Determinism and reactive attitudes: reflections on our alleged unrenounceable commitments
- Authors: Kelland, Lindsay-Ann
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Free will and determinism Responsibility
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2713 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002843
- Description: There seems to exist a tension between our metaphysical and phenomenological commitments in the free will debate. On the one hand, I argue that at the metaphysical level we cannot coherently defend the belief that we are morally responsible in the sense that we deserve to be rewarded and punished for our actions, where desert-entailing moral responsibility is the primary understanding of moral responsibility presupposed in the free will debate. I argue that we are responsible for our actions but only in the weaker sense, termed ‘attributability’ by Gary Watson. On the other hand, we are allegedly unrenounceably committed at the phenomenological level to conceiving of, and treating, ourselves and one another as morally responsible beings in the desert-entailing sense. P. F. Strawson famously defends this claim in his seminal work, ‘Freedom and Resentment’. In my thesis I will set out this tension by exploring both commitments in turn. I then aim to show that the tension can be dissolved by arguing, contra P. F. Strawson, that our phenomenological commitment is not in fact unrenounceable. The dissolution of this tension entails, I argue, that we must examine our conception of self and other. We must explore the implications of adopting a position which denies that we are morally responsible beings for our life-hopes, personal feelings, inter-personal relationships and projects. Most importantly, I argue that we must renounce our current retributive condemnatory practices which are based on the unjustified belief that we are morally responsible beings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Kelland, Lindsay-Ann
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Free will and determinism Responsibility
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2713 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002843
- Description: There seems to exist a tension between our metaphysical and phenomenological commitments in the free will debate. On the one hand, I argue that at the metaphysical level we cannot coherently defend the belief that we are morally responsible in the sense that we deserve to be rewarded and punished for our actions, where desert-entailing moral responsibility is the primary understanding of moral responsibility presupposed in the free will debate. I argue that we are responsible for our actions but only in the weaker sense, termed ‘attributability’ by Gary Watson. On the other hand, we are allegedly unrenounceably committed at the phenomenological level to conceiving of, and treating, ourselves and one another as morally responsible beings in the desert-entailing sense. P. F. Strawson famously defends this claim in his seminal work, ‘Freedom and Resentment’. In my thesis I will set out this tension by exploring both commitments in turn. I then aim to show that the tension can be dissolved by arguing, contra P. F. Strawson, that our phenomenological commitment is not in fact unrenounceable. The dissolution of this tension entails, I argue, that we must examine our conception of self and other. We must explore the implications of adopting a position which denies that we are morally responsible beings for our life-hopes, personal feelings, inter-personal relationships and projects. Most importantly, I argue that we must renounce our current retributive condemnatory practices which are based on the unjustified belief that we are morally responsible beings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Developing an ionospheric map for South Africa
- Authors: Okoh, Daniel Izuikeninachi
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Ionosphere -- South Africa , Shortwave radio , Ionospheric electron density -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5459 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005244 , Ionosphere -- South Africa , Shortwave radio , Ionospheric electron density -- South Africa
- Description: This thesis describes the development of an ionospheric map for the South African region using the current available resources. The International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) model, the South African Bottomside Ionospheric Model (SABIM), and measurements from ionosondes in the South African Ionosonde Network, were incorporated into the map. An accurate ionospheric map depicting the foF2 and hmF2 parameters as well as electron density profiles at any location within South Africa is a useful tool for, amongst others, High Frequency (HF) communicators and space weather centers. A major product of the work is software, written in MATLAB, which produces spatial and temporal representations of the South African ionosphere. The map was validated and demonstrated for practical application, since a significant aim of the project was to make the map as applicable as possible. It is hoped that the map will find immense application in HF radio communication industries, research industries, aviation industries, and other industries that make use of Earth-Space systems. A potential user of the map is GrinTek Ewation (GEW) who is currently evaluating it for their purposes
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Okoh, Daniel Izuikeninachi
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Ionosphere -- South Africa , Shortwave radio , Ionospheric electron density -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5459 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005244 , Ionosphere -- South Africa , Shortwave radio , Ionospheric electron density -- South Africa
- Description: This thesis describes the development of an ionospheric map for the South African region using the current available resources. The International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) model, the South African Bottomside Ionospheric Model (SABIM), and measurements from ionosondes in the South African Ionosonde Network, were incorporated into the map. An accurate ionospheric map depicting the foF2 and hmF2 parameters as well as electron density profiles at any location within South Africa is a useful tool for, amongst others, High Frequency (HF) communicators and space weather centers. A major product of the work is software, written in MATLAB, which produces spatial and temporal representations of the South African ionosphere. The map was validated and demonstrated for practical application, since a significant aim of the project was to make the map as applicable as possible. It is hoped that the map will find immense application in HF radio communication industries, research industries, aviation industries, and other industries that make use of Earth-Space systems. A potential user of the map is GrinTek Ewation (GEW) who is currently evaluating it for their purposes
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Development of a neural network based model for predicting the occurrence of spread F within the Brazilian sector
- Authors: Paradza, Masimba Wellington
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Neural networks (Computer science) , Ionosphere , F region
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5460 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005245 , Neural networks (Computer science) , Ionosphere , F region
- Description: Spread F is a phenomenon of the ionosphere in which the pulses returned from the ionosphere are of a much greater duration than the transmitted ones. The occurrence of spread F can be predicted using the technique of Neural Networks (NNs). This thesis presents the development and evaluation of NN based models (two single station models and a regional model) for predicting the occurrence of spread F over selected stations within the Brazilian sector. The input space for the NNs included the day number (seasonal variation), hour (diurnal variation), sunspot number (measure of the solar activity), magnetic index (measure of the magnetic activity) and magnetic position (latitude, magnetic declination and inclination). Twelve years of spread F data measured during 1978 to 1989 inclusively at the equatorial site Fortaleza and low latitude site Cachoeira Paulista are used in the development of an input space and NN architecture for the NN models. Spread F data that is believed to be related to plasma bubble developments (range spread F) were used in the development of the models while those associated with narrow spectrum irregularities that occur near the F layer (frequency spread F) were excluded. The results of the models show the dependency of the probability of spread F as a function of local time, season and latitude. The models also illustrate some characteristics of spread F such as the onset and peak occurrence of spread F as a function of distance from the equator. Results from these models are presented in this thesis and compared to measured data and to modelled data obtained with an empirical model developed for the same purpose.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Paradza, Masimba Wellington
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Neural networks (Computer science) , Ionosphere , F region
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5460 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005245 , Neural networks (Computer science) , Ionosphere , F region
- Description: Spread F is a phenomenon of the ionosphere in which the pulses returned from the ionosphere are of a much greater duration than the transmitted ones. The occurrence of spread F can be predicted using the technique of Neural Networks (NNs). This thesis presents the development and evaluation of NN based models (two single station models and a regional model) for predicting the occurrence of spread F over selected stations within the Brazilian sector. The input space for the NNs included the day number (seasonal variation), hour (diurnal variation), sunspot number (measure of the solar activity), magnetic index (measure of the magnetic activity) and magnetic position (latitude, magnetic declination and inclination). Twelve years of spread F data measured during 1978 to 1989 inclusively at the equatorial site Fortaleza and low latitude site Cachoeira Paulista are used in the development of an input space and NN architecture for the NN models. Spread F data that is believed to be related to plasma bubble developments (range spread F) were used in the development of the models while those associated with narrow spectrum irregularities that occur near the F layer (frequency spread F) were excluded. The results of the models show the dependency of the probability of spread F as a function of local time, season and latitude. The models also illustrate some characteristics of spread F such as the onset and peak occurrence of spread F as a function of distance from the equator. Results from these models are presented in this thesis and compared to measured data and to modelled data obtained with an empirical model developed for the same purpose.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Development of a performance management system for the SABC (Port Elizabeth)
- Authors: Nyembezi, Vuyo
