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Skilled and competent officials: An imperative for effective and efficient public procurement management

  • Authors: Hlwempu, Steven Siphosenkosi
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Skills development -- South Afica -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46945 , vital:39738
  • Description: The study sought to examine the skills needed by public officials for effective and efficient public procurement management. Supply Chain Management (SCM) is one of the key mechanisms enabling the government to implement policies and strategies, and to realise set objectives. However, there is a series of reported cases of incompetence by South African public sector practitioners when it comes to implementing duties they are designated to do, which have raised many concerns and led to the failure of SCM policies in the public sector. The Eastern Cape provincial government has been seen to be affected by poor procurement, and public procurement officials in the province face challenges such as redundant spending and misinterpretation of contracts and needs. These problems in the Eastern Cape provincial government have been especially highlighted in the Auditor General of South Africa’s reports. The study adopted a qualitative approach, and desktop research was used in a bid to ascertain the competence and skills required by public sector SCM practitioners in the Eastern Cape. Results showed that the logistics and supply chain sector have skills shortages, both in terms of soft and hard skills.Numerous studies have been done around the world to determine the types of skills that are required for successful supply chains. These results showed that there are skill categories that can be valuable in properly determining management effectively and efficiently in any institution. The study, therefore, recommended that the government provide funds for public sector employees to take professional education in the area of SCM. The government can also send its employees to education institutions that offer supply chain course.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

Socio-ecological, contextual effects in Raven’s Colour Progressive Matrices scores: Developing an index for guiding test selection and interpretation

  • Authors: August, Justin Oswin
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Ecological Systems Theory
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46401 , vital:39563
  • Description: With the changing landscape in South Africa to a full democracy, increased research has been undertaken in the psychometric field on local and national normative studies regarding various assessment measures. Given that the Raven’s Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM)is purported to be culture-free and not heavily dependent on verbal and language skills;it has been extensively normed throughout the world for various population groups. While norms for normal populations of children have been developed in South Africa, these studies were based on race and gender predominantly and without taking into consideration the effects of socio-ecological factors on test performance. The research study aimed to understand the influence of socio-ecological factors on the expression of cognitive scores amongst a geographically diverse sample of South African learners. Through this study, research on the interplay between context and cognition was to be located within the Ecological Systems model of Bronfenbrenner. A secondary aim of the study was to develop an index that will guide test selection and interpretation of assessment results, taking into account the influence of socio-ecological factors and providing a conceptual framework for future test development. The study employed a quantitative methodology on a South African sample consisting of primary school children aged between the ages of 6 years to 11 years. The sample was drawn from schools in the Port Elizabeth areain South Africa that wereclassified into low, medium and high opportunity, based on context. The results indicated that the type of school had a significant impact on test performance, suggesting that contextual factors were influential in this process.The item analysisconductedfurther indicated that learners from a low opportunity school performed significantly lower than the other two schoolsin the sample. The index development provides a foundation for further research that would enhance the interpretation of test results. In the South African context, this is considered important, given our political history and our diversity wherea“one size fits all” approach is not possible.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

Solid waste management practices in Joe Slovo township, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality

  • Authors: Mngomezulu, Sibongangani Khonelihle
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal -- Management , Refuse and refuse disposal -- Environmental aspects Refuse and refuse disposal -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46185 , vital:39512
  • Description: Solid waste management practice is one of the essential service deliveries that should exist in all places. The method of handling, storage and processing solid waste at household is key and it plays a significant role in public health, ensuring a safe environment and in the efficiency of municipal solid waste. Previous research has revealed that solid waste management is a global issue and the lack of awareness and involvement of communities is escalating the problem. In addition, studies also disclosed that solid waste produced by inhabitants is recyclable, therefore waste management practice must implement new systems that are sustainable, to improve waste management practices. Hence, addressing solid waste management challenges would have a positive impact on the goals of achieving a health-city concept which promotes sustainable development. The aim of this study was to examine solid waste management practices that hinder sustainable human settlements. The methodology used included an extensive literature review, field observation and a field study conducted in Joe Slovo West Township. A quantitative study approach that is based on a positivism paradigm and a random sampling technique was adopted. The descriptive method of data analysis was employed, and the findings and the interpretations are presented through tables, graphs and images. Analysis of the findings revealed that institutional, fiscal/economic, development, socio-economic and policy matters are the factors holding back existing solid waste management practices in Joe Slovo Township. Key recommendations include that the solid waste management system needs to be improved and that enhancing the ease of waste recycling as an economic activity and as a practice should be pursued and that residents should be educated and encouraged to separate their waste before disposal while an incentive should be provided for this to stimulate community participation.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

Strategies for the facilitation of implementation of best practice guidelines in operating theatres at public hospitals

