Electrospun polyacrylic acid polymer fibers functionalized with metallophthalocyanines for photosensitizing and gas sensing applications
- Zugle, Ruphino, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Zugle, Ruphino , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/243543 , vital:51162 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/10601325.2012.662006"
- Description: The photophysical and photochemical properties of tetraaminophthalocyanine complexes of lutetium and zinc covalently linked to polyacrylic acid were studied alongside those of unsubstituted zinc phthalocyanine within the same polymeric fiber matrix. All three phthalocyanines within the solid fiber matrices showed photoactivity by the generation of singlet oxygen as was observed in solution. The fluorescence behaviors of the composite fibers equally parallel those in solution. For the unsubstituted zinc phthalocyanine composite, the fiber showed fluorescence quenching on interaction with gaseous nitrogen dioxide similar to that in DMF and, thus could be a promising nanofabric material in developing optoelectronic devices that are responsive to the gas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Zugle, Ruphino , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/243543 , vital:51162 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/10601325.2012.662006"
- Description: The photophysical and photochemical properties of tetraaminophthalocyanine complexes of lutetium and zinc covalently linked to polyacrylic acid were studied alongside those of unsubstituted zinc phthalocyanine within the same polymeric fiber matrix. All three phthalocyanines within the solid fiber matrices showed photoactivity by the generation of singlet oxygen as was observed in solution. The fluorescence behaviors of the composite fibers equally parallel those in solution. For the unsubstituted zinc phthalocyanine composite, the fiber showed fluorescence quenching on interaction with gaseous nitrogen dioxide similar to that in DMF and, thus could be a promising nanofabric material in developing optoelectronic devices that are responsive to the gas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Physico-chemical properties of lutetium phthalocyanine complexes in solution and in solid polystyrene polymer fibers and their application in photoconversion of 4-nitrophenol
- Zugle, Ruphino, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Zugle, Ruphino , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/243520 , vital:51160 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molcata.2012.02.010"
- Description: The photophysical and photochemical behavior of two phthalocyanine complexes of lutetium peripherally substituted with tetraphenoxy and tetra-2-pyridiloxy groups were studied in solution and when dispersed in polystyrene polymer fiber. The phthalocyanines were found not to fluoresce significantly in solution and not at all within the fiber matrix as compared with standard unsubstituted zinc phthalocyanine. They showed very promising photoactivity in solution with high singlet oxygen quantum yields. Their photoactivity within the polymer fiber matrix was also demonstrated with the photoconversion of 4-nitrophenol, a water pollutant. The photodegradation process with both phthalocyanines follows first order kinetics similar to that observed for the zinc phthalocyanine and the photo-products were found to be hydroquinone, benzoquinone and 4-nitrocatechol.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Zugle, Ruphino , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/243520 , vital:51160 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molcata.2012.02.010"
- Description: The photophysical and photochemical behavior of two phthalocyanine complexes of lutetium peripherally substituted with tetraphenoxy and tetra-2-pyridiloxy groups were studied in solution and when dispersed in polystyrene polymer fiber. The phthalocyanines were found not to fluoresce significantly in solution and not at all within the fiber matrix as compared with standard unsubstituted zinc phthalocyanine. They showed very promising photoactivity in solution with high singlet oxygen quantum yields. Their photoactivity within the polymer fiber matrix was also demonstrated with the photoconversion of 4-nitrophenol, a water pollutant. The photodegradation process with both phthalocyanines follows first order kinetics similar to that observed for the zinc phthalocyanine and the photo-products were found to be hydroquinone, benzoquinone and 4-nitrocatechol.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Photooxidation of 4-chlorophenol sensitized by lutetium tetraphenoxy phthalocyanine anchored on electrospun polystyrene polymer fiber
- Zugle, Ruphino, Antunes, Edith M, Khene, Samson M, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Zugle, Ruphino , Antunes, Edith M , Khene, Samson M , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/245787 , vital:51405 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.poly.2011.11.005"
- Description: An electrospun polystyrene (PS) fiber incorporating tetraphenoxy phthalocyanine complex of lutetium (LuTPPc/PS) as a photosensitizer was applied for the degradation of 4-chlorophenol in aqueous solution in the presence of visible light. The photocatalytic activity of the LuTPPc in the fiber was compared to that of zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) incorporated into the PS fiber, and the former showed higher activity. UV–Vis spectral changes of sample solutions indicated transformation of the analyte with first order kinetics and half-lives that are within one and half hours for LuTPPc/PS. Products identified from the spectral changes and gas chromatography were benzoquinone, hydroquinone and 4,4′-dihydroxydiphenol suggesting that the photodegradation of 4-chlorophenol was through both Types I and II mechanisms.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Zugle, Ruphino , Antunes, Edith M , Khene, Samson M , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/245787 , vital:51405 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.poly.2011.11.005"
- Description: An electrospun polystyrene (PS) fiber incorporating tetraphenoxy phthalocyanine complex of lutetium (LuTPPc/PS) as a photosensitizer was applied for the degradation of 4-chlorophenol in aqueous solution in the presence of visible light. The photocatalytic activity of the LuTPPc in the fiber was compared to that of zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) incorporated into the PS fiber, and the former showed higher activity. UV–Vis spectral changes of sample solutions indicated transformation of the analyte with first order kinetics and half-lives that are within one and half hours for LuTPPc/PS. Products identified from the spectral changes and gas chromatography were benzoquinone, hydroquinone and 4,4′-dihydroxydiphenol suggesting that the photodegradation of 4-chlorophenol was through both Types I and II mechanisms.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The newly qualified professional nurses' proficiency in utilizing psychiatric nursing skills in mental health institution and community health care facilities
- Authors: Zonke, Lulama Henrietta
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Nurses -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Ability testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Psychiatric nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Caregivers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mental health -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community health nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11898 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001098 , Nurses -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Ability testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Psychiatric nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Caregivers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mental health -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community health nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The aim of this study was to determine the ability and proficiency of the newly qualified professional nurses in utilising psychiatric nursing skills at Chris Hani District Psychiatric Health Care Services in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The research method was a qualitative, phenomenological approach. A purposive sample of newly qualified professional nurses and supervisors participated in the study. The data were collected through interviews and focus group discussions, using semi – structured interview guides. Interviews responses were recorded on the interview guide. Data were analysed using the computer software Atlas ti and manually. Positive and negative themes were identified. Ethical considerations were ensured by means of privacy, anonymity and confidentiality. Ethical clearance was obtained from the University of Fort Hare and permission from the Provincial Department of Health and Chris Hani District Health and Mental Health Institution at Queenstown was sought. The findings revealed that newly qualified professional nurses performed well, according to the perception of their supervisors. Newly qualified professional nurses were faced with challenges such as shortage of resources, mental illness not considered as a priority and lack of skills development. The study also revealed that newly qualified professional nurses focussed on the curative aspect of ailments, rather than preventive care. However community health workers (CHW) focussed on the preventive aspect of care. Limitations and recommendations based on the findings of the study are presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Zonke, Lulama Henrietta
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Nurses -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Ability testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Psychiatric nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Caregivers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mental health -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community health nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11898 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001098 , Nurses -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Ability testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Psychiatric nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Caregivers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mental health -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community health nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The aim of this study was to determine the ability and proficiency of the newly qualified professional nurses in utilising psychiatric nursing skills at Chris Hani District Psychiatric Health Care Services in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The research method was a qualitative, phenomenological approach. A purposive sample of newly qualified professional nurses and supervisors participated in the study. The data were collected through interviews and focus group discussions, using semi – structured interview guides. Interviews responses were recorded on the interview guide. Data were analysed using the computer software Atlas ti and manually. Positive and negative themes were identified. Ethical considerations were ensured by means of privacy, anonymity and confidentiality. Ethical clearance was obtained from the University of Fort Hare and permission from the Provincial Department of Health and Chris Hani District Health and Mental Health Institution at Queenstown was sought. The findings revealed that newly qualified professional nurses performed well, according to the perception of their supervisors. Newly qualified professional nurses were faced with challenges such as shortage of resources, mental illness not considered as a priority and lack of skills development. The study also revealed that newly qualified professional nurses focussed on the curative aspect of ailments, rather than preventive care. However community health workers (CHW) focussed on the preventive aspect of care. Limitations and recommendations based on the findings of the study are presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Travelling shoppers' perceptions on the comprehensive servicescape within the South African retail environment
- Authors: Zinhumwe, Cephas
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Retail trade -- Customer services -- South Africa , Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa , Consumption (Economics) -- Social aspects , Consumer behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCom
- Identifier: vital:9296 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013610
