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Closed doors: gendered power relations and the use of mature themes in Eurocentric fairytales

  • Authors: Sawyer, Kathleen Patricia
  • Date: 2017
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MFA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5971 , vital:21003
  • Description: Established critics, such as Jack Zipes, assert that the subject matter of fairytales shows evidence that the Westernised 'classics' (by authors such as Charles Perrault or the Grimm brothers) were influenced by the cultural norms of their contemporary society and served as a pedagogical tool for mass socialisation. Often authors writing for younger audiences deliberately inserted a moralising function into these tales, in order to normalise and further disseminate certain gender ideals. Their presentation of adult or mature themes (such as sexuality) is often problematic, with some references presented quite naturally and others excluded entirely. This paper investigates modern retellings of Eurocentric fairytales, and speculates on the significance of the perpetuation or complete elision of such themes, and what their selective invocation might intimate about the culture in which the story is produced. It argues that the way in which the fairytale narrative engages with mature themes is demonstrative of its contemporary ethos and its associated cultural bias, which is conveyed unconsciously through the vehicle of the text. Through a critical analysis of relevant literature, the paper explores the maintenance of socio-cultural norms in fairytales as being emblematic in their establishment as cultural relics.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Clusters as a vehicle for industrial development in the Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Mtati, Odwa
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Industrial clusters -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrialization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7106 , vital:21235
  • Description: This study examines the cluster approach as a means for promoting industrial development in the Eastern Cape Province, Republic of South Africa. The Province is unevenly developed, with pockets that are well-integrated into the national and global economies, but with some areas being severely underdeveloped. However, the Province retains a high potential for industrial revitalisation and expansion. The option of applying the cluster approach, most closely associated with Michael Porter’s work, The Comparative Advantage of Nations, to unlock this potential is examined, with a particular focus on the factors affecting the efficiency of the cluster as a vehicle for promoting industrialisation. Existing works on success factors for clusters and comparative case studies are examined, while responses from a survey among provincial stakeholders on the adaptation of the cluster concept to the circumstances of the province are analysed. The study finds that the management of a cluster is critical to its success or demise. Further to this, the key role that exists for industry is in building inter-firm co-operation, improving government and business cooperation, skills development of local labour pools and facilitating interactions between buyers and sellers. While Government Policy is not always necessary for establishment of clusters, in the specific circumstances of the Eastern Cape, it is desirable due to underdevelopment in most regions. The case for introduction of a cluster policy is supported by global experiences with clusters. A cluster approach for promotion of industrialisation is therefore recommended for the Province, with steps that may be taken towards the formation of clusters suggested.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Communication in selected Eastern Cape public healthcare facilities offering termination of pregnancy services: inter/intra-cultural implications

  • Authors: Mavuso, Snethemba Fikile
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Communication in medicine -- South Africa , Medical care -- Communication systems -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7290 , vital:21239
  • Description: This study examines pre-termination of pregnancy (PTOP) counselling, focussing on issues of language and access, and sociocultural influences. This research examines linguistic and cultural aspects of communication between healthcare providers and clients in PTOP contexts. The overarching aim of this research was to identify patterns that indicate miscommunication and to propose ways to bridge any linguistic and cultural gaps. This research examine how social norms related to turn taking guide healthcare providers - clients interaction and how the clients respond to advice offered during the counselling sessions. The study provides an indepth understanding of linguistic and cultural barriers in public healthcare, and further emphasizes the need for implementation of support systems for cross-cultural and effective patient-centred communication in healthcare. The findings in this study are thatpresent that miscommunication occurs within intercultural and intra-cultural medical encounters. Excessive use of medical terminology causes communication difficulties. Clients often provide a positive response to indicate that they understand what the healthcare provider is communicating. Clients sometimes respond positively out of politeness. This practice is common in some cultures; it often occurs when the recipient is interacting with a figure of authority or someone of higher positioning. It is found that healthcare provider’s value systems sometimes have an impact on their professional conduct, influencing the type of PTOP counselling provided to clients. Sometimes the language and communication barriers have a negative impact on the quality of care/PTOP counselling. This study argues that healthcare provider’s communication styles and value systems influence PTOP counselling. Healthcare providers have the power to control the medical discourse; their turns at talk influence those of clients. The manner in which the nurses and counsellors address the clients elicits a certain response. This study thus suggests that healthcare providers need to improve their communicative skills, be mindful of their position as power holders and adopt a patient-centred approach, which is crucial for clinical and cultural competence.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Community attitudes on differences between therapeutic interventions offered by traditional healers and biomedics in combatting HIV/AIDS. The case of Dimbaza township

