insight into the contribution of each of the five domains. The unique domain structure allowed for selective amplification of single and multiple domain mutants from cloned human PIGR ectodomain cDNA. Mutants were cloned and expressed in Esherichia coli BL21 (DE3) as inclusion bodies. Recombinant mutant proteins were refolded in vitro by equilibrium gradient dialysis and purified to homogeneity. Equilibrium binding data show significant contributions to specific binding as a factor of domain presence. Binding kinetics determined by biophysical surface plasmon resonance measurements show the interplay between association and dissociation rates as defined by individual domains. In vitro competitive binding studies using the human intestinal carcinoma, HT29, known to constitutively express pIgR, show that the constructed recombinant domain mutants outcompete native pIgR. The level of competition is shown to be dependant on the domains downstream of domain I. The data also confirm the biological activity of the first in vitro refolded recombinant human SC.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Prinsloo, Earl Adin Gerard
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Immunoglobulins
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10307 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/403 , Immunoglobulins
- Description: The membrane bound glycoprotein, polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR) is the primary transport molecule of the polymeric immunoglobulins, dimeric IgA and pentameric IgM, across epithelial cells. This process, known as transcytosis, is essential in order to establish immunity at mucosal surfaces. Typically, pIgR binds to the polymeric immunoglobulin at the basolateral surface of the epithelial cell, via five homologous immunoglobulin-like domains of the ectodomain. Binding is covalent to IgA and non-covalent to IgM; the IgM binding varying among species. The pIgR-bound complex is released at the apical surface of the cell after cleavage of pIgR at Arg585, thereafter referred to as secretory component (SC). SC confers protective and immunologic functions to the polymeric immunoglobulin. Free SC, i.e. not complexed with polymeric immunoglobulins, is also known to be released into mucosal secretions; and binds to pathogenic bacteria and bacterial products. It is known that domain I of the ectodomain is the primary domain in the interaction with polymeric immunoglobulins, while domain V is involved in a covalent linkage with IgA. However, little is known of domains II-IV and their role in immunoglobulin binding, particularly to IgM. This study aimed to characterize the binding of recombinant human pIgR domain mutants to polymeric IgM using immunological, biophysical and cell based techniques; thereby allowing greater insight into the contribution of each of the five domains. The unique domain structure allowed for selective amplification of single and multiple domain mutants from cloned human PIGR ectodomain cDNA. Mutants were cloned and expressed in Esherichia coli BL21 (DE3) as inclusion bodies. Recombinant mutant proteins were refolded in vitro by equilibrium gradient dialysis and purified to homogeneity. Equilibrium binding data show significant contributions to specific binding as a factor of domain presence. Binding kinetics determined by biophysical surface plasmon resonance measurements show the interplay between association and dissociation rates as defined by individual domains. In vitro competitive binding studies using the human intestinal carcinoma, HT29, known to constitutively express pIgR, show that the constructed recombinant domain mutants outcompete native pIgR. The level of competition is shown to be dependant on the domains downstream of domain I. The data also confirm the biological activity of the first in vitro refolded recombinant human SC.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation of the challenges facing the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in the provision of low-income housing
- Authors: Li, Qiang
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Housing development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8163 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/543 , Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Housing development -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of this study was to critically investigate challenges in the provision of low-income housing in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). In order to reach this goal, it was necessary to study the literature on the housing sector, especially as regards the impact between the external factors and the provision of low-income housing. A further supporting objective was to investigate and analyse the challenges in order to develop techniques and strategies for solving the challenges facing the NMBM in the provision of low-income housing. In order to address the reach problem and to fulfil the research objectives, an in-depth literature study was done. Empirical studies were also performed by means of face-to-face interviews and a questionnaire with the target group in the Housing Department of the NMBM. The literature and empirical study made it possible to identify underperformance and to recommend possible solutions for the challenges in the provision of low-income housing in the NMBM. These recommendations should be of value to all participants in the housing sector. From the investigation into the NMBM in the provision of low-income housing, the findings indicate that the constraints and challenges such as the housing backlog also exist in other parts of South Africa. Challenges such as availability of land in the NMBM can be considered to exist principally in the NMBM area. The new national policies and local government housing strategies should concur with the internationally accepted developmental approach. Recommendations were made with regard to sustainable development strategies, housing policies, finance and housing provision. Essential proposals were made, such as efficient financial support, and to train and improve certain unskilled staff in the NMBM. The study concludes with recommended techniques and strategies for the improvement of low-income housing in the NMBM, in order to overcome its challenges and to empower it on a sustainable basis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Li, Qiang