- Description: The study is on the influence of comprehensive servicescape on shopping behaviour of road and rail travelling shoppers. The comprehensive servicescape is referred to as synchronization of the multidimensional servicescape dimensions, which are the physical environment, social environment, socially symbolic and the natural dimensions into one entity that the travellers encounter during the shopping exercise. The servicescape cues that include shoppers and the physical set-up of the service firm are important in influencing service quality evaluation and consumer satisfaction. The aim of this study was to establish the impact of servicescape on travelling shoppers’ buying behaviour and shopping motivations amongst different shoppers that were identified within the South African bus and railway stations. The bus and railway station environment induces an interesting type of shopping behaviour amongst the travelers. The purpose of the study was also to explore the travelling shoppers’ expectations and perceptions on the comprehensive servicescape within the bus station’s retail environment. Additionally the study attempted to address important gaps in the South African literature in respect of the influence of socialservicescape on the buyer behaviour and hedonic motivation of travelling shopper. The questionnaires used in the study were constructed along five dimensions of service quality containing statements linked to a five-point Likert-type interval scale anchored by “strongly agree” and “strongly disagree. Self administered questionnaires were used for data collection from the travelling shoppers through “mall intercept technique” and 300 questionnaires were collected from respondents. The academia benefits from this study from the comprehensive servicescape model of the South African bus and railway stations that was developed. The study built on literature by nvestigating the influence of the comprehensive servicescapes as perceived by travelling shoppers within the South African retail environment. Additionally it was shown both theoretically and empirically, that, that service quality in high contact service environment like the bus and railway station can best be explained by an analysis of the comprehensive servicescape or the multidimensional and hierarchical model. As a result of this study retailers will have a full picture on the specific needs, perception and expectations of road and rail travellers in relation to the quality of the stations’ servicescape, which retailers have to improve in order to increase customer patronage. It is assumed that retailers will be aware that store image and the store ambience should meet the challenges of the perceptions, motivations and consumer behaviour of travellers within the comprehensive servicescape of the station. This study provides a trigger effect to spatial planners to design high quality servicescape that will attract travellers for both hedonic and utilitarian shopping. Hirschman and Holbrook (1982) believed that shoppers derive pleasure from the experience of shopping itself, regardless of the joy from acquiring goods, this more so with travelling shoppers. A bus station can be both a growth node and a tourist attraction, if its features are attractive, therefore planners can benefit from this study. In this study theory that forms the bases of the influence of social servicescape on the behaviour of travelling shoppers that frequently visit and participate in shopping at various South African bus station retail outlets is provided. Additionally, this study provided empirical information on the relationships that exist amongst the characteristics of the South African Park Stations’ physical retail environments, user perceptions and interpersonal encounters. The behaviour of shopping travellers was extensively discussed to provide the background of theories and various models concerning shopping behaviour of travellers. Through this work, clarity on consumer behavioural trends of travelling shoppers in the South African retail sector is provided, which assist in differentiating retail products, services and segmentation of markets in a way that could enhance marketing effectiveness amongst the travelling shopping segment. Special attention was paid to factors that motivate road travellers’ choice of stores; the type of products they purchase and their decision making processes. Effort were made to identify, categorize and segment shopper typologies and their shopping behaviours. Effort was also made to discuss extensively the social and physical influences of environments in a retail environment such as that of the bus and railway station. The discussions in this study focussed on describing the comprehensive servicescape model dimensions which shoppers encountered during their shopping activity. The study also indicated the significance of the interaction of service staff with the customers in determining the service quality, customer satisfaction and the future intention of travelers. Additionally this study emphasised the importance of social encounters and perceptiveness to cues within the station, which determine whether they actively or passively are involved in the shopping encounter. The research findings reveal that, travellers perceive the servicescape within the bus station as unattractive and lack appropriate facilities. Furthermore travelers considered the two dimensions (store image and store ambience) of the store’s servicescape as one composite unit of the servicescape. This position is supported in literature, where it is argued that people respond to their environment holistically, rather than to individual stimuli. The travelling shoppers reveal that although they always find the shops from the bus station clean and neat, consumers expect a certain level of ambient environmental conditions to be present. The empirical findings in this study indicate that travelling shoppers are not interested in visiting the stores at the bus and railway station for shopping because merchandise from the bus station stores is poor in quality and unreliable; the surroundings at the station as unpleasant and the bus and railway station stores are congested. Thus, hasty shopping and spending more time or stay longer than planned for shopping at the bus and railway station is not useful to travelling shoppers. Therefore, travellers feel strongly that the shopping environment of the station is not conducive to shopping. These facilities (stations) are only used for travelling purposes; therefore there is a need for improvement in the retail and station facilities in order to increase shopping activities within this servicescape. The research findings reveal that shopping at the bus station seems to be driven by traditional needs such as functional and experiential motivations as well as travelrelated needs such as busstation-atmosphere-related and bus station-infrastructurerelated motivations. It was difficult to deduce a particular typology of shoppers in this environment, but due to the stress related to travelling. Passive shopping was observed amongst travellers, which is not a positive shopping behaviour for retailers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Zinhumwe, Cephas
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Retail trade -- Customer services -- South Africa , Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa , Consumption (Economics) -- Social aspects , Consumer behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCom
- Identifier: vital:9296 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013610
- Description: The study is on the influence of comprehensive servicescape on shopping behaviour of road and rail travelling shoppers. The comprehensive servicescape is referred to as synchronization of the multidimensional servicescape dimensions, which are the physical environment, social environment, socially symbolic and the natural dimensions into one entity that the travellers encounter during the shopping exercise. The servicescape cues that include shoppers and the physical set-up of the service firm are important in influencing service quality evaluation and consumer satisfaction. The aim of this study was to establish the impact of servicescape on travelling shoppers’ buying behaviour and shopping motivations amongst different shoppers that were identified within the South African bus and railway stations. The bus and railway station environment induces an interesting type of shopping behaviour amongst the travelers. The purpose of the study was also to explore the travelling shoppers’ expectations and perceptions on the comprehensive servicescape within the bus station’s retail environment. Additionally the study attempted to address important gaps in the South African literature in respect of the influence of socialservicescape on the buyer behaviour and hedonic motivation of travelling shopper. The questionnaires used in the study were constructed along five dimensions of service quality containing statements linked to a five-point Likert-type interval scale anchored by “strongly agree” and “strongly disagree. Self administered questionnaires were used for data collection from the travelling shoppers through “mall intercept technique” and 300 questionnaires were collected from respondents. The academia benefits from this study from the comprehensive servicescape model of the South African bus and railway stations that was developed. The study built on literature by nvestigating the influence of the comprehensive servicescapes as perceived by travelling shoppers within the South African retail environment. Additionally it was shown both theoretically and empirically, that, that service quality in high contact service environment like the bus and railway station can best be explained by an analysis of the comprehensive servicescape or the multidimensional and hierarchical model. As a result of this study retailers will have a full picture on the specific needs, perception and expectations of road and rail travellers in relation to the quality of the stations’ servicescape, which retailers have to improve in order to increase customer patronage. It is assumed that retailers will be aware that store image and the store ambience should meet the challenges of the perceptions, motivations and consumer behaviour of travellers within the comprehensive servicescape of the station. This study provides a trigger effect to spatial planners to design high quality servicescape that will attract travellers for both hedonic and utilitarian shopping. Hirschman and Holbrook (1982) believed that shoppers derive pleasure from the experience of shopping itself, regardless of the joy from acquiring goods, this more so with travelling shoppers. A bus station can be both a growth node and a tourist attraction, if its features are attractive, therefore planners can benefit from this study. In this study theory that forms the bases of the influence of social servicescape on the behaviour of travelling shoppers that frequently visit and participate in shopping at various South African bus station retail outlets is provided. Additionally, this study provided empirical information on the relationships that exist amongst the characteristics of the South African Park Stations’ physical retail environments, user perceptions and interpersonal encounters. The behaviour of shopping travellers was extensively discussed to provide the background of theories and various models concerning shopping behaviour of travellers. Through this work, clarity on consumer behavioural trends of travelling shoppers in the South African retail sector is provided, which assist in differentiating retail products, services and segmentation of markets in a way that could enhance marketing effectiveness amongst the travelling shopping segment. Special attention was paid to factors that motivate road travellers’ choice of stores; the type of products they purchase and their decision making processes. Effort were made to identify, categorize and segment shopper typologies and their shopping behaviours. Effort was also made to discuss extensively the social and physical influences of environments in a retail environment such as that of the bus and railway station. The discussions in this study focussed on describing the comprehensive servicescape model dimensions which shoppers encountered during their shopping activity. The study also indicated the significance of the interaction of service staff with the customers in determining the service quality, customer satisfaction and the future intention of travelers. Additionally this study emphasised the importance of social encounters and perceptiveness to cues within the station, which determine whether they actively or passively are involved in the shopping encounter. The research findings reveal that, travellers perceive the servicescape within the bus station as unattractive and lack appropriate facilities. Furthermore travelers considered the two dimensions (store image and store ambience) of the store’s servicescape as one composite unit of the servicescape. This position is supported in literature, where it is argued that people respond to their environment holistically, rather than to individual stimuli. The travelling shoppers reveal that although they always find the shops from the bus station clean and neat, consumers expect a certain level of ambient environmental conditions to be present. The empirical findings in this study indicate that travelling shoppers are not interested in visiting the stores at the bus and railway station for shopping because merchandise from the bus station stores is poor in quality and unreliable; the surroundings at the station as unpleasant and the bus and railway station stores are congested. Thus, hasty shopping and spending more time or stay longer than planned for shopping at the bus and railway station is not useful to travelling shoppers. Therefore, travellers feel strongly that the shopping environment of the station is not conducive to shopping. These facilities (stations) are only used for travelling purposes; therefore there is a need for improvement in the retail and station facilities in order to increase shopping activities within this servicescape. The research findings reveal that shopping at the bus station seems to be driven by traditional needs such as functional and experiential motivations as well as travelrelated needs such as busstation-atmosphere-related and bus station-infrastructurerelated motivations. It was difficult to deduce a particular typology of shoppers in this environment, but due to the stress related to travelling. Passive shopping was observed amongst travellers, which is not a positive shopping behaviour for retailers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The relationship between emotional stability, stress and work family conflict, among Standard Bank female employees in the Border region
