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Synthesis, characterisation and antitumour activities of lanthanide complexes with hydrazones and carboxylic acid ligands
- Authors: Madanhire, Tatenda
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organic acids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48456 , vital:40878
- Description: The tridentate hydrazone ligands, (E)-N'-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)benzohydrazide (H2phen) and (E)-N'-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)nicotinohydrazide (H2Nic), were synthesised and complexed to Ln(III) acetates. The centrosymmetric, acetato-bridged dinuclear coordination compounds with the formulae, [La2(Hphen)2(OAc)4(H2O)2]·DMF·H2O (1), [Ln2(HNic)2(OAc)4(H2O)2]·DMF·H2O (Ln = La (2) and Nd (3)) and [Ln2(HNic)2(OAc)4(H2O)2]·DMF (Ln = Er (4) and Yb (5)) were isolated and characterised by elemental analyses, IR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction studies and SHAPE 2.1. The nine-coordinate complexes 1–3 crystallise in the triclinic space group P-1, with the metal centres having the distorted spherical capped square antiprism geometry (C4v), while the eight-coordinate Er(III) and Yb(III) complexes (monoclinic system, space group P21/c) display the geometry of distorted triangular dodecahedron (D2d). Geometry optimisation of the monoanionic forms of the hydrazone ligands (Hphen– and HNic– ) were performed using Density Functional Theory (DFT) with Becke’s three parameter hybrid method and correlation functional of Lee, Yang and Parr (B3LYP) with augcc-pVTZ basis set. Natural population analysis (NPA) and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) maps indicated that the most preferred sites for electrophilic attack in the anionic ligands are the phenolate and carbonyl oxygens, and the azomethine nitrogens. The evaluation of the cytotoxic activity of the compounds on breast cancer (MCF-7), the endometrial carcinoma (HEC-1A) and the human monocytic (THP-1) cell lines using the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay revealed that the hydrazone ligands and complexes 1–4 are partially cytotoxic against MCF-7 cells, while the Schiff bases and complexes 3–5 significantly inhibit cell growth in HEC-1A cells. The complexation reactions of Ce(III), Nd(III), Gd(III) and Er(III) with the chelating/ bridging monoanionic ligand N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)oxamate (Hpma– ) in basic media were performed in view of the potential applications of oxamate derivatives as cytotoxic agents. The coordination compounds were characterised by different Abstract T. Madanhire Nelson Mandela University xxvi physico-chemical techniques: elemental analysis, conductivity measurements, IR, 1 H NMR and UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy. The anionic Hpma– was obtained through conversion of the proligand ethyl (2,6-dimethylphenylcarbamoyl)formate (Hdmp). The reactions afforded lanthanide(III)–oxamate coordination polymers of formulae: {[Ln(Hpma)3(MeOH)(H2O)]∙2MeOH}n (Ln = Ce (1) and Nd (2)), {[Gd2(Hpma)6(MeOH)4]∙6MeOH}n (3), {[Er2(Hpma)6(MeOH)(H2O)3]∙2MeOH}n (4) and [Ln2Na2(Hpma)8(EtOH)(H2O)6]n (Ln = Nd (5) and Gd (6)). The polymeric complexes feature Ln-Hpma moieties bridged by μ2-η 1 :η 1 :η 1 Hpma– , giving onedimensional zig-zag chains of the –Ln–O–C–O–Ln– type. Atomic charge analysis and the MEP map of the Hpma– moiety done using the DFT/B3LYP method were found to be consistent with the chelating and bridging modes of the anionic ligand through all the oxygen atoms. The evaluation of the cytotoxic activities of the metal salts, the proligand and the novel lanthanide complexes on MCF-7, HEC-1A and THP-1 cell lines revealed that only the rare-earth metal salts [Ce(NO3)3∙6H2O] and [Nd(NO3)3∙6H2O] showed modest cytotoxicity against MCF-7 and HEC-1A cells, respectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Madanhire, Tatenda
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Organic acids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48456 , vital:40878
- Description: The tridentate hydrazone ligands, (E)-N'-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)benzohydrazide (H2phen) and (E)-N'-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)nicotinohydrazide (H2Nic), were synthesised and complexed to Ln(III) acetates. The centrosymmetric, acetato-bridged dinuclear coordination compounds with the formulae, [La2(Hphen)2(OAc)4(H2O)2]·DMF·H2O (1), [Ln2(HNic)2(OAc)4(H2O)2]·DMF·H2O (Ln = La (2) and Nd (3)) and [Ln2(HNic)2(OAc)4(H2O)2]·DMF (Ln = Er (4) and Yb (5)) were isolated and characterised by elemental analyses, IR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction studies and SHAPE 2.1. The nine-coordinate complexes 1–3 crystallise in the triclinic space group P-1, with the metal centres having the distorted spherical capped square antiprism geometry (C4v), while the eight-coordinate Er(III) and Yb(III) complexes (monoclinic system, space group P21/c) display the geometry of distorted triangular dodecahedron (D2d). Geometry optimisation of the monoanionic forms of the hydrazone ligands (Hphen– and HNic– ) were performed using Density Functional Theory (DFT) with Becke’s three parameter hybrid method and correlation functional of Lee, Yang and Parr (B3LYP) with augcc-pVTZ basis set. Natural population analysis (NPA) and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) maps indicated that the most preferred sites for electrophilic attack in the anionic ligands are the phenolate and carbonyl oxygens, and the azomethine nitrogens. The evaluation of the cytotoxic activity of the compounds on breast cancer (MCF-7), the endometrial carcinoma (HEC-1A) and the human monocytic (THP-1) cell lines using the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay revealed that the hydrazone ligands and complexes 1–4 are partially cytotoxic against MCF-7 cells, while the Schiff bases and complexes 3–5 significantly inhibit cell growth in HEC-1A cells. The complexation reactions of Ce(III), Nd(III), Gd(III) and Er(III) with the chelating/ bridging monoanionic ligand N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)oxamate (Hpma– ) in basic media were performed in view of the potential applications of oxamate derivatives as cytotoxic agents. The coordination compounds were characterised by different Abstract T. Madanhire Nelson Mandela University xxvi physico-chemical techniques: elemental analysis, conductivity measurements, IR, 1 H NMR and UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy. The anionic Hpma– was obtained through conversion of the proligand ethyl (2,6-dimethylphenylcarbamoyl)formate (Hdmp). The reactions afforded lanthanide(III)–oxamate coordination polymers of formulae: {[Ln(Hpma)3(MeOH)(H2O)]∙2MeOH}n (Ln = Ce (1) and Nd (2)), {[Gd2(Hpma)6(MeOH)4]∙6MeOH}n (3), {[Er2(Hpma)6(MeOH)(H2O)3]∙2MeOH}n (4) and [Ln2Na2(Hpma)8(EtOH)(H2O)6]n (Ln = Nd (5) and Gd (6)). The polymeric complexes feature Ln-Hpma moieties bridged by μ2-η 1 :η 1 :η 1 Hpma– , giving onedimensional zig-zag chains of the –Ln–O–C–O–Ln– type. Atomic charge analysis and the MEP map of the Hpma– moiety done using the DFT/B3LYP method were found to be consistent with the chelating and bridging modes of the anionic ligand through all the oxygen atoms. The evaluation of the cytotoxic activities of the metal salts, the proligand and the novel lanthanide complexes on MCF-7, HEC-1A and THP-1 cell lines revealed that only the rare-earth metal salts [Ce(NO3)3∙6H2O] and [Nd(NO3)3∙6H2O] showed modest cytotoxicity against MCF-7 and HEC-1A cells, respectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Resistance: revealing and exposing the constructions of societal control
- Authors: Vaghmaria, Nishil Rishik
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Art, Modern -- 21st century -- Research , Aesthetics Artists -- South Africa -- Exhibitions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43710 , vital:37035
- Description: This practice based visual arts investigation was triggered by the researcher’s social understandings and personal concern about societal control on the individual, and his resistance to the negative effects of consumerism and capitalism. Through this research project he aims to reveal and expose the workings of those systems of control visually. He pays particular attention to our current global, cultural and socio-political, economic order and the limitations that are imposed on the individual in terms of freedom of choice and expression, and through both the written work and the practical work he aims to influence a revolution of the mind and to encourage critical consciousness and awareness on the part of its audience regarding how individuals are manipulated, distracted and seduced into conformity. As an outcome of his research, and of his intention to act as an agent for socially aware creative practice, he presents a tentative framework for the use of emerging, socially conscious artists and educators. The practical component of this study is focused around the creation and display of graffiti-influenced images in both public and gallery spaces. The researcher makes extensive use of the SI’s subversive artistic technique of Détournement as he engages with the notion of ‘distraction’. This project, with its dual focus on text and on the creation of artworks in both public and gallery spaces, is intended as a contribution to the search for new critical understandings and diagnostic terminologies around social control.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Vaghmaria, Nishil Rishik
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Art, Modern -- 21st century -- Research , Aesthetics Artists -- South Africa -- Exhibitions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43710 , vital:37035
- Description: This practice based visual arts investigation was triggered by the researcher’s social understandings and personal concern about societal control on the individual, and his resistance to the negative effects of consumerism and capitalism. Through this research project he aims to reveal and expose the workings of those systems of control visually. He pays particular attention to our current global, cultural and socio-political, economic order and the limitations that are imposed on the individual in terms of freedom of choice and expression, and through both the written work and the practical work he aims to influence a revolution of the mind and to encourage critical consciousness and awareness on the part of its audience regarding how individuals are manipulated, distracted and seduced into conformity. As an outcome of his research, and of his intention to act as an agent for socially aware creative practice, he presents a tentative framework for the use of emerging, socially conscious artists and educators. The practical component of this study is focused around the creation and display of graffiti-influenced images in both public and gallery spaces. The researcher makes extensive use of the SI’s subversive artistic technique of Détournement as he engages with the notion of ‘distraction’. This project, with its dual focus on text and on the creation of artworks in both public and gallery spaces, is intended as a contribution to the search for new critical understandings and diagnostic terminologies around social control.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A blended learning toolkit that accommodates multiple learning styles
- Authors: Mills, Steven Christopher
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Blended learning , Learning strategies Learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30452 , vital:30945