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Housing development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8163 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/543 , Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Housing development -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of this study was to critically investigate challenges in the provision of low-income housing in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). In order to reach this goal, it was necessary to study the literature on the housing sector, especially as regards the impact between the external factors and the provision of low-income housing. A further supporting objective was to investigate and analyse the challenges in order to develop techniques and strategies for solving the challenges facing the NMBM in the provision of low-income housing. In order to address the reach problem and to fulfil the research objectives, an in-depth literature study was done. Empirical studies were also performed by means of face-to-face interviews and a questionnaire with the target group in the Housing Department of the NMBM. The literature and empirical study made it possible to identify underperformance and to recommend possible solutions for the challenges in the provision of low-income housing in the NMBM. These recommendations should be of value to all participants in the housing sector. From the investigation into the NMBM in the provision of low-income housing, the findings indicate that the constraints and challenges such as the housing backlog also exist in other parts of South Africa. Challenges such as availability of land in the NMBM can be considered to exist principally in the NMBM area. The new national policies and local government housing strategies should concur with the internationally accepted developmental approach. Recommendations were made with regard to sustainable development strategies, housing policies, finance and housing provision. Essential proposals were made, such as efficient financial support, and to train and improve certain unskilled staff in the NMBM. The study concludes with recommended techniques and strategies for the improvement of low-income housing in the NMBM, in order to overcome its challenges and to empower it on a sustainable basis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation of the in vitro anticancer properties of selected platinum compounds
- Authors: Du Plessis-Stoman, Debbie
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Antineoplastic agents , Platinum compounds , Cancer -- Immunological aspects , Cancer -- Chemotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10334 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/498 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012002 , Antineoplastic agents , Platinum compounds , Cancer -- Immunological aspects , Cancer -- Chemotherapy
- Description: This dissertation mainly deals with some biochemical aspects regarding the efficacy of novel platinum anticancer compounds, as part of a broader study in which both chemistry and biochemistry are involved. Various novel diamine and N-S donor chelate compounds of platinum II and IV have been developed in which factors such as stereochemistry, ligand exchange rate and biocompatibility were considered as additional parameters. In the first order testing, each of these compounds was tested with reference to their “killing” potential by comparing their rate of killing, over a period of 48 hours with those of cisplatin and oxaliplatin. Some 80 compounds were tested in this way. Although only a few could be regarded as equal to or even better than cisplatin and oxaliplatin, the testing of these compounds on cancer cells provided useful knowledge for the further development of novel compounds. Four of the better compounds, namely Y9, Y14, Y16 and Lt16.2 were selected for further studies to obtain more detailed knowledge of their anticancer action, including some flow cytometric studies. In addition to the above, cisplatin resistant cells were produced for each of the three different cell lines tested, namely, HeLa, HT29 and MCF7 cancer cell lines, by intermittent and incremental exposure to cisplatin (all the cell lines tested became resistant to cisplatin). Each of the selected compounds were exposed to the cells in the same manner, in order to attempt the induction of resistance against these compounds in the three cell lines tested (i.e. whether these cells will become resistant to the various compounds). Each of these selected platinum containing compounds were subsequently tested against the “cisplatin resistant” cell lines in order to determine their efficacy against such cells. One such compound could be singled out, since cervical cancer cells (HeLa cells) do not become resistant to it. This behaviour is similar to that of oxaliplatin against cervical cancer and colon cancer (HT29) cells (oxaliplatin is the number one treatment for colon cancer at present). This compound also proved to be more active against cisplatin resistant cell lines. It was found that all the compounds induced apoptosis in the cell lines tested as well as inhibit the DNA cycle at one or more phase. Finally, an effort was made to evaluate the different compounds by comparing them with respect to their properties relating to anticancer action.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Du Plessis-Stoman, Debbie
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Antineoplastic agents , Platinum compounds , Cancer -- Immunological aspects , Cancer -- Chemotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10334 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/498 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012002 , Antineoplastic agents , Platinum compounds , Cancer -- Immunological aspects , Cancer -- Chemotherapy