  • Authors: Duda, Bathandwa Zimkhitha
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Healers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape AIDS (Disease)-- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12788 , vital:39361
  • Description: The researcher attempted to investigate and assess the attitudes about therapeutic interventions of traditional healers and bio medics which throw PLWHA into confusion in regards to their health. People living with the virus tend to use both therapies in tandem, yet the rate of HIV/AIDS is escalating in South Africa. This study sought to explore the community attitudes about traditional healing and bio- medics in treating HIV/AIDS. The study used a qualitative approach with explorative and descriptive in designs and a case study as the specific research design. It was also guided by a qualitative research paradigm. For data collection, the study employed in-depth interviews, focus groups and document analysis. The study used non-probability methodology of sample selection, but specifically, snow ball sampling was used to reach to twenty (20) participants; who comprised 6 community members, 6 people living with HIV/AIDS, 4 nurses and 4 traditional healers. Data was analysed qualitatively through content thematic analysis. The study came up with the following findings: lack of faith in traditional healers and their therapies; traditional healers put the PLWHA’s health at stake; cultural beliefs and faith systems’ conformity prompts PLWHA to use healer’s concoctions; ARVs passes the litmus test as a perfect medication in treating PLWHA; ARVs administration fosters good behaviour change; the side effects of the use of ARVs usher in an opportunity to spread the disease; health care workers are source of inspiration in combating stigma; traditional healers’ therapeutic modalities are dangerous to the health of the PLWHA; traditional healers hoodwink societies that HIV/AIDS is a spiritual disease and use of traditional medication in treatment of various ailments supported. The study recommended the following; Scientific researchers need to shed more light on the concurrent use of traditional and bio-medical therapy in managing HIV; World Health Organization need to develop campaigns on the use of African and Western therapies in treating HIV/AIDS; Ongoing training of traditional healers regarding health care practise need to be enforced; Promote cultural methods as a vehicle for prevention strategies to prevent and manage HIV/AIDS and referral of clients to the hospital by traditional healers. Recommendations for social workers; Community based campaigns in managing and preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS and Empower, educate and monitor traditional healers.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Community capacity-building in question? : finding a "missing" variable in the integrated development planning process in Berlin, Eastern Cape, South Africa

  • Authors: Solani, M
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6458 , vital:29730
  • Description: This study explored the measures adopted by Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality for capacity building of rural community members to participate effectively in the Integrated Developmental Planning (IDP) process. Focus was on the rural areas of Berlin. Existing studies suggest that, due to low literacy levels and lack of knowledge and understanding about local government issues and the benefits of participation, rural residents have little knowledge of their rights, roles and responsibilities in the IDP process, and do not know the structures designed to enhance participation. The present study was conducted against this backdrop. A mixed-methods research approach was employed, utilising quantitative and qualitative research techniques. A survey was conducted with members of four rural villages in Berlin in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Questionnaires, with open and close-ended questions, were utilised, while in-depth interviews were conducted with IDP officials at Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The findings show that, while the Municipality did have community capacity-building measures in place; these were more about building the capacity of local government councillors and other local government officials and not rural community members. Whereas the municipality believed the capacity building of councillors would translate to building the capacity of rural community members, capacity building of rural community members did not happen. Community members appeared not to understand the IDP process, an indication that whatever capacity-building measures were targeted at them had no real effect in terms of engendering meaningful participation.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Community engagement principles for implementation of information technology for development by higher education institutions in South Africa