- Description: The purpose of this study was to identify how blended learning can be designed and incorporated to accommodate multiple learning styles within modules in the Department of Computing Sciences. A design theory was created through an analysis of literature and exploration into the backgrounds of students and lecturers within the Department of Computing Sciences. The design theory is: Blended learning can be a useful approach to accommodate multiple learning styles. Guidelines, and by extension a toolkit, facilitate the development of blended learning and provide effective tools to enable lecturers to successfully incorporate blended learning into their modules. Design-Based Research (DBR) was followed in this study, using a mixed-methods and iterative approach to determine the accuracy of the design theory. For the first iteration, the toolkit was implemented in two modules within the Department of Computing Sciences and for the second iteration, four modules. DBR produces a theoretical contribution and a practical artefact. The most important theoretical contributions are the design theory and guidelines for incorporating blended learning that accommodates multiple learning styles. The practical artefacts are the toolkit and tools therein. The toolkit, which was accessed via a website, guides lecturers through the process of incorporating blended learning that accommodates multiple learning styles and provides them with the necessary tools to do so. The design theory was proven in the evaluation that used a questionnaire to understand the lecturers’ experiences regarding the toolkit and the design theory. Therefore, the guidelines for applying blended learning is a useful approach to address multiple learning styles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mills, Steven Christopher
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Blended learning , Learning strategies Learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30452 , vital:30945
- Description: The purpose of this study was to identify how blended learning can be designed and incorporated to accommodate multiple learning styles within modules in the Department of Computing Sciences. A design theory was created through an analysis of literature and exploration into the backgrounds of students and lecturers within the Department of Computing Sciences. The design theory is: Blended learning can be a useful approach to accommodate multiple learning styles. Guidelines, and by extension a toolkit, facilitate the development of blended learning and provide effective tools to enable lecturers to successfully incorporate blended learning into their modules. Design-Based Research (DBR) was followed in this study, using a mixed-methods and iterative approach to determine the accuracy of the design theory. For the first iteration, the toolkit was implemented in two modules within the Department of Computing Sciences and for the second iteration, four modules. DBR produces a theoretical contribution and a practical artefact. The most important theoretical contributions are the design theory and guidelines for incorporating blended learning that accommodates multiple learning styles. The practical artefacts are the toolkit and tools therein. The toolkit, which was accessed via a website, guides lecturers through the process of incorporating blended learning that accommodates multiple learning styles and provides them with the necessary tools to do so. The design theory was proven in the evaluation that used a questionnaire to understand the lecturers’ experiences regarding the toolkit and the design theory. Therefore, the guidelines for applying blended learning is a useful approach to address multiple learning styles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The role of psychosocial recuperative therapy in enhancing construction performance on projects
- Authors: Obiozo, Rita Ngozi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Building -- Psychological aspects , Construction industry -- Accidents Building -- Economic aspects Feng shui
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23080 , vital:30414
- Description: Research findings indicate that recent improvements in construction management initiatives have not substantially reduced the incidence of fatal occurrences and accidents in construction due to negligence and error. Some of the traumatic and causative factors include the dissipation of vital energy, health, safety, and wellbeing in the construction workforce due to the lack of contact with nature on construction sites, combined with the exhaustive nature of the work, and multiple stress factors in construction. The resultant effect is visible in the form of increased rework, disputes, and socio-psycho-traumatic factors that result in a reduction in profit margins due to the daily repetition of health and safety (H&S) hazards and quality errors. To address these issues there is a need for the exploration of the inherent potential to achieve exceptional environmental credentials on construction worksites attributable to the biophilic design concept of the intelligent construction workplace. This would involve the introduction of a biophilic construction site model (BCSM) that has the potential of establishing the continuous flow of natural energy that would replenish the vital life force and impact on the improvement of the performance of the construction workforce and management throughout the life cycle of the construction process. The objective of the initiative involves the introduction of dynamic harmonious energy in consonance with the theory of biophilia and feng shui principles of wellness interventions, which would introduce and enhance the flow of natural energy relative to the greening of construction sites in aid of H&S, wellbeing and human factors for ergonomics in construction. The methodology adopted, involved a survey of the related literature, and the triangulation and longitudinal assessment of multiple case studies of viable construction sites in progress. The applied technique included a greening construction site survey, interviews, observations, photo elicitation, questionnaire surveys, and a focus group study conducted with the construction workforce during the construction process. Findings indicate a potential increase in the level of sustainable behaviour in construction that impacts on the enhanced concentration and level of focus of the workforce, as well as a reduction in H&S and quality errors that militate against consistent improvement of the construction process. These efforts add value and novelty to the construction management body of knowledge (CMBOK) with regards to the green building construction and sustainable sites initiative. Research findings established the ‘greening of the construction site / biophilic construction site model (BCSM)’ as a cost-effective strategy towards the healing of the ‘sick construction site syndrome’ and the psychosocial recuperative and rejunative therapy for the workforce in construction for productive performance. It is significant and notable that the empirical findings relative to the BCSM strategy were found to substantiate effectively as the missing link in the establishment and reconstitution of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, which according to research findings, is currently conceptual. The recommendations include the suggestions for the ‘informal dynamic rock garden design’ as suitable for the BCSM with the inclusion of ‘plants as a primary indicator’ in construction site premises, site offices, material sheds, welfare facilities including ‘lunch break retreats and outdoor shelters’. The recommendation of the BCSM strategy for the construction site is aimed towards the onset of construction as opposed to the conclusion of works / external works at the end of the project as is currently practiced. For effective application, the empirical findings relative to the study recommend that the procurement of the BCSM as a ‘silent and indispensable team mate’ should commence from the conceptual design, pre-bid / tender stages, to the fiscal planning and setting out of worksites, as well as its inclusion in the ‘curriculum of studies’ for the instruction of emerging construction management practitioners. In furtherance of the CMBOK and the enhancement of the BCSM strategy and the ‘humanistic value of the intelligent construction worksite’, the study recommends that the concept of ‘frozen music’ be addressed in future research relative to the ‘biophilic design concept’ to determine its role in enhancing cost effective performance, H&S, ergonomics, and the health and wellbeing of workers in construction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Obiozo, Rita Ngozi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Building -- Psychological aspects , Construction industry -- Accidents Building -- Economic aspects Feng shui
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23080 , vital:30414
- Description: Research findings indicate that recent improvements in construction management initiatives have not substantially reduced the incidence of fatal occurrences and accidents in construction due to negligence and error. Some of the traumatic and causative factors include the dissipation of vital energy, health, safety, and wellbeing in the construction workforce due to the lack of contact with nature on construction sites, combined with the exhaustive nature of the work, and multiple stress factors in construction. The resultant effect is visible in the form of increased rework, disputes, and socio-psycho-traumatic factors that result in a reduction in profit margins due to the daily repetition of health and safety (H&S) hazards and quality errors. To address these issues there is a need for the exploration of the inherent potential to achieve exceptional environmental credentials on construction worksites attributable to the biophilic design concept of the intelligent construction workplace. This would involve the introduction of a biophilic construction site model (BCSM) that has the potential of establishing the continuous flow of natural energy that would replenish the vital life force and impact on the improvement of the performance of the construction workforce and management throughout the life cycle of the construction process. The objective of the initiative involves the introduction of dynamic harmonious energy in consonance with the theory of biophilia and feng shui principles of wellness interventions, which would introduce and enhance the flow of natural energy relative to the greening of construction sites in aid of H&S, wellbeing and human factors for ergonomics in construction. The methodology adopted, involved a survey of the related literature, and the triangulation and longitudinal assessment of multiple case studies of viable construction sites in progress. The applied technique included a greening construction site survey, interviews, observations, photo elicitation, questionnaire surveys, and a focus group study conducted with the construction workforce during the construction process. Findings indicate a potential increase in the level of sustainable behaviour in construction that impacts on the enhanced concentration and level of focus of the workforce, as well as a reduction in H&S and quality errors that militate against consistent improvement of the construction process. These efforts add value and novelty to the construction management body of knowledge (CMBOK) with regards to the green building construction and sustainable sites initiative. Research findings established the ‘greening of the construction site / biophilic construction site model (BCSM)’ as a cost-effective strategy towards the healing of the ‘sick construction site syndrome’ and the psychosocial recuperative and rejunative therapy for the workforce in construction for productive performance. It