- Description: This dissertation mainly deals with some biochemical aspects regarding the efficacy of novel platinum anticancer compounds, as part of a broader study in which both chemistry and biochemistry are involved. Various novel diamine and N-S donor chelate compounds of platinum II and IV have been developed in which factors such as stereochemistry, ligand exchange rate and biocompatibility were considered as additional parameters. In the first order testing, each of these compounds was tested with reference to their “killing” potential by comparing their rate of killing, over a period of 48 hours with those of cisplatin and oxaliplatin. Some 80 compounds were tested in this way. Although only a few could be regarded as equal to or even better than cisplatin and oxaliplatin, the testing of these compounds on cancer cells provided useful knowledge for the further development of novel compounds. Four of the better compounds, namely Y9, Y14, Y16 and Lt16.2 were selected for further studies to obtain more detailed knowledge of their anticancer action, including some flow cytometric studies. In addition to the above, cisplatin resistant cells were produced for each of the three different cell lines tested, namely, HeLa, HT29 and MCF7 cancer cell lines, by intermittent and incremental exposure to cisplatin (all the cell lines tested became resistant to cisplatin). Each of the selected compounds were exposed to the cells in the same manner, in order to attempt the induction of resistance against these compounds in the three cell lines tested (i.e. whether these cells will become resistant to the various compounds). Each of these selected platinum containing compounds were subsequently tested against the “cisplatin resistant” cell lines in order to determine their efficacy against such cells. One such compound could be singled out, since cervical cancer cells (HeLa cells) do not become resistant to it. This behaviour is similar to that of oxaliplatin against cervical cancer and colon cancer (HT29) cells (oxaliplatin is the number one treatment for colon cancer at present). This compound also proved to be more active against cisplatin resistant cell lines. It was found that all the compounds induced apoptosis in the cell lines tested as well as inhibit the DNA cycle at one or more phase. Finally, an effort was made to evaluate the different compounds by comparing them with respect to their properties relating to anticancer action.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation of the relationship between journalists and their news sources: a case study of The Post newspaper in Zambia
- Authors: Kabeta, Jacqueline Milambo
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: The Post (Zambia) , Newspapers -- Zambia , Journalism -- Zambia , Journalists -- Zambia , Reporters and reporting -- Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3438 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002892 , The Post (Zambia) , Newspapers -- Zambia , Journalism -- Zambia , Journalists -- Zambia , Reporters and reporting -- Zambia
- Description: Normative professional journalism and the need to re-evaluate the structural social context of journalism practice and its role in emerging democracies has led to the increased scrutiny of journalists and their relationship to news sources. This study conceptualises the relationship between journalists and news sources as a dual process of consensus and conflict of interests in the newsgathering practice in Zambia, an emerging democracy. The study suggests that journalists actively pursue powerful individuals in society such as those in government, pressure groups and business as news sources who have been available and suitable in the past. Journalists’ view of society as bureaucratically organised and the short turn-around time of news production are among the organisational factors attributed to this tendency. This study adopts a sociological approach to investigate the journalist-news source relationship at The Post, in Zambia, by factoring in the perspectives of social organisation of newswork and political economy. Whereas the social organisation perspective focuses on the organisational and occupational demands of journalists, political economy reinforces the larger context of journalist-news source interaction in a society. Additionally, the social constructivist theory, which is premised around the idea that the agenda and content of journalism production, is in part a product of non-journalistic social factors is useful in understanding the various influences on the relationship. The study investigates the nature of the journalist-news source relationship using two diametrically opposed views – the dominant (exchange) and competitive (adversarial) paradigms. This is aimed at establishing whether the relationship is an exchange or adversarial. While the latter relationship is common in liberal democracies where the media are seen as part of elite structures with considerable power on their own, the thinking is that inequalities in resource distribution and political power generate social tensions in developing countries that require media to be carefully managed. Using qualitative semi-structured interviews and observation methods, this study establishes that while the adversarial role has an attraction for the journalists investigated, the exchange model comes closest to describing the nature of relationship they share with their news sources.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Kabeta, Jacqueline Milambo
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: The Post (Zambia) , Newspapers -- Zambia , Journalism -- Zambia , Journalists -- Zambia , Reporters and reporting -- Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3438 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002892 , The Post (Zambia) , Newspapers -- Zambia , Journalism -- Zambia , Journalists -- Zambia , Reporters and reporting -- Zambia