  • Authors: Nkombachoto, Jacquiline
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Information technology Telecommunication Community development
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13171 , vital:39471
  • Description: Community engagement in South Africa is now recognised as an integral part of Higher Education Institutions’ (HEIs) educational system. The South African Council on Higher Education requires HEIs to become equitable institutions of higher learning, whereby the activities of the HEI are mutually beneficial for both learners and their communities. This entails that, community engagement activities undertaken by HEIs should be reciprocal in nature. The HEIs should help solve issues affecting their communities, whilst also gaining knowledge through experiential learning. One such way is through undertaking Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D) projects in communities outside the physical boundaries of the HEI. Over the years, HEIs in South Africa have been involved in undertaking ICT4D projects aimed at benefiting their communities. This is because ICTs have the potential to improve and contribute to the development of individuals, businesses, and communities in various ways, be it socially or economically. However, the ICT4D projects have failed or partially succeeded to attain their goals. This study, thus proposes a model for HEI researchers for the successful implementation of ICT4D projects through application of community engagement principles. The proposed model was formulated using the case study approach. Four cases of ICT4D projects were used as sample to help identify factors required for the successful implementation of ICT4D projects by HEIs. Data was collected using semi structured interviews, observations and literature. The data was then analysed using cross case analysis in the form of themes. The findings were that operational community engagement policies, understanding user needs, creation of long term partnerships, synchronisation of timelines and monitoring and evaluation are vital for the successful implementation of ICT4D projects by HEI researchers in the communities.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Community policing and partnership policing : a case study of shared responsibilities between the police and Alice community

  • Authors: Manganyi, Foster Mzamani
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Police-community relations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , DPhil
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8386 , vital:32558
  • Description: The purpose of this study was to explore the shared responsibilities between the police and the community on crime prevention. Various authorities such as Sir Robert Peel (1829), Sower (1957), William and Kelling (1982), Roelofse (2007), to mention a few, had been advocating community policing as an essential component of democratic policing. In an attempt to understand the shared responsibilities between the police and the community, a thorough literature review had been presented in chapter two. Through the intertwined approach of secondary data, explorations had been noted on the shared responsibility between the police and the community. Literature and theoretical review had been presented in the thesis to clarify critical aspects of the topic. Triangulation approach was adopted for the purpose of this study. The researcher triangulated, methodologies, sampling methods, data collection methods as well as data analysis methods. Using qualitative approach in Phase A, data was collected through structured interview, observation and content analysis which was thematically presented. The quantitative data (Phase B) was collected through structured questionnaire. In case of codding and analysis SPSS was utilised. The findings of the study in chapter six shows the shared responsibilities between the police and the community exist within Alice. Moreover, the findings shows that there is a need for community empowerment on human rights and its applicability.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Comparative analysis of zero-tillage and conventional tillage practices in the Amahlathi local municipality of the Eastern Cape province of South Africa