  • Authors: Owolabi, Olukemi Olufunmilayo
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Operating rooms—Safety measures
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46422 , vital:39594
  • Description: Best practice guidelines (BPGs) are the use of scientific evidence to direct patient care and guide clinical care to integrate best patient outcomes. The implementation of BPGs in operating theatre nursing improves patient safety and quality of care and enhances patient outcomes. Although BPGs are crucial, the implementation thereof is not well operationalised in clinical practice, especially in an area such as the operating theatres in public hospitals in the Nelson Mandela Bay Health District(NMHD)in the Eastern Cape Province. The study thus developed strategies that could be used to facilitate the implementation of best practice guidelines in the operating theatres at public hospitals in the NMBHD. Understanding registered nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) with regard to implementing BPGs in the operating theatre is important, as it will assist in the development of strategies to facilitate the implementation of BPGs.The study was conducted in three phases. Phase One comprised of a quantitative approach. Data collection was achieved by means of a self-administered questionnaire which was distributed to registered nurses in the operating theatres of public hospitals in the NMBHD. The purpose of the questionnaire was to establish their knowledge, attitude and practice with regard to best practice guidelines and the implementation thereof. Recommendations made by participants for strategies to facilitate the implementation of BPGs in operating theatres were also explored. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilised to analyse and describe the data. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the profile of the sample, including the demographic data measures of central tendency, for example the mean and standard deviation (SD) and correlation techniques.Chi²analysis was performed to test for significance of the associations between the registered nurses’ demographic variables and their KAP. Data were categorised into three levels, namely lower (score < quartile 1 i.e. bottom 25%). Middle (quartile1 ≤ score ≤quartile i.e. in the middle 50%) and higher (score > quartile 3 i.e. top 25%).Findings from this research study revealed the limited knowledge, attitude and practice of OT nurses about BPGs. During Phase Two an integrative literature review approach was followed in order to identify the best available evidence with regard to the facilitation of the implementation of best practice guidelines in operating theatres. Lastly, Phase Three: strategies that could be used to facilitate the implementation of best practice guidelines in operating theatres were developed. The researcher developed the conceptual framework using the six elements of Dickoff, James and Weidenbach (1968:422). The conceptual framework informed the development of strategies. The strategies are a synthesis of the conclusions drawn from the research findings (phase one and two) and the conceptualization thereof. The strategies were reviewed by six-panel members. Each panel member was supplied with the format for evaluation of the strategies which was based on the criteria established by Chinn and Kramer (2018:156) the results of which included in chapter 7. The researcher ensured that the data obtained was valid and reliable, necessary to assist the researcher to produce quality research. Ethical considerations were maintained throughout. In general, the results of this thesis indicate that the developed strategies that could be used to facilitate the implementation of best practice guidelines, in operating theatres at public hospitals in the NMBHDare unique and could be implemented in theatres in public hospitals. The researcher succeeded in achieving the purpose for this study, because the strategies which are understandable, clear, simple, applicable and significant to operating theatre unit has been developed for use by operating theatre nurses, to facilitate the implementation of best practice guidelines in operating theatres at public hospitals in the NMBHD.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

Strategies to improve employee financial intelligence

  • Authors: Botha, Perine
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Financial literacy
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47486 , vital:40118
  • Description: South African employees are largely indebted, with the majority of their disposable income used to service debt. The potential causes of this problem include the levels of education of individuals, how investors perceive the political climate in the country, levels of disposable income and the spending habits of individuals. This study aims to assist organisations to improve employee financial intelligence by investigating what influences financial intelligence. To ascertain these influences, the respondents’ level of financial literacy is to be determined as well. Financial literacy is assessed by determining a respondents’ knowledge of numeracy, risk diversification, compound interest and inflation. Additional factors such as debt management, saving culture and access to digital information too have an impact on financial literacy. An empirical study, consisting of a questionnaire was conducted among employees of a state-owned enterprise (SOE) in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. These employees represent both the management and junior employee profiles. The study found that 75% of the respondents were not financially literate. Financial literacy rates globally are at 51%, however, in a major emerging economy such as South Africa, the rate is between 48% and 51%. The results of the study however indicate that it is much lower than the global average as well as for that of similar developing countries. The results of the study indicate that age, gender, job grade, level of education, access to digital information, a savings culture, budgeting and debt management do not significantly influence financial literacy in the context of SouthAfrica.The research indicates that the respondents are, however, willing to learn and be educated to increase their financial knowledge and awareness. Possible strategies which could assist in improving levels of financial intelligence are:•Financial literacy courses offered by employers;•Research undertaken by employees themselves could increase their financial literacy; Employee wellness programmes, such as debt counselling, could improve the financial literacy of employees;•Completion of online courses would improve the employees’ level of financial literacy;•Budgeting and money management courses;•Financial advisors to be appointed by employers;•Debt counselling of employees.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

Synthesis and application of fluorescent triazolyl-coumarin based chemosensors

  • Authors: Schoeman, Stiaan
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Chemistry
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47454 , vital:39992
  • Description: The search for a fluorescent chemosensor with high selectivity and sensitivity that can be used for the detection of trace amounts of a toxic transition metal or heavy metal ions have gained immense popularity in recent years. Coumarin derivatives have been widely used as the basis of these fluorescent chemosensors by which a 1,2,3-triazole ring is used as the binding site for such metal ions. The benefits of chemosensors include nearly eliminating the need for tedious sample preparation and highly skilled operators. Therefore, enabling quantitative and qualitative measurement in both a lab setting and on-site. In addition, chemosensors provide a more sensitive and selective detection method at low-cost. A variety of chemosensors were designed and synthesized, in which some synthesis steps were refined to obtain better yields and purer products. Chemosensors designed, in this study, can be divided into novel triazolyl-coumarin derivatives without a spacer 1C – 1D and with a spacer between the coumarin and triazole ring (2D and 2E). 1C – 1D were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR and IR and photophysical properties were investigated in DMF. 2D and 2E could not be purified and further investigation was discontinued. An overall enhancement was observed for the chemosensors 1C – 1D in the presence of 24 different ions that were tested. 1C had a quenching effect in the presence of Cd2+, however, competition studies revealed that 1C is not selective in the presence of competing metal cations. Molecular modelling studies were performed on sensors 1C – 1G in the presence of various ions. The molecular modelling studies provided invaluable insights into the binding of the selected metal ions as well as revealed a variety of binding sites. In addition, the space-filled depictions offered insights into the overlapping during binding which had an effect in the electrostatic potential maps of the chemosensors..
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  • Date Issued: 2020

Synthesis and characterisation of lanthanide complexes with potential nitrogen- and oxygen-donor schiff base ligands