- Description: Normative professional journalism and the need to re-evaluate the structural social context of journalism practice and its role in emerging democracies has led to the increased scrutiny of journalists and their relationship to news sources. This study conceptualises the relationship between journalists and news sources as a dual process of consensus and conflict of interests in the newsgathering practice in Zambia, an emerging democracy. The study suggests that journalists actively pursue powerful individuals in society such as those in government, pressure groups and business as news sources who have been available and suitable in the past. Journalists’ view of society as bureaucratically organised and the short turn-around time of news production are among the organisational factors attributed to this tendency. This study adopts a sociological approach to investigate the journalist-news source relationship at The Post, in Zambia, by factoring in the perspectives of social organisation of newswork and political economy. Whereas the social organisation perspective focuses on the organisational and occupational demands of journalists, political economy reinforces the larger context of journalist-news source interaction in a society. Additionally, the social constructivist theory, which is premised around the idea that the agenda and content of journalism production, is in part a product of non-journalistic social factors is useful in understanding the various influences on the relationship. The study investigates the nature of the journalist-news source relationship using two diametrically opposed views – the dominant (exchange) and competitive (adversarial) paradigms. This is aimed at establishing whether the relationship is an exchange or adversarial. While the latter relationship is common in liberal democracies where the media are seen as part of elite structures with considerable power on their own, the thinking is that inequalities in resource distribution and political power generate social tensions in developing countries that require media to be carefully managed. Using qualitative semi-structured interviews and observation methods, this study establishes that while the adversarial role has an attraction for the journalists investigated, the exchange model comes closest to describing the nature of relationship they share with their news sources.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An understanding of corporate social investment within the context of the Sappi Forest Products Division in South Africa
- Authors: May, Jonathan Paul
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Forests and forestry -- South Africa Forests and forestry -- Social aspects -- South Africa Forest products industry -- South Africa Corporate reorganizations Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Community development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:768 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003889
- Description: This research which makes reference to Sappi South Africa is grounded in a South African context, within the forestry industry. The aims of the study are to- 1. Provide a description of corporate social investment (in a Sappi/ South African context) from a theoretical, corporate and legislative perspective which will describe current Sappi CSI activity, its implementation, measurement and the driving force behind them. 2. To articulate a sound understanding without judgement of the current status of corporate social investment based upon the application of (1) above. 3. To position Sappi’s CSI approach on a macro government/ corporate power scale which will facilitate rich understanding concerning the long term sustainability of Sappi’s CSI approach on the corporation, the forestry industry and the South African economy. 4. To distill a consensual interpretation that is more informed and sophisticated than previous constructions within Sappi Forest Products Division. The qualitative research is descriptive. A single case-study method has been adopted. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), as a late twentieth-century American movement, is a modern manifestation of an ancient debate amongst philosophers and theologians in many lands and cultures about the morality of commerce itself (Hood, 1996). Friedman (1962) quoted in Anshen (1980:10) argues that business should not and must not deviate from its profit orientation and that it should be concerned only with its economic performance. Friedman supported the notion ‘the business of business is business’ and adds, as quoted in Smith (1990:60), that to suggest corporations should have a social responsibility is to fail to understand the way in which the market is and must be played and asks, ‘if business does have a social responsibility other than making profits for shareholders, how are they to know what it is? Frederick et al, (1998:36) argue that Corporate Social Responsibility balances power with responsibility, responds to public needs and expectations and can contribute to correcting societal imbalances implicit in most economies. Smith (1990:89) suggests that the social control of business is achieved by either virtue of moral obligation, market forces and legislation, or, manipulation, inducement and force. Beesley and Evans (1978) quoted in Smith (1990:54) note ‘there is recognition of the growth of corporate power and the consequent perception of relative shift from government to companies as the source of social improvement and the means to promote specific items of social welfare.’ On this basis it may therefore be concluded that societal responsibilities should be shared between government and business, and in this way power balanced and a healthy pluralistic state developed. The vision of Sappi’s Corporate Social Investment program is to be instrumental in empowering and creating opportunities for both personnel and their dependent communities in order to address their self-defined needs. Sappi’s CSI activity is concentrated on education and community development, environmental preservation and conservation, social welfare and arts and culture. CSI practices are driven by morality, enlightened self-interest and by the South African Government. If the corporation had only started trading in 2005 would the CSI vision be driven by the same ‘gears’, or would the moral obligation and enlightened self-interest become less apparent? It is recommended that the Sappi CSI initiative must embrace CSI and uplift it to the next level by implementing the change management process, outsourcing at least the rural CSI initiative and expanding into a more brand orientated CSI strategy. Sappi also needs to make strategic CSI alliances with other organizations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: May, Jonathan Paul