  • Authors: Gomo, Zintle
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Tillage--South Africa--Eastern Cape Farms, Small--South Africa--Eastern Cape No-tillage--South Africa--Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , Agricultural Economics
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11586 , vital:39087
  • Description: The current interest in zero tillage/no-till technologies is a result of the need to reduce excessive land degradation in most crop producing areas as well as to enhance sustainable food production. Farmers are always looking for ways to increase yields and profits and zero-tillage may be a way to achieve this goal. However, a systematic comparative study of the performance of zero-tillage and conventional tillage within the former homeland areas of the Eastern Cape Province is lacking. The broad objective of the study is to comparatively analyze zero tillage and conventional tillage and to determine which practice is more beneficial for the land and farmers in the area. Specifically, the study investigated the relative performance of Zero-tillage and conventional–tillage in terms of quantity produced per farm and per hectare, factors influencing the adoption rate of zero tillage and conventional tillage and to determine the relative impact of zero-tillage and conventional tillage on household income. The study was carried out in Amahlathi Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province and employed survey data obtained from 100 respondents using conventional tillage and zero tillage farmers growing spinach, cabbage, beetroot, maize, and potatoes. The study employed a cross-sectional research design. A multistage stratified sampling procedure was used in which the first stage involved selecting respondents from Amahlathi Local Municipally. This was followed by the selection of villages and then the respondents. This was done through stratification of smallholder farmers from the different Villages. This was followed by random sampling which was used to get the sample size for the study. Stata and SPSS were used to analyze the data. Descriptive statistics was used to examine current farming practices in the Eastern Cape Province while Propensity Score Matching was employed to estimate the factors that had an impact on zero tillage adoption as well as the relative impact of zero tillage and conventional tillage on household income. Gross margin analysis was used to estimate profitability of zero tillage and conventional. female farmers are participating more in zero tillage with 63.8percent while males are dominating the conventional tillage with 51.6percent. These results show that females play a crucial role in decision making when it comes to agriculture and adoption of new agricultural technologies. The majority of the farmers involved in the study were young farmers with 58percent from zero tillage and 42percent practically involved in conventional tillage. Moreover, the study showed that 41percent of the respondents practising ZT were married, and about 39percent of the respondents practising conventional tillage were married. The marital status of the respondents suggested that zero-tillage farmers were relatively stable in their farming activities as compared to conventional tillage. The results presented that 52.2percent of the respondents who practised zero tillage were better educated than the 48.4percent of the respondents practising conventional tillage. The respondents that were specialising in zero-tillage, about 41% relied on farming, 6% relied on salaried income and 54percent relied on social grants. On the other hand, respondents that were specialising in conventional tillage about, 26percent relied on farming, 16percent relied on salaried income, while 58percent relied on social grants. The respondents that were specialising in zero-tillage, about 28percent used communal land, 1percent used own land and 71percent used family land. On the other hand, respondents that were specialising in conventional tillage about, 42percent used communal land, 7percent use own land and 52percent used family land. The average household size for both groups of farmers is 5 people per household. Household income distribution for conventional tillage is giving the farmers an average of R3187.10 income while the zero tillage is giving them an income of R2305.80 on average. The study revealed that the landholdings for conventional tillage agriculture tend to be more (1.77 ha) compared to zero tillage (0.79 ha) agriculture. The Propensity Score Matching results indicated that participation in smallholder zero tillage farming contributes to household income. This implies that participating in zero tillage farming can contribute to rural livelihoods, increased income and production yields. The study results showed that households chose different farming systems based on their knowledge, level of education and farming experiences. The gross margin results show that conventional tillage farming households generated more income than zero tillage farming households. Farmers who were involved in conventional tillage farming were complaining that yields and income have decreased with time and they are continuing to decrease while farmers who carried out zero tillage farming indicated that their yields and income have improved considerably and continue to increase with time. Thus, support for adopting and implementing zero tillage practices can be an important factor for improving incomes for rural households. Based on the findings highlighted above, the study recommends provision of farm inputs and continuation of government support with more emphasis on strengthening access to inputs and technical assistance. There is a need for support programmes that would help to motivate farmers for better performance. The programmes include infrastructure developments, research and extension activities.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Comparative localization studies of P.falciparum ADP-ribosylation factor proteins in P.falciparum parasites and hela cells using GFP tagged constructs

  • Authors: Swart, Tarryn
  • Date: 2017
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3537 , vital:20519
  • Description: Expected release date-December 2018
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Comparative studies of different ant-hypertensive treatments used for cardiovascular disease patients : a case study of public health facility in the Eastern Cape South Africa