is significant and notable that the empirical findings relative to the BCSM strategy were found to substantiate effectively as the missing link in the establishment and reconstitution of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, which according to research findings, is currently conceptual. The recommendations include the suggestions for the ‘informal dynamic rock garden design’ as suitable for the BCSM with the inclusion of ‘plants as a primary indicator’ in construction site premises, site offices, material sheds, welfare facilities including ‘lunch break retreats and outdoor shelters’. The recommendation of the BCSM strategy for the construction site is aimed towards the onset of construction as opposed to the conclusion of works / external works at the end of the project as is currently practiced. For effective application, the empirical findings relative to the study recommend that the procurement of the BCSM as a ‘silent and indispensable team mate’ should commence from the conceptual design, pre-bid / tender stages, to the fiscal planning and setting out of worksites, as well as its inclusion in the ‘curriculum of studies’ for the instruction of emerging construction management practitioners. In furtherance of the CMBOK and the enhancement of the BCSM strategy and the ‘humanistic value of the intelligent construction worksite’, the study recommends that the concept of ‘frozen music’ be addressed in future research relative to the ‘biophilic design concept’ to determine its role in enhancing cost effective performance, H&S, ergonomics, and the health and wellbeing of workers in construction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Predicting reintroduction outcomes: assessing the feasibility of reintroducing African wild dog to a small protected area
- Authors: Vogel, John Thomas
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: African wild dog , Wild dogs -- South Africa Wild dogs -- Conservation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36464 , vital:33947
- Description: Large mammalian carnivores have experienced significant contractions in population sizes and geographical ranges. The conservation of large carnivores is crucially important, particularly due to their vulnerability to extinction and their functional significance and ability to structure ecosystems. Due to an expanding human footprint, large carnivores are increasingly subject to modified and spatially constrained habitats. A growing debate exists as to how to conserve and coexist with large carnivores in an anthropogenically induced environment. Reintroduction, as a conservation tool to restore locally extirpated large carnivores to portions of their former ranges is increasingly being applied. However, in South Africa, habitat to support large carnivores remain small and non-contiguous. Food is a fundamental ecological requirement to sustain reintroduced large carnivores. Therefore, an understanding of large predator foraging patterns can be informative in the context of how the predator species influences and utilises a novel ecosystem. We investigated the foraging behaviour of reintroduced African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) at five small protected areas in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Wild dog utilised 16 prey species, albeit they primarily used nyala (Tragelaphus angasii) and impala (Aepyceros melampus) which collectively form 75 % of their diet. Only nyala was significantly preferred, suggesting that this prey species is used in greater proportion to their abundance. As wild dogs are social cooperative hunters, we tested whether wild dog pack size was correlated to prey mass selection. There was no evidence to suggest that larger packs use larger prey. However, the mean wild dog pack size in our sample sites, was relatively smaller than those encountered elsewhere. Furthermore, wild dog have been shown to modify their hunting behaviour in the presence of wildlife-proof fencing, by using fences to aid in the capture of larger prey species than would innately occur. We compared the prey mass of wild dog kills in relation to proximity of these hard boundaries. Despite the affinity towards kills occurring within 200 m of fences, the upward bias caused by fences on prey mass selection was inconsistent across sample sites. The relatively small size of wild dogs makes them particularly vulnerable to competition. As the energetic output of wild dog is high, interspecific competition can increase foraging costs. The reintroduction of large carnivores to small artificially induced systems may be a contentious issue as resources available to support large carnivores are expected to be relatively more finite. We compared both the potential inter- and intraspecific dietary niche dimensions of an intact large carnivore guild in context of a wild dog reintroduction. We determined cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), leopard (Panthera pardus), and lion (Panthera leo) prey composition, diet breadth, overlap, prey preference and predicted the density of an intact large carnivore guild in a novel landscape. Further, we compared the foraging behaviour of these large carnivores to that of wild dog. Our findings suggest that large African carnivores in small protected areas are subject to a considerable dietary niche overlap. Wild dog and cheetah, particularly reproductive females with dependent offspring, displayed the greatest potential for dietary overlap and subsequent competition. Leopard and lion at the population species level exhibited greater degrees of foraging plasticity. Lion displayed a contrasting prey species preference to sympatric predators as they selected for prey items frequently avoided by cheetah, leopard and wild dog. The proposed wild dog reintroduction site is expected to sustain seven wild dog based on the availability of preferred prey biomass. However, the reintroduction of wild dog to the small protected area is expected to have negative lateral trophic influences on other species of conservation concern. This should be of vital importance to management of the protected area. As the influence of competition in food-web and population dynamics, particularly in resource poor environments may be profound, our research highlights the need to assess the influence of competitive forces in structuring and restoring large predators to portions of their historical range.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Vogel, John Thomas
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: African wild dog , Wild dogs -- South Africa Wild dogs -- Conservation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36464 , vital:33947
- Description: Large mammalian carnivores have experienced significant contractions in population sizes and geographical ranges. The conservation of large carnivores is crucially important, particularly due to their vulnerability to extinction and their functional significance and ability to structure ecosystems. Due to an expanding human footprint, large carnivores are increasingly subject to modified and spatially constrained habitats. A growing debate exists as to how to conserve and coexist with large carnivores in an anthropogenically induced environment. Reintroduction, as a conservation tool to restore locally extirpated large carnivores to portions of their former ranges is increasingly being applied. However, in South Africa, habitat to support large carnivores remain small and non-contiguous. Food is a fundamental ecological requirement to sustain reintroduced large carnivores. Therefore, an understanding of large predator foraging patterns can be informative in the context of how the predator species influences and utilises a novel ecosystem. We investigated the foraging behaviour of reintroduced African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) at five small protected areas in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Wild dog utilised 16 prey species, albeit they primarily used nyala (Tragelaphus angasii) and impala (Aepyceros melampus) which collectively form 75 % of their diet. Only nyala was significantly preferred, suggesting that this prey species is used in greater proportion to their abundance. As wild dogs are social cooperative hunters, we tested whether wild dog pack size was correlated to prey mass selection. There was no evidence to suggest that larger packs use larger prey. However, the mean wild dog pack size in our sample sites, was relatively smaller than those encountered elsewhere. Furthermore, wild dog have been shown to modify their hunting behaviour in the presence of wildlife-proof fencing, by using fences to aid in the capture of larger prey species than would innately occur. We compared the prey mass of wild dog kills in relation to proximity of these hard boundaries. Despite the affinity towards kills occurring within 200 m of fences, the upward bias caused by fences on prey mass selection was inconsistent across sample sites. The relatively small size of wild dogs makes them particularly vulnerable to competition. As the energetic output of wild dog is high, interspecific competition can increase foraging costs. The reintroduction of large carnivores to small artificially induced systems may be a contentious issue as resources available to support large carnivores are expected to be relatively more finite. We compared both the potential inter- and intraspecific dietary niche dimensions of an intact large carnivore guild in context of a wild dog reintroduction. We determined cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), leopard (Panthera pardus), and lion (Panthera leo) prey composition, diet breadth, overlap, prey preference and predicted the density of an intact large carnivore guild in a novel landscape. Further, we compared the foraging behaviour of these large carnivores to that of wild dog. Our findings suggest that large African carnivores in small protected areas are subject to a considerable dietary niche overlap. Wild dog and cheetah, particularly reproductive females with dependent offspring, displayed the greatest potential for dietary overlap and subsequent competition. Leopard and lion at the population species level exhibited greater degrees of foraging plasticity. Lion displayed a contrasting prey species preference to sympatric predators as they selected for prey items frequently avoided by cheetah, leopard and wild dog. The proposed wild dog reintroduction site is expected to sustain seven wild dog based on the availability of preferred prey biomass. However, the reintroduction of wild dog to the small protected area is expected to have negative lateral trophic influences on other species of conservation concern. This should be of vital importance to management of the protected area. As the influence of competition in food-web and population dynamics, particularly in resource poor environments may be profound, our research highlights the need to assess the influence of competitive forces in structuring and restoring large predators to portions of their historical range.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Attitudes of undergraduate psychology students towards mental illness
- Authors: Lugogwana, Pakama Linda
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: College students -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Psychology -- Study and teaching Mental illness -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14223 , vital:27454