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Performance standards -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Performance -- Management -- Evaluation , Performance -- Measurement , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8678 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1148 , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Performance -- Management -- Evaluation , Performance -- Measurement , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: This study focused on exploring and finding the ideal performance management system suitable for the South African Broadcasting Corporation by establishing an understanding of employees’ experiences and perceptions of the previous and a proposed performance management systems and their value to SABC employees. This was done by eliciting how employees see, make sense of and interpret their everyday experiences of performance management systems, in order to develop a more suitable inclusive performance management system. A qualitative study was used to seek answers to the research questions. A focus group interview was selected for data collection. The data was analysed according to guidelines indicated and proposed by Creswell (1998:147-148). The researcher made use of convenience sampling to select 45 participants in 5 groups for the focus groups. One group consisted of managers/supervisors, and the other four groups were employees from four different business units. Participants were guaranteed confidentiality. Credibility, transferability, dependability and conformability were used as the main components in the model, to determine the truth-value of the study. Findings indicated that there was a fair understanding of the previous performance management system but there had been poor implementation of the system. The participants concurred that the previous performance iv management systems in the organisations were not adding any value to their lives. They pointed out that there was no reward in place for high performers and no action taken for non-performers, and this impacted negatively on how implementation was perceived and experienced. The recommendations are that the revised performance management system should have a stronger emphasis on effective management, monitoring, feedback and reward. Furthermore, the system should close the current gaps of reward for high performance and correction of low performance. It was further concluded that for a performance management system to be effective, it should incorporate updated job descriptions, performance measures and standards, as well as evaluator training and guidelines for improvement, employee input, compensation and/or rewards.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Nyembezi, Vuyo
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Performance standards -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Performance -- Management -- Evaluation , Performance -- Measurement , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8678 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1148 , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Performance -- Management -- Evaluation , Performance -- Measurement , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: This study focused on exploring and finding the ideal performance management system suitable for the South African Broadcasting Corporation by establishing an understanding of employees’ experiences and perceptions of the previous and a proposed performance management systems and their value to SABC employees. This was done by eliciting how employees see, make sense of and interpret their everyday experiences of performance management systems, in order to develop a more suitable inclusive performance management system. A qualitative study was used to seek answers to the research questions. A focus group interview was selected for data collection. The data was analysed according to guidelines indicated and proposed by Creswell (1998:147-148). The researcher made use of convenience sampling to select 45 participants in 5 groups for the focus groups. One group consisted of managers/supervisors, and the other four groups were employees from four different business units. Participants were guaranteed confidentiality. Credibility, transferability, dependability and conformability were used as the main components in the model, to determine the truth-value of the study. Findings indicated that there was a fair understanding of the previous performance management system but there had been poor implementation of the system. The participants concurred that the previous performance iv management systems in the organisations were not adding any value to their lives. They pointed out that there was no reward in place for high performers and no action taken for non-performers, and this impacted negatively on how implementation was perceived and experienced. The recommendations are that the revised performance management system should have a stronger emphasis on effective management, monitoring, feedback and reward. Furthermore, the system should close the current gaps of reward for high performance and correction of low performance. It was further concluded that for a performance management system to be effective, it should incorporate updated job descriptions, performance measures and standards, as well as evaluator training and guidelines for improvement, employee input, compensation and/or rewards.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Development of biological control strategies against sirex noctilio (Fabricius) on Sappi Forests (Ltd) Landholdings in the summer rainfall regions of South Africa
- Authors: Verleur, Peter Marcel
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Pests -- Biological control -- South Africa , Nonindigenous pests -- Control
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10741 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1273 , Pests -- Biological control -- South Africa , Nonindigenous pests -- Control
- Description: The commercial forest industry in South Africa is predominantly dependent on large tracts of exotic monoculture plantations. While this simplifies management practice, there is always the inherent danger posed by introduced pests and diseases. Classical biological control is usually the most effective control method against introduced exotic pests. Climatic factors and seasonal differences may negatively affect the ability of the natural enemies to establish successfully at the new location. Successful establishment of the natural enemies usually results in control over the pest within four years. Sirex noctilio naturally occurs in the mediterranean countries of Europe and North Africa. It is the only member of the Siricid family capable of killing living pine trees. Sirex noctilio was accidentally introduced into New Zealand from Europe during the early 1900s. It has since been found in Australia, Brazil, Argentina South Africa and Chile. Initial biological control in New Zealand and Tasmania was through the release of Siricid specific parasitoid wasps from Europe and North America. The discovery of the accidental introduction of the entomophagous nematode Beddingia siricidicola and its subsequent artificial culturing for release provided the platform for the biological control methodology, which brought the Sirex woodwasp under control. The methods and natural enemies used in New Zealand and Australia were introduced by the South American countries and in the Western Cape of South Africa. Successful biological control was achieved in the Western Cape within two years after the initial introduction of the nematode B. siricidicola. The migration of S. noctilio into the summer rainfall regions of South Africa occurred in the absence of the associated natural enemies. This resulted in rapid population growth of the pest and substantial damage was caused to plantations of Pinus patula in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. Initial attempts at introducing B. siricidicola during 2004 were not very successful. This study contributes to the understanding and adaptation of the biological control methods to the summer rainfall climate. The key finding was that in the summer rainfall climate, only the bottom third of nematode inoculated S. noctilio infested trees produced parasitized adults during the emergence period. A comparative study was done on log samples from S. noctilio infested trees collected in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. iv An adapted nematode inoculation technique for pulpwood plantations in the summer rainfall regions was developed and implemented in mass inoculations with B. siricidicola during 2007 and 2008. Locally available herbicides were tested for suitability of use in the establishment of trap trees, which would attract ovipositing S. noctilio females in situations where low numbers of the woodwasp occur. Determination of the levels of natural B. siricidicola parasitism in S. noctilio adults during the 2008 emergence period indicate successful establishment of the nematode in KwaZulu-Natal. Successful introduction of the parasitoid wasp Ibalia leucospoides into the summer rainfall regions has also been achieved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Verleur, Peter Marcel
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Pests -- Biological control -- South Africa , Nonindigenous pests -- Control
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10741 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1273 , Pests -- Biological control -- South Africa , Nonindigenous pests -- Control
- Description: The commercial forest industry in South Africa is predominantly dependent on large tracts of exotic monoculture plantations. While this simplifies management practice, there is always the inherent danger posed by introduced pests and diseases. Classical biological control is usually the most effective control method against introduced exotic pests. Climatic factors and seasonal differences may negatively affect the ability of the natural enemies to establish successfully at the new location. Successful establishment of the natural enemies usually results in control over the pest within four years. Sirex noctilio naturally occurs in the mediterranean countries of Europe and North Africa. It is the only member of the Siricid family capable of killing living pine trees. Sirex noctilio was accidentally introduced into New Zealand from Europe during the early 1900s. It has since been found in Australia, Brazil, Argentina South Africa and Chile. Initial biological control in New Zealand and Tasmania was through the release of Siricid specific parasitoid wasps from Europe and North America. The discovery of the accidental introduction of the entomophagous nematode Beddingia siricidicola and its subsequent artificial culturing for release provided the platform for the biological control methodology, which brought the Sirex woodwasp under control. The methods and natural enemies used in New Zealand and Australia were introduced by the South American countries and in the Western Cape of South Africa. Successful biological control was achieved in the Western Cape within two years after the initial introduction of the nematode B. siricidicola. The migration of S. noctilio into the summer rainfall regions of South Africa occurred in the absence of the associated natural enemies. This resulted in rapid population growth of the pest and substantial damage was caused to plantations of Pinus patula in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. Initial attempts at introducing B. siricidicola during 2004 were not very successful. This study contributes to the understanding and adaptation of the biological control methods to the summer rainfall climate. The key finding was that in the summer rainfall climate, only the bottom third of nematode inoculated S. noctilio infested trees produced parasitized adults during the emergence period. A comparative study was done on log samples from S. noctilio infested trees collected in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. iv An adapted nematode inoculation technique for pulpwood plantations in the summer rainfall regions was developed and implemented in mass inoculations with B. siricidicola during 2007 and 2008. Locally available herbicides were tested for suitability of use in the establishment of trap trees, which would attract ovipositing S. noctilio females in situations where low numbers of the woodwasp occur. Determination of the levels of natural B. siricidicola parasitism in S. noctilio adults during the 2008 emergence period indicate successful establishment of the nematode in KwaZulu-Natal. Successful introduction of the parasitoid wasp Ibalia leucospoides into the summer rainfall regions has also been achieved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Development of flexible automotive measurement adaptors for the PQ25 VWSA platform
- Authors: Pretorius, Shaun
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Automobiles -- Measurement , Optical measurements
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9626 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1632 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011725 , Automobiles -- Measurement , Optical measurements