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Forests and forestry -- South Africa Forests and forestry -- Social aspects -- South Africa Forest products industry -- South Africa Corporate reorganizations Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Community development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:768 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003889
- Description: This research which makes reference to Sappi South Africa is grounded in a South African context, within the forestry industry. The aims of the study are to- 1. Provide a description of corporate social investment (in a Sappi/ South African context) from a theoretical, corporate and legislative perspective which will describe current Sappi CSI activity, its implementation, measurement and the driving force behind them. 2. To articulate a sound understanding without judgement of the current status of corporate social investment based upon the application of (1) above. 3. To position Sappi’s CSI approach on a macro government/ corporate power scale which will facilitate rich understanding concerning the long term sustainability of Sappi’s CSI approach on the corporation, the forestry industry and the South African economy. 4. To distill a consensual interpretation that is more informed and sophisticated than previous constructions within Sappi Forest Products Division. The qualitative research is descriptive. A single case-study method has been adopted. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), as a late twentieth-century American movement, is a modern manifestation of an ancient debate amongst philosophers and theologians in many lands and cultures about the morality of commerce itself (Hood, 1996). Friedman (1962) quoted in Anshen (1980:10) argues that business should not and must not deviate from its profit orientation and that it should be concerned only with its economic performance. Friedman supported the notion ‘the business of business is business’ and adds, as quoted in Smith (1990:60), that to suggest corporations should have a social responsibility is to fail to understand the way in which the market is and must be played and asks, ‘if business does have a social responsibility other than making profits for shareholders, how are they to know what it is? Frederick et al, (1998:36) argue that Corporate Social Responsibility balances power with responsibility, responds to public needs and expectations and can contribute to correcting societal imbalances implicit in most economies. Smith (1990:89) suggests that the social control of business is achieved by either virtue of moral obligation, market forces and legislation, or, manipulation, inducement and force. Beesley and Evans (1978) quoted in Smith (1990:54) note ‘there is recognition of the growth of corporate power and the consequent perception of relative shift from government to companies as the source of social improvement and the means to promote specific items of social welfare.’ On this basis it may therefore be concluded that societal responsibilities should be shared between government and business, and in this way power balanced and a healthy pluralistic state developed. The vision of Sappi’s Corporate Social Investment program is to be instrumental in empowering and creating opportunities for both personnel and their dependent communities in order to address their self-defined needs. Sappi’s CSI activity is concentrated on education and community development, environmental preservation and conservation, social welfare and arts and culture. CSI practices are driven by morality, enlightened self-interest and by the South African Government. If the corporation had only started trading in 2005 would the CSI vision be driven by the same ‘gears’, or would the moral obligation and enlightened self-interest become less apparent? It is recommended that the Sappi CSI initiative must embrace CSI and uplift it to the next level by implementing the change management process, outsourcing at least the rural CSI initiative and expanding into a more brand orientated CSI strategy. Sappi also needs to make strategic CSI alliances with other organizations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Application of CE, HPLC and LC-MS-MS for the analysis and quality control of Ginkgo biloba dosage forms
- Authors: Dubber, Mary-Jean
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Pharmaceutical chemistry -- Quality control Ginkgo Micelles Capillary electrophoresis High performance liquid chromatography Drugs -- Dosage forms Flavonoids Terpenes Herbals
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3757 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003235
- Description: Natural products are complex mixtures of compounds with therapeutic effects which are often reported to be due to the synergistic action of multiple and sometimes unknown components. Consequently, standardization of these products is complex and a lack of effective quality control (QC) criteria in most countries has led to marketing of commercial products with questionable quality, safety and efficacy (QSE). The aim of this study was therefore to develop qualitative and quantitative analytical methods for use in the QC of Ginkgo biloba solid oral dosage forms. Initially, a micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) method was developed for the identification of the flavonol glycosides, rutin and quercitrin as well as 3 flavonol aglycones, quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetin in crude extracts of 4 Ginkgo biloba solid oral dosage forms using ultraviolet (UV) detection. A reversed-flow cyclodextrin-modified MEKC method was subsequently developed for the simultaneous determination of the aforementioned flavonols as well as ginkgolide A, B, C, J and bilobalide (all positive markers) in Ginkgo commercial products. A non-aqueous