- Description: Negative attitudes and stigmas against those diagnosed with mental illnesses have been found to prevail in modern society, despite the availability of effective treatments and attempts to educate people about mental health. Numerous studies have been conducted on the attitudes of various groups of people and communities towards mental illness. There is, however, limited research about student populations, particularly students registered for courses in the “allied health professions”. This study aimed to explore and describe the prevailing attitudes towards mental illness of a sample of the undergraduate Psychology student population (registered between 2nd and 4th year of study) within the Faculty of Health Sciences at a South African University. The procedure followed was an electronic intranet based survey, utilising the Community Attitudes to Mental Illness (CAMI) scale. The survey was accessed via the university’s student portal and links were sent via email to students to complete. A total of n=51 student responses were recorded and analysed. Data were quantitatively analysed using t-tests and Analyses of Variance (ANOVA). No statistically significant differences on the CAMI scales were found between the students in relation to the various student demographic variables such as age, gender, race or year level, and the CAMI findings. Overall, the sample of undergraduate Psychology students were shown to have favourable attitudes towards mental illness, which is potentially accounted for by their chosen field of study of Psychology. Education and knowledge about mental health were acknowledged as being most important in reducing stigma towards mental illness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Lugogwana, Pakama Linda
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: College students -- South Africa -- Attitudes , Psychology -- Study and teaching Mental illness -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14223 , vital:27454
- Description: Negative attitudes and stigmas against those diagnosed with mental illnesses have been found to prevail in modern society, despite the availability of effective treatments and attempts to educate people about mental health. Numerous studies have been conducted on the attitudes of various groups of people and communities towards mental illness. There is, however, limited research about student populations, particularly students registered for courses in the “allied health professions”. This study aimed to explore and describe the prevailing attitudes towards mental illness of a sample of the undergraduate Psychology student population (registered between 2nd and 4th year of study) within the Faculty of Health Sciences at a South African University. The procedure followed was an electronic intranet based survey, utilising the Community Attitudes to Mental Illness (CAMI) scale. The survey was accessed via the university’s student portal and links were sent via email to students to complete. A total of n=51 student responses were recorded and analysed. Data were quantitatively analysed using t-tests and Analyses of Variance (ANOVA). No statistically significant differences on the CAMI scales were found between the students in relation to the various student demographic variables such as age, gender, race or year level, and the CAMI findings. Overall, the sample of undergraduate Psychology students were shown to have favourable attitudes towards mental illness, which is potentially accounted for by their chosen field of study of Psychology. Education and knowledge about mental health were acknowledged as being most important in reducing stigma towards mental illness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The Effects of exchange rates on bilateral trade balances of SACU members states with their trading partners
- Authors: Mhaka, Simbarashe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Purchasing power parity -- Econometric models
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50371 , vital:42152
- Description: The fluctuations of exchange rates prevent countries from achieving stability in their external account records. Appreciation or depreciation has effects on international trade. This thesis examines the relationship between exchange rate fluctuations on bilateral trade balances focusing on the SACU region. There are several theories made to explain the relationship between exchange rate and trade balances. In examining this phenomenon, this thesis will unveil if the purchasing power parity theory, the Marshall-Lerner condition and the J-curve effect holds in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) countries. This analysis is divided into three parts. The first part examines the stability of the exchange rate in the SACU countries in the long run as given by the purchasing power parity. To test for the Purchasing Power Parity theory, the recently developed powerful unit root test was applied with multiple smooth structural breaks of Omay (2015), based on a Fractional Frequency Flexible Fourier Form (FFFFF) on unique data of SACU countries covering the monthly period of 1995M01-2017M11. The Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) results show that the nominal effective exchange rate (NEER) of all SACU members does not provide evidence for PPP theory. In terms of the real effective exchange rate (REER), the PPP condition holds in the case of South Africa only. Further unit root investigations were carried out using the panel data for all SACU members, NEER and REER. The FFFFF test results for panel data shows strong evidence of the PPP while the standard DF test rejects PPP theory in the SACU’s NEER. Both the standard DF and the FFFFF tests show strong evidence of PPP theory in the case of SACU’s REER. The second section of the analysis examines the Marshall-Lerner condition employing annual data from the period of 1980-2017. The import and export model were examined firstly in a time series format and then in a panel data format. The time series data was examined using the ARDL (PMG) model while the panel data used the panel ARDL, fully modified OLS (FMOLS) method and the Dynamic OLS (DOLS) method of estimation. The PMG/ARDL model shows no evidence to support the existence of the Marshall-Lerner condition in the short run for all SACU members. However, only two out of five countries show evidence of the Marshall-Lerner condition in the long run. There is strong evidence of the Marshall-Lerner condition in Namibia and Botswana in the long run using the PMG/ARDL model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mhaka, Simbarashe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Purchasing power parity -- Econometric models
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50371 , vital:42152
- Description: The fluctuations of exchange rates prevent countries from achieving stability in their external account records. Appreciation or depreciation has effects on international trade. This thesis examines the relationship between exchange rate fluctuations on bilateral trade balances focusing on the SACU region. There are several theories made to explain the relationship between exchange rate and trade balances. In examining this phenomenon, this thesis will unveil if the purchasing power parity theory, the Marshall-Lerner condition and the J-curve effect holds in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) countries. This analysis is divided into three parts. The first part examines the stability of the exchange rate in the SACU countries in the long run as given by the purchasing power parity. To test for the Purchasing Power Parity theory, the recently developed powerful unit root test was applied with multiple smooth structural breaks of Omay (2015), based on a Fractional Frequency Flexible Fourier Form (FFFFF) on unique data of SACU countries covering the monthly period of 1995M01-2017M11. The Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) results show that the nominal effective exchange rate (NEER) of all SACU members does not provide evidence for PPP theory. In terms of the real effective exchange rate (REER), the PPP condition holds in the case of South Africa only. Further unit root investigations were carried out using the panel data for all SACU members, NEER and REER. The FFFFF test results for panel data shows strong evidence of the PPP while the standard DF test rejects PPP theory in the SACU’s NEER. Both the standard DF and the FFFFF tests show strong evidence of PPP theory in the case of SACU’s REER. The second section of the analysis examines the Marshall-Lerner condition employing annual data from the period of 1980-2017. The import and export model were examined firstly in a time series format and then in a panel data format. The time series data was examined using the ARDL (PMG) model while the panel data used the panel ARDL, fully modified OLS (FMOLS) method and the Dynamic OLS (DOLS) method of estimation. The PMG/ARDL model shows no evidence to support the existence of the Marshall-Lerner condition in the short run for all SACU members. However, only two out of five countries show evidence of the Marshall-Lerner condition in the long run. There is strong evidence of the Marshall-Lerner condition in Namibia and Botswana in the long run using the PMG/ARDL model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Rural enterprise development as a means to poverty alleviation
- Authors: Bodley, David Cyril
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa , Economic development projects -- South Africa Poverty alleviation -- methods -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50361 , vital:42118
- Description: South Africa’s disappointing economic performance over the last decade has resulted in a socio-economic crisis, with unemployment and inequality rates being of the highest rates anywhere in the world. Furthermore, unemployment is concentrated among the young, unskilled, and previously disadvantaged population posing a considerable threat to South Africa’s new democracy. Internationally, a method to absorb job seekers into the economy is to make small business the engine-room of economic growth and development. Consequently, the South African Government has identified in its National Development Plan the establishment of small businesses as a priority, including the development of small businesses in rural and marginalised communities. As rural communities in South Africa experience systemic problems such as the lack of infrastructure, financial capital, skills and potential markets, establishing enterprises in rural settings is often more complex than those more advanced parts of the economy elsewhere where fewer constraints exist. This makes the task of establishing and growing rural entities particularly challenging, suggesting bespoke policy and support is required. This study analyses the literature to gain an understanding of economic development theory and how this intersects with and informs small enterprise development policy. It then looks at South Africa’s strategy and policy framework pertaining to enterprise development. Specifically, the literature examines the role of rural enterprise development to establish whether this enables people to move out of poverty or further entraps people in poverty. The study collates data from a rural and marginalised community through observation and interview techniques. Firstly, multiple in-depth interviews were conducted with nineteen entrepreneurs in a rural community to collect data on business opportunities and explore the type of support entrepreneurs would require from government. Secondly, a focus group interview was conducted with entrepreneurs that had experienced institutional support to understand how well current policy and programmes support rural enterprise development. The primary data was analysed in conjunction with the literature on economic theory and enterprise development using the technique of triangulation to avoid logic leaps and formation of false assumptions. The insights and findings from the analysis reinforced certain facts within the body of knowledge pertaining to enterprise development, but there were also some interesting new insights that emanate from the data. South Africa has been able to introduce a wide range of policy initiatives and has multiple programmes and strategies to support small enterprise development. It has achieved firm success and impetus as well as experiencing certain failures. The study clearly highlights both and makes recommendations to improve policy promoting rural enterprise development as a means to alleviate poverty.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Bodley, David Cyril