- Description: The following work describes all knowledge required in the creation of new automotive optical Photogrammetrical adaptors, which allow the user thereof to measure a fully assembled vehicle in its natural position, i.e. on its wheels for the PQ25 platform at Volkswagen of South Africa. The system is the only method available to the manufacturing plant to measure a fully assembled vehicle in this manner. The FlexMess system allows for a quick portable measurement of a vehicle at all stages of Vehicle manufacturing, aligned via the Volkswagen RPS standards. In the first part of the work, the problem of establishing a system capable of measuring the PQ25 platform is achieved by redesigning the PQ24 platform (previous generation Polo) to the new PQ25 vehicle platform. Once the system was redesigned a prototype adaptor system was created. In the second part of the work, the redesigned adaptor system is checked for its accuracy and repeatability. In a statistical analysis of the adaptors ability to measure the reference points needed for alignment of a vehicle, the system is compared to a CMM and verified that the limits fall within the limits of the original FlexMesśs certified accuracy limits. The last part of the work looks at addressing some of the problems of the FlexMess system by creating concepts for an ideal future FlexMess adaptor system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Pretorius, Shaun
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Automobiles -- Measurement , Optical measurements
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9626 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1632 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011725 , Automobiles -- Measurement , Optical measurements
- Description: The following work describes all knowledge required in the creation of new automotive optical Photogrammetrical adaptors, which allow the user thereof to measure a fully assembled vehicle in its natural position, i.e. on its wheels for the PQ25 platform at Volkswagen of South Africa. The system is the only method available to the manufacturing plant to measure a fully assembled vehicle in this manner. The FlexMess system allows for a quick portable measurement of a vehicle at all stages of Vehicle manufacturing, aligned via the Volkswagen RPS standards. In the first part of the work, the problem of establishing a system capable of measuring the PQ25 platform is achieved by redesigning the PQ24 platform (previous generation Polo) to the new PQ25 vehicle platform. Once the system was redesigned a prototype adaptor system was created. In the second part of the work, the redesigned adaptor system is checked for its accuracy and repeatability. In a statistical analysis of the adaptors ability to measure the reference points needed for alignment of a vehicle, the system is compared to a CMM and verified that the limits fall within the limits of the original FlexMesśs certified accuracy limits. The last part of the work looks at addressing some of the problems of the FlexMess system by creating concepts for an ideal future FlexMess adaptor system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Disclosure of HIV status and adherence to antiretroviral therapy
- Kubashe, Nomachina Theopatra
- Authors: Kubashe, Nomachina Theopatra
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: HIV-positive persons -- South Africa , Self-disclosure -- South Africa , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:10142 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1174 , HIV-positive persons -- South Africa , Self-disclosure -- South Africa , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa
- Description: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is one of the leading chronic diseases affecting people in South Africa and throughout the world. This study aimed to investigate the effect disclosure of HIV status had on antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. A convenience sample of 65 HIV positive adult patients currently taking ART at a public Primary Health Care (PHC) clinic in the Nelson Mandela Metropole was selected. Participation was voluntary and confidentiality was maintained at all times. Data was collected using three tools/techniques: (1) a Patient Questionnaire (PQ) to extract information on patient's demographics, HIV disclosure status, regimen the patient was on and self-reported adherence to ART; (2) an audit of a Patient Medical Record (PMR) for information on the regimen the patient was on, the period during which the patient had been on ART medication, the adherence to ART care and the level of the patient‟s biological markers; and (3) Pill Counts (PC) performed on the patient's medical supply to validate the self-reported adherence to ART. There was no significant relationship between the disclosure of HIV status and adherence to ART (p= 0.59; Chi²). However, the relationship between the adherence to ART and increase in the CD4 count levels of patients on ART in this population was significant (p=0.03; Chi²). It can be concluded that no direct relationship was found between the disclosure of HIV status and adherence to ART in this population. However, several factors affected the reasons and decisions of individuals to disclose their HIV status and this influenced their daily taking of medication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Kubashe, Nomachina Theopatra
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: HIV-positive persons -- South Africa , Self-disclosure -- South Africa , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:10142 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1174 , HIV-positive persons -- South Africa , Self-disclosure -- South Africa , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa
- Description: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is one of the leading chronic diseases affecting people in South Africa and throughout the world. This study aimed to investigate the effect disclosure of HIV status had on antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. A convenience sample of 65 HIV positive adult patients currently taking ART at a public Primary Health Care (PHC) clinic in the Nelson Mandela Metropole was selected. Participation was voluntary and confidentiality was maintained at all times. Data was collected using three tools/techniques: (1) a Patient Questionnaire (PQ) to extract information on patient's demographics, HIV disclosure status, regimen the patient was on and self-reported adherence to ART; (2) an audit of a Patient Medical Record (PMR) for information on the regimen the patient was on, the period during which the patient had been on ART medication, the adherence to ART care and the level of the patient‟s biological markers; and (3) Pill Counts (PC) performed on the patient's medical supply to validate the self-reported adherence to ART. There was no significant relationship between the disclosure of HIV status and adherence to ART (p= 0.59; Chi²). However, the relationship between the adherence to ART and increase in the CD4 count levels of patients on ART in this population was significant (p=0.03; Chi²). It can be concluded that no direct relationship was found between the disclosure of HIV status and adherence to ART in this population. However, several factors affected the reasons and decisions of individuals to disclose their HIV status and this influenced their daily taking of medication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Discourses around abortion in a low-income community in the Western Cape
- Authors: Bowes, Tanya-Ann
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Abortion -- Moral and ethical aspects , Abortion -- Religious aspects -- Christianity , Patriarchy -- South Africa , Abortion -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Male domination (Social structure)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSocSci
- Identifier: vital:2939 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002448
- Description: Since the introduction of the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act in 1996, research concerning abortion has primarily focused on public health issues or on the personal experience of women. The cultural and social context within which women experience a termination of pregnancy and in which services are offered has received less attention. The purpose of this study was to analyse public discourses around abortion in a low-income community in the Western Cape. Focus groups were used to gather data from three women’s and three men’s groups. The findings suggest that the agenda of pro-life discourses in this community is not always to defend the life of the fetus. Rather these discourses serve to protect, preserve and maintain the power of the traditional nuclear family, headed by the husband, over women’s reproduction and sexuality. Religious and moral arguments serve to disguise the gender issues at stake. However, instances also occurred where TOP was supported if the husband participated in the decision-making process. Therefore, his presence normalised abortion. Thus, the prevailing public discourses around abortion in this community either support or negate abortion in order to further the agenda of patriarchy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Bowes, Tanya-Ann
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Abortion -- Moral and ethical aspects , Abortion -- Religious aspects -- Christianity , Patriarchy -- South Africa , Abortion -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Male domination (Social structure)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSocSci
- Identifier: vital:2939 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002448
- Description: Since the introduction of the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act in 1996, research concerning abortion has primarily focused on public health issues or on the personal experience of women. The cultural and social context within which women experience a termination of pregnancy and in which services are offered has received less attention. The purpose of this study was to analyse public discourses around abortion in a low-income community in the Western Cape. Focus groups were used to gather data from three women’s and three men’s groups. The findings suggest that the agenda of pro-life discourses in this community is not always to defend the life of the fetus. Rather these discourses serve to protect, preserve and maintain the power of the traditional nuclear family, headed by the husband, over women’s reproduction and sexuality. Religious and moral arguments serve to disguise the gender issues at stake. However, instances also occurred where TOP was supported if the husband participated in the decision-making process. Therefore, his presence normalised abortion. Thus, the prevailing public discourses around abortion in this community either support or negate abortion in order to further the agenda of patriarchy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Dismissals within the context of collective bargaining
- Authors: Qotoyi, Thanduxolo
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Unfair labor practices -- South Africa , Collective bargaining -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10223 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1039 , Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Unfair labor practices -- South Africa , Collective bargaining -- South Africa