- Authors: Zingwe, Tawanda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Standard Bank Limited , Bank employees -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Role conflict , Women employees -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job stress -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Work and family -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sexual division of labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Neuroses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Work-family conflict , Stress , Emotional stability , Neuroticism , Banks , Females
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11558 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007133 , Standard Bank Limited , Bank employees -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Role conflict , Women employees -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job stress -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Work and family -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sexual division of labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Neuroses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Work-family conflict , Stress , Emotional stability , Neuroticism , Banks , Females
- Description: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship that exists between emotional stability, stress and work-family conflict among Standard Bank female employees. For this purpose data was collected from the female employees of Standard Banks in Alice, Fort Beaufort, King Williams and East London Town’s in the Eastern Cape. A sample of 72 female bank employees was drawn from the population. Neuroticism is the opposite of emotional stability and it was mostly often used in place of emotional stability in the study. Results of the study indicated that all study variables are significantly positively correlated with one another. The findings of this study is helpful in the banking industry in order to design human resources policies which will reduce the work-family conflict and decrease stress for female bank employees and for future research in respective topics. The implications of this study are discussed along with recommendations for future research and professional managerial practice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Zingwe, Tawanda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Standard Bank Limited , Bank employees -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Role conflict , Women employees -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job stress -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Work and family -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sexual division of labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Neuroses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Work-family conflict , Stress , Emotional stability , Neuroticism , Banks , Females
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11558 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007133 , Standard Bank Limited , Bank employees -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Role conflict , Women employees -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job stress -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Work and family -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sexual division of labor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Neuroses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Work-family conflict , Stress , Emotional stability , Neuroticism , Banks , Females
- Description: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship that exists between emotional stability, stress and work-family conflict among Standard Bank female employees. For this purpose data was collected from the female employees of Standard Banks in Alice, Fort Beaufort, King Williams and East London Town’s in the Eastern Cape. A sample of 72 female bank employees was drawn from the population. Neuroticism is the opposite of emotional stability and it was mostly often used in place of emotional stability in the study. Results of the study indicated that all study variables are significantly positively correlated with one another. The findings of this study is helpful in the banking industry in order to design human resources policies which will reduce the work-family conflict and decrease stress for female bank employees and for future research in respective topics. The implications of this study are discussed along with recommendations for future research and professional managerial practice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Managing an inclusive school: a case study of a pilot school in Swaziland
- Authors: Zimba, Zondani
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Inclusive education -- Swaziland -- Mbabane Special education -- Swaziland -- Mbabane Learning disabled children -- Education -- Swaziland -- Mbabane Students with disabilities -- Swaziland -- Mbabane School management and organization -- Swaziland -- Mbabane
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1669 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003552
- Description: Inclusive Education (IE) reflects the values, ethos, and culture of an education system committed to excellence by promoting education opportunities for all learners. IE is about building a more just society and ensuring the right to education for all learners regardless of their individual characteristics or difficulties (UNESCO: 2007). The kingdom of Swaziland has committed itself to high quality basic education which provides equal opportunities for all children and youth. This is evident in the Swaziland National Constitution (2006). To promote Education for All (EFA) as stated in the constitution, an IE Policy has been developed and a draft policy is in place. The programme has been operational since 2006. There are nine pilot schools and four teachers from each school who have been trained on how to handle pupils with disabilities. The programme will be rolled out to 608 primary schools by 2015. In this research, the goal was to investigate how a School Management Board responds to the challenges of managing an Inclusive School. This research is a qualitative interpretive case study based in one of the pilot schools in Mbabane in Swaziland. The study used document analysis, semi‐structured interviews and focus groups to collect data. The study revealed that the school has done much in accommodating IE as there are changes in management structures and approaches, organizational culture and operating procedures. On the other hand, there are still significant challenges such as a lack of knowledge of inclusion and negativity on the part of learners and parents. Other challenges include inadequate training for educators and lack of suitable infrastructure. The study concludes by recommending improved staff development programmes, infrastructure upgrades, acquiring appropriate teaching and learning resources and employing multidisciplinary personnel.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Zimba, Zondani
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Inclusive education -- Swaziland -- Mbabane Special education -- Swaziland -- Mbabane Learning disabled children -- Education -- Swaziland -- Mbabane Students with disabilities -- Swaziland -- Mbabane School management and organization -- Swaziland -- Mbabane
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1669 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003552
- Description: Inclusive Education (IE) reflects the values, ethos, and culture of an education system committed to excellence by promoting education opportunities for all learners. IE is about building a more just society and ensuring the right to education for all learners regardless of their individual characteristics or difficulties (UNESCO: 2007). The kingdom of Swaziland has committed itself to high quality basic education which provides equal opportunities for all children and youth. This is evident in the Swaziland National Constitution (2006). To promote Education for All (EFA) as stated in the constitution, an IE Policy has been developed and a draft policy is in place. The programme has been operational since 2006. There are nine pilot schools and four teachers from each school who have been trained on how to handle pupils with disabilities. The programme will be rolled out to 608 primary schools by 2015. In this research, the goal was to investigate how a School Management Board responds to the challenges of managing an Inclusive School. This research is a qualitative interpretive case study based in one of the pilot schools in Mbabane in Swaziland. The study used document analysis, semi‐structured interviews and focus groups to collect data. The study revealed that the school has done much in accommodating IE as there are changes in management structures and approaches, organizational culture and operating procedures. On the other hand, there are still significant challenges such as a lack of knowledge of inclusion and negativity on the part of learners and parents. Other challenges include inadequate training for educators and lack of suitable infrastructure. The study concludes by recommending improved staff development programmes, infrastructure upgrades, acquiring appropriate teaching and learning resources and employing multidisciplinary personnel.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Decentralised cooperative governance in the South African metropolitan municipalities
- Authors: Zimba, Anthony Andile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa , Local government -- South Africa , Intergovernmental cooperation -- South Africa , Public administration -- South Africa , Human services -- South Africa , Municipal government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Social Science Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11427 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/536 , Community development -- South Africa , Local government -- South Africa , Intergovernmental cooperation -- South Africa , Public administration -- South Africa , Human services -- South Africa , Municipal government -- South Africa
- Description: The study emanates from the constitutional imperatives with regard to the role of local government in community development. The notion of cooperative governance is envisaged in the South African Constitution which stipulates that all spheres of government must adhere to the principles of cooperative government and must conduct their activities within the parameters prescribed by the Constitution. The purpose is to support and strengthen the capacity of the local governments to manage their own affairs and to perform their functions. The basic values and principles governing public administration entail that: it must be broadly representative of the people of South Africa in order to redress the imbalances. The existing gaps in the legislation on decision making power at the local level of the municipality, be it in a ward committee or sub council, have not been adequately addressed in the post 1994 democratic dispensation. It is in this context that this study seeks to address these gaps and obstacles, and contribute to the design and development of a decentralized cooperative governance model, specifically to the six metropolitan municipalities and also provide a basis for further research. The findings of the research could be adapted as a national policy in the empowering of municipalities through the dispersal of democratic power which is an essential ingredient of inclusive governance. Based on a case study of six metropolitan municipalities, the research is intended to contribute to the development of empirically grounded; praxis and practical guideline in decentralized cooperative governance which can be adopted and institutionalized in public administration. It is believed that a study of decentralized cooperative governance adds value in that it seeks to link decentralized power and local development. Rather than civil society organisations being seen as adversarial, a creative partnership with the state in local development is crucial. This political assimilation is critical in the construction of democracy through fusing the substantive values of a political culture with the procedural requisites of democratic accountability. This serves to fragment and disperse political power and maintain a system of checks and balances with regard to the exercise of governmental power. The capacity for innovation, flexibility and change can be enhanced at the local level, and it is a cliché that local decision making is viewed as more democratic in contrast to central, top-down decision-making processes. A syncretistic model for local government based on the political adaptation of political and inclusive decentralisation is outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Zimba, Anthony Andile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa , Local government -- South Africa , Intergovernmental cooperation -- South Africa , Public administration -- South Africa , Human services -- South Africa , Municipal government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Social Science Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11427 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/536 , Community development -- South Africa , Local government -- South Africa , Intergovernmental cooperation -- South Africa , Public administration -- South Africa , Human services -- South Africa , Municipal government -- South Africa