  • Authors: Abiodun, Oluwatoyin Victoria
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Survival analysis (Biometry) Cardiovascular system -- Diseases
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13205 , vital:39519
  • Description: Discovery has shown that many deaths arising from cardiovascular disease often show early symptoms of high blood pressure, which makes it the leading risk factor of cardiovascular diseases. There is a distressing rate of 970 million hypertensive patients worldwide, a higher ratio of 640 million are from developing countries, if proper measures are not taken, there will be a higher growth of cardiovascular disease in adults by 2025. The focus of this study was to compare the therapeutic potentials of the anti-hypertensive therapies, drug A (amiloride + furosemide) and drug B (hydrochlorothiazide + enalapril) used in the treatment of cardiovascular disease patients for their capability to lengthen remission duration and survival time. All patients were diagnosed with a type of cardiovascular disorder, therefore patient records were followed up and blood pressure was being monitored for a period of two years. The retrospective data gotten from the public health facility was analysed using survival analysis methods. The results revealed that there was no statistical significance in the distributions of the length of remission and survival time of drug A and drug B patients. Also, in the age category, CVD patients that are 55 and above recover faster with drug A, while CVD patients below 55 shows a better survival with drug B. Then again, estimates from the gender category show a better survival in males using drug A, while the females thrive slightly better using drug B. Among all the risk factors considered in the study, only employment status showed a strong impact on survival time (remission). The findings from this study may help to formulate interventions and strategies that will increase the lifespan of cardiovascular patients and reduce early mortality due to cardiovascular diseases.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Comparing the automotive industry manufacturing costs between East London, Uitenhage and Gaborone

  • Authors: Domingo, Steve Cecil
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Manufactures -- Costs Manufacturing industries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Manufacturing industries -- Botswana -- Gaborone Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Automobile industry and trade -- Botswana -- Gaborone
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46306 , vital:39545
  • Description: South Africa faces the problem of its automotive production facilities, threatening relocation from South Africa to neighbouring countries such as Botswana, Nigeria and Mozambique, this while, the South African manufacturing industry suffers a very high unemployment rate. The business models for South African automotive manufacturing industry is currently too cost inefficient, making relocation to neighbouring countries more feasible and attractive. The purpose of this research study is to conduct an “Automotive Manufacturing Costs comparison between East London, Uitenhage, Gaborone and the resultant impact on the South African employment of manufacturing staff” The primary objective of this study is to measure the manufacturing cost between East London, Uitenhage and Gaborone (Botswana) for one automotive component and explain if this can affect employment at the current costs of labour. The findings might add value to the South African working population about the serious impact and effect of the high cost of labour in the country. A literature review was conducted on the South African and Botswana automotive manufacturing industry, the economic development and the strategic challenges of the two countries. In conclusion, the relocation of the production industry, specifically the South African market relocating to broader Africa. In order to achieve the research objectives, personal interviews with senior managers (Plant Managers, Business Managers and Human Resources Managers) of firms that have been involved in projects of the relocation of firms into Africa was conducted. The aim of the study is to identify to the local automotive manufacturing industry, unions, government and business people that the current labour cost is South Africa could cause future relocation of industry from South Africa which will cause more unemployment.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Comparison of taxation reforms regarding retirement funding between South Africa and the United Kingdom

  • Authors: Kruger, Leander
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Pension trusts -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Pension trusts -- Law and legislation -- Great Britain , Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Taxation -- Law and legislation -- Great Britain Pensions -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Pensions -- Law and legislation -- Great Britain
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18200 , vital:28588
  • Description: The purpose of this study was to review the provision of public and private retirement funding in both South Africa and the United Kingdom and the role of taxation in encouraging greater private provision for retirement. The study described the basis of taxation and determination of ‘taxable income’ in each jurisdiction, before addressing the relationship between taxation and retirement funding in each jurisdiction respectively. Both jurisdictions have introduced significant reforms of their systems of retirement funding and these reforms were accordingly addressed in the present research. The study compared the two jurisdictions based on the above mentioned areas to determine similarities or differences. The study concluded with recommendations, these being that South Africa should assess the feasibility of providing greater State provided retirement funding by possibly including a mandatory contribution, such as that used by the UK for its single-tier flat rate New State Pension. A further recommendation was that South Africa should encourage greater provision of private retirement funding by considering even greater tax deductions for contributions.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Competition factors influencing client switching behaviour within the commercial banking industry