capillary electrophoresis (CE) method was also developed for fingerprinting the presence of ginkgolic acids (negative markers) in Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts, which are purported to be associated with toxic properties. This method was also applied to 2 Ginkgo biloba commercial products. Since the flavonols have strong UV absorbing chromophores, a reversed phase high-performance liquid chromatographic (RP-HPLC) method was developed and validated using photo-diode-array (PDA) detection which was then successfully applied to fingerprint commercially available Ginkgo biloba solid oral dosage forms as well as quantify the relevant flavonol markers present in these extracts. Sample preparation was simple, rapid and cost efficient with minimal clean-up and the employment of a minibore column which requires low mobile phase flow rates contributed to the economy of the method. Unlike the conventional QC approach, samples were not hydrolyzed and direct determination of 2 intact flavonol glycosides, together with the usual aglycone markers was facilitated which provided maximal content information for fingerprint comparisons. On the other hand, terpene trilactones possess poor chromophores and an alternative detection method to UV was required in order to obtain suitable sensitivity. RP-HPLC with evaporative light scattering detection (ELSD) was selected for quantification of these non-volatile constituents in Ginkgo dosage forms and this method was deemed suitable for the routine QC analysis of these positive markers in commercial products. Since approximately 33 flavonoids have been identified in Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts, baseline separation using UV/PDA detection normally requires complex gradient programs and long analysis times. In addition, unequivocal identification of the flavonoids with similar UV spectra and elution times cannot be guaranteed. A liquid chromatographic tandem mass spectrometric (LC-MS-MS) method was therefore developed and validated in order to ensure accurate quantification of the selected flavonol marker compounds in Ginkgo commercial products. LC-MS-MS analysis of Ginkgo extracts revealed, in addition to rutin, the possible presence of other quercetin analogues, quercetin-3-Orhamnoside-7-O-glucoside or quercetin-3-O-glucoside-7-O-rhamnoside, previously unreported in Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts or dosage forms. In terms of evaluating the most suitable analytical method for QC, CE shows exceptional potential in the future analysis of Ginkgo biloba dosage forms while HPLC-PDA and HPLC-ELSD are currently the most affordable and practical instruments for the routine analysis of the flavonols and terpenoids, respectively. LC-MS-MS proved to be pivotal for the accurate identification and quantification of the flavonols due to interference by other flavonoid compounds with similar retention times and UV spectra to the peaks of interest. All quantitative and qualitative results revealed large discrepancies in the marker content between the products regardless of which batch was analysed and product labels disclosed little relevant information. Although currently not required by most regulatory agencies, some of the usual quality criteria applied to orthodox medicines was evaluated. In particular, dissolution analysis, disintegration, tablet hardness and weight uniformity were assessed and revealed similar inconsistencies. This thesis emphasises that implementation of effective QC criteria is long overdue and is essential to ensure consistent product QSE of commercially available Ginkgo biloba solid oral dosage forms.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Dubber, Mary-Jean
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Pharmaceutical chemistry -- Quality control Ginkgo Micelles Capillary electrophoresis High performance liquid chromatography Drugs -- Dosage forms Flavonoids Terpenes Herbals
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3757 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003235
- Description: Natural products are complex mixtures of compounds with therapeutic effects which are often reported to be due to the synergistic action of multiple and sometimes unknown components. Consequently, standardization of these products is complex and a lack of effective quality control (QC) criteria in most countries has led to marketing of commercial products with questionable quality, safety and efficacy (QSE). The aim of this study was therefore to develop qualitative and quantitative analytical methods for use in the QC of Ginkgo biloba solid oral dosage forms. Initially, a micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) method was developed for the identification of the flavonol glycosides, rutin and quercitrin as well as 3 flavonol aglycones, quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetin in crude extracts of 4 Ginkgo biloba solid oral dosage forms using ultraviolet (UV) detection. A reversed-flow cyclodextrin-modified MEKC method was subsequently developed for the simultaneous determination of the aforementioned flavonols as well as ginkgolide A, B, C, J and bilobalide (all positive markers) in Ginkgo commercial products. A non-aqueous capillary electrophoresis (CE) method was also developed for fingerprinting the presence of ginkgolic acids (negative markers) in Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts, which are purported to be associated with toxic properties. This method was also applied to 2 Ginkgo biloba commercial products. Since the flavonols have strong UV absorbing chromophores, a reversed phase high-performance liquid chromatographic (RP-HPLC) method was developed and validated using photo-diode-array (PDA) detection which was then successfully applied to fingerprint commercially available Ginkgo biloba solid oral dosage forms as well as quantify the relevant flavonol markers present in these extracts. Sample preparation was simple, rapid and cost efficient with minimal clean-up and the employment of a minibore column which requires low mobile phase flow rates contributed to the economy of the method. Unlike the conventional QC approach, samples