- Description: The study emanates from the constitutional imperatives with regard to the role of local government in community development. The notion of cooperative governance is envisaged in the South African Constitution which stipulates that all spheres of government must adhere to the principles of cooperative government and must conduct their activities within the parameters prescribed by the Constitution. The purpose is to support and strengthen the capacity of the local governments to manage their own affairs and to perform their functions. The basic values and principles governing public administration entail that: it must be broadly representative of the people of South Africa in order to redress the imbalances. The existing gaps in the legislation on decision making power at the local level of the municipality, be it in a ward committee or sub council, have not been adequately addressed in the post 1994 democratic dispensation. It is in this context that this study seeks to address these gaps and obstacles, and contribute to the design and development of a decentralized cooperative governance model, specifically to the six metropolitan municipalities and also provide a basis for further research. The findings of the research could be adapted as a national policy in the empowering of municipalities through the dispersal of democratic power which is an essential ingredient of inclusive governance. Based on a case study of six metropolitan municipalities, the research is intended to contribute to the development of empirically grounded; praxis and practical guideline in decentralized cooperative governance which can be adopted and institutionalized in public administration. It is believed that a study of decentralized cooperative governance adds value in that it seeks to link decentralized power and local development. Rather than civil society organisations being seen as adversarial, a creative partnership with the state in local development is crucial. This political assimilation is critical in the construction of democracy through fusing the substantive values of a political culture with the procedural requisites of democratic accountability. This serves to fragment and disperse political power and maintain a system of checks and balances with regard to the exercise of governmental power. The capacity for innovation, flexibility and change can be enhanced at the local level, and it is a cliché that local decision making is viewed as more democratic in contrast to central, top-down decision-making processes. A syncretistic model for local government based on the political adaptation of political and inclusive decentralisation is outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
A qualitative ecological risk assessment of the invasive Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus in a sub-tropical African river system (Limpopo River, South Africa)
- Zengeya, Tsungai A, Robertson, Mark P, Booth, Anthony J, Chimimba, Christian T
- Authors: Zengeya, Tsungai A , Robertson, Mark P , Booth, Anthony J , Chimimba, Christian T
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123575 , vital:35457 , https://doi.10.1002/aqc.2258
- Description: 1. This study outlines the development of a qualitative risk assessment method and its application as a screening tool for determining the risk of establishment and spread of the invasive Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758), within the central sub-catchment of the Limpopo River basin in northern South Africa. 2. The assessment used known physiological tolerance limits of O. niloticus in relation to minimum water temperature, presence or absence of dams, seasonality of river flows, and the presence of indigenous fish species of concern to identify river systems that would be suitable for O. niloticus establishment. 3. River sections along the Limpopo main river channel and the immediate reaches of its associated tributaries east of the Limpopo/Lephalala river confluence along the Botswana–South Africa–Zimbabwe border were identified as being highly vulnerable to O. niloticus invasion. Rivers in the upper Bushveld catchment (Upper Limpopo, Mogalakwena, Lephalala, Mokolo, Matlabas and Crocodile rivers) were categorized as of medium ecological risk, while headwater streams were considered to be of low ecological risk. The decrease in vulnerability between lowveld and highveld river sections was mainly a function of low water temperatures (8–12˚C) associated with increasing altitude. 4. Oreochromis niloticus is already established in the lower catchment of the Limpopo River basin where indigenous congenerics are at an extinction risk through hybridization and competition exclusion. Oreochromis niloticus, therefore, poses an ecologically unacceptable risk to river systems in the upper catchment where it is yet to establish. The current risk assessment model provides a useful preliminary framework for the identification of river systems that are vulnerable to an O. niloticus invasion where conservation measures should be directed and implemented to prevent its introduction and spread within the Limpopo river system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Zengeya, Tsungai A , Robertson, Mark P , Booth, Anthony J , Chimimba, Christian T
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123575 , vital:35457 , https://doi.10.1002/aqc.2258
- Description: 1. This study outlines the development of a qualitative risk assessment method and its application as a screening tool for determining the risk of establishment and spread of the invasive Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758), within the central sub-catchment of the Limpopo River basin in northern South Africa. 2. The assessment used known physiological tolerance limits of O. niloticus in relation to minimum water temperature, presence or absence of dams, seasonality of river flows, and the presence of indigenous fish species of concern to identify river systems that would be suitable for O. niloticus establishment. 3. River sections along the Limpopo main river channel and the immediate reaches of its associated tributaries east of the Limpopo/Lephalala river confluence along the Botswana–South Africa–Zimbabwe border were identified as being highly vulnerable to O. niloticus invasion. Rivers in the upper Bushveld catchment (Upper Limpopo, Mogalakwena, Lephalala, Mokolo, Matlabas and Crocodile rivers) were categorized as of medium ecological risk, while headwater streams were considered to be of low ecological risk. The decrease in vulnerability between lowveld and highveld river sections was mainly a function of low water temperatures (8–12˚C) associated with increasing altitude. 4. Oreochromis niloticus is already established in the lower catchment of the Limpopo River basin where indigenous congenerics are at an extinction risk through hybridization and competition exclusion. Oreochromis niloticus, therefore, poses an ecologically unacceptable risk to river systems in the upper catchment where it is yet to establish. The current risk assessment model provides a useful preliminary framework for the identification of river systems that are vulnerable to an O. niloticus invasion where conservation measures should be directed and implemented to prevent its introduction and spread within the Limpopo river system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Ecological niche modeling of the invasive potential of Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus in African river systems: concerns and implications for the conservation of indigenous congenerics
- Zengeya, Tsungai A, Robertson, Mark P, Booth, Anthony J, Chimimba, Christian T
- Authors: Zengeya, Tsungai A , Robertson, Mark P , Booth, Anthony J , Chimimba, Christian T
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/124341 , vital:35596 , https://doi.10.1007/s10530-012-0386-7
- Description: This study applied ecological niche models to determine the potential invasive range of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, with a particular focus on river systems in southern Africa where it is now established and spreading. Computational tools such as niche models are useful in predicting the potential range of invasive species, but there are limitations to their application. In particular, models trained on native records may fail to predict the full extent of an invasion. This failure is often attributed to changes in either the niche of the invading species or the variables used to develop the models. In this study, we therefore evaluated the differences in the predictive power of models trained with different environmental variables, the effect of species range (native vs. introduced) on model performance and assessed whether or not there is evidence suggestive of a niche shift in Nile tilapia following its introduction. Niche models were constructed using Maxent and the degree of niche similarity was assessed using Schoener‘s index. Null models were used to test for significance. Model performance and niche conservatism varied significantly with variable selection and species range. This indicates that the environmental conditions available to Nile tilapia in its native and introduced ranges are not congruent. Nile tilapia exhibited broad invasive potential over most of southern Africa that overlaps the natural range of endemic congenerics. Of particular concern are areas which are free of exotic species but are now vulnerable due to the promotion of fish introductions mainly for aquaculture and sport fishing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Zengeya, Tsungai A , Robertson, Mark P , Booth, Anthony J , Chimimba, Christian T
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/124341 , vital:35596 , https://doi.10.1007/s10530-012-0386-7
- Description: This study applied ecological niche models to determine the potential invasive range of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, with a particular focus on river systems in southern Africa where it is now established and spreading. Computational tools such as niche models are useful in predicting the potential range of invasive species, but there are limitations to their application. In particular, models trained on native records may fail to predict the full extent of an invasion. This failure is often attributed to changes in either the niche of the invading species or the variables used to develop the models. In this study, we therefore evaluated the differences in the predictive power of models trained with different environmental variables, the effect of species range (native vs. introduced) on model performance and assessed whether or not there is evidence suggestive of a niche shift in Nile tilapia following its introduction. Niche models were constructed using Maxent and the degree of niche similarity was assessed using Schoener‘s index. Null models were used to test for significance. Model performance and niche conservatism varied significantly with variable selection and species range. This indicates that the environmental conditions available to Nile tilapia in its native and introduced ranges are not congruent. Nile tilapia exhibited broad invasive potential over most of southern Africa that overlaps the natural range of endemic congenerics. Of particular concern are areas which are free of exotic species but are now vulnerable due to the promotion of fish introductions mainly for aquaculture and sport fishing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The praxis of responsible investment in South Africa: a holistic case study of Evolution One Fund
- Zaulochnaya Ya-Brouwer, Irina
- Authors: Zaulochnaya Ya-Brouwer, Irina