  • Authors: Pikoli, Sibongile
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Rare earths , Schiff bases
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47050 , vital:39778
  • Description: This research describes the coordination chemistry of lanthanide complexes with potentially multidentate nitrogen- and oxygen-donor Schiff base derivatives. The studies were performed using various physico-chemical techniques including melting point, IR and NMR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, elemental analyses, conductivity measurements, X-ray crystallography and cyclic voltammetry. The reaction of [Ln(NO3)3·xH2O] (Ln = Nd, Gd, Yb; x = 6 for Nd and Gd, x = 5 for Yb) with the flexible salen-type Schiff base ligand 1,3-bis(o-hydroxybenzylideneamino)propane (H2L1) produced three polynuclear complexes with the general formulae {[Nd(µH2L1)4(NO3)3]·2H2O}n and [Ln(µ-H2L1)2(NO3)6(H2L1)] (Ln = Gd and Yb). Single-crystal Xray crystallography revealed a ten-coordinate polymeric Nd(III) complex that crystallised in the monoclinic space group P21/c, and isostructural nine-coordinate binuclear Gd(III) and Yb(III) complexes (triclinic system, space group P-1). The lanthanide contraction effect is clear across the series. The flexible nature of HL2 results in the self-assembly of the Nd(III) complex in a 1D polymer chain by acting as the bridge between the metal ions. The Nd-Ophenolate bond distances are 2.403(18), 2.463(17), 2.379(17) and 2.367(19) Å and the average Nd-Onitrate bond length is 2.671 Å. Furthermore, the electronic absorption spectra displays 4f→4f transitions solely for the neodymium(III) compound. The syntheses and characterisation of the lanthanide complexes, [La(HL2)3(NO3)3], [Dy(HL2)2(NO3)3] and [Dy(HL2)2Cl3(H2O)]·2CH2Cl2 with the o-vanillin-derived Schiff base ligand 2-methoxy-6-[(E)-(phenylimino)methyl]phenol (HL2) are reported. The nitro-stabilised La(III) and Dy(III) compounds are ten-coordinate with metabidiminished icosahedron and sphenocorona geometries, respectively. Substitution of the nitrate with chloride ions in the starting metal compounds yielded an eight-coordinate Dy(III) complex that adopts the biaugmented trigonal prism geometry. For all three complexes, HL2 exists as a zwitterion that is bound to the metal centre in a mono- and bidentate fashion via the phenolate and methoxy oxygen atoms. The dysprosium(III) chloride complex is stabilised by both intramolecular N−H···O and intermolecular O−H···C1 hydrogen bonds, while the crystal packing of the Ln(III) nitrate complexes is ensured by mainly intramolecular N−H···O hydrogen bonds. Fluorescence studies displayed characteristic Dy(III) f→f transitions (4F9/2 → 6H15/2), which suggest the ligand HL2 is an effective organic antenna to absorb and transfer energy to the dysprosium ion. A series of mononuclear Nd(III) complexes with the Schiff base derivatives 2-methoxy-6-[(E)(phenylimino)methyl]phenol (HL2), 5-methoxy-2-[(E)-(phenylimino)methyl]phenol (HL3) and 2-methoxy-6-{(E)-[(2-methoxyphenyl)imino]methyl}phenol (HL4) yielded structurally diverse complexes defined by the formulae [Nd(HL2)2(NO3)3], [Nd(HL3)3(NO3)3] and [Nd(HL4)2(NO3)3]·CH3OH. Crystallographic analysis shows HL2 and HL4 coordinate bidentately via the phenolate and methoxy oxygen atoms, while HL3 is bound monodentately through the phenolate oxygen atom. Continuous shape measures depict that the decacoordinate complexes with HL2 and HL4 conform to the sphenocorona and tetradecahedron geometries, respectively, whilst the nona-coordinate Nd(III) complex with HL3 exhibits the muffin geometry. The effect of the ligand substituents and their positions (meta versus para) on the absorption and emission intensities of the complexes is demonstrated. Additionally, the electrochemical behaviour of the o-vanillin-derived Schiff base ligands and their complexes was also investigated, and the results illustrate ligand-based reductions and metal-centred redox potentials that are significantly shifted by the ligand substituents.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

Synthesis of 2,4-Xylidine in continuous flow systems

  • Authors: Sagandira, Mellisa Brenda
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Chemistry, Physical and theoretical -- Research , Chemistry
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49270 , vital:41616
  • Description: The continuous flow synthesis of 2,4-xylidine, an important compound in the fine chemical, pharmaceutical as well as the dyes and pigments industries was investigated in this study utilizing 1,3-dimethylbenzene as starting material. The first step involves the highly exothermic nitration of 1,3-dimethylbenzene with mixed acid to afford two nitro isomers, namely 1,3-dimethyl-2-nitrobenzene and 2,4-dimethyl-1-nitrobenzene. Since 2,4-xylidine is the targeted isomer, it is important to get a higher proportion of its nitration precursor 2,4-dimethyl-1-nitrobenzene. A safe and efficient synthesis of 2,4-dimethyl-1-nitrobenzene was therefore developed in continuous flow. This was aided by the micro reactor’s large surface area-to-volume ratio, one of the many features of continuous flow synthesis that enable rapid dissipation of heat allowing exothermic reactions to be conducted safely at ambient or higher temperatures. Two nitration protocols were developed using different micro reactors, a sonicated 1 ml PTFE tube reactor and 2 ml Uniqsis chip reactor. Using a sonicated PTFE tube reactor at room temperature and 15 min residence time, 2,4-dimethyl-1-nitrobenzene was afforded in 100 % conversion and 80 % selectivity. An increase in selectivity to 95 % and 90 % conversion towards 2,4-dimethyl-1-nitrobenzene was achieved using a 2 ml Uniqsis chip reactor at room temperature in 6 min residence time. This was accounted for due to efficient mixing of the two phases brought about by the reactor’s mixing structures, which are designed to create turbulent mixing. Scale-up synthesis of 2,4-dimethyl-1-nitrobenzene was conducted in a 4.5 ml LTF-XXL-ST-04 reactor at room temperature and 6 min residence time affording 90 % conversion and 95 % selectivity with a throughput of 16.6 g/h. Subsequently, reduction of 2,4-dimethyl-1-nitrobenzene to afford 2,4-xylidine was investigated in a 1 ml PTFE tube reactor (0.8 mm ID) using hydrazine in the presence of iron (III) 2,4-pentanedionate catalyst. Maximum conversion of 75 % was achieved at 170 °C in 15 min residence time. A more efficient reduction protocol was developed in a 2.7 ml packed column reactor (10 mm ID) using hydrazine in the presence of Pd/C at 50 °C and 2.5 min residence time affording 94 % conversion towards 2,4-xylidine. Lastly, multistep synthesis of 2,4-xylidine was performed using optimum conditions found using the 2 ml Uniqsis chip reactor and 2.7 ml packed column reactor with the incorporation of a phase separator. Joining the two reactors into a single continuous step afforded 100 % conversion and 95 % selectivity towards 2,4-xylidine with 8 min total residence time. Nitration of other organic compounds followed by reduction of the resultant nitro products was also investigated under respective optimum conditions determined for nitration of 1,3-dimethylbenzene and reduction of 2,4-dimethyl-1-nitrobenzene.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