  • Authors: Mathiyase, Kholiswa
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa , Competition -- South Africa , Financial services industry -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45366 , vital:38574
  • Description: Banks are faced with challenges of retaining clients and preventing them from switching to competitors. For many years the South African banking industry has been dominated by the big four banks that were not known to be client focused. The banks were also known for serving only the middle and high-income earners, with the banks having a high and non-transparent banking fee structure. As a result, Capitec Bank was established in 2001 and differentiated itself from the traditional ways of providing banking service. One of their value propositions, Capitec Bank provided low and transparent banking fees, provided a unique personalised service to cater for the unbanked market and is gradually serving the middle and high-income market as well. Capitec Bank managed to establish its presence in the South African banking industry despite the dominance of the big four banks. The banking industry environment has also been subjected to a number of changes, including the entrants of other non-traditional banks, changing client behaviour, technology, regulatory and political reforms and the current depressed economic conditions.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Composition portfolio

  • Authors: Boesack, Lenrick Jonathan Angus
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Piano music , Prepared piano music , Saxophone music
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MMus
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/56233 , vital:26786
  • Description: This short composition portfolio comprises 40% of the requirements for the Master of Music Degree in performance and composition at Rhodes University. In addition to the music presented here, I played two public exam recitals of 70 minutes each. While I played piano as a child, my main instrument during my BMUS studies at the University of Cape Town (2004-2007) was the saxophone. In 2010 I was diagnosed with Polymyositis(an auto-immune desease) which particularly affected my breathing and therefore my ability to play the saxophone. For this reason I opted to play my recitals on the piano. The first recital focused on interpretations of Swing Era, Bebop and post-Bebop standards such as: Someday my prince will come, What is this thing called love, In your own sweet way, Eternal Triangle, Recordame, Peace, Dolphin Dance, Caravan and Some other blues. The second recital comprised of seven original compositions that were presented in trio, quartet and quintet settings.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Composition portfolio

  • Authors: Caplan, Anthony
  • Date: 2017
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MMus
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6940 , vital:21202
  • Description: Restricted access-thesis available at the Music Library
  • Full Text: false
  • Date Issued: 2017

Computational design of a smart and efficient control system for a residential air source heat pump water heater

  • Authors: Yongoua Nana Joel
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Heat pumps -- Specifications Water heaters Renewable energy sources
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4582 , vital:28435
  • Description: An air source heat pump (ASHP) water heater is a renewable and energy efficient hot water heating technology. ASHP water heaters are fast gaining maturity in the South African market and in Africa at large due to their low energy consumption (about 67 percent lower than conventional geysers), relatively low installation and operation cost, their environmental friendly nature and possibly the ease to retrofit with the old inefficient technologies. Furthermore, ASHP water heaters make use of some of the most recent advancement in refrigeration technologies enhancing their performance through a wide range of weather conditions. However, residential ASHP water heaters which come at the tail of a series of highly sophisticated models still harbour primitive control designs. One of such control system is the intermittent (on/off) control whereby the ASHP unit responds to a temperature differential threshold rather than instantaneous temperature fluctuations. Unfortunately, this control method contributes to a rapid deterioration of the compressor and other actuators due to high starting current during transient states and partial loading. Capacity control is a better alterative as it offers a more reliable system’s performance as well as a better protection for the system components. However, the drawbacks of implementing such a technology on residential ASHP water heaters is the initial purchasing cost. We use a systematic approach in this research to circumvent the purchasing cost and complete redesign hysteresis. The first step was centered around a hypothetical analysis of the performance of the heat exchangers in a bid to uncover the weakness during the operation of a residential ASHP water heater. It was observed that at ambient temperatures above 22°C notably during summer and winter afternoons, water only harnesses about 75 percent of the total heat rejected. Furthermore, the actuators keep doing work for about 15-20 minutes even after the heat transfer process has ceased completely. Following these observations, a sequential flow algorithm was developed aimed at matching the consumption point to weather variables like ambient temperature and secondly to most efficiently synchronize actuator components for a better energy management. This novel control method can save up to 58 percent of energy compared to the conventional on/off method during summer afternoons and averagely 20 percent during the rest of the day. It also has the merit to be cost effective as it barely requires no component retrofitting.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Concrete work decision analysis in Bloemfontein