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Investments -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa Institutional investments -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa Private equity funds -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:778 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003899
- Description: At the beginning of the 21st century the public interest in environmental and social sustainability, and corporate governance grew exponentially fuelled by recurring ecological and financial crises. The market demand for cleaner production and corporate transparency created opportunities for sustainability entrepreneurs in a variety of industries, including financial markets and investment management. An increasing number of financial institutions across the world now offer ethical or socially responsible products to meet the environmental, social and governance (ESG) aspirations of their clients. In the US, according to the Social Investment Forum (SIF), responsible investment (RI) assets reached US$ 2,29 trillion in 2007 (Mitchell, 2008). The European Sustainable Investment Forum (EuroSIF) estimated that total European SRI assets reached EUR 5 trillion in 2009 (Wheelan, 2010). In June 2011 the International Finance Corporation (IFC) reported that at the end of 2010 professional sustainable investment under management in South Africa approximately equalled US$ 122,6 billion (IFC, 2011:44). The statistics describing the rapid growth in the ESG-type investments are, however, complicated by the variety of names and definitions used to describe this emerging type of investment and a general market uncertainty about what constitutes the practice of RI. The purpose of this case study is to better understand responsible investment principles and practice as seen through the eyes of a South African private equity fund, which specializes in clean technology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Zaulochnaya Ya-Brouwer, Irina
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Investments -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa Institutional investments -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa Private equity funds -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:778 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003899
- Description: At the beginning of the 21st century the public interest in environmental and social sustainability, and corporate governance grew exponentially fuelled by recurring ecological and financial crises. The market demand for cleaner production and corporate transparency created opportunities for sustainability entrepreneurs in a variety of industries, including financial markets and investment management. An increasing number of financial institutions across the world now offer ethical or socially responsible products to meet the environmental, social and governance (ESG) aspirations of their clients. In the US, according to the Social Investment Forum (SIF), responsible investment (RI) assets reached US$ 2,29 trillion in 2007 (Mitchell, 2008). The European Sustainable Investment Forum (EuroSIF) estimated that total European SRI assets reached EUR 5 trillion in 2009 (Wheelan, 2010). In June 2011 the International Finance Corporation (IFC) reported that at the end of 2010 professional sustainable investment under management in South Africa approximately equalled US$ 122,6 billion (IFC, 2011:44). The statistics describing the rapid growth in the ESG-type investments are, however, complicated by the variety of names and definitions used to describe this emerging type of investment and a general market uncertainty about what constitutes the practice of RI. The purpose of this case study is to better understand responsible investment principles and practice as seen through the eyes of a South African private equity fund, which specializes in clean technology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Synthetic and bioactivity studies of antiplasmodial and antibacterial marine natural products
- Authors: Young, Ryan Mark
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Antibacterial agents Marine natural products Marine pharmacology Plasmodium falciparum Staphylococcus aureus Isocyanides Imidazoles
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4378 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005043
- Description: This thesis is divided into two parts, assessing marine and synthetic compounds active firstly against Plasmodium falciparum (Chapter 3 and 4) and secondly active against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA, Chapter 5). In Chapter 3 the synthesis of nine new tricyclic podocarpanes (3.203-3.207 and 3.209-3.212) from the diterpene (+)-manool is described. Initial SAR study of synthetic podocarpanes concluded that the most active compound was a C-13 phenyl substituted podocarpane (3.204, IC₅₀ 6.6 μM). By preparing analogues with varying halogenated substituents on the phenyl ring (3.209-3.212) the antiplasmodial activity was improved (IC₅₀ 1.4 μM), while simultaneously decreasing the haemolysis previously reported for this class of compounds. Inspired by the antiplasmodial activity of Wright and Wattanapiromsakul’s tricycle marine isonitriles (2.16-2.21 and 2.24-2.27) an unsuccessfully attempt was made to convert tertiary alcohol moieties to isonitrile functionalities in compounds 3.188, 3.204-3.207 and 3.209-3.212. Over a decade ago Wright et al. proposed a putative antiplasmodial mechanism of action for marine isonitriles (2.4, 2.9, 2.15, 2.19 and 2.35) and isothiocyanate (2.34) which involved interference in haem detoxification by P. falciparum thus inhibiting the growth of the parasite. In Chapter 4 we describe how we successfully managed to scale down Egan’s β-haematin inhibition assay for the analyses of small quantities of marine natural products as potential β-haematin inhibitors. Our modified assay revealed that the most active antiplasmodial marine isonitrile 2.9 (IC₅₀ 13 nM) showed total β-haematin inhibition while 2.15 (IC₅₀ 81 nM) and 2.19 (IC₅₀ 31 nM) showed partial inhibition at three equivalents relative to haem. Using contempary molecular modelling techniques the charge on the isonitrile functionality was more accurately describe and the modified charge data sets was used to explore docking of marine isonitriles to haem using AutoDock. In Chapter 5 we describe how a lead South African marine bisindole MRSA pyruvate kinase inhibitor (5.8) was discovered in collaboration with colleagues at the University of British Columbia (UBC) and how this discovery inspired us to design a synthetic route to the dibrominated bisindole, isobromotopsentin (5.20) in an attempt to increase the bioactivity displayed by 5.8. We devised a fast and high yielding synthetic route using microwave assited organic synthesis. We first tested this synthesis using simple aryl glyoxals (5.27-5.32) as precursors to synthesize biphenylimidazoles (5.21-5.26), which later allowed us to synthesize the ascidian natural product 5.111. This method was sucessfully extended to the synthesis of deoxytopsentin (5.33) from an N-Boc protected indole methyl ketone (5.89). We subsequently were able to effectively remove the carbamate protection via thermal decomposition by heating the protected bisindole imidazole (5.90) in a microwave reactor for 5 min under argon. The synthesis of 5.20 resulted in an inseparable mixture of monoprotected and totally deprotected topsentin products, and due to time constraints we were not able to optimise this synthesis. Nonetheless our synthesis of the marine natural product 5.33 which was faster and higher yielding than previously reported routes could be extended to the synthesis of other topsentin bisindoles (5.138-5.140). Work towards this goal continues in our laboratory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Young, Ryan Mark
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Antibacterial agents Marine natural products Marine pharmacology Plasmodium falciparum Staphylococcus aureus Isocyanides Imidazoles
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4378 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005043
- Description: This thesis is divided into two parts, assessing marine and synthetic compounds active firstly against Plasmodium falciparum (Chapter 3 and 4) and secondly active against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA, Chapter 5). In Chapter 3 the synthesis of nine new tricyclic podocarpanes (3.203-3.207 and 3.209-3.212) from the diterpene (+)-manool is described. Initial SAR study of synthetic podocarpanes concluded that the most active compound was a C-13 phenyl substituted podocarpane (3.204, IC₅₀ 6.6 μM). By preparing analogues with varying halogenated substituents on the phenyl ring (3.209-3.212) the antiplasmodial activity was improved (IC₅₀ 1.4 μM), while simultaneously decreasing the haemolysis previously reported for this class of compounds. Inspired by the antiplasmodial activity of Wright and Wattanapiromsakul’s tricycle marine isonitriles (2.16-2.21 and 2.24-2.27) an unsuccessfully attempt was made to convert tertiary alcohol moieties to isonitrile functionalities in compounds 3.188, 3.204-3.207 and 3.209-3.212. Over a decade ago Wright et al. proposed a putative antiplasmodial mechanism of action for marine isonitriles (2.4, 2.9, 2.15, 2.19 and 2.35) and isothiocyanate (2.34) which involved interference in haem detoxification by P. falciparum thus inhibiting the growth of the parasite. In Chapter 4 we describe how we successfully managed to scale down Egan’s β-haematin inhibition assay for the analyses of small quantities of marine natural products as potential β-haematin inhibitors. Our modified assay revealed that the most active antiplasmodial marine isonitrile 2.9 (IC₅₀ 13 nM) showed total β-haematin inhibition while 2.15 (IC₅₀ 81 nM) and 2.19 (IC₅₀ 31 nM) showed partial inhibition at three equivalents relative to haem. Using contempary molecular modelling techniques the charge on the isonitrile functionality was more accurately describe and the modified charge data sets was used to explore docking of marine isonitriles to haem using AutoDock. In Chapter 5 we describe how a lead South African marine bisindole MRSA pyruvate kinase inhibitor (5.8) was discovered in collaboration with colleagues at the University of British Columbia (UBC) and how this discovery inspired us to design a synthetic route to the dibrominated bisindole, isobromotopsentin (5.20) in an attempt to increase the bioactivity displayed by 5.8. We devised a fast and high yielding synthetic route using microwave assited organic synthesis. We first tested this synthesis using simple aryl glyoxals (5.27-5.32) as precursors to synthesize biphenylimidazoles (5.21-5.26), which later allowed us to synthesize the ascidian natural product 5.111. This method was sucessfully extended to the synthesis of deoxytopsentin (5.33) from an N-Boc protected indole methyl ketone (5.89). We subsequently were able to effectively remove the carbamate protection via thermal decomposition by heating the protected bisindole imidazole (5.90) in a microwave reactor for 5 min under argon. The synthesis of 5.20 resulted in an inseparable mixture of monoprotected and totally deprotected topsentin products, and due to time constraints we were not able to optimise this synthesis. Nonetheless our synthesis of the marine natural product 5.33 which was faster and higher yielding than previously reported routes could be extended to the synthesis of other topsentin bisindoles (5.138-5.140). Work towards this goal continues in our laboratory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Guidelines for the design of a mobile phone application for deaf people
- Authors: Yeratziotis, George
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems -- Design and construction , Deaf -- Means of communication
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9750 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007925 , Mobile communication systems -- Design and construction , Deaf -- Means of communication