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa , Economic development projects -- South Africa Poverty alleviation -- methods -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50361 , vital:42118
- Description: South Africa’s disappointing economic performance over the last decade has resulted in a socio-economic crisis, with unemployment and inequality rates being of the highest rates anywhere in the world. Furthermore, unemployment is concentrated among the young, unskilled, and previously disadvantaged population posing a considerable threat to South Africa’s new democracy. Internationally, a method to absorb job seekers into the economy is to make small business the engine-room of economic growth and development. Consequently, the South African Government has identified in its National Development Plan the establishment of small businesses as a priority, including the development of small businesses in rural and marginalised communities. As rural communities in South Africa experience systemic problems such as the lack of infrastructure, financial capital, skills and potential markets, establishing enterprises in rural settings is often more complex than those more advanced parts of the economy elsewhere where fewer constraints exist. This makes the task of establishing and growing rural entities particularly challenging, suggesting bespoke policy and support is required. This study analyses the literature to gain an understanding of economic development theory and how this intersects with and informs small enterprise development policy. It then looks at South Africa’s strategy and policy framework pertaining to enterprise development. Specifically, the literature examines the role of rural enterprise development to establish whether this enables people to move out of poverty or further entraps people in poverty. The study collates data from a rural and marginalised community through observation and interview techniques. Firstly, multiple in-depth interviews were conducted with nineteen entrepreneurs in a rural community to collect data on business opportunities and explore the type of support entrepreneurs would require from government. Secondly, a focus group interview was conducted with entrepreneurs that had experienced institutional support to understand how well current policy and programmes support rural enterprise development. The primary data was analysed in conjunction with the literature on economic theory and enterprise development using the technique of triangulation to avoid logic leaps and formation of false assumptions. The insights and findings from the analysis reinforced certain facts within the body of knowledge pertaining to enterprise development, but there were also some interesting new insights that emanate from the data. South Africa has been able to introduce a wide range of policy initiatives and has multiple programmes and strategies to support small enterprise development. It has achieved firm success and impetus as well as experiencing certain failures. The study clearly highlights both and makes recommendations to improve policy promoting rural enterprise development as a means to alleviate poverty.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The incorporation of smart production in future factories within the fourth industrial revolution towards 2030
- Authors: Abdoll, Delicia Megan
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Manufacturing industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47521 , vital:40123
- Description: Industry 4.0 is impressively creating a lasting impact on the manufacturing industry and on the industry outlook on the benefits of the implementation of new technology. The concept currently trending entails merging cyber systems, the Internet of Things, and the Internet of Systems all together to construct the revolutionary ‘Smart Factories’. The use of advanced technologies brings about new methodologies to improve the results of manufacturing. Complex activities will be performed by machines equipped in using intelligent information systems and new technology to improve productivity, enhance quality, and reduce costs of manufacturing products. South Africa is at the height of the ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution’ (4IR) which will essentially change the way we work. This innovative rubric of high-tech modernisation is characterised by a merging of technologies from the physical, digital, biological, and neuro-technological spheres. The hesitation over jobs being substituted with co-bots, a robot envisioned to actually cooperate with humans in a communal workplace, is profound. Skills volatility is estimated to affect all industries. There are uncertainties that the underprivileged and non-skilled would be thrust into an even profounder deficiency with the upsurge of the digital age. Organisations regard robotics and modern technology as strategic corporate tools that are utilised to enhance short- and long-term profitability and achieve operating goals. In dissimilarity, the application of robotics and modern technology in the place of work increases labour stability concerns, anxiety of downsizings and terminations within the workforce. The purpose of this research was to heighten the comprehension of smart factories in the manufacturing industry by conclusively embracing a methodical examination of the factors which influence the outlook of those involved concerning smart factory implementation and also of assessing the readiness of the South African manufacturing industry for 4IR towards 2030. The ‘golden thread’ running through the study is the significance of the impact of the 4IR on the workforce and the creation of new jobs for the future, the reskilling of the workforce and the enhancement of capabilities of future factories in embracing the implementation and the incorporation of advanced manufacturing principles in production processes. This must form a substantial consideration in the preparation of the vision of the “Incorporation of smart production in future factories within the fourth industrial revolution towards 2030”. The results of the in-depth analysis of future studies practice and theory in this research study give credibility to the argument that the way in which planning for the future of the 4IR in the South African context is taking place requires insightful adaptation by all stakeholders. The development of new insights through the application of futures studies is vital to this planning process, as is progressively demonstrated in the propensity for present-day business to enable collaborative decisions and strategies that are established on, and informed by, futures studies. This research has attempted to gain insight into the possible future of the implementation of 4IR elements within the future manufacturing factories in South Africa through the creation of four scenarios towards 2030. These are defined as follows: The Fifth Element, which is the ‘best case’ scenario, and to which the country aspires; the ‘worst case’ scenario, in which everything goes badly; the outlier future founded on a surprising, disruptive, emerging matter; and ‘business as usual’ in which no change takes place. The research additionally made efforts to determine the preferred future for the 4IR from a South African perspective, as a base for the Future Vision of the 4IR in the South African manufacturing industry towards 2030. Throughout this study, Inayatullah’s (2008) pillars of futures studies were implemented as a guide in mapping the present and future, further deepening and widening the future through the development of scenarios and, lastly, by transforming the future by narrowing it down to the preferred future. The South African manufacturing sector must select which path to follow in the decisions surrounding the acceptance of the 4IR as the country progresses towards aligning itself with the global players in technology acceptance. Through a unique and innovative approach, the establishment of an atmosphere of trust and the sharing of purpose, values and benefits, a collective Future Vision of the implementing of 4IR elements such as smart production in future factories within South Africa towards 2030, is achievable. All stakeholders must be committed to operating in collaborative partnerships, with government, society, local communities and the workforce all treading boldly together into a sphere of technological, commercial, environmental and social innovation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Abdoll, Delicia Megan
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Manufacturing industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47521 , vital:40123
- Description: Industry 4.0 is impressively creating a lasting impact on the manufacturing industry and on the industry outlook on the benefits of the implementation of new technology. The concept currently trending entails merging cyber systems, the Internet of Things, and the Internet of Systems all together to construct the revolutionary ‘Smart Factories’. The use of advanced technologies brings about new methodologies to improve the results of manufacturing. Complex activities will be performed by machines equipped in using intelligent information systems and new technology to improve productivity, enhance quality, and reduce costs of manufacturing products. South Africa is at the height of the ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution’ (4IR) which will essentially change the way we work. This innovative rubric of high-tech modernisation is characterised by a merging of technologies from the physical, digital, biological, and neuro-technological spheres. The hesitation over jobs being substituted with co-bots, a robot envisioned to actually cooperate with humans in a communal workplace, is profound. Skills volatility is estimated to affect all industries. There are uncertainties that the underprivileged and non-skilled would be thrust into an even profounder deficiency with the upsurge of the digital age. Organisations regard robotics and modern technology as strategic corporate tools that are utilised to enhance short- and long-term profitability and achieve operating goals. In dissimilarity, the application of robotics and modern technology in the place of work increases labour stability concerns, anxiety of downsizings and terminations within the workforce. The purpose of this research was to heighten the comprehension of smart factories in the manufacturing industry by conclusively embracing a methodical examination of the factors which influence the outlook of those involved concerning smart factory implementation and also of assessing the readiness of the South African manufacturing industry for 4IR towards 2030. The ‘golden thread’ running through the study is the significance of the impact of the 4IR on the workforce and the creation of new jobs for the future, the reskilling of the workforce and the enhancement of capabilities of future factories in embracing the implementation and the incorporation of advanced manufacturing principles in production processes. This must form a substantial consideration in the preparation