- Description: Competitive forces in the market force employers to change the way they operate their businesses. The changes that employers have to make often demand an alteration of the employees’ terms and conditions of employment. By law employers are not permitted to unilaterally effect changes to the employee’s terms and conditions of employment. They have to obtain the consent of the affected employees. This is where collective bargaining fits in. The employer has to negotiate with the employees. One way in which through the process of collective bargaining an employer can exert pressure on the employees to accept the changes is to effect a lock-out. Under the Labour Relations Act 28 of 1956 within the context of a lock-out, an employer was permitted to use conditional dismissal as a bargaining weapon. This conditional dismissal had to be coupled with an offer of reemployment should the employees accept an employer’s demand. In essence, the lock-out had a bite in the form of the conditional dismissal. This made the lock-out quite effective. The 1995 Labour Relations Act prohibits in no uncertain terms the use of a dismissal as a means of compelling employees to accept an employer’s demand in any matter of mutual interest. Within the collective bargaining context, dismissal is not a legitimate option. The employer only has the lock-out as a tool of compulsion. The definition of a lock-out in terms of this Act does not accommodate the use of dismissal. This makes the lock-out option to be less potent than it was under the 1956 Labour Relations Act. However, employers are permitted to dismiss on operational grounds, provided that they follow a fair procedure. Terms and conditions of employment greatly feature in the operational requirements of a business. If the employees’ terms and conditions of employment are not responsive to the operational requirements of the business and they are unwilling to accept changes to those terms, the employer has the right to dismiss them. The employer will not be dismissing the employees as a way of inducing them to accept the changes. He will instead be dismissing them on the basis of operational requirements. iv The question that then arises is how should a dismissal that is intended to compel employees to accept an employers demand (falling within section 187(1)(c) of the 1995 Labour Relations Act be distinguished from a dismissal that is genuinely based on operational requirements as contemplated by section 188(1)(a)(ii). Doesn’t the fact that section 187(1)(c) explicitly prohibits the use of dismissal within the context of collective bargaining give rise to some tension with section 188(1)(a)(ii) which categorically gives employers the right to dismiss on operational grounds. The decision of the Labour Appeal Court in Fry’s Metals v NUMSA has stated that there is no tension whatsoever between the two sections. The court has also ruled that the dismissals that are hit by section 187(1)(c) are those dismissals that are accompanied by an offer of reemployment. According to the court, this offer is indicative of the real purpose of the employer, namely to compel employees to accept his demand. Dismissals not accompanied by an offer of re-employment are on the other hand a true reflection of the fact that the employer is indeed dismissing the employees for operational requirements. This literal interpretation of the meaning and scope of section 187(1)(c) has the potential of opening the floodgates. Instead of resorting to the use of the lock-out to secure the agreement of employees in the collective bargaining process, employers now have a potent tool in the form of a dismissal. As long as the employer makes it abundantly clear that the dismissal is final and irrevocable, he is free from the claws of section 187(1)(c). Given the fact that the lock-out option is not always effective, employers may find it hard to resist the temptation to use the threat of permanent dismissal as a bargaining chip. It is an option that is emasculated by the fact that in an employer initiated lock-out the use of replacement labour is prohibited. The threat of not just a conditional dismissal but a permanent one may force employees to capitulate to the employer’s demand during negotiations. This would effectively render negotiations about changes to terms and conditions of employment a farce. The employer would have an upper hand. The implications of this narrow interpretation are quite far-reaching. The long held view that dismissal is not a legitimate weapon of coercion in the collective bargaining process is under serious challenge. Only conditional dismissals are illegitimate in the collective bargaining v arena. Permanent dismissals are permitted. This negates the very purpose of the collective bargaining process. This study seeks to examine the anomalies that flow from this interpretation of the meaning of section 187(1)(c). The study further investigates if this interpretation is not at odds with what the legislation really intended to achieve by enacting this clause. The study also explores ways in which the sanctity of collective bargaining could be restored. Recommendations are made to that effect.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Qotoyi, Thanduxolo
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Unfair labor practices -- South Africa , Collective bargaining -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10223 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1039 , Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Unfair labor practices -- South Africa , Collective bargaining -- South Africa
- Description: Competitive forces in the market force employers to change the way they operate their businesses. The changes that employers have to make often demand an alteration of the employees’ terms and conditions of employment. By law employers are not permitted to unilaterally effect changes to the employee’s terms and conditions of employment. They have to obtain the consent of the affected employees. This is where collective bargaining fits in. The employer has to negotiate with the employees. One way in which through the process of collective bargaining an employer can exert pressure on the employees to accept the changes is to effect a lock-out. Under the Labour Relations Act 28 of 1956 within the context of a lock-out, an employer was permitted to use conditional dismissal as a bargaining weapon. This conditional dismissal had to be coupled with an offer of reemployment should the employees accept an employer’s demand. In essence, the lock-out had a bite in the form of the conditional dismissal. This made the lock-out quite effective. The 1995 Labour Relations Act prohibits in no uncertain terms the use of a dismissal as a means of compelling employees to accept an employer’s demand in any matter of mutual interest. Within the collective bargaining context, dismissal is not a legitimate option. The employer only has the lock-out as a tool of compulsion. The definition of a lock-out in terms of this Act does not accommodate the use of dismissal. This makes the lock-out option to be less potent than it was under the 1956 Labour Relations Act. However, employers are permitted to dismiss on operational grounds, provided that they follow a fair procedure. Terms and conditions of employment greatly feature in the operational requirements of a business. If the employees’ terms and conditions of employment are not responsive to the operational requirements of the business and they are unwilling to accept changes to those terms, the employer has the right to dismiss them. The employer will not be dismissing the employees as a way of inducing them to accept the changes. He will instead be dismissing them on the basis of operational requirements. iv The question that then arises is how should a dismissal that is intended to compel employees to accept an employers demand (falling within section 187(1)(c) of the 1995 Labour Relations Act be distinguished from a dismissal that is genuinely based on operational requirements as contemplated by section 188(1)(a)(ii). Doesn’t the fact that section 187(1)(c) explicitly prohibits the use of dismissal within the context of collective bargaining give rise to some tension with section 188(1)(a)(ii) which categorically gives employers the right to dismiss on operational grounds. The decision of the Labour Appeal Court in Fry’s Metals v NUMSA has stated that there is no tension whatsoever between the two sections. The court has also ruled that the dismissals that are hit by section 187(1)(c) are those dismissals that are accompanied by an offer of reemployment. According to the court, this offer is indicative of the real purpose of the employer, namely to compel employees to accept his demand. Dismissals not accompanied by an offer of re-employment are on the other hand a true reflection of the fact that the employer is indeed dismissing the employees for operational requirements. This literal interpretation of the meaning and scope of section 187(1)(c) has the potential of opening the floodgates. Instead of resorting to the use of the lock-out to secure the agreement of employees in the collective bargaining process, employers now have a potent tool in the form of a dismissal. As long as the employer makes it abundantly clear that the dismissal is final and irrevocable, he is free from the claws of section 187(1)(c). Given the fact that the lock-out option is not always effective, employers may find it hard to resist the temptation to use the threat of permanent dismissal as a bargaining chip. It is an option that is emasculated by the fact that in an employer initiated lock-out the use of replacement labour is prohibited. The threat of not just a conditional dismissal but a permanent one may force employees to capitulate to the employer’s demand during negotiations. This would effectively render negotiations about changes to terms and conditions of employment a farce. The employer would have an upper hand. The implications of this narrow interpretation are quite far-reaching. The long held view that dismissal is not a legitimate weapon of coercion in the collective bargaining process is under serious challenge. Only conditional dismissals are illegitimate in the collective bargaining v arena. Permanent dismissals are permitted. This negates the very purpose of the collective bargaining process. This study seeks to examine the anomalies that flow from this interpretation of the meaning of section 187(1)(c). The study further investigates if this interpretation is not at odds with what the legislation really intended to achieve by enacting this clause. The study also explores ways in which the sanctity of collective bargaining could be restored. Recommendations are made to that effect.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Dominant and non-dominant group's perceptions of the government-led economic transformation process in South Africa: report
- Authors: Dlamini, Thobile G. K
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Group identity -- South Africa Post-apartheid era -- South Africa South Africa -- Ethnic relations Social change -- South Africa South Africa -- Social conditions -- 1994- South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2963 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002472
- Description: The enormous social, economic, and political government-led societal transformation South Africans have experienced over the past 15 years have brought about numerous societal and identity changes. The aim of the present study was to explore how dominant (White participants) and non-dominant (Black participants) groups experiencing the government-led societal transformation process deal with perceptions of intergroup differences based on Social Identity Theory (Tajfel & Turner, 1979, 1986) and related field research. Social Identity Theory predicts that in the presence of intergroup differences group members irrespective of their status position will apply identity management strategies to either improve or maintain their status position. The relationships between perceptions of intergroup relations and identity management strategies as proposed by Social Identity Theory were tested studying 170 second year Rhodes University psychology students. Sixty participants indicated themselves as Black South Africans (representing non-dominant group) and 110 participants identified themselves as White South Africans (dominant group). The results revealed that dominant and non-dominant groups differ systematically regarding the functional interaction between beliefs about the intergroup situation and identity management strategies. The results of the study indicate too, that ingroup identification differentiates between individual and collective strategies irrespective of the group’s status position.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Dlamini, Thobile G. K
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Group identity -- South Africa Post-apartheid era -- South Africa South Africa -- Ethnic relations Social change -- South Africa South Africa -- Social conditions -- 1994- South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2963 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002472
- Description: The enormous social, economic, and political government-led societal transformation South Africans have experienced over the past 15 years have brought about numerous societal and identity changes. The aim of the present study was to explore how dominant (White participants) and non-dominant (Black participants) groups experiencing the government-led societal transformation process deal with perceptions of intergroup differences based on Social Identity Theory (Tajfel & Turner, 1979, 1986) and related field research. Social Identity Theory predicts that in the presence of intergroup differences group members irrespective of their status position will apply identity management strategies to either improve or maintain their status position. The relationships between perceptions of intergroup relations and identity management strategies as proposed by Social Identity Theory were tested studying 170 second year Rhodes University psychology students. Sixty participants indicated themselves as Black South Africans (representing non-dominant group) and 110 participants identified themselves as White South Africans (dominant group). The results revealed that dominant and non-dominant groups differ systematically regarding the functional interaction between beliefs about the intergroup situation and identity management strategies. The results of the study indicate too, that ingroup identification differentiates between individual and collective strategies irrespective of the group’s status position.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Dynamics of development intervention, the case of Peddie, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Nondumiso, Fukweni