  • Authors: Mollo, Lesiba George
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Concrete construction -- South Africa -- Bloemfontein -- Decision making Concrete construction industry -- South Africa -- Bloemfontein -- Decision making , Construction projects -- South Africa -- Bloemfontein Building -- Estimates -- South Africa -- Bloemfontein
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19190 , vital:28783
  • Description: The purpose of this study was to evolve how to reduce the manifestation of poor decisions that always produce defects and rework. The purpose of the study is predicated on the fact that good decision-making is a fundamental element of improved project delivery in the construction industry. Such decisions determine the accomplishment of performance parameters in each project. However, suboptimal performance, which is pervasive in the construction industry, is often linked to team decisions. To remedy decision-making pitfalls, the concept of Choosing by Advantages (CBA) is promoted by lean construction researchers. CBA is a decision-making system that assists project parties in deciding a course of action among competing alternatives. Case study research design was used for this project to discover the decision-making process adopted by project teams. The results from the study achieved through cross-case analysis shows that concrete defects and rework is often caused by the project team’s decision-making process, which is influenced by the members of the project team because of lack of experience, poor working conditions, and lack of education. The results also show that the decision-making mechanism of the project teams is influenced by the construction method, specification, cost, quality and time. The outcome of the project team’s decision-making process when choosing a concrete type often causes the concrete defects and rework, which can be eliminated through the application of CBA when choosing a concrete type. The application of CBA when choosing concrete type from two alternatives, ready mixed concrete and site batched concrete is driven by the project team. It was discovered from all three cases that ready-mixed concrete had a better score than site-batched concrete when using CBA to compare these two alternatives. The results show that ready-mixed concrete had less chances of causing concrete defects and rework when used or applied per the correct specifications or methods which are detailed in the engineering drawings of the structure. The study proposes that the project team should adopt CBA to improve their decision-making process on site especially when working with concrete.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Conflict between local government and civil society pertaining to sanitation in South Africa

  • Authors: De Ujfalussy, Andrea Benedicta
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Sanitation -- South Africa -- Politics and government Conflict management -- South Africa , South Africa -- Politics and government
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14939 , vital:27911
  • Description: This study seeks to determine whether the conflict between the City of Cape Town (CCT) and the Social Justice Coalition (SJC) is resulting in positive or negative outcomes from the perspective of the residents concerned. In principle, engagement, between civil society and local government should lead to an improvement in terms of the meeting of needs or wants for those communities whose interests are being contested, or at the very least an improved understanding of the plans and challenges faced by both. Further, the engagement and/or conflict between local government and civil society, if positive, should ideally lead to greater understanding between all stakeholders and the strengthening of relations between them government, civil society and the relevant community interests. The motivation of this study is to explore the unanswered issues such as, whether the SJC has gone beyond the use of acceptable tactics associated with responsible and effective civil society actors and whether it would be justified if they have; if the SJC’s actions have resulted in an actual improvement in the accelerated realization of the socio-economic rights of the communities whose interests they purport to represent; whether the communities ‘represented’ by the SJC see them as their effective advocate for the interests and concerns ; if the issue of sanitation is the primary issue for the residents concerned as claimed by the SJC; if the residents of the communities concerned feel the same animosity to the CCT that the SJC does.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Consumers' attitudes towards ready-to-eat fast-food products and their relationship with obesity in Mdantsane township in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