- Description: Deaf people in South Africa are no longer a minority group and their needs regarding communication and interaction must therefore be taken into consideration. This demographic does not communicate and interact in the same way as hearing people, which means that any existing usability or accessibility guidelines do not apply. As a result, Deaf people do not have access to information in the same way that a hearing person does. Providing proper access to Information and Communications Technology services, which meet their particular needs, will help the hearing impaired to better integrate into society. The importance of demolishing the communication barrier between the hearing and the hearing impaired is very important. Many people assume that sign language is somehow based on oral language. However, this is not the case. Sign languages are natural visual-spatial languages, and form a contrast with spoken languages which are auditory-vocal based. Acknowledging this fact in 2008, the South African Sign Language Policy Implementation Conference together with several governmental bodies suggested that South African Sign Language should become recognized as the 12th official language of South Africa. Due to the fact that cell phone technology continues to evolve, it will remain a tool of communication upon which Deaf people heavily rely on. The cell phone fulfils a basic need for everyone, but especially for the Deaf demographic as they rely on the short message system to communicate. Deaf people are currently faced with a lack of appropriate mobile phone applications, which would allow them to communicate with hearing as well as deaf people. The primary objective of this research was therefore to make mobile technology equally accessible meaning usable to members of the Deaf demographic. The focus of the research was to investigate the communication barrier and a range of variables that can influence the deaf user’s experience. Topics such as user interface design, usability and interaction were investigated. The outcome of this research was to propose a set of guidelines that, when applied to the design of a website or to phone application accessibility, would ensure communication and interaction from a deaf user. The proposed set of guidelines was then applied to the design of the high fidelity prototype of a mobile phone application. The specific application is a messaging phone application that allows deaf users to communicate with other deaf and hearing users via short message system. A mobile phone application that allows Deaf people to send and receive messages based on the sign language alphabet. The application was named Signchat. Purpose of this was to visibly display how the guidelines were implemented in Signchat. While Signchat’s main purpose is to accommodate the needs of Deaf people, it is also a learning tool and an application that bridges the gap by allowing deaf and hearing users to communicate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Yeratziotis, George
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems -- Design and construction , Deaf -- Means of communication
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9750 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007925 , Mobile communication systems -- Design and construction , Deaf -- Means of communication
- Description: Deaf people in South Africa are no longer a minority group and their needs regarding communication and interaction must therefore be taken into consideration. This demographic does not communicate and interact in the same way as hearing people, which means that any existing usability or accessibility guidelines do not apply. As a result, Deaf people do not have access to information in the same way that a hearing person does. Providing proper access to Information and Communications Technology services, which meet their particular needs, will help the hearing impaired to better integrate into society. The importance of demolishing the communication barrier between the hearing and the hearing impaired is very important. Many people assume that sign language is somehow based on oral language. However, this is not the case. Sign languages are natural visual-spatial languages, and form a contrast with spoken languages which are auditory-vocal based. Acknowledging this fact in 2008, the South African Sign Language Policy Implementation Conference together with several governmental bodies suggested that South African Sign Language should become recognized as the 12th official language of South Africa. Due to the fact that cell phone technology continues to evolve, it will remain a tool of communication upon which Deaf people heavily rely on. The cell phone fulfils a basic need for everyone, but especially for the Deaf demographic as they rely on the short message system to communicate. Deaf people are currently faced with a lack of appropriate mobile phone applications, which would allow them to communicate with hearing as well as deaf people. The primary objective of this research was therefore to make mobile technology equally accessible meaning usable to members of the Deaf demographic. The focus of the research was to investigate the communication barrier and a range of variables that can influence the deaf user’s experience. Topics such as user interface design, usability and interaction were investigated. The outcome of this research was to propose a set of guidelines that, when applied to the design of a website or to phone application accessibility, would ensure communication and interaction from a deaf user. The proposed set of guidelines was then applied to the design of the high fidelity prototype of a mobile phone application. The specific application is a messaging phone application that allows deaf users to communicate with other deaf and hearing users via short message system. A mobile phone application that allows Deaf people to send and receive messages based on the sign language alphabet. The application was named Signchat. Purpose of this was to visibly display how the guidelines were implemented in Signchat. While Signchat’s main purpose is to accommodate the needs of Deaf people, it is also a learning tool and an application that bridges the gap by allowing deaf and hearing users to communicate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Response of invertebrates to alien and indigenous vegetation characteristics in Nduli and Luchaba Nature Reserves, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Yekwayo, Inam
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Alien and indigenous vegetation -- Invertebrates , South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:18489 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1009478
- Description: Most invertebrate species are becoming extinct due to habitat loss and alien plant invasions. Hence this study aimed at determining the response of invertebrates to alien and indigenous vegetation within protected areas in the King Sabatha Dalindyebo (KSD) Local Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Invertebrates were collected using pitfall traps, during 12 sampling occasions from May 2010 to April 2011 numbers of sampling sites. Although the sampling method was adapted to collecting ground dwelling invertebrates, opportunistic flying invertebrates were also collected. A total of 7 flying invertebrate orders, 25 families, 34 species and 248 individuals were attracted to traps while 5 orders, 19 families, 50 species and 1976 individuals of soil surface-dwelling invertebrates were collected. ANOVA test showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in species richness and abundance across sites for soil surface-dwelling invertebrates. Bray-Curtis similarity measures in PRIMER and correspondence analysis (CA) in CANOCO showed that sampling units with alien invasive plants shared most soil surface-dwelling invertebrate species at ± 75% level of similarity. Sampling unit A from the Mix alien (MA) site shared most species with indigenous vegetation sites. Sampling units from indigenous vegetation sites shared most species at ± 65% level of similarity. Multivariate analysis using CANOCO indicated that certain site variables such litter depth influenced the distribution of soil surface-dwelling invertebrates across sites. The study provided preliminary data and information for promoting invertebrate biodiversity conservation within protected areas (Nduli and Luchaba Nature Reserves) of the KSD Local Municipality. Key words: invertebrates, indigenous vegetation, alien vegetation, Lantana camara, Acacia mearnsii, and Eucalyptus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Yekwayo, Inam
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Alien and indigenous vegetation -- Invertebrates , South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:18489 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1009478
- Description: Most invertebrate species are becoming extinct due to habitat loss and alien plant invasions. Hence this study aimed at determining the response of invertebrates to alien and indigenous vegetation within protected areas in the King Sabatha Dalindyebo (KSD) Local Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Invertebrates were collected using pitfall traps, during 12 sampling occasions from May 2010 to April 2011 numbers of sampling sites. Although the sampling method was adapted to collecting ground dwelling invertebrates, opportunistic flying invertebrates were also collected. A total of 7 flying invertebrate orders, 25 families, 34 species and 248 individuals were attracted to traps while 5 orders, 19 families, 50 species and 1976 individuals of soil surface-dwelling invertebrates were collected. ANOVA test showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in species richness and abundance across sites for soil surface-dwelling invertebrates. Bray-Curtis similarity measures in PRIMER and correspondence analysis (CA) in CANOCO showed that sampling units with alien invasive plants shared most soil surface-dwelling invertebrate species at ± 75% level of similarity. Sampling unit A from the Mix alien (MA) site shared most species with indigenous vegetation sites. Sampling units from indigenous vegetation sites shared most species at ± 65% level of similarity. Multivariate analysis using CANOCO indicated that certain site variables such litter depth influenced the distribution of soil surface-dwelling invertebrates across sites. The study provided preliminary data and information for promoting invertebrate biodiversity conservation within protected areas (Nduli and Luchaba Nature Reserves) of the KSD Local Municipality. Key words: invertebrates, indigenous vegetation, alien vegetation, Lantana camara, Acacia mearnsii, and Eucalyptus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Photophysical and photochemical properties of novel phthalocyanines bearing non-peripherally substituted mercaptoquinoline moiety
- Yaşa, Göknur, Erdoğmuş, Ali, Uğur, Ahmet Lütf, Şener, M Kasım, Avcıata, Ulvi, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Yaşa, Göknur , Erdoğmuş, Ali , Uğur, Ahmet Lütf , Şener, M Kasım , Avcıata, Ulvi , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/244360 , vital:51250 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1142/S1088424612500940"
- Description: The synthesis, photophysical and photochemical properties of nonperipherally (a) mercaptoquinoline substituted Zn(II), TiO(IV) and Mg(II) and quaternized Zn(II) phthalocyanines are described for the first time. These complexes (2 to 5) and their precursor are characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, 1 H NMR, electronic spectroscopy as well as mass spectroscopy. Complexes 2, 4 and 5 have good solubility in organic solvents such as CHCl3, DCM, DMSO, DMF, THF and toluene and are not aggregated in all solvents within a wide concentration range. Complex 3 showed very good solubility in water as well as DMSO and DMF. General trends are described for singlet oxygen, photodegradation and fluorescence quantum yields of these complexes in DMSO and DMF. While complex 2 has higher singlet oxygen and fluorescence quantum yields than 3, 4 and 5, complex 4 has higher fluorescence quantum yields in DMF and DMSO than 2, 3 and 5. The effect of the solvents and metal on the photophysical and photochemical parameters of the metallophthalocyanines are also reported.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Yaşa, Göknur , Erdoğmuş, Ali , Uğur, Ahmet Lütf , Şener, M Kasım , Avcıata, Ulvi , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/244360 , vital:51250 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1142/S1088424612500940"
- Description: The synthesis, photophysical and photochemical properties of nonperipherally (a) mercaptoquinoline substituted Zn(II), TiO(IV) and Mg(II) and quaternized Zn(II) phthalocyanines are described for the first time. These complexes (2 to 5) and their precursor are characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, 1 H NMR, electronic spectroscopy as well as mass spectroscopy. Complexes 2, 4 and 5 have good solubility in organic solvents such as CHCl3, DCM, DMSO, DMF, THF and toluene and are not aggregated in all solvents within a wide concentration range. Complex 3 showed very good solubility in water as well as DMSO and DMF. General trends are described for singlet oxygen, photodegradation and fluorescence quantum yields of these complexes in DMSO and DMF. While complex 2 has higher singlet oxygen and fluorescence quantum yields than 3, 4 and 5, complex 4 has higher fluorescence quantum yields in DMF and DMSO than 2, 3 and 5. The effect of the solvents and metal on the photophysical and photochemical parameters of the metallophthalocyanines are also reported.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
An investigation of how natural sciences teachers mediate learning of chemical reactions in Grade 9: a case study
- Authors: Xipu, Bukelwa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Science -- Study and teaching (Secondary) Science -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Chemical reactions Science teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Science teachers -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1631 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003513