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Peddie District , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Peddie District , Natural resources -- South Africa -- Peddie District , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Peddie District , Peddie (South Africa) -- Economic conditions , Peddie (Soutb Africa) -- Social conditions , Agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Peddie District
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Rural Development)
- Identifier: vital:11936 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/183 , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Peddie District , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Peddie District , Natural resources -- South Africa -- Peddie District , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Peddie District , Peddie (South Africa) -- Economic conditions , Peddie (Soutb Africa) -- Social conditions , Agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Peddie District
- Description: A large number of development initiatives, aimed at improving the overall quality of life of communities, have had a limited success rate in addressing poverty levels. Poverty has increased drastically and more and more people are among the poorest of the poor in spite of all the development actions and programmes that are aimed at improving the quality of life (Chambers, 1997;1) The study explores the dynamics of commercialization of agriculture at Prudo and Benton villages in Peddie, Eastern Cape. These dynamics include labour issues, lack of people involvement in decision making processes and the sharing of benefits within the pineapple project at Benton. It also explores the challenges of cash cropping at Prudo. Additionally, the study looks at the challenges faced by the poor within small projects administered by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Social Development. Finally, the study explores the role that natural resources play in livelihoods in Peddie. To achieve these objectives, a review of literature and empirical research presented in the form of case studies will be used. The central argument of this thesis is that development has failed the majority of the poor in Peddie. Despite that, rural people continue to survive. Development projects did not generally bring about any significant reduction in poverty; neither did they bring about any significant economic transformations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Nondumiso, Fukweni
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Peddie District , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Peddie District , Natural resources -- South Africa -- Peddie District , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Peddie District , Peddie (South Africa) -- Economic conditions , Peddie (Soutb Africa) -- Social conditions , Agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Peddie District
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Rural Development)
- Identifier: vital:11936 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/183 , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Peddie District , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Peddie District , Natural resources -- South Africa -- Peddie District , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Peddie District , Peddie (South Africa) -- Economic conditions , Peddie (Soutb Africa) -- Social conditions , Agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Peddie District
- Description: A large number of development initiatives, aimed at improving the overall quality of life of communities, have had a limited success rate in addressing poverty levels. Poverty has increased drastically and more and more people are among the poorest of the poor in spite of all the development actions and programmes that are aimed at improving the quality of life (Chambers, 1997;1) The study explores the dynamics of commercialization of agriculture at Prudo and Benton villages in Peddie, Eastern Cape. These dynamics include labour issues, lack of people involvement in decision making processes and the sharing of benefits within the pineapple project at Benton. It also explores the challenges of cash cropping at Prudo. Additionally, the study looks at the challenges faced by the poor within small projects administered by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Social Development. Finally, the study explores the role that natural resources play in livelihoods in Peddie. To achieve these objectives, a review of literature and empirical research presented in the form of case studies will be used. The central argument of this thesis is that development has failed the majority of the poor in Peddie. Despite that, rural people continue to survive. Development projects did not generally bring about any significant reduction in poverty; neither did they bring about any significant economic transformations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Dynamics of larval fish and zooplankton in selected south and west coast estuaries of South Africa
- Montoya-Maya, Phanor Hernando
- Authors: Montoya-Maya, Phanor Hernando
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Marine zooplankton -- South Africa , Zooplankton -- South Africa , Fishes -- Larvae -- South Africa , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa , Estuaries -- South Africa -- Management , Environmental monitoring -- South Africa , Coastal zone management -- South Africa , Estuarine area conservation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5263 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005107 , Marine zooplankton -- South Africa , Zooplankton -- South Africa , Fishes -- Larvae -- South Africa , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa , Estuaries -- South Africa -- Management , Environmental monitoring -- South Africa , Coastal zone management -- South Africa , Estuarine area conservation -- South Africa
- Description: Larval fish and zooplankton assemblages were studied in nine south and west coast estuaries in the cool-temperate and the cool/warm-temperate boundary region between June 2003 and March 2004. This study served to provide new information on previously unstudied estuaries and expand on existing knowledge of larval fish and zooplankton assemblages associated with various estuary types. The south and west coast estuaries sampled in this study showed lower salinities (12.2 - 13.7), lower water temperatures (14.5 - 16.9 °C) and higher turbidities (k = 0.02 - 0.04) in winter and spring while higher salinities (21.7 - 21.8), higher water temperatures (21.7 - 23.1°C) and lower turbidities (k <0.02) were observed in summer and autumn. Mean winter and summer water temperatures in estuaries were lower than those observed in warm-temperate and subtropical systems by other researchers. A total of 49274 larval fishes were caught, comprising 9 orders, 20 families, 29 genera and 47 taxa. The clupeid Gilchristella aestuaria (78.8 %) dominated the larval fish assemblages and occurred in all estuaries. The majority (70 %) of identified species are endemic to southern Africa and 96.4 % of larval fishes caught were estuary-resident species. The zooplankton study yielded a total of 44 taxa, comprising 7 phyla, >20 orders and >35 families. The copepod Pseudodiaptomus hessei dominated (59 %) the zooplankton and occurred in similar densities to those observed in other South African estuaries. Larval fish and zooplankton varied across seasons, peaking simultaneously in summer although zooplankton showed additional density peaks during the closed phase of some estuaries. Both plankton components were more abundant in the oligohaline and mesohaline zones within the estuaries. Freshwater input, estuary type and the biogeography of the area influenced the composition and structure of larval fish and zooplankton assemblages in these estuaries. The findings suggest that the estuaries are functioning as successful breeding areas for the larvae of endemic estuary-resident fish species and that these estuaries have to be managed to ensure an adequate freshwater supply to maintain the biological integrity of the ecosystem, specially the maintenance of the highly productive River-Estuary Interface (REI) regions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Montoya-Maya, Phanor Hernando
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Marine zooplankton -- South Africa , Zooplankton -- South Africa , Fishes -- Larvae -- South Africa , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa , Estuaries -- South Africa -- Management , Environmental monitoring -- South Africa , Coastal zone management -- South Africa , Estuarine area conservation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5263 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005107 , Marine zooplankton -- South Africa , Zooplankton -- South Africa , Fishes -- Larvae -- South Africa , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa , Estuaries -- South Africa -- Management , Environmental monitoring -- South Africa , Coastal zone management -- South Africa , Estuarine area conservation -- South Africa
- Description: Larval fish and zooplankton assemblages were studied in nine south and west coast estuaries in the cool-temperate and the cool/warm-temperate boundary region between June 2003 and March 2004. This study served to provide new information on previously unstudied estuaries and expand on existing knowledge of larval fish and zooplankton assemblages associated with various estuary types. The south and west coast estuaries sampled in this study showed lower salinities (12.2 - 13.7), lower water temperatures (14.5 - 16.9 °C) and higher turbidities (k = 0.02 - 0.04) in winter and spring while higher salinities (21.7 - 21.8), higher water temperatures (21.7 - 23.1°C) and lower turbidities (k <0.02) were observed in summer and autumn. Mean winter and summer water temperatures in estuaries were lower than those observed in warm-temperate and subtropical systems by other researchers. A total of 49274 larval fishes were caught, comprising 9 orders, 20 families, 29 genera and 47 taxa. The clupeid Gilchristella aestuaria (78.8 %) dominated the larval fish assemblages and occurred in all estuaries. The majority (70 %) of identified species are endemic to southern Africa and 96.4 % of larval fishes caught were estuary-resident species. The zooplankton study yielded a total of 44 taxa, comprising 7 phyla, >20 orders and >35 families. The copepod Pseudodiaptomus hessei dominated (59 %) the zooplankton and occurred in similar densities to those observed in other South African estuaries. Larval fish and zooplankton varied across seasons, peaking simultaneously in summer although zooplankton showed additional density peaks during the closed phase of some estuaries. Both plankton components were more abundant in the oligohaline and mesohaline zones within the estuaries. Freshwater input, estuary type and the biogeography of the area influenced the composition and structure of larval fish and zooplankton assemblages in these estuaries. The findings suggest that the estuaries are functioning as successful breeding areas for the larvae of endemic estuary-resident fish species and that these estuaries have to be managed to ensure an adequate freshwater supply to maintain the biological integrity of the ecosystem, specially the maintenance of the highly productive River-Estuary Interface (REI) regions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Economic diversification of a mining town: a case study of Oranjemund
- Authors: Helmuth, Angelo
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Economic development -- Namibia -- Oranjemund -- Case studies Mineral industries -- Namibia -- Oranjemund -- Case studies Sustainable development -- Namibia -- Oranjemund