of the vision of the “Incorporation of smart production in future factories within the fourth industrial revolution towards 2030”. The results of the in-depth analysis of future studies practice and theory in this research study give credibility to the argument that the way in which planning for the future of the 4IR in the South African context is taking place requires insightful adaptation by all stakeholders. The development of new insights through the application of futures studies is vital to this planning process, as is progressively demonstrated in the propensity for present-day business to enable collaborative decisions and strategies that are established on, and informed by, futures studies. This research has attempted to gain insight into the possible future of the implementation of 4IR elements within the future manufacturing factories in South Africa through the creation of four scenarios towards 2030. These are defined as follows: The Fifth Element, which is the ‘best case’ scenario, and to which the country aspires; the ‘worst case’ scenario, in which everything goes badly; the outlier future founded on a surprising, disruptive, emerging matter; and ‘business as usual’ in which no change takes place. The research additionally made efforts to determine the preferred future for the 4IR from a South African perspective, as a base for the Future Vision of the 4IR in the South African manufacturing industry towards 2030. Throughout this study, Inayatullah’s (2008) pillars of futures studies were implemented as a guide in mapping the present and future, further deepening and widening the future through the development of scenarios and, lastly, by transforming the future by narrowing it down to the preferred future. The South African manufacturing sector must select which path to follow in the decisions surrounding the acceptance of the 4IR as the country progresses towards aligning itself with the global players in technology acceptance. Through a unique and innovative approach, the establishment of an atmosphere of trust and the sharing of purpose, values and benefits, a collective Future Vision of the implementing of 4IR elements such as smart production in future factories within South Africa towards 2030, is achievable. All stakeholders must be committed to operating in collaborative partnerships, with government, society, local communities and the workforce all treading boldly together into a sphere of technological, commercial, environmental and social innovation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The return-to-work policy for injured and diseased workers
- Authors: Keti, Nosicelo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employees -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa Workers' compensation Industrial accidents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31064 , vital:31307
- Description: Despite measures undertaken by employers in promoting safety in the workplace, employees become injured or diseased due to work related accidents. When an employee sustains a work related injury or disease that results in their short term or prolonged absence from work, it becomes crucial for the employer to return the injured or diseased employee back to work as quickly as possible. Returning employees back to work as early as possible becomes an important factor in reducing worker’s compensation costs. In South Africa, unlike developed countries like the United Kingdom, there is still a lack or absence of rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes. The lack or absence of suitable rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes that not only ensure that an injured or diseased employee is returned to work, but further enable such injured or diseased employee to attain, keep and progress in employment often results in employees becoming dependent on disability grants or social welfare payments. There is recognition that some effort is required to ensure that employees who have been affected by work related injuries or diseases are returned to gainful employment. The Committee of Inquiry into a Comprehensive System of Social Security for South Africa, in 2002, highlighted that “modern social protection policy making is no longer therapeutic but also pre-emptive and restorative or rehabilitative in nature”. The study investigated the need for the South African government and business to adopt and implement programmes or systems that are targeted at correcting or restoring the damage. This can be achieved through retraining, re-skilling and social integration of the injured or diseased employees. The findings indicate that despite recognition by the Compensation of Occupational Injuries and Disease Act (COIDA) of the need to establish and implement appropriate rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes, such programmes have still not been established in South Africa. There are, however, initiatives directed towards the establishment and implementation of these programmes and these are found in the proposed COIDA amendment Bill which prioritises rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW. Proposed in the Bill, is the imposition of incentives for those employers who successfully implement rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes within their workplaces and penalties against those who fail to comply with the provisions of the proposed Bill. Another relief can be seen in the form of the Road Accident Benefit Scheme (RABS) Bill, which will soon replace the Road Accident Fund (RAF). Unlike the RAF, which is primarily concerned about the compensation of road accident victims through lump sum payments, RABS will particularly focus on rehabilitation and vocational training and will offer payments in a structured manner to not only ensure the continual financial support of the accident victims, but further that the proposed scheme remains sustainable in the long term. Further findings are that although the Constitution of the v Republic of South Africa has adopted an international law friendly approach and the Bill of Rights is in support of the implementation of RTW measures, South African law is not aligned to international and regional standards. South Africa has still not ratified international instruments that promote the early return of injured or diseased employees back to work. In conclusion, South Africa needs to adopt and implement rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW measures or programmes for injured or diseased workers in order to address the high unemployment rate, poverty and dependence on State funded social assistance services.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Keti, Nosicelo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employees -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa Workers' compensation Industrial accidents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31064 , vital:31307
- Description: Despite measures undertaken by employers in promoting safety in the workplace, employees become injured or diseased due to work related accidents. When an employee sustains a work related injury or disease that results in their short term or prolonged absence from work, it becomes crucial for the employer to return the injured or diseased employee back to work as quickly as possible. Returning employees back to work as early as possible becomes an important factor in reducing worker’s compensation costs. In South Africa, unlike developed countries like the United Kingdom, there is still a lack or absence of rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes. The lack or absence of suitable rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes that not only ensure that an injured or diseased employee is returned to work, but further enable such injured or diseased employee to attain, keep and progress in employment often results in employees becoming dependent on disability grants or social welfare payments. There is recognition that some effort is required to ensure that employees who have been affected by work related injuries or diseases are returned to gainful employment. The Committee of Inquiry into a Comprehensive System of Social Security for South Africa, in 2002, highlighted that “modern social protection policy making is no longer therapeutic but also pre-emptive and restorative or rehabilitative in nature”. The study investigated the need for the South African government and business to adopt and implement programmes or systems that are targeted at correcting or restoring the damage. This can be achieved through retraining, re-skilling and social integration of the injured or diseased employees. The findings indicate that despite recognition by the Compensation of Occupational Injuries and Disease Act (COIDA) of the need to establish and implement appropriate rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes, such programmes have still not been established in South Africa. There are, however, initiatives directed towards the establishment and implementation of these programmes and these are found in the proposed COIDA amendment Bill which prioritises rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW. Proposed in the Bill, is the imposition of incentives for those employers who successfully implement rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW programmes within their workplaces and penalties against those who fail to comply with the provisions of the proposed Bill. Another relief can be seen in the form of the Road Accident Benefit Scheme (RABS) Bill, which will soon replace the Road Accident Fund (RAF). Unlike the RAF, which is primarily concerned about the compensation of road accident victims through lump sum payments, RABS will particularly focus on rehabilitation and vocational training and will offer payments in a structured manner to not only ensure the continual financial support of the accident victims, but further that the proposed scheme remains sustainable in the long term. Further findings are that although the Constitution of the v Republic of South Africa has adopted an international law friendly approach and the Bill of Rights is in support of the implementation of RTW measures, South African law is not aligned to international and regional standards. South Africa has still not ratified international instruments that promote the early return of injured or diseased employees back to work. In conclusion, South Africa needs to adopt and implement rehabilitation, reintegration and RTW measures or programmes for injured or diseased workers in order to address the high unemployment rate, poverty and dependence on State funded social assistance services.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring lecturer preparedness to apply a critical approach to curriculum implementation: a case study
- Authors: Sathorar, Heloise Helena
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Teacher participation in curriculum planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31786 , vital:31828