- Description: This research study involves two Grade 9 Natural Sciences teachers from two schools in the Lady Frere District of the Eastern Cape. The reason for selecting these two teachers is that in 2009 they, like me, obtained an Advanced Certificate in Education (Science and Maths) from Rhodes University. As a result, we have a good working relationship. Furthermore, both teachers are actively involved in the Natural Sciences curriculum in the District and their schools are not far from the District Office where I work. The principal objective of this study was to investigate how Natural Sciences teachers mediated learning in order to enhance conceptual development and understanding of chemical reactions in Grade 9. It was triggered by the transformation in curriculum in South Africa as well as by my experience of working with Natural Sciences teachers in our rural district. The study is informed by an interpretive paradigm using a qualitative case study approach. The data was gathered by administering analysis of documents, semi-structured interviews, observations, field notes and journals. During the data analysis process, patterns and themes were illuminated using the inductive analysis method. Rich data sets in relation to the main research question on how Natural Sciences teachers mediated learning in order to enhance conceptual development and understanding of chemical reactions in Grade 9 emerged from the analysed data. The conclusions that can be drawn from the study indicate that when teaching chemical reactions, teachers should have adequate content knowledge as well as pedagogical content knowledge. It is thus recommended that teachers consider the prior knowledge of learners, use a variety of teaching and learning approaches including practical activities, to make learning meaningful. The major limitation of this study is that the two selected teachers do not represent the whole population of Grade 9 teachers in the Lady Frere District. Therefore, the findings cannot be generalized to represent the larger population. It is recognised, however, that within the qualitative inquiry, reliability and generalizability play a minor role.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Xipu, Bukelwa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Science -- Study and teaching (Secondary) Science -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Chemical reactions Science teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Science teachers -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1631 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003513
- Description: This research study involves two Grade 9 Natural Sciences teachers from two schools in the Lady Frere District of the Eastern Cape. The reason for selecting these two teachers is that in 2009 they, like me, obtained an Advanced Certificate in Education (Science and Maths) from Rhodes University. As a result, we have a good working relationship. Furthermore, both teachers are actively involved in the Natural Sciences curriculum in the District and their schools are not far from the District Office where I work. The principal objective of this study was to investigate how Natural Sciences teachers mediated learning in order to enhance conceptual development and understanding of chemical reactions in Grade 9. It was triggered by the transformation in curriculum in South Africa as well as by my experience of working with Natural Sciences teachers in our rural district. The study is informed by an interpretive paradigm using a qualitative case study approach. The data was gathered by administering analysis of documents, semi-structured interviews, observations, field notes and journals. During the data analysis process, patterns and themes were illuminated using the inductive analysis method. Rich data sets in relation to the main research question on how Natural Sciences teachers mediated learning in order to enhance conceptual development and understanding of chemical reactions in Grade 9 emerged from the analysed data. The conclusions that can be drawn from the study indicate that when teaching chemical reactions, teachers should have adequate content knowledge as well as pedagogical content knowledge. It is thus recommended that teachers consider the prior knowledge of learners, use a variety of teaching and learning approaches including practical activities, to make learning meaningful. The major limitation of this study is that the two selected teachers do not represent the whole population of Grade 9 teachers in the Lady Frere District. Therefore, the findings cannot be generalized to represent the larger population. It is recognised, however, that within the qualitative inquiry, reliability and generalizability play a minor role.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Management perceptions regarding skills shortages in gold mines
- Authors: Xingwana, Lumkwana
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Labor supply--South Africa , Professional employees--South Africa , Occupational training--South Africa , Gold mines and mining--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9279 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007959 , Labor supply--South Africa , Professional employees--South Africa , Occupational training--South Africa , Gold mines and mining--South Africa
- Description: The skills shortages in mining and mineral sector had existed for a decade and had a widespread effect on South Africa economy. It affects the level of economic productivity and reduces the country’s capacity to develop a knowledge society. This, in turn, affects the country’s functioning in the global economy. Despite the sector’s best efforts, the shortages continue to grow and threaten the delivery of projects and growth plans. Some researchers contend with the view that the persistence of skills shortages in mining and mineral sector is largely due to entrenched attitudes among both the industry and the community. They claim that employers have the means to change the educational profile of the subsectors by appointing recruits with higher levels of schooling. However, owing to the limited number of higher educated people living in the communities surrounding the mining operations and lack of interest in mining of people with higher levels of education, to name but few, employers are perceived to have a habit of employing people with little skills. The current study was aimed at investigating the impact of skills shortage on organisational performance, propensity to leave, competitive advantage and sustainability, from the management perceptive. The main objective of this study was to incorporate and embed previous research findings and theories into a comprehensive hypothetical model. A hypothetical model showed various factors that may influence skills shortage. Four independent variables (working environment, employment conditions, resources and education and training) were identified as variables that may influence skills shortage; and mediating variable (skills shortage) was also identified as a variable that have potential to affect dependent variables (organisational performance, propensity to leave, competitive advantage and sustainability) of gold mining sector. Furthermore, eight hypotheses were developed to test the relationship between independent, mediating and dependent variables. All these variables were clearly defined and operationalized with various items obtained from measuring instruments used in other similar studies. A purposive sample of 343 respondents was drawn from the population. A seven-point Likert scale and structured questionnaire were administered in person to the respondents and of which 300 were usable and subjected further to several statistical analyses. The validity and reliability of the measuring instrument was evaluated using significant effect p< = 0.001 and Pearson’s correlation test (α = 0.05). Data gathered were fed to and analysed by STATISTICA (version 10) and factor analysis and regression analyses were the statistical procedures used to test the significance of the relationships between the various independent and dependent variables. Consequently, working environment, resources and education and training were three independent variables that were identified as having ability to predict propensity to leave, competitive advantage and sustainability. An attempt was made to establish whether various demographic variables have an influence on mediating and dependent variables through the introduction of gender and position in the organisation while conducting an Analysis of Variance and Multiple linear regressions, but they obtained negative values. The conclusion is that demographic variables do not have over mediating and depended variables. The findings of this study states that with conducive working environment, availability of resources, the high levels of education and training, the country could produce skills that would reduce propensity to leave, drive competitive advantage and sustainability, innovation and entrepreneurship, create competitive advantages and boost employment sustainability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Xingwana, Lumkwana
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Labor supply--South Africa , Professional employees--South Africa , Occupational training--South Africa , Gold mines and mining--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9279 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007959 , Labor supply--South Africa , Professional employees--South Africa , Occupational training--South Africa , Gold mines and mining--South Africa
- Description: The skills shortages in mining and mineral sector had existed for a decade and had a widespread effect on South Africa economy. It affects the level of economic productivity and reduces the country’s capacity to develop a knowledge society. This, in turn, affects the country’s functioning in the global economy. Despite the sector’s best efforts, the shortages continue to grow and threaten the delivery of projects and growth plans. Some researchers contend with the view that the persistence of skills shortages in mining and mineral sector is largely due to entrenched attitudes among both the industry and the community. They claim that employers have the means to change the educational profile of the subsectors by appointing recruits with higher levels of schooling. However, owing to the limited number of higher educated people living in the communities surrounding the mining operations and lack of interest in mining of people with higher levels of education, to name but few, employers are perceived to have a habit of employing people with little skills. The current study was aimed at investigating the impact of skills shortage on organisational performance, propensity to leave, competitive advantage and sustainability, from the management perceptive. The main objective of this study was to incorporate and embed previous research findings and theories into a comprehensive hypothetical model. A hypothetical model showed various factors that may influence skills shortage. Four independent variables (working environment, employment conditions, resources and education and training) were identified as variables that may influence skills shortage; and mediating variable (skills shortage) was also identified as a variable that have potential to affect dependent variables (organisational performance, propensity to leave, competitive advantage and sustainability) of gold mining sector. Furthermore, eight hypotheses were developed to test the relationship between independent, mediating and dependent variables. All these variables were clearly defined and operationalized with various items obtained from measuring instruments used in other similar studies. A purposive sample of 343 respondents was drawn from the population. A seven-point Likert scale and structured questionnaire were administered in person to the respondents and of which 300 were usable and subjected further to several statistical analyses. The validity and reliability of the measuring instrument was evaluated using significant effect p< = 0.001 and Pearson’s correlation test (α = 0.05). Data gathered were fed to and analysed by STATISTICA (version 10) and factor analysis and regression analyses were the statistical procedures used to test the significance of the relationships between the various independent and dependent variables. Consequently, working environment, resources and education and training were three independent variables that were identified as having ability to predict propensity to leave, competitive advantage and sustainability. An attempt was made to establish whether various demographic variables have an influence on mediating and dependent variables through the introduction of gender and position in the organisation while conducting an Analysis of Variance and Multiple linear regressions, but they obtained negative values. The conclusion is that demographic variables do not have over mediating and depended variables. The findings of this study states that with conducive working environment, availability of resources, the high levels of education and training, the country could produce skills that would reduce propensity to leave, drive competitive advantage and sustainability, innovation and entrepreneurship, create competitive advantages and boost employment sustainability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The role of municipal public accounts committee in the financial management of Intsika Yethu local municipality