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:723 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003843
- Description: Can mining industries and mining based localities promote Local Economic Development (LED)? This case study, on the mining town of Oranjemund, seeks to examine the economic diversification prospects of the town. Stakeholder views are considered and their aspirations determined, through an interview process. Relevant theories on economic development, growth and sustainability are outline. Lessons are drawn from local and international empirical studies on mining towns. The roles and contributions stakeholders and institutions could realize that could lead to local economic diversification and LED are defined. The opportunities and threats that could affect the town’s LED process are identified. This paper concludes that it is imperative that sound relationships be developed amongst key stakeholders. It further, recommends that a strategic LED plan be designed for Oranjemund and that national government, through the regional and local authority, lead the process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Helmuth, Angelo
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Economic development -- Namibia -- Oranjemund -- Case studies Mineral industries -- Namibia -- Oranjemund -- Case studies Sustainable development -- Namibia -- Oranjemund
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:723 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003843
- Description: Can mining industries and mining based localities promote Local Economic Development (LED)? This case study, on the mining town of Oranjemund, seeks to examine the economic diversification prospects of the town. Stakeholder views are considered and their aspirations determined, through an interview process. Relevant theories on economic development, growth and sustainability are outline. Lessons are drawn from local and international empirical studies on mining towns. The roles and contributions stakeholders and institutions could realize that could lead to local economic diversification and LED are defined. The opportunities and threats that could affect the town’s LED process are identified. This paper concludes that it is imperative that sound relationships be developed amongst key stakeholders. It further, recommends that a strategic LED plan be designed for Oranjemund and that national government, through the regional and local authority, lead the process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Economic evaluation of possible loss of Prosopis pods as a result of biological control in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Nqobizitha, Dube
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Trees -- South Africa , Mimosaceae , Forests and forestry -- South Africa , Forest conservation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Mimosaceae -- Biological control -- South Africa , Mesquite -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11165 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/394 , Trees -- South Africa , Mimosaceae , Forests and forestry -- South Africa , Forest conservation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Mimosaceae -- Biological control -- South Africa , Mesquite -- South Africa
- Description: Species of Prosopis (Mimosaceae), or mesquite, are native to the Americas and introduced in South Africa as agro forestry trees to provide wood, fodder and shade in the late 1800s. In the Northern Cape Province, these trees have been particularly used for their pods by local farmers and local industry. However due to Prosopis’ ability to spread rapidly there has been increasing pressure to step up control of the tree. Due to the costs associated with most control methods biological control has been singled out as the most viable control method worth pursuing. This thesis attempts to explain and shed light on the effects that increased biological control of Prosopis would have on the farming community and Prosopis based businesses in the area. Two hypothetical scenarios were used, the first being a possible 50% reduction in available pods and the other a possible 100% reduction. In an effort to explain these effects data was collected from a series of collection activities in the form of a pilot study and two unique questionnaire surveys. Twenty-seven farmers and one Prosopis based business were interviewed at random with the data analysed and documented. Results showed that the business community is the main user of pods incurring crippling losses in the event of a 50% or 100% decrease in available pods. Using control costs from working for water De Aar long term costs of the presence of Prosopis were estimated and compared to the estimated provincial cost of losing pods giving a cost comparison ratio of (α)270 million : Y(N(15.7million)). Only 48% of the respondents valued pods and 11% had traded in pods, the top concern resulting from the invasion was the loss of underground water. With a 50% decline in available pods, all respondents indicated unchanged effects. However empirical results showed that with a 100% decline in pods estimate losses of R 5 818 per farm are expected. The cost comparison ratio showing the losses farmers bore with Prosopis in the area and the losses they would suffer with a 100% decline in pods was R11 389 + (K): R5 818. In light of the empirical results, policy recommendations that support the introduction of more effective biological control agents have been made with areas for further research identified and discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Nqobizitha, Dube
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Trees -- South Africa , Mimosaceae , Forests and forestry -- South Africa , Forest conservation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Mimosaceae -- Biological control -- South Africa , Mesquite -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11165 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/394 , Trees -- South Africa , Mimosaceae , Forests and forestry -- South Africa , Forest conservation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Mimosaceae -- Biological control -- South Africa , Mesquite -- South Africa
- Description: Species of Prosopis (Mimosaceae), or mesquite, are native to the Americas and introduced in South Africa as agro forestry trees to provide wood, fodder and shade in the late 1800s. In the Northern Cape Province, these trees have been particularly used for their pods by local farmers and local industry. However due to Prosopis’ ability to spread rapidly there has been increasing pressure to step up control of the tree. Due to the costs associated with most control methods biological control has been singled out as the most viable control method worth pursuing. This thesis attempts to explain and shed light on the effects that increased biological control of Prosopis would have on the farming community and Prosopis based businesses in the area. Two hypothetical scenarios were used, the first being a possible 50% reduction in available pods and the other a possible 100% reduction. In an effort to explain these effects data was collected from a series of collection activities in the form of a pilot study and two unique questionnaire surveys. Twenty-seven farmers and one Prosopis based business were interviewed at random with the data analysed and documented. Results showed that the business community is the main user of pods incurring crippling losses in the event of a 50% or 100% decrease in available pods. Using control costs from working for water De Aar long term costs of the presence of Prosopis were estimated and compared to the estimated provincial cost of losing pods giving a cost comparison ratio of (α)270 million : Y(N(15.7million)). Only 48% of the respondents valued pods and 11% had traded in pods, the top concern resulting from the invasion was the loss of underground water. With a 50% decline in available pods, all respondents indicated unchanged effects. However empirical results showed that with a 100% decline in pods estimate losses of R 5 818 per farm are expected. The cost comparison ratio showing the losses farmers bore with Prosopis in the area and the losses they would suffer with a 100% decline in pods was R11 389 + (K): R5 818. In light of the empirical results, policy recommendations that support the introduction of more effective biological control agents have been made with areas for further research identified and discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Economic impact of social capital in the previously disadvantaged communities of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan
- Authors: Mabhengeza, Thukela
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Small business -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33408 , vital:32762
- Description: Faced with unemployment crisis, the creation of jobs and stimulation of economic growth becomes an important issue that needs to be urgently addressed in South Africa. The informal sector plays an important economic function in the South African economy and thus contributes to the country’s economic growth. The informal sector is dominated by people from previously disadvantaged communities. The main reason most of these township businesses are created is self-employment and poverty alleviation. The study will demonstrate the usefulness of and economic role played by social capital in the Port Elizabeth townships. Furthermore, the study will further prove that balancing is very important and that too much or too little of any given form of social capital is counterproductive. In recent years Port Elizabeth townships have been flooded by Somali traders. The informal sector is dominated by Somali traders. Social networks can affect business and economic performances. Social networks enable Somali traders to succeed where Xhosa traders have failed. The Somali traders are succeeding because they are emphasizing both bonding and bridging social capital. Xhosa traders are failing because they are placing too much emphasis on bonding social capital. Chapter Two has focused on the literature review and theory of social capital. In Chapter Three the research methodology was provided. Chapter four has focused on the report on empirical findings. Finally Chapter Five has focused on the implications of the findings and provide the summary, conclusion and recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Mabhengeza, Thukela
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Small business -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33408 , vital:32762
- Description: Faced with unemployment crisis, the creation of jobs and stimulation of economic growth becomes an important issue that needs to be urgently addressed in South Africa. The informal sector plays an important economic function in the South African economy and thus contributes to the country’s economic growth. The informal sector is dominated by people from previously disadvantaged communities. The main reason most of these township businesses are created is self-employment and poverty alleviation. The study will demonstrate the usefulness of and economic role played by social capital in the Port Elizabeth townships. Furthermore, the study will further prove that balancing is very important and that too much or too little of any given form of social capital is counterproductive. In recent years Port Elizabeth townships have been flooded by Somali traders. The informal sector is dominated by Somali traders. Social networks can affect business and economic performances. Social networks enable Somali traders to succeed where Xhosa traders have failed. The Somali traders are succeeding because they are emphasizing both bonding and bridging social capital. Xhosa traders are failing because they are placing too much emphasis on bonding social capital. Chapter Two has focused on the literature review and theory of social capital. In Chapter Three the research methodology was provided. Chapter four has focused on the report on empirical findings. Finally Chapter Five has focused on the implications of the findings and provide the summary, conclusion and recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Economic responsiveness in organisational psychology curricula
- Authors: Van Niekerk, Roelf
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Psychology, Industrial -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa Universities and colleges -- Curricula -- South Africa College graduates -- Employment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1319 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003952