- Description: This study sought to investigate lecturer preparedness to apply a critical approach to curriculum implementation and to establish their willingness or unwillingness to engage as transformative intellectuals with their students and to apply a problem-posing education in their classrooms. The study investigated lecturers’ critical pedagogy dispositions as well as their orientations towards applying a critical approach to curriculum implementation. A comprehensive literature review was done regarding the concept critical pedagogy, its tenets and principles as well as what it entails to apply a critical approach to curriculum implementation. In particular the literature review highlighted the responsibilities of a transformative intellectual as well as the requirements of applying a problem-posing education. The study was conducted through a constructivist lens and theoretically framed by referring to specific critical pedagogy concepts. The study is located in the interpretive paradigm and a qualitative research approach was followed. In particular, an instrumental case study analysis was used as research method. The sample consisted of 20 permanently employed lecturers from the School for Initial Teacher Education in the Faculty of Education at Nelson Mandela University who volunteered to participate in an online investigation regarding their critical pedagogy dispositions as well as their orientations towards applying a critical approach to curriculum implementation. The findings of the study revealed that lecturers generally have a positive disposition towards critical pedagogy as well as towards the application of a critical approach to curriculum implementation. Despite this positive picture there were pockets of resistance towards critical pedagogy and the application of a critical approach to curriculum implementation. Finally, the study proposes a critical approach model that could be employed to enhance lecturer preparedness to apply a critical approach in their classes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sathorar, Heloise Helena
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Teacher participation in curriculum planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31786 , vital:31828
- Description: This study sought to investigate lecturer preparedness to apply a critical approach to curriculum implementation and to establish their willingness or unwillingness to engage as transformative intellectuals with their students and to apply a problem-posing education in their classrooms. The study investigated lecturers’ critical pedagogy dispositions as well as their orientations towards applying a critical approach to curriculum implementation. A comprehensive literature review was done regarding the concept critical pedagogy, its tenets and principles as well as what it entails to apply a critical approach to curriculum implementation. In particular the literature review highlighted the responsibilities of a transformative intellectual as well as the requirements of applying a problem-posing education. The study was conducted through a constructivist lens and theoretically framed by referring to specific critical pedagogy concepts. The study is located in the interpretive paradigm and a qualitative research approach was followed. In particular, an instrumental case study analysis was used as research method. The sample consisted of 20 permanently employed lecturers from the School for Initial Teacher Education in the Faculty of Education at Nelson Mandela University who volunteered to participate in an online investigation regarding their critical pedagogy dispositions as well as their orientations towards applying a critical approach to curriculum implementation. The findings of the study revealed that lecturers generally have a positive disposition towards critical pedagogy as well as towards the application of a critical approach to curriculum implementation. Despite this positive picture there were pockets of resistance towards critical pedagogy and the application of a critical approach to curriculum implementation. Finally, the study proposes a critical approach model that could be employed to enhance lecturer preparedness to apply a critical approach in their classes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Dismissal for ill health or injury and reasonable accommodation for disabled employees
- Authors: Mabenge, Mfundiso Samson
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa Discrimination in employment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34755 , vital:33437
- Description: This treatise examines the challenges faced by people with disabilities, in particular, dismissal and discrimination at the workplace. The study employed a qualitative approach to explore and address the research questions. It highlights that the Constitution provides protection against discrimination on the ground of disability. This right not to be discriminated against or unfairly dismissed is further given effect by the Codes of Good Practice in both the EEA and the LRA. Dismissal on a prohibited ground of discrimination, such as disability, is not merely unfair, but automatically unfair. Despite the above legislative protection, the findings in this study indicate that South Africa still faces huge challenges of disability discrimination and dismissal. Notwithstanding the increased sensitivity of this subject across the country, applicants for work and employees generally find themselves to be the victims of employment discrimination as well as dismissal due to their disability. Those who are in the working sector are not reasonably accommodated. The study submits that people with disabilities should be reasonably accommodated and be retained in the working sector as they have a positive role to play in the economy. In terms of legislation, the study found that although well written in theory, they are practically ineffective given that they are fragmented. This study observes that single legislation dealing comprehensively with disability management, like in other jurisdictions does not exist in South Africa. The lack of such single legislation is a significant weakness in the South African disability management framework. Therefore, this has resulted in a fragmented approach to implementation. The study suggests that trade union representatives and employers should be well trained, particularly on issues relating to dismissal for incapacity in general. From a global perspective, international organisations through ratifying Conventions have also heeded to the plight of disabled persons. This is proof that disability can no longer be confined to the borders of one nation. Many disability organisations have emerged over the years and are representing the interests of the disabled. The findings of this study may help companies, organisations and institutions improve their policy practices regarding the dismissal of employees associated with ill health or injury.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mabenge, Mfundiso Samson
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa Discrimination in employment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34755 , vital:33437
- Description: This treatise examines the challenges faced by people with disabilities, in particular, dismissal and discrimination at the workplace. The study employed a qualitative approach to explore and address the research questions. It highlights that the Constitution provides protection against discrimination on the ground of disability. This right not to be discriminated against or unfairly dismissed is further given effect by the Codes of Good Practice in both the EEA and the LRA. Dismissal on a prohibited ground of discrimination, such as disability, is not merely unfair, but automatically unfair. Despite the above legislative protection, the findings in this study indicate that South Africa still faces huge challenges of disability discrimination and dismissal. Notwithstanding the increased sensitivity of this subject across the country, applicants for work and employees generally find themselves to be the victims of employment discrimination as well as dismissal due to their disability. Those who are in the working sector are not reasonably accommodated. The study submits that people with disabilities should be reasonably accommodated and be retained in the working sector as they have a positive role to play in the economy. In terms of legislation, the study found that although well written in theory, they are practically ineffective given that they are fragmented. This study observes that single legislation dealing comprehensively with disability management, like in other jurisdictions does not exist in South Africa. The lack of such single legislation is a significant weakness in the South African disability management framework. Therefore, this has resulted in a fragmented approach to implementation. The study suggests that trade union representatives and employers should be well trained, particularly on issues relating to dismissal for incapacity in general. From a global perspective, international organisations through ratifying Conventions have also heeded to the plight of disabled persons. This is proof that disability can no longer be confined to the borders of one nation. Many disability organisations have emerged over the years and are representing the interests of the disabled. The findings of this study may help companies, organisations and institutions improve their policy practices regarding the dismissal of employees associated with ill health or injury.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The foraging ecology of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters (Ardenna Pacifica) in the tropical Western Indian Ocean
- Authors: Keys, Danielle Zuanda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Birds of prey -- Behavior -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Animal behavior Wildlife conservation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31251 , vital:31348
- Description: The distribution and abundance of prey largely influences how marine predators forage. Thus, understanding how marine predators respond to such changes becomes imperative when making decisions in marine spatial planning, especially in light of global climate change. Tropical marine systems are known for their relatively low productivity and high unpredictability of prey resources. Compared to higher latitudes, very few studies on seabirds have been implemented in the tropics. The Wedge-tailed Shearwater Ardenna pacifica is an Indo-Pacific tropical seabird with a wide distributional range. However, like many other seabirds, its population numbers are currently declining. Very little is known about the at-sea distribution of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters in the tropical western Indian Ocean. Therefore, this thesis investigates the foraging ecology of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters in the western Indian Ocean by tracking the fine scale movements of individuals at sea. This study was conducted in two different oceanic environments, namely D’Arros Island and Fouquet Island, St Joseph Atoll in the Amirantes Group in Seychelles archipelago as well as Réunion Island in the Mascarene archipelago during the Wedge-tailed Shearwaters breeding seasons. Here I aimed to investigate the foraging distribution of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters on Réunion Island in relation to different stages of the breeding period. I also compared the foraging ecology of all three populations, subjected to different abiotic and biotic factors. Furthermore, I investigated foraging site fidelity in individuals and repeatability within individual flight characteristics. To my knowledge, this is the first study to comprehensively investigate the foraging ecology of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters using global positioning system (GPS) loggers. This study demonstrated that the Wedge-tailed Shearwaters implement flexible foraging strategies throughout different stages of their breeding period and between different islands. In Réunion, during the shearwater breeding season, sexual segregation was prominent during early chick rearing and both sexes implemented dual foraging. As suggested by previous studies, it is likely that long trips were implemented for self-maintenance, whereas multiple short trips were implemented to meet the high energetic demands of the chicks. Several