Synthesis, characterisation and antitumour activities of lanthanide complexes with hydrazones and carboxylic acid ligands

  • Authors: Madanhire, Tatenda
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Organic acids
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48456 , vital:40878
  • Description: The tridentate hydrazone ligands, (E)-N'-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)benzohydrazide (H2phen) and (E)-N'-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)nicotinohydrazide (H2Nic), were synthesised and complexed to Ln(III) acetates. The centrosymmetric, acetato-bridged dinuclear coordination compounds with the formulae, [La2(Hphen)2(OAc)4(H2O)2]·DMF·H2O (1), [Ln2(HNic)2(OAc)4(H2O)2]·DMF·H2O (Ln = La (2) and Nd (3)) and [Ln2(HNic)2(OAc)4(H2O)2]·DMF (Ln = Er (4) and Yb (5)) were isolated and characterised by elemental analyses, IR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction studies and SHAPE 2.1. The nine-coordinate complexes 1–3 crystallise in the triclinic space group P-1, with the metal centres having the distorted spherical capped square antiprism geometry (C4v), while the eight-coordinate Er(III) and Yb(III) complexes (monoclinic system, space group P21/c) display the geometry of distorted triangular dodecahedron (D2d). Geometry optimisation of the monoanionic forms of the hydrazone ligands (Hphen– and HNic– ) were performed using Density Functional Theory (DFT) with Becke’s three parameter hybrid method and correlation functional of Lee, Yang and Parr (B3LYP) with augcc-pVTZ basis set. Natural population analysis (NPA) and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) maps indicated that the most preferred sites for electrophilic attack in the anionic ligands are the phenolate and carbonyl oxygens, and the azomethine nitrogens. The evaluation of the cytotoxic activity of the compounds on breast cancer (MCF-7), the endometrial carcinoma (HEC-1A) and the human monocytic (THP-1) cell lines using the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay revealed that the hydrazone ligands and complexes 1–4 are partially cytotoxic against MCF-7 cells, while the Schiff bases and complexes 3–5 significantly inhibit cell growth in HEC-1A cells. The complexation reactions of Ce(III), Nd(III), Gd(III) and Er(III) with the chelating/ bridging monoanionic ligand N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)oxamate (Hpma– ) in basic media were performed in view of the potential applications of oxamate derivatives as cytotoxic agents. The coordination compounds were characterised by different Abstract T. Madanhire Nelson Mandela University xxvi physico-chemical techniques: elemental analysis, conductivity measurements, IR, 1 H NMR and UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy. The anionic Hpma– was obtained through conversion of the proligand ethyl (2,6-dimethylphenylcarbamoyl)formate (Hdmp). The reactions afforded lanthanide(III)–oxamate coordination polymers of formulae: {[Ln(Hpma)3(MeOH)(H2O)]∙2MeOH}n (Ln = Ce (1) and Nd (2)), {[Gd2(Hpma)6(MeOH)4]∙6MeOH}n (3), {[Er2(Hpma)6(MeOH)(H2O)3]∙2MeOH}n (4) and [Ln2Na2(Hpma)8(EtOH)(H2O)6]n (Ln = Nd (5) and Gd (6)). The polymeric complexes feature Ln-Hpma moieties bridged by μ2-η 1 :η 1 :η 1 Hpma– , giving onedimensional zig-zag chains of the –Ln–O–C–O–Ln– type. Atomic charge analysis and the MEP map of the Hpma– moiety done using the DFT/B3LYP method were found to be consistent with the chelating and bridging modes of the anionic ligand through all the oxygen atoms. The evaluation of the cytotoxic activities of the metal salts, the proligand and the novel lanthanide complexes on MCF-7, HEC-1A and THP-1 cell lines revealed that only the rare-earth metal salts [Ce(NO3)3∙6H2O] and [Nd(NO3)3∙6H2O] showed modest cytotoxicity against MCF-7 and HEC-1A cells, respectively.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

Synthesis, crystal structures and characterization of metal–organic framework architectures involving dinuclear copper(ii) benzoic acid derivative complexes

  • Authors: Ndima, Lubabalo
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Supramolecular chemistry
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46783 , vital:39657
  • Description: Structural copper(II) complexes with aromatic carboxylic acids show a wide spectrum of coordination schemes. Studies of dicopper(II) carboxylates have been associated with a variety of interests for their catalytic, biological and magnetic applications [1]. Various novel dinuclear copper(II) complexes [Cu2(X-benzoate)4L2] with varying substituents (X = CH3, F, Cl, Br, I, NO2 & OCH3) with a desired octahedral geometry have been synthesized. The various complexes were characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction studies, spectroscopic and thermal methods (UV/Vis, FTIR and TGA, DSC). In most cases, the structures consists of centrosymmetric dimers in which the Cu atoms show a square pyramidal CuO5 coordination. In all cases, dimeric paddle wheel complexes where two copper(II) ions are held together by four benzoates (forming syn– syn bridges between the copper atoms) and the apical coordination site occupied by a solvent ligand (L) or supramolecular linker were obtained. The dimers are extended into 1D chains that result from hydrogen bonding between the coordinated methanol (solvent ligand) on one Cu(II) and the carboxylate group on an adjacent Cu(II) dimer, including interactions arising from various substituents. π–π Stacking interactions are found to be present in the various crystal structures forming 3D supramolecular array. FTIR and UV/Vis spectra of each complex have shown how the resonance and inductive effect of each substituent affects spectral data of each complex.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