- Description: This study focused on a topic at the intersection of two contexts, namely curriculum responsiveness and industrial/organisational psychology (IOP). The rationale for this study is based on two considerations. Firstly, a review of the IOP curricula offered at ten prominent South African universities revealed little overlap. This suggests that academic departments are not guided by shared principles when they implement decisions about the content or sequencing of curriculum content. Secondly, the Department of Education urges academics to design curricula that are relevant and responsive to contemporary conditions. These two considerations motivated the investigation of the following research question: What key performance areas (KPAs) do employers specify when they advertise positions suitable for IOP graduates? The investigation had two aims, namely (a) to systematically analyse the KPAs specified in job advertisements and (b) to compile KPA templates that may be used by IOP departments who wish to revise or transform their curricula. The research design of this study has five characteristics, namely that it is: (a) qualitative, (b) naturalistic, (c), descriptive, (d) applied, and (e) strategic. The study employed a purposive sampling strategy that involved the collection of documentary data (job advertisements aimed at recruiting IOP graduates) over a 52-week period (N=1115). The data was content analysed by means of a six-step documentary analysis method. Specific strategies were employed to enhance the validity of the findings. These strategies focused on credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. Similarly, the ethical standing of the investigation was promoted by addressing four considerations, namely autonomy and respect for dignity, non-maleficence, beneficence, and justice. The data analysis procedure produced comprehensive and detailed qualitative descriptions of (a) 21 occupational categories, (b) 4070 KPA themes and (c) 84 KPA clusters. In addition, the number of occupational categories, KPA themes and KPA clusters were recorded and interpreted. In addition, the data analysis procedure produced comprehensive KPA templates that IOP departments may find useful. The templates reflect the KPAs specified by advertisements aimed at recruiting IOP graduates for a range of occupational categories and were designed to be used as benchmarks against which the economic responsiveness of curricula can be compared.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Van Niekerk, Roelf
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Psychology, Industrial -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa Universities and colleges -- Curricula -- South Africa College graduates -- Employment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1319 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003952
- Description: This study focused on a topic at the intersection of two contexts, namely curriculum responsiveness and industrial/organisational psychology (IOP). The rationale for this study is based on two considerations. Firstly, a review of the IOP curricula offered at ten prominent South African universities revealed little overlap. This suggests that academic departments are not guided by shared principles when they implement decisions about the content or sequencing of curriculum content. Secondly, the Department of Education urges academics to design curricula that are relevant and responsive to contemporary conditions. These two considerations motivated the investigation of the following research question: What key performance areas (KPAs) do employers specify when they advertise positions suitable for IOP graduates? The investigation had two aims, namely (a) to systematically analyse the KPAs specified in job advertisements and (b) to compile KPA templates that may be used by IOP departments who wish to revise or transform their curricula. The research design of this study has five characteristics, namely that it is: (a) qualitative, (b) naturalistic, (c), descriptive, (d) applied, and (e) strategic. The study employed a purposive sampling strategy that involved the collection of documentary data (job advertisements aimed at recruiting IOP graduates) over a 52-week period (N=1115). The data was content analysed by means of a six-step documentary analysis method. Specific strategies were employed to enhance the validity of the findings. These strategies focused on credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. Similarly, the ethical standing of the investigation was promoted by addressing four considerations, namely autonomy and respect for dignity, non-maleficence, beneficence, and justice. The data analysis procedure produced comprehensive and detailed qualitative descriptions of (a) 21 occupational categories, (b) 4070 KPA themes and (c) 84 KPA clusters. In addition, the number of occupational categories, KPA themes and KPA clusters were recorded and interpreted. In addition, the data analysis procedure produced comprehensive KPA templates that IOP departments may find useful. The templates reflect the KPAs specified by advertisements aimed at recruiting IOP graduates for a range of occupational categories and were designed to be used as benchmarks against which the economic responsiveness of curricula can be compared.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Economics of wetland cultivation in Zimbabwe: case study of Mashonaland East Province
- Authors: Taruvinga, Amon
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Wetland management -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Wetland ecology -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Wetland restoration -- Zimbabwe , Nature conservation -- Government policy -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001002 , Wetland management -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Wetland ecology -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Wetland restoration -- Zimbabwe , Nature conservation -- Government policy -- Zimbabwe
- Description: Wetlands are stocks of natural resources limited in supply, in the middle of unlimited human wants with multiple uses to society, presenting an economic problem in as far as their rational and sustainable use is concerned. To that end, conflicting recommendations have been forwarded regarding wetland cultivation as a possible land use across the globe and from within the same regions. On one extreme, wetland cultivation has been linked to degradation of wetlands with pure wetland conservation as the prescribed viable and sustainable land use option to society. Closer to reality, partial wetland conversion to crop land has been found compatible with wetland bio-diversity; implying that partial wetland cultivation is the prescribed wetland use option viable and sustainable to societies, a dictum mainly claimed by rural communities. With that conflicting background and based on the “Safe Minimum Standard” approach, a ban on wetland cultivation was maintained in several early environmental policies in Zimbabwe as a basis for legislative protection of wetlands, a position that is still legally binding in current statutes. Contrary to that, rural communities have responded by invading wetlands as a coping strategy in pursuit of the claimed values of wetland cultivation, further conflicting with standing policies. This scenario has managed to “lock” and is currently locking the claimed 1,28 million hectares of wetlands in Zimbabwe in a “legal-operational impasse”, at a cost to the entire nation since no meaningful investment is possible in wetlands when there is a legal conflict.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Taruvinga, Amon
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Wetland management -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Wetland ecology -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Wetland restoration -- Zimbabwe , Nature conservation -- Government policy -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001002 , Wetland management -- Zimbabwe Case studies , Wetland ecology -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable agriculture -- Zimbabwe , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Wetland restoration -- Zimbabwe , Nature conservation -- Government policy -- Zimbabwe
- Description: Wetlands are stocks of natural resources limited in supply, in the middle of unlimited human wants with multiple uses to society, presenting an economic problem in as far as their rational and sustainable use is concerned. To that end, conflicting recommendations have been forwarded regarding wetland cultivation as a possible land use across the globe and from within the same regions. On one extreme, wetland cultivation has been linked to degradation of wetlands with pure wetland conservation as the prescribed viable and sustainable land use option to society. Closer to reality, partial wetland conversion to crop land has been found compatible with wetland bio-diversity; implying that partial wetland cultivation is the prescribed wetland use option viable and sustainable to societies, a dictum mainly claimed by rural communities. With that conflicting background and based on the “Safe Minimum Standard” approach, a ban on wetland cultivation was maintained in several early environmental policies in Zimbabwe as a basis for legislative protection of wetlands, a position that is still legally binding in current statutes. Contrary to that, rural communities have responded by invading wetlands as a coping strategy in pursuit of the claimed values of wetland cultivation, further conflicting with standing policies. This scenario has managed to “lock” and is currently locking the claimed 1,28 million hectares of wetlands in Zimbabwe in a “legal-operational impasse”, at a cost to the entire nation since no meaningful investment is possible in wetlands when there is a legal conflict.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Effective international expansion strategies for hotel companies
- Authors: Pienaar, J. A
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Export marketing -- South Africa , Export marketing -- Management , International business enterprises -- South Africa , Hotels -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8676 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1156 , Export marketing -- South Africa , Export marketing -- Management , International business enterprises -- South Africa , Hotels -- South Africa
- Description: This study investigated the expansion strategies of hotel companies that want to expand away from their local market. Due to the growing importance of services in economic development, there is an impressive body of knowledge on the process of internationalisation and service industries. Due to the major changes impacting upon the industry due to the effects of technology and globalisation, it would be useful to establish the important key factors and processes involved during internationalisation. Expanding cross border for a hotel group signifies a number of challenges that must be focused on at the same time. Markets need to be identified, political stability needs to be scanned and cultural differences must be taken into consideration. Logistics and supply chain have to be developed together with operational issues from financial reporting, marketing and human resources. Organisational structures must be adapted to take into account the new levels of responsibility. An in-depth review of the literature regarding internationalisation was conducted, which evidenced that the most useful model for answering the questions was the eclectic paradigm as developed by John Dunning (1993). The paradigm has been used in many manufacturing and service sector studies, including that of the hotel sector (Contractor and Kundu, 1994). A questionnaire was compiled and interviews were set up with the directors and executives tasked with the respective companies’ expansion programmes. Due mainly to the effects of new technology and globalisation on the hotel industry, there have been many changes in the last decade, including increasing consolidation and concentration and an increasing importance upon branding and financial performance. It was apparent from the research that the time taken to internationalise by hotel chains has reduced significantly in the last decade, especially if one looks at the performance of hotel companies such as Accor Hotels. iii Only two of the three companies studied in this treatise had undertaken expansion into Africa with the third company ready for entering soon. Nonequity involvement in general was the most favoured form of involvement with majority of their expansions based on management contracts, joint partnership or franchises. The role of the functional departments, the importance of a global outlook and the necessary structural changes during international expansion was also explored. In order to answer the various research propositions that are posed, the researcher chose to base this research on a phenomenological approach through case study analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Pienaar, J. A