- Authors: Xego Nomonde
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Municipal finance--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Public finance--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8183 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007958 , Municipal finance--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Public finance--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Description: In an attempt to address the challenges of audit queries in a sustainable way and improve service delivery. Municipality should deal with causes of disclaimer and adverse opinion which are reflected on their audit report. This study focuses on the role of the Municipal Public Accounts Committee in the financial management of the Intsika Yethu Local Municipality. Challenges facing the Municipal Public Accounts Committee include lack of capacity, lack of co-operation from municipal departments and lack of knowledge and skill in municipal management. This study investigated the role of the Municipal Public Accounts Committee in the financial management of the Intsika Yethu Local Municipality. Particular attention was paid to the various roles played by the Municipal Public Accounts Committee making a contribution towards improving municipal financial management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Xego Nomonde
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Municipal finance--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Public finance--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8183 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007958 , Municipal finance--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Public finance--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Description: In an attempt to address the challenges of audit queries in a sustainable way and improve service delivery. Municipality should deal with causes of disclaimer and adverse opinion which are reflected on their audit report. This study focuses on the role of the Municipal Public Accounts Committee in the financial management of the Intsika Yethu Local Municipality. Challenges facing the Municipal Public Accounts Committee include lack of capacity, lack of co-operation from municipal departments and lack of knowledge and skill in municipal management. This study investigated the role of the Municipal Public Accounts Committee in the financial management of the Intsika Yethu Local Municipality. Particular attention was paid to the various roles played by the Municipal Public Accounts Committee making a contribution towards improving municipal financial management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Improving customer retention at a selected medical fund through internal service quality and customer relationship management
- Authors: Xaluva, Bongiwe Lumka
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Customer relations -- Management , Customer services , Consumer satisfaction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8638 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008118 , Customer relations -- Management , Customer services , Consumer satisfaction
- Description: In today’s competitive arena, organisations need strategically to shift their focus from primarily concentrating on new customer acquisitions and rather to realise the importance of improving customer defections, thus looking at strategically retaining the existing customer base. Customer retention to all intents and purposes reflects the core of any service offering organisation and drives the competitiveness and viability of the business. Customer retention is a concern for all sector organisations including the medical aid schemes industry. It has been proven that retaining customers is less costly than attracting new ones and through a satisfied customer a business can elevate its competitiveness in the market. The significance of the study hinges on the importance of each business having comprehensive knowledge of why customers remain loyal patrons or why they choose to defect. It is important to note that the financial resources and time the business expends on improving service to the customer become futile if not matched by the high performance of the internal business units’ strategies. Having an understanding of customer movement will assist the organisation in properly addressing such issues and employing strategic processes that will enable the business to improve its retention strategies and curb defections. The primary objective of the current study was to investigate the impact internal service quality and customer relationship management have on customer retention. The study employed the SERVQUAL model as a measuring tool in establishing the relationship. The study investigated how customer retention (the dependent variable) is influenced by the different elements of internal service quality, namely assurance, empathy, service reliability, responsiveness, tangibles and elationship management, which represented the independent variables. The sample comprised eighty-one (81) out of a possible 130 AA Medical Scheme participants through the organisation’s four national offices. The empirical results showed that of all the variables relationship management, responsiveness and the tangibles have a positive impact on customer retention in medical aid schemes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Xaluva, Bongiwe Lumka
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Customer relations -- Management , Customer services , Consumer satisfaction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8638 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008118 , Customer relations -- Management , Customer services , Consumer satisfaction
- Description: In today’s competitive arena, organisations need strategically to shift their focus from primarily concentrating on new customer acquisitions and rather to realise the importance of improving customer defections, thus looking at strategically retaining the existing customer base. Customer retention to all intents and purposes reflects the core of any service offering organisation and drives the competitiveness and viability of the business. Customer retention is a concern for all sector organisations including the medical aid schemes industry. It has been proven that retaining customers is less costly than attracting new ones and through a satisfied customer a business can elevate its competitiveness in the market. The significance of the study hinges on the importance of each business having comprehensive knowledge of why customers remain loyal patrons or why they choose to defect. It is important to note that the financial resources and time the business expends on improving service to the customer become futile if not matched by the high performance of the internal business units’ strategies. Having an understanding of customer movement will assist the organisation in properly addressing such issues and employing strategic processes that will enable the business to improve its retention strategies and curb defections. The primary objective of the current study was to investigate the impact internal service quality and customer relationship management have on customer retention. The study employed the SERVQUAL model as a measuring tool in establishing the relationship. The study investigated how customer retention (the dependent variable) is influenced by the different elements of internal service quality, namely assurance, empathy, service reliability, responsiveness, tangibles and elationship management, which represented the independent variables. The sample comprised eighty-one (81) out of a possible 130 AA Medical Scheme participants through the organisation’s four national offices. The empirical results showed that of all the variables relationship management, responsiveness and the tangibles have a positive impact on customer retention in medical aid schemes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The performance of O R Tambo district municipality regarding water service delivery
- Authors: Xala, Zandile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Public administration|zSouth Africa , Local government , Government accountability
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:16141 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1009318 , Public administration|zSouth Africa , Local government , Government accountability
- Description: Access to water services in South Africa still remains a dream for most people, especially those who live in remote areas. The poverty stricken communities of the former Transkei in the Eastern Cape are in need of water and sanitation services. The findings of the study reveal that most community members are dissatisfied with the water service delivery. During an interview with ward 6 residents who reside in an urban area of the OR Tambo District Municipality (ORTDM), they revealed that pipe bursting is one of the main causes why from time to time they do not have water. The other factor is when there is no electricity; the water system depends on the availability of electricity. The South African local government has been mandated to consult with its citizenry in respect of the processes relating to water service delivery. South Africa has developed a wide range of legislation that ensures community consultation on a continuous basis with regard to how water services should be delivered. It is the community‟s right to be consulted and to give input on issues that directly affect them. The researcher used a qualitative research method since it would provide the reader with more insight into how water services are delivered in the ORTDM. Both community members and municipal officials were interviewed. A number of findings have been made during the research. Some community members are of the view that constant community consultation could reduce service delivery protests. Political intervention needs to be made by the leadership with regard to service delivery and more resources need to be committed toward those processes. This study was conducted from April 2012 to November 2012 and was aimed at assessing the performance of OR Tambo District Municipality regarding water service delivery. According to OR Tambo DM (2011/12: 3), the communities through the consultation processes conducted throughout five (5) local municipalities made it clear that ensuring increased access to water and sanitation services is still the main priority.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Xala, Zandile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Public administration|zSouth Africa , Local government , Government accountability
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:16141 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1009318 , Public administration|zSouth Africa , Local government , Government accountability
- Description: Access to water services in South Africa still remains a dream for most people, especially those who live in remote areas. The poverty stricken communities of the former Transkei in the Eastern Cape are in need of water and sanitation services. The findings of the study reveal that most community members are dissatisfied with the water service delivery. During an interview with ward 6 residents who reside in an urban area of the OR Tambo District Municipality (ORTDM), they revealed that pipe bursting is one of the main causes why from time to time they do not have water. The other factor is when there is no electricity; the water system depends on the availability of electricity. The South African local government has been mandated to consult with its citizenry in respect of the processes relating to water service delivery. South Africa has developed a wide range of legislation that ensures community consultation on a continuous basis with regard to how water services should be delivered. It is the community‟s right to be consulted and to give input on issues that directly affect them. The researcher used a qualitative research method since it would provide the reader with more insight into how water services are delivered in the ORTDM. Both community members and municipal officials were interviewed. A number of findings have been made during the research. Some community members are of the view that constant community consultation could reduce service delivery protests. Political intervention needs to be made by the leadership with regard to service delivery and more resources need to be committed toward those processes. This study was conducted from April 2012 to November 2012 and was aimed at assessing the performance of OR Tambo District Municipality regarding water service delivery. According to OR Tambo DM (2011/12: 3), the communities through the consultation processes conducted throughout five (5) local municipalities made it clear that ensuring increased access to water and sanitation services is still the main priority.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012