Synthesis, crystal structures and molecular modelling of rare earth complexes with bis(2-pyridylmethyl)amine and its derivatives : a quantum chemical investigation of ligand conformational space, complex intramolecular rearrangement and stability

  • Authors: Matthews, Cameron
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Rare earths , Complex compounds , Ligands
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46229 , vital:39517
  • Description: Limited research has been performed on the coordination behaviour of hybrid aliphatic and heterocyclic polyamines with trivalent rare earth elements. The rare earth coordination properties of several Nalkylated derivatives of the tridentate ligand bis(2-pyridylmethyl)amine (DPA, HL1) backbone - involving the rare earth elements Y, La-Nd, Sm, Eu and Tb-Lu - have been investigated in this study However, the structural and energetic characteristics of DPA coordination with rare earth elements (REE) have not been studied thus far. Potential applications of DPA-based rare earth complexes are primarily dependent on their electronic and magnetic characteristics, which are affected weakly by the coordination environment, where potential applications may include use as Lanthanide Shift Reagents (LSR), Luminescence probes and small-molecule magnets (SMM). A systematic conformational search of DPA was carried out in this study in order to identify the global minimum conformer and for comparison of the free and coordinated geometries, using the M06(D3) functional belonging to the Density Functional Theory (DFT) family of model chemistries. An understanding of the aforementioned would play an important role in analysis of bulk characterization and the prediction of the reactivity of DPA. Final geometries and electronic energies were obtained from the ‘domain based local pair natural orbital’ (DLPNO)-Møller-Plesset and -coupled cluster theoretical methods, as follows: DLPNO-CCSD(T0)/aug-cc-pVQZ//DLPNO-MP2/aug-cc-pVTZ. Fifteen Single-crystal X-ray diffractometer (SC-XRD) crystal structures of mononuclear rare earth chloride coordination complexes with DPA (RE = La-Nd, Sm, Eu, Tb-Lu and Y) were obtained and geometrically analysed in this study. Three isostructural series of constitutional isomers were identified, consisting of one series of nine-coordinate molecule (M1) and two series of eight-coordinate ion pairs (M2 and M3). This conformational diversity is most likely due the flexible nature of the DPA backbone, as well as the additional stability gained from reduced coordination spheres as a function of decreasing rare earth ionic radii across the lanthanide series (Lanthanide contraction). A Quantum Theory of Atoms-in-Molecules (QTAIM) topological analysis was performed in order to identify and characterise potential hydrogen bonding interactions in H-optimised crystal structures. The crystal structures of five dinuclear (RE = Tb-Tm) and two tetranuclear (RE = Yb and Lu) rare earth chloride complexes with DPA have also been structurally analysed. Furthermore, one mononuclear (RE = Dy), two dinuclear complexes (RE = Dy and Lu) with EtDPA, and one mononuclear complex with the DPA-derivative HL4 (RE = Dy) were structurally characterised. A DFT study of the theoretical interconversion of one real- and two hypothetical- mononuclear lanthanum containing isostructural series (cf. aforementioned crystal structures) was undertaken in order to gain a deeper understanding of the processes involved, in terms of the participating minimum energy paths (MEPs), intermediates and transition states – as determined via the Nudged-Elastic Band (NEB) procedure. This hypothesis is supported by the well-known conformational lability of rare earth complexes, due to the weak/minor covalency of their coordination bonds. An attempt was made to determine the respective energies of one real- and two hypothetical diamagnetic or ‘closed-shell’ constitutional isomers containing the rare earth ions La3+(M1), Y3+(M2) and Lu3+ (M3). It was assumed that the most stable isomers have a greater probability of being observed as the asymmetric unit of the complex crystal structure – assuming weak contributions of lattice or intermolecular interactions towards the geometry of the asymmetric unit.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

The African Continental Free Trade Agreement in Context

  • Authors: Conjwa, Siviwe
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Customs unions -- Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47347 , vital:39849
  • Description: The economic integration of the African continent has been an ideal pursued by most African states for a considerable number of years. This has been due to the notion that regional integration offers greater opportunities for developing states participating in global trade. Regional integration is regarded by some states as crucial to the alleviation of poverty on the African continent and, to this end, several African states have formed part of several regional blocs on the continent. The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (hereafter the AfCFTA) was signed in 2018, with the intention of removing barriers to the free movement of goods and services on the continent. The rationale behind the AfCFTA is that greater opportunities for the development of the African continent can be unlocked if the economies of the continent can be amalgamated into a single market. The AfCFTA is set to be the world’s largest free trade area, bringing together 55 states with a combined population of more than 1 billion people. This research contextualises the establishment of the AfCFTA within the greater context of the integration agenda of the African continent. Of particular significance is the role of the already existing Regional Economic Communities in the formulation of the AfCFTA, as well as the question as to whether global trade provisions regulating the creation of free trade areas have been complied with by the AfCFTA. The manner in which regional agreements are implemented by member states is also an important discussion that forms a part of this research. This is to ensure that some of the potential challenges in the implementation of the AfCFTA are laid bare, so as to ensure that the objectives thereof are attained as envisaged.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

The application value and most appropriate mapping scales for site classification and evaluation in the South African forest industry