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Export marketing -- South Africa , Export marketing -- Management , International business enterprises -- South Africa , Hotels -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8676 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1156 , Export marketing -- South Africa , Export marketing -- Management , International business enterprises -- South Africa , Hotels -- South Africa
- Description: This study investigated the expansion strategies of hotel companies that want to expand away from their local market. Due to the growing importance of services in economic development, there is an impressive body of knowledge on the process of internationalisation and service industries. Due to the major changes impacting upon the industry due to the effects of technology and globalisation, it would be useful to establish the important key factors and processes involved during internationalisation. Expanding cross border for a hotel group signifies a number of challenges that must be focused on at the same time. Markets need to be identified, political stability needs to be scanned and cultural differences must be taken into consideration. Logistics and supply chain have to be developed together with operational issues from financial reporting, marketing and human resources. Organisational structures must be adapted to take into account the new levels of responsibility. An in-depth review of the literature regarding internationalisation was conducted, which evidenced that the most useful model for answering the questions was the eclectic paradigm as developed by John Dunning (1993). The paradigm has been used in many manufacturing and service sector studies, including that of the hotel sector (Contractor and Kundu, 1994). A questionnaire was compiled and interviews were set up with the directors and executives tasked with the respective companies’ expansion programmes. Due mainly to the effects of new technology and globalisation on the hotel industry, there have been many changes in the last decade, including increasing consolidation and concentration and an increasing importance upon branding and financial performance. It was apparent from the research that the time taken to internationalise by hotel chains has reduced significantly in the last decade, especially if one looks at the performance of hotel companies such as Accor Hotels. iii Only two of the three companies studied in this treatise had undertaken expansion into Africa with the third company ready for entering soon. Nonequity involvement in general was the most favoured form of involvement with majority of their expansions based on management contracts, joint partnership or franchises. The role of the functional departments, the importance of a global outlook and the necessary structural changes during international expansion was also explored. In order to answer the various research propositions that are posed, the researcher chose to base this research on a phenomenological approach through case study analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Efficacy of selected Kenyan medicinal plants used in the treatment and management of Type II Diabetes
- Authors: Karachi, Jacqueline
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Diabetes -- Alternative treatment -- Kenya , Medicinal plants -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10327 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1049 , Diabetes -- Alternative treatment -- Kenya , Medicinal plants -- Kenya
- Description: In Kenya, the prevalence of diabetes is estimated at 3-10 percent of the population. These figures could be higher because most type 2 diabetics are diagnosed many years after onset. Out of this number, 15 percent are people below 30 years of age who need prompt education to avoid complications that are associated with diabetes (DMI centre, 2004). Due to inadequate or lack of proper information, most patients especially those with type 2 diabetes are diagnosed through complications. Untreated or poorly managed diabetes is now the leading cause of eye disease and kidney failure in the world. Diabetes is the largest cause of kidney failure in the developed world, and is the fourth leading cause of global death by disease in the world (IDF, 2007). At the Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, it is the leading cause of all non-accident related amputations. It is with such statistics in mind and the grim reality of poor and inadequate health services that this research is based. The wide use of selected medicinal plants for the treatment and management of diabetes warrants the further study of these plants for potential use and commercialization. The data obtained can also be invaluable for use and reference when using these plants for medicinal purposes. The medicinal plant studied in the research is widely used in Kenya by many communities and was chosen based on ethno-pharmacological references using traditional medicinal practitioners as well as patient’s recommendations. Different in vitro and in vivo assays were studied to try and elucidate the mechanisms of action as well as the organs targeted during treatment using this plant.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Karachi, Jacqueline
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Diabetes -- Alternative treatment -- Kenya , Medicinal plants -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10327 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1049 , Diabetes -- Alternative treatment -- Kenya , Medicinal plants -- Kenya
- Description: In Kenya, the prevalence of diabetes is estimated at 3-10 percent of the population. These figures could be higher because most type 2 diabetics are diagnosed many years after onset. Out of this number, 15 percent are people below 30 years of age who need prompt education to avoid complications that are associated with diabetes (DMI centre, 2004). Due to inadequate or lack of proper information, most patients especially those with type 2 diabetes are diagnosed through complications. Untreated or poorly managed diabetes is now the leading cause of eye disease and kidney failure in the world. Diabetes is the largest cause of kidney failure in the developed world, and is the fourth leading cause of global death by disease in the world (IDF, 2007). At the Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, it is the leading cause of all non-accident related amputations. It is with such statistics in mind and the grim reality of poor and inadequate health services that this research is based. The wide use of selected medicinal plants for the treatment and management of diabetes warrants the further study of these plants for potential use and commercialization. The data obtained can also be invaluable for use and reference when using these plants for medicinal purposes. The medicinal plant studied in the research is widely used in Kenya by many communities and was chosen based on ethno-pharmacological references using traditional medicinal practitioners as well as patient’s recommendations. Different in vitro and in vivo assays were studied to try and elucidate the mechanisms of action as well as the organs targeted during treatment using this plant.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Electrochemical studies of titanium, manganese and cobalt phthalocyanines
- Authors: Nombona, Nolwazi
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Titanium , Manganese , Cobalt , Phthalocyanines , Electrochemistry , Electrodes , Self-assembly (Chemistry)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4312 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004970 , Titanium , Manganese , Cobalt , Phthalocyanines , Electrochemistry , Electrodes , Self-assembly (Chemistry)
- Description: Syntheses, spectral, electrochemical and spectroelectrochemical studies of phenylthio and amino derivatised metallophthalocyanines complexes are reported. The complexes are immobilized onto a gold macro disk, gold ultramicroelectrode and gold coated fiber electrodes via self assembly with phenylthio MPc derivatives or onto a glassy carbon electrode via electropolymerisation with amino MPc derivatives. For the first time MPc SAMs were formed on gold coated fiber. The electrocatalytic behavior of the modified electrodes was studied for the detection of nitrite and L-cysteine, all modified electrodes showed improved electrocatalytic oxidation compared to the unmodified electrode. The MPc complexes catalyzed nitrite oxidation via a two-electron mechanism producing nitrate. Cobalt tetraaminophthalocyanine showed the best catalytic activity for nitrite oxidation in terms of overpotential lowering compared to other complexes and thus was used for nitrite detection in a food sample, the nitrite concentration was determined to be 59.13 ppm, well within the limit for cured meat products. Electrocatalytic oxidation of L-cysteine on SAM modified gold coated fiber was reported for the first time. The gold coated fiber and ultamicro cylinder electrode were less stable towards the electro-oxidation of cysteine compared to its oxidation on the gold disk. The gold disk electrode gave better catalytic performance in terms of stability and reduction of overpotential. The phenylthio cobalt phthalocyanine derivative gave the best catalytic activity for L-cysteine oxidation in terms of overpotential lowering compared to other phenylthio derivatized MPc complexes. The amount of L-cysteine in human urine was 2.4 mM, well within the urinary L-cysteine excretion range for a healthy human being.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Nombona, Nolwazi
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Titanium , Manganese , Cobalt , Phthalocyanines , Electrochemistry , Electrodes , Self-assembly (Chemistry)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4312 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004970 , Titanium , Manganese , Cobalt , Phthalocyanines , Electrochemistry , Electrodes , Self-assembly (Chemistry)
- Description: Syntheses, spectral, electrochemical and spectroelectrochemical studies of phenylthio and amino derivatised metallophthalocyanines complexes are reported. The complexes are immobilized onto a gold macro disk, gold ultramicroelectrode and gold coated fiber electrodes via self assembly with phenylthio MPc derivatives or onto a glassy carbon electrode via electropolymerisation with amino MPc derivatives. For the first time MPc SAMs were formed on gold coated fiber. The electrocatalytic behavior of the modified electrodes was studied for the detection of nitrite and L-cysteine, all modified electrodes showed improved electrocatalytic oxidation compared to the unmodified electrode. The MPc complexes catalyzed nitrite oxidation via a two-electron mechanism producing nitrate. Cobalt tetraaminophthalocyanine showed the best catalytic activity for nitrite oxidation in terms of overpotential lowering compared to other complexes and thus was used for nitrite detection in a food sample, the nitrite concentration was determined to be 59.13 ppm, well within the limit for cured meat products. Electrocatalytic oxidation of L-cysteine on SAM modified gold coated fiber was reported for the first time. The gold coated fiber and ultamicro cylinder electrode were less stable towards the electro-oxidation of cysteine compared to its oxidation on the gold disk. The gold disk electrode gave better catalytic performance in terms of stability and reduction of overpotential. The phenylthio cobalt phthalocyanine derivative gave the best catalytic activity for L-cysteine oxidation in terms of overpotential lowering compared to other phenylthio derivatized MPc complexes. The amount of L-cysteine in human urine was 2.4 mM, well within the urinary L-cysteine excretion range for a healthy human being.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009