  • Authors: Matyolo, Pamela
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Obesity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Obesity
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9022 , vital:34183
  • Description: The South African fast-food industry has experienced substantial recent growth. However, as consumers have incorporated more fast food into their daily diets, obesity has become a major problem. The aggressive marketing techniques of fast food firms coupled with the busy urban lifestyle have significant implications for dietary health habits. The study aimed at investigating consumers’ attitudes towards fast food and the relationship between fast food consumption and obesity. The field survey design of the study employed a mixed-methods approach involving the use of a semi-structured questionnaire. The study was limited to the Mdantsane Township located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A quota sample of 200 respondents (n = 200) was selected from which data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive results revealed that the participants had positive attitudes towards fast foods. Although they agreed that eating fast foods increased body weight, the participants mostly did not feel overweight or obese. The participants were well aware of the negative health implications of excessive fast food consumption. This knowledge generally did not deter their positive fast food attitudes, although participants expressed their desire for additional healthier fast food options in the market. Regression estimates further revealed that carbohydrate and starchy type of fast foods (𝑃 < 0.01), other sources of fast foods (𝑃 < 0.05), age group, physical appearance and meaty type of fast foods (𝑃 < 0.10) had significant influence on the frequency of fast food consumption. The results further revealed that physical appearance (𝑃 < 0.01), religion (𝑃 < 0.05), age group and supermarkets and source of fast foods (𝑃 < 0.1) had significant influence on respondents’ BMI scores. The study concludes that there exist socio-economic and institutional factors that have considerable bearing on consumers’ fast food consumption and BMI scores. The study advocates for public health policy making concerning awareness of the negative health consequences of fast food consumption targeting mostly young adult females who mainly purchase in franchises and supermarkets with a high meaty diet.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

Consumers’ perception of generic drugs in South Africa

  • Authors: Boltman, Tamarah
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Consumers' preferences -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa Consumer education -- South Africa , Generic drugs -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14664 , vital:27815
  • Description: Medicines play a pivotal role in the process of human development as their rational utilization can decrease morbidity and mortality as well as improve quality of life (Jamshed, Hassali, Ibrahim, Shafie, & Babar, 2010). Access to therapeutic drugs form an integral part of any successful healthcare system. The high cost of medicines, is a barrier to accessibility and improved health to the majority of the South African population (Bangalee, 2015). In developing countries with limited healthcare budgets, such as South Africa, generic drugs (medicines) can be a cost-saving treatment alternative, resulting in medical expenditure being reduced and access to scarce resources increased (Van der Westhuizen, Burger, Lubbe, Serfontein, 2010). There is very little knowledge on perception and attitude of South African citizens with regard to use of generic drugs (Bangalee, 2015). Consumer perception can have a large impact on the choice of medicines or drugs chosen. The study intended to find out what the current consumer beliefs, attitudes, behaviours and knowledge of generic drugs are. There was also intent to establish if lack of awareness or misconception about generic drugs influence consumer choice. The study consists of a literature review of the definition of generic drugs and original or branded drugs, their influence in the public and private health sector, factors that influence consumer behaviour, brand effect, brand trust, brand loyalty, and most importantly the South Africa acceptance of generic drugs. Primary data was collected, reported and analysed through the use of a questionnaire to determine the current consumers’ belief, attitude, behaviour and knowledge of generic drugs. The study results reveal that scepticism does exists, yet there was clear acceptance, but still lack of confidence in generic drugs. Consumer education and information is the key to increased generic drug acceptance.
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  • Date Issued: 2017
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