  • Authors: Sibhakabhaka, Thembisa
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Forests and forestry -- South Africa , Forest products industry -- South Africa Geographic information systems
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49281 , vital:41617
  • Description: The South African forest industry is challenged with aspects related to socio-political developments, conflicts with biodiversity values, uncertainties related to climate change, several biotic and abiotic risks, and a limited potential for expansion. For this reason, efficient and optimal land-use is essential, which requires sustainable forest management practices and accurate information and decision support systems. Tree growth patterns, productivity and risks vary according to changes in geology, topography, climate and soil conditions. It is therefore required that forest managers, planners and researchers have a conceptual understanding of the concept of forest site classification and evaluation. This is essential not only for improved levels resilience, but also to maintain a competitive industry in terms of socio-economic and environmental performance. The first chapter of the study aimed to investigate the perceptions and interpretations of a range of representative stakeholders from the forestry industry regarding the value, shortcomings, requirements and design of forest site classification and evaluation systems in use in the local industry. A questionnaire with 16 questions was used for this purpose, and data was analysed using quantitative and qualitative techniques. Results indicated variable levels of understanding amongst respondents of terminology and the nature of systems used in industry. Trends in responses were influenced by the background of stakeholders, the role of individuals in the value chain of forestry as well as past experiences. The perceived importance and value of potential site evaluation applications varied substantially amongst different stakeholders. Results point towards a narrow-focus application for site classification and evaluation systems for site-specific forestry, with a lesser regard with aspects of risk management and environmental performance. Several technical aspects related to site variables, data resolution and scale of presentation were also questioned by participants. Listed priorities for research and development include the integration of site classification and evaluation systems into corporate information systems, modernizing technology, more appropriate site evaluation models, advanced climatic modelling and the development of indices of water and nutrient availability related to forest productivity. There is general agreement for the development of a national forest site classification system. The value of this part of the study lies in the contribution it makes towards our knowledge of stakeholder perceptions regarding site classification and evaluation, as well as the valuable comments made by participants for the refinement of such systems that can serve as indicators for entities involved in education, governance and strategic forest management. The second data chapter of the study involved the development of high-resolution site classification systems in the form of Site Types for two selected study areas in South Africa, one located in Mpumalanga, and the other in the southern Cape. This enabled a comparative analysis with existing low-resolution Land Type classifications that were developed by different authors for the same two study areas, in terms of its reliability, accuracy and general usefulness for applications in the plantation forestry value chain. The comparison of the two types of classification systems revealed that the climate data forming part of the database were of equal accuracy and resolution. However, an obvious difference was detected in the information pertaining to soil in terms of descriptive and spatial data. In the case of both study areas, the Site Type classification systems revealed many soil and geological features that were not indicated by the lower-resolution Land Type systems. Variation in characteristics related to parent material, soil classification, soil depth, intensity of subsoil wetness and soil organic matter were not adequately reflected in these systems. This can potentially have important implications for applications such as species choice, predictions of yield, nutrient optimization, ratings of soil resilience, biodiversity management and evaluations for carbon sequestration potential. The data forming part of this study indicate that although Land Type classification systems can provide valuable support at strategic levels of planning and management, there are several limitations for use at finer scales of resolution. The final chapter of the study includes an investigation and qualitative comparison of the usefulness of Site Type vs. Land Type classification systems, based on existing knowledge in the industry. The two systems are compared in terms of its input towards the following applications: site-species matching, timber yield prediction, site amelioration / site preparation requirements, nutrient management requirements, vegetation management / weed control, management of pests and diseases, determination of risk for soil compaction, soil erosion and nutrient loss, decision making regarding forest engineering operations, prediction of wood / fibre properties, biodiversity management and lastly planning of research activities / priorities. This analysis indicated that applications that require data on only climate and general soil patterns can be supported with equal success by both types of site classification systems. On the other hand, in cases where high-resolution data on site factors are required, Land Type classification systems had numerous shortcomings and received a much lower rating of suitability. The outcome of the study can provide guidance on the development and design of future site classification and evaluation systems for the South African forest industry. High-resolution databases of key site factors should receive priority, together with the development of decision support systems based on causal relationships. This will contribute to the resilience and sustainability of an industry that is increasingly confronted with questions related to the placement, design and management of forest plantations.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

The characterization and application of novel xanthenyland thioxanthenyl-derived compounds as hosts in the presence of various applicable guest mixtures

  • Authors: Jooste, Daniel Victor
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Organic compounds -- Synthesis
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49104 , vital:41601
  • Description: In this work, the host potential of four novel, structurally-related compounds, trans- N,N’-bis(9-phenyl-9-xanthenyl)cyclohexane-1,2-diamine (1,2-DAX), trans-N,N’-bis(9- phenyl-9-thioxanthenyl)cyclohexane-1,2-diamine (1,2-DAT), trans-N,N’-bis(9-phenyl- 9-xanthenyl)cyclohexane-1,4-diamine (1,4-DAX), and trans-N,N’-bis(9-phenyl-9- thioxanthenyl)cyclohexane-1,4-diamine (1,4-DAT), were investigated for their possible employment in the separation of isomers and other related compounds using host– guest chemistry. These hosts were synthesized following a Grignard reaction with phenylmagnesium bromide on either xanthone or thioxanthone. The resultant alcohol was treated with perchloric acid, before finally being linked with either trans-1,2- or trans-1,4-diaminocyclohexane to afford the four title host compounds. Initially, the feasibility of these hosts for separating isomers and related compounds was investigated by recrystallizing each one independently from various guest compounds including the methylpyridines and pyridine, xylenes and ethylbenzene, heterocyclic six-membered ring compounds, aniline, N-methylaniline and N,Ndimethylaniline, and also the alkylbenzenes toluene, cumene and ethylbenzene. 1HNMR spectroscopy was used to ascertain if inclusion of the guest species had occurred in this manner and, if so, the host:guest ratio of the complex. Guest–guest competitions were subsequently conducted in order to establish the selectivity of the hosts when presented with a mixture of guests, and if the host would be able to discriminate between them. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was the analytical method of choice here if 1H-NMR spectroscopy was not suitable owing to guest–guest signal overlap. Here, the host was recrystallized from binary, ternary and quaternary mixed guests, where each was present in equimolar amounts. Additionally, binary competition experiments were conducted in mixed guest solvents where the molar ratios of the guests were varied, and host selectivity for these guests evaluated visually by means of selectivity profiles. Single crystal X-ray diffraction (SC-XRD) and thermal analysis were performed on any complexes that afforded crystals of suitable quality in order to relate inherent host–guest interactions and thermal stability to the observed host selectivity from the competition experiments. The more prevalent interactions that were evident in these inclusion complexes between host and guest species were, more usually, and interactions, as well as other short contacts. Hydrogen bonding interactions were observed in only a few of the complexes. Guest accommodation type was also investigated, and these species resided in either discrete cavities or channels within the host crystal, depending on the guest. For the most part, traces obtained from thermal analyses were highly convoluted and difficult to interpret. As a result, guest release onset temperatures could not be determined for all of the inclusion complexes. In some cases, however, this temperature was successfully measured and correlated directly with the observed selectivity order of the host suggested by the competition experiments. Both enhanced and contrasting results were obtained for the four host compounds. In all cases, 1,2-DAX and 1,2-DAT successfully formed complexes with each of the guest species from each series. Interestingly, the 1,4-derived hosts, however, were more selective in that 1,4-DAX did not complex with only one of the guest solvents, while 1,4-DAT did not enclathrate as many as ten of these solvents. The competition investigations showed that, in most of these experiments, the host compounds displayed selectivity for one of the guests present in the mixture, and in some cases, this selectivity was pronounced, alluding to the feasibility of separating related guests from one another through host–guest chemistry principles. Computational calculations were, additionally, conducted on each of the host molecules in order to gain a better understanding of their geometries, and to compare these with the apohost crystal structures. Significant geometry differences were noted between the calculated and crystal structures.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