were not hydrolyzed and direct determination of 2 intact flavonol glycosides, together with the usual aglycone markers was facilitated which provided maximal content information for fingerprint comparisons. On the other hand, terpene trilactones possess poor chromophores and an alternative detection method to UV was required in order to obtain suitable sensitivity. RP-HPLC with evaporative light scattering detection (ELSD) was selected for quantification of these non-volatile constituents in Ginkgo dosage forms and this method was deemed suitable for the routine QC analysis of these positive markers in commercial products. Since approximately 33 flavonoids have been identified in Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts, baseline separation using UV/PDA detection normally requires complex gradient programs and long analysis times. In addition, unequivocal identification of the flavonoids with similar UV spectra and elution times cannot be guaranteed. A liquid chromatographic tandem mass spectrometric (LC-MS-MS) method was therefore developed and validated in order to ensure accurate quantification of the selected flavonol marker compounds in Ginkgo commercial products. LC-MS-MS analysis of Ginkgo extracts revealed, in addition to rutin, the possible presence of other quercetin analogues, quercetin-3-Orhamnoside-7-O-glucoside or quercetin-3-O-glucoside-7-O-rhamnoside, previously unreported in Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts or dosage forms. In terms of evaluating the most suitable analytical method for QC, CE shows exceptional potential in the future analysis of Ginkgo biloba dosage forms while HPLC-PDA and HPLC-ELSD are currently the most affordable and practical instruments for the routine analysis of the flavonols and terpenoids, respectively. LC-MS-MS proved to be pivotal for the accurate identification and quantification of the flavonols due to interference by other flavonoid compounds with similar retention times and UV spectra to the peaks of interest. All quantitative and qualitative results revealed large discrepancies in the marker content between the products regardless of which batch was analysed and product labels disclosed little relevant information. Although currently not required by most regulatory agencies, some of the usual quality criteria applied to orthodox medicines was evaluated. In particular, dissolution analysis, disintegration, tablet hardness and weight uniformity were assessed and revealed similar inconsistencies. This thesis emphasises that implementation of effective QC criteria is long overdue and is essential to ensure consistent product QSE of commercially available Ginkgo biloba solid oral dosage forms.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Application of the Baylis-Hillman reaction in the preparation of quinoline derivatives
- Authors: Pakade, Vusumzi Emmanuel
- Date: 2006 , 2013-06-11
- Subjects: Heterocyclic compounds -- Derivatives , Quinoline
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4442 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007669 , Heterocyclic compounds -- Derivatives , Quinoline
- Description: The reaction of various 2-nitrobenzaldehyde derivatives with methyl vinyl ketone (MVK) in the presence of 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) has afforded the Baylis-Hillman adducts in moderate to good yield. Dissolution of the catalyst in the solvent before the addition of the aldehyde was observed to improve the yield. Reduction of the Baylis-Hillman adducts was effected by catalytic hydrogenation using a 10% palladium-on- carbon catalyst in ethanol to give quinoline and quinoline-N-oxide derivatives and, in some cases, acyclic reduction products. All products were characterised using NMR and, where appropriate, HRMS methods. Selected quinoline-N-oxides were successfully converted to their corresponding quinoline derivatives using phosphorus tribromide (PBr₃) and DMF as solvent. Conjugate addition of the benzylamine and piperidine nucleophiles to the Baylis-Hillman adducts was also investigated but proved problematic, with one of the substrates undergoing a retro-Baylis-Hillman reaction to afford the aldehyde in ca. 40% yield, but seemingly only traces of the required product. Perkin-type coupling of two 2-methylquinolines with benzaldehyde was successfully effected to afford the desired styrylquinoline derivatives confirming the potential of the Baylis-Hillman approach to the construction of the analogues of known HIV-1 integrase inhibitors. Three ¹³C NMR chemical shift prediction programmes, viz., Chem Window, neural network and HOSE (hierarchically ordered spherical description of environment) methods were applied to selected representative compounds prepared in the project. The results from the three programmes correlated reasonably well with the experimental carbon-13 chemical shift data for each of the selected compounds.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Pakade, Vusumzi Emmanuel
- Date: 2006 , 2013-06-11
- Subjects: Heterocyclic compounds -- Derivatives , Quinoline
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4442 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007669 , Heterocyclic compounds -- Derivatives , Quinoline
- Description: The reaction of various 2-nitrobenzaldehyde derivatives with methyl vinyl ketone (MVK) in the presence of 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) has afforded the Baylis-Hillman adducts in moderate to good yield. Dissolution of the catalyst in the solvent before the addition of the aldehyde was observed to improve the yield. Reduction of the Baylis-Hillman adducts was effected by catalytic hydrogenation using a 10% palladium-on- carbon catalyst in ethanol to give quinoline and quinoline-N-oxide derivatives and, in some cases, acyclic reduction products. All products were characterised using NMR and, where appropriate, HRMS methods. Selected quinoline-N-oxides were successfully converted to their corresponding quinoline derivatives using phosphorus tribromide (PBr₃) and DMF as solvent. Conjugate addition of the benzylamine and piperidine nucleophiles to the Baylis-Hillman adducts was also investigated but proved problematic, with one of the substrates undergoing a retro-Baylis-Hillman reaction to afford the aldehyde in ca. 40% yield, but seemingly only traces of the required product. Perkin-type coupling of two 2-methylquinolines with benzaldehyde was successfully effected to afford the desired styrylquinoline derivatives confirming the potential of the Baylis-Hillman approach to the construction of the analogues of known HIV-1 integrase inhibitors. Three ¹³C NMR chemical shift prediction programmes, viz., Chem Window, neural network and HOSE (hierarchically ordered spherical description of environment) methods were applied to selected representative compounds prepared in the project. The results from the three programmes correlated reasonably well with the experimental carbon-13 chemical shift data for each of the selected compounds.