The development of a framework to facilitate an increase level of self employment mongst the rural youth by promoting increased level of entrepreneurial intent

  • Authors: Lindoor, Jillian
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Youth-- Employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural youth -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49878 , vital:41812
  • Description: Natural resources and unique livelihoods within rural areas could be transformed into investments that would attract affluent urban groups and benefit the wider community,reduce unemployment and create self-employment among the youth. However limited employment opportunities, ongoing failure of local development projects, low level of self-acknowledge conviction amongst the rural youth to set up new business ventures is low exists. These issues that serve as the motivation for this research, are evident in the Dr Beyers Naude Local Municipality (BNLM) in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. These issues increases poverty, alcohol and substance abuse. It is important to find a solution to the problem and develop the local economy, increase employment, reduce poverty and assist in contributing to the millennium goals as set out by the United Nations. The research objective of the study is therefore to investigate what methods can be implemented to facilitate an increase in the level of self-employment amongst the rural youth by promoting an increased level of entrepreneurial intent.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

The development of a project management body of knowledge model for Vodacom in the eastern region of RSA

  • Authors: Alley, Andre
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Cell phone services industry -- South Africa , Project management Knowledge management Organizational learning
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50338 , vital:42110
  • Description: The purpose of this research was the development of a project management body of knowledge model for Vodacom in the Eastern Region of the Republic of South Africa (RSA). As a result of a recent increase of complaints regarding projects delivered by Vodacom Eastern Region. The research started with a structured literature review, followed by a qualitative case study research design using embedded units of analysis, providing useful insights in sustainable project management in Vodacom Easter Region, RSA. The outcome of the research was in the form of a sustainable project management body of knowledge model for Vodacom in the Eastern Region of RSA, which highlighted five focus areas, namely; team structure, project organisational structure, stakeholder management, attributes of team members, communication and information technology enablers. The study concluded with practical recommendations for a relevant and sustainable project management model under the five focus areas.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

The development of a set of guidelines for the revision of psychological tests and the use of revised psychological tests

  • Authors: Cronje, Johan Herman
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Psychological tests
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46350 , vital:39567
  • Description: The psychological testindustry has produced a wide variety of psychological tests that are used by professionals to facilitate measurement and decision-making. Tests are updated and revised periodically in order to remain current, valid and reliable in what is a competitive psychometric industry. Despite the prevalence of test revisions, especially in recent years, a number of authors have commented on the lack of comprehensive guidelines for test revision. Guidelines shouldcover aspects such as what the different types of revision are, when to embark on a revision, whatprocessto followand how test users should use revised tests. Test revision differs from test construction in a number of ways. There are external factors that affect the regularity with which a test should be revised. Test revision also involves more role players than test construction, including the opinions of those test users who may be resistant to any change in the previous test edition. Finally, revised tests sometimes have to contend with requirements from the test publisher who purchased the test or distribution rights from the developer. Test revision is expensive and time consuming, which leaves little scope for experimentation or trial-and-error. The availability of expertise, as well as the human and financial resources required to complete test revisionscan make such projects unaffordable, especiallyforprofessionals indeveloping countries, such as South Africa.It may be more feasible for such professionalsto collaborate with international revision projects. By doing so they cangain experience in test revision, contribute indigenous information that could shapethe revision ofan international test, increase opportunities to engage with international users, and potentially source international funding for research in their own country. The current studydevelopeda comprehensive and practical set of 30 guidelines to assist those involved in test revision. These guidelines were peer-reviewed and refined. Finally, the guidelines were field-tested using a case study of a recently revised ivdevelopmentaltest, the Griffiths III. Professionals from South Africa, including the present researcher,formed part of the international team for the extensive revision of the Griffiths III, which makes this test an ideal case study from both the perspectives of the developed test revision guidelines as well as collaboration of professionals from a developing country in an international test revision. The knowledge gainedfrom the development of guidelines and international collaboration in test revision is reflected on.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

The distiction between debt and equity from an income tax perspective

  • Authors: Duna, Nomfundo
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Income tax -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MCOM
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47791 , vital:40375
  • Description: The debt bias gives rise to real and disadvantageous consequences for many jurisdictions. South Africa is by no means any safer from its dilutive and evasive effect. This bias in favour of debt arises as a result of the difference in the tax treatment of debt and equity which is found in the South African tax legislation. At the centre of the difference in tax treatment is that under the domestic tax legislation, interest incurred on debt is deductible to the extent that the debt was used to fund income generating assets which dividends payable to equity investors is not. From a South African perspective, the classification of a funding as debt or equity funding for tax purposes is not exhaustively dealt with within the tax legislation as it is not always that these terms are defined in the tax legislation. In some instances, common law is relied upon to classify funding as debt or equity funding. Furthermore, this classification and the resultant tax treatment of funding as either debt or equity becomes even more complicated when you consider the various tax avoidance mechanisms that taxpayer corporations use to take advantage of the debt bias. Tax avoidance mechanisms such as the uptake of excessive debt to increase interest deductions and the use of hybrid debt instruments has necessitated the inclusion of targeted anti-avoidance provisions that operate to either reclassify the nature of the funding or the return on such funding, or in some instances deny interest deductions. These targeted anti-avoidance provisions contain definitions of the type of funding that they apply to. In the South African context, the South African tax legislation contains provisions in respect of anti-excessive debt rules contained in section 23M and 23N as well as hybrid instruments contained in sections 8E,8EA, 8F and 8FA that aim to counter the extent to which taxpayers exploit the debt bias to avoid tax.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

The economic impact of electrical meter tampering within Western Cape municipalities

  • Authors: Brink, Petrus Johannes
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Electric meters--Power supply
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47526 , vital:40125
  • Description: Electricity access is fundamental for satisfying elementary human needs, raising living standards, preserving satisfactory human health, assisting in the relief of poverty and helping expedite sustainable development. Furthermore, access to electricity helps to uplift communities and empower businesses, contributing to an all-round positive environment ultimately leading to the development of a country. Worldwide, electricity is generated at identified areas and by specific entities such as Eskom in South Africa, Nampower in Namibia and LEC in Lesotho. Electricity generation, transmission, and distribution are a business just like any other business and its main goals are to service the needs of its customers as well as to make a profit and look after the interests of the shareholders. Although electricity must be made available for use by all the citizens and businesses in a country, it is not a free service and must be paid for. An electricity meter is used to measure the amount of electricity used and bill the consumer accordingly. Tampering with any electrical meters in order to avoid paying for electricity is illegal and a criminal offense. Electrical meter tampering and the economic impact it has on a utility is a massive overall problem. An initial review of the problem revealed that there are studies and published statistics for electrical meter tampering in South Africa on a national level, but that there is a lack of focus and results on a regional level. The purpose of this study is to assist regional municipalities and determine how to challenge electricity meter tampering and therefore influence the economic effect it might have on such a municipality. This study looks at investigating regional municipalities with a specific focus on municipalities situated within the Western Cape. To initiate this study, secondary data was collected from academic sources and presented in the form of a literature review. The literature review addresses research questions and objectives around the background, nature, and extent of managing electricity, electrical meters, the importance of solving the problem and the potential causes of electrical meter tampering. An interpretive research philosophy was followed and primary data was gathered through a qualitative study by interviewing eleven (11)participants from ten (10)local Western Cape Municipalities. Furthermore, it was identified that the two qualitative approaches best suited to this research was a case study and grounded theory. In order to analyse the primary data gathered, a sophisticated software programme called ATLAS.ti was used to identify themes and codes emanating from the data. The analysis of the primary data was presented in the form of columns, bar and pie charts and the key findings interpreted with reference to the secondary data gathered earlier in the study.The treatise was concluded with recommendations to municipal managers of how to challenge electrical meter tampering and what economic impact meter tampering has on their municipalities. It was left to the municipal manager’s discretion to decide if they want to share the results of the study with their senior and middle managers who acted as participants in the study.
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  • Date Issued: 2020

The effect of bioslurry effluent on growth and development of swiss chard (beta vulgaris l.)

  • Authors: Dumani, Azile
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Sewage sludge -- Seedlings , Swiss chard -- Seedlings
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48268 , vital:40837
  • Description: Studies were conducted at Döhne Agricultural Development Institute (DADI) (32°31’ 34.077” S; 27°27’ 37.473” E) in Stutterheim, Eastern Cape, South Africa, 2017 and 2018. The objectives of this study were (i) to evaluate the effect of bioslurry effluent on seedling growth of Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris L.), (ii) to study the effect of bioslurry effluent on growth, development and the nutrient content of Swiss chard and (iii) to evaluate the residual effect of bioslurry on biological yield and nutrient content of Swiss chard. Experiment 1 was conducted in a glasshouse using two cultivars (Fordhook giant and Star 1801) seeds planted in 200 cavity trays using Hygromix. The treatments were: control (no fertiliser), 50%Bioslurry, 100%Bioslurry, 200%Bioslurry and the recommended rate of 2:3:4 (30) NPK fertilizer. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design replicated three times. At four weeks after germination, ten seedlings per treatment were destructively sampled randomly to determine shoot height and root length, seedling mass, fresh shoot and fresh root mass, dry mass and nutrient content of leaves. The results showed that fertilization with 100%Bioslurry produced significantly taller seedlings (16.33cm) and shoot height (8.72cm), while the shortest seedlings were obtained from the recommended inorganic fertilizer. Fertilization with 200%Bioslurry and the control treatment produced significantly higher biological yield. compared to other treatments. The interaction between fertilizer treatments, cultivar and season indicated that summer season performed better compared to winter in seedling growth and development, and Fordhook giant fertilized with 100% and 200%Bioslurry was superior compared to Star 1801. Fertilization with 50%Bioslurry resulted in seedlings with higher sodium, while the seedlings grown in the control treatment showed higher copper content. The highest manganese was obtained from the seedlings fertilized with the inorganic fertilizer. In Experiment 2, 10 plots of 4.5m² were established in a greenhouse and were replicated three times, using the same cultivars and fertilizer treatments as in Experiment 1. One seedling was planted per hill at a spacing of 0.25m between plants and 0.5 m between rows and this accommodated 28plants per plot. At 20-day intervals, five plants were randomly selected for data collection until 60 days after transplanting. The cultivar significantly affected growth and biological yield parameters, with Fordhook giant performing better in all the three sampling intervals compared to Star 1801 during summer growing season. Fertilizer application positively affected growth and biological yield parameters and plants treated with 200%Bioslurry and the recommended rate of inorganic fertiliser produced the best results. Experiment 3 was carried out in the same manner as experiment two, except that no fertilizer was applied and the seedlings were planted in corresponding treatment to evaluate the residual effect of bioslurry and inorganic fertilizer. The inorganic fertilizer had the highest residual effect compared to bioslurry. Although not necessarily performing significantly better in terms of the residual effects, the bioslurry showed a good potential as an alternative fertilizer source.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2020
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