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Aspects of the sentencing process in child sexual abuse cases
- Authors: Van der Merwe, Annette
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Child sexual abuse -- South Africa , Sexually abused children -- Legal status, laws, etc -- South Africa , Child abuse -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Sex crimes -- South Africa , Sentences(Criminal procedure) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3696 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003211 , Child sexual abuse -- South Africa , Sexually abused children -- Legal status, laws, etc -- South Africa , Child abuse -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Sex crimes -- South Africa , Sentences(Criminal procedure) -- South Africa
- Description: This thesis investigates current sentencing practices relating to the diverse, complex and emotionally laden phenomenon of child sexual abuse. It focuses on relevant legislative provisions, on case law and on an empirical study conducted amongst regional court magistrates. Trends, developments and problems are analysed and possible solutions to the main problems identified are investigated. The thesis concludes with proposed guidelines regarding the sentencing process in child sexual abuse cases. Such guidelines address general and specific principles, the use of victim impact statements, the increased recognition and use of behavioural science in the sentencing phase with regard to both the victim and the offender, and relevant aggravating and mitigating factors. The guidelines are an attempt to give some structure to the current haphazard approach adopted by the courts with regard to harm experienced by the victim. They are also aimed at assisting experts to provide more effective and reliable pre-sentence reports. Further, the thesis attempts to provide clarity concerning the factors that are considered to be aggravating or mitigating in the offence category, child sexual abuse, as well as with regard to the weight that should be attached to them. In addition, recommendations are made for the purpose of possible law reform and further research in relation to the regulation of judicial discretion through the introduction of formal sentencing guidelines, victim impact statements and the accommodation of behavioural science in the sentencing process pertaining to sexual offenders. This proposal is based on current South African sentencing practices as reflected in the consolidation of local judgments scattered over many years in different law reports and, to some extent, on English, Canadian, Australian and American sentencing practices as researched in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Van der Merwe, Annette
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Child sexual abuse -- South Africa , Sexually abused children -- Legal status, laws, etc -- South Africa , Child abuse -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Sex crimes -- South Africa , Sentences(Criminal procedure) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3696 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003211 , Child sexual abuse -- South Africa , Sexually abused children -- Legal status, laws, etc -- South Africa , Child abuse -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Sex crimes -- South Africa , Sentences(Criminal procedure) -- South Africa
- Description: This thesis investigates current sentencing practices relating to the diverse, complex and emotionally laden phenomenon of child sexual abuse. It focuses on relevant legislative provisions, on case law and on an empirical study conducted amongst regional court magistrates. Trends, developments and problems are analysed and possible solutions to the main problems identified are investigated. The thesis concludes with proposed guidelines regarding the sentencing process in child sexual abuse cases. Such guidelines address general and specific principles, the use of victim impact statements, the increased recognition and use of behavioural science in the sentencing phase with regard to both the victim and the offender, and relevant aggravating and mitigating factors. The guidelines are an attempt to give some structure to the current haphazard approach adopted by the courts with regard to harm experienced by the victim. They are also aimed at assisting experts to provide more effective and reliable pre-sentence reports. Further, the thesis attempts to provide clarity concerning the factors that are considered to be aggravating or mitigating in the offence category, child sexual abuse, as well as with regard to the weight that should be attached to them. In addition, recommendations are made for the purpose of possible law reform and further research in relation to the regulation of judicial discretion through the introduction of formal sentencing guidelines, victim impact statements and the accommodation of behavioural science in the sentencing process pertaining to sexual offenders. This proposal is based on current South African sentencing practices as reflected in the consolidation of local judgments scattered over many years in different law reports and, to some extent, on English, Canadian, Australian and American sentencing practices as researched in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006