important foraging areas were identified for these Wedge-tailed Shearwaters. During incubation, shearwaters from Réunion faithfully foraged towards the south east of Madagascar near the East Madagascar Current and flew over large areas of the Mascarene Basin. During chick rearing, shearwaters significantly constricted their range closer to the colony and exploited deep waters on the south-west of Réunion Island. Shearwaters concentrated near oceanographic features such as the Pérouse Seamount (which is a known area of high productivity) as well as the Bourdonnais Ridge. There was no clear evidence for spatial or sexual segregation between individuals from the two study colonies in Seychelles during incubation and birds utilized a broader foraging range than birds from Réunion. This is likely to be the result of a large annual phytoplankton bloom which coincides with the shearwater breeding season in Seychelles, providing many foraging opportunities within the Seychelles Basin. The shearwaters from Seychelles exploited the Amirante Basin, East Somali Basin, and parts of the Seychelles archipelago. Shearwaters from D’Arros flew further east and foraged in the Mascarene Basin. Shearwaters from all populations foraged over deep, relatively unproductive waters with relatively high sea surface temperatures which are similar oceanographic features favoured by tuna. Foraging plasticity between individuals from different colonies was observed with varying flight bearings, flight durations and the maximum distances travelled from their respective colonies. Shearwaters displayed dissimilar levels of site fidelity, where shearwaters from Réunion faithfully foraged towards south east Madagascar, while shearwaters from Seychelles foraged over a wide range over the Seychelles Basin. Foraging effort for shearwaters from Fouquet was lower than shearwaters from Reunion and they spent less time at sea and foraged closer to their colony. These difference in behaviour responses between colonies may be advantageous to shearwaters, indicating that they may be able to respond to some level of environmental variability resulting from climate change and anthropogenic pressures. Lastly, during chick rearing, though shearwaters showed low levels of repeatability in flight characterising, foraging site fidelity was high amongst some of the individuals. Here we see that shearwaters continuously rely on permanent features, like seamounts and possibly fish aggregating devices, which are known to attract high abundances of tuna. Shearwaters may to some extent be relying on memory to find prey in a seemingly unpredictable environment. This study has helped us gain valuable insight about the foraging ecology of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters in the western Indian Ocean. Together with similar studies determining the at-sea behaviour of seabirds, better informed recommendations can be made to marine spatial planners as to where much needed pelagic marine protection should be implemented to preserve marine life in this fascinating part of the global ocean.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Keys, Danielle Zuanda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Birds of prey -- Behavior -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Animal behavior Wildlife conservation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31251 , vital:31348
- Description: The distribution and abundance of prey largely influences how marine predators forage. Thus, understanding how marine predators respond to such changes becomes imperative when making decisions in marine spatial planning, especially in light of global climate change. Tropical marine systems are known for their relatively low productivity and high unpredictability of prey resources. Compared to higher latitudes, very few studies on seabirds have been implemented in the tropics. The Wedge-tailed Shearwater Ardenna pacifica is an Indo-Pacific tropical seabird with a wide distributional range. However, like many other seabirds, its population numbers are currently declining. Very little is known about the at-sea distribution of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters in the tropical western Indian Ocean. Therefore, this thesis investigates the foraging ecology of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters in the western Indian Ocean by tracking the fine scale movements of individuals at sea. This study was conducted in two different oceanic environments, namely D’Arros Island and Fouquet Island, St Joseph Atoll in the Amirantes Group in Seychelles archipelago as well as Réunion Island in the Mascarene archipelago during the Wedge-tailed Shearwaters breeding seasons. Here I aimed to investigate the foraging distribution of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters on Réunion Island in relation to different stages of the breeding period. I also compared the foraging ecology of all three populations, subjected to different abiotic and biotic factors. Furthermore, I investigated foraging site fidelity in individuals and repeatability within individual flight characteristics. To my knowledge, this is the first study to comprehensively investigate the foraging ecology of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters using global positioning system (GPS) loggers. This study demonstrated that the Wedge-tailed Shearwaters implement flexible foraging strategies throughout different stages of their breeding period and between different islands. In Réunion, during the shearwater breeding season, sexual segregation was prominent during early chick rearing and both sexes implemented dual foraging. As suggested by previous studies, it is likely that long trips were implemented for self-maintenance, whereas multiple short trips were implemented to meet the high energetic demands of the chicks. Several important foraging areas were identified for these Wedge-tailed Shearwaters. During incubation, shearwaters from Réunion faithfully foraged towards the south east of Madagascar near the East Madagascar Current and flew over large areas of the Mascarene Basin. During chick rearing, shearwaters significantly constricted their range closer to the colony and exploited deep waters on the south-west of Réunion Island. Shearwaters concentrated near oceanographic features such as the Pérouse Seamount (which is a known area of high productivity) as well as the Bourdonnais Ridge. There was no clear evidence for spatial or sexual segregation between individuals from the two study colonies in Seychelles during incubation and birds utilized a broader foraging range than birds from Réunion. This is likely to be the result of a large annual phytoplankton bloom which coincides with the shearwater breeding season in Seychelles, providing many foraging opportunities within the Seychelles Basin. The shearwaters from Seychelles exploited the Amirante Basin, East Somali Basin, and parts of the Seychelles archipelago. Shearwaters from D’Arros flew further east and foraged in the Mascarene Basin. Shearwaters from all populations foraged over deep, relatively unproductive waters with relatively high sea surface temperatures which are similar oceanographic features favoured by tuna. Foraging plasticity between individuals from different colonies was observed with varying flight bearings, flight durations and the maximum distances travelled from their respective colonies. Shearwaters displayed dissimilar levels of site fidelity, where shearwaters from Réunion faithfully foraged towards south east Madagascar, while shearwaters from Seychelles foraged over a wide range over the Seychelles Basin. Foraging effort for shearwaters from Fouquet was lower than shearwaters from Reunion and they spent less time at sea and foraged closer to their colony. These difference in behaviour responses between colonies may be advantageous to shearwaters, indicating that they may be able to respond to some level of environmental variability resulting from climate change and anthropogenic pressures. Lastly, during chick rearing, though shearwaters showed low levels of repeatability in flight characterising, foraging site fidelity was high amongst some of the individuals. Here we see that shearwaters continuously rely on permanent features, like seamounts and possibly fish aggregating devices, which are known to attract high abundances of tuna. Shearwaters may to some extent be relying on memory to find prey in a seemingly unpredictable environment. This study has helped us gain valuable insight about the foraging ecology of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters in the western Indian Ocean. Together with similar studies determining the at-sea behaviour of seabirds, better informed recommendations can be made to marine spatial planners as to where much needed pelagic marine protection should be implemented to preserve marine life in this fascinating part of the global ocean.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The design of a community owned winery in Philippi informal settlement Cape Cape
- Authors: Steytler, Willem
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Wineries -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Designs and plans , Wine and wine making -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39196 , vital:35057
- Description: The study focuses on Philippi as a particular place and the communities that dwell there. It aims to study the spatial dispositions caused by apartheid and colonialism. The dissertation highlights the inequality of South African cityscapes which is then extrapolated in the conditions that exists on the Cape Flats. A core focus of the study is the way in which architecture might aid the spatial inequality in a post-apartheid South Africa. The first bottle of wine was bottled in South Africa seven years after the Cape had been colonized. This means that the wine industry has always been synonymous of colonialization to a certain degree. Further research reveals that the part of the Cape Flats that is today known as Philippi Township was used for grapevine cultivation by German settlers from the 1830s, but with the advent of the forced removals, the 1950 Groups Area Act zoned that land for the relocation of the non-white community. The community on the Cape Flats experiences a significantly lower quality of life than many of the suburbs in Cape Town. (http://journals.sagepub.com) It can be noted that the areas surrounding Cape Town have an abundance of vineyards owned mostly by a singular demographic with a significantly higher income than those living in the townships. Research has indicated that the ‘terroir’, (climatic and environmental conditions) of Philippi is ideal for grapevine cultivation and there are upwards of 250 hectares of open land. The viticulture industry is one of the biggest sources of income for the Western Cape but the problem lies in the fact that the revenue created is channeled only to an elite group of people. To counteract the repercussions of apartheid many strategies have been implemented by the government; among these is land reform. The physical and spatial nature of this place is investigated to create an architectural viewpoint on the matter. The treatise explores the design of a community-owned winery in the Philippi Informal Settlement and examines how the resultant architecture might address the impaired configuration of the urban make-up while strengthening the sense of identity. The idea is that through leap-frog development locals will plant vineyards in open spaces, making the township a greener space to live in, whilst also generating income for the local inhabitants and allowing for the transfer of knowledge. The use of precedent studies into the nature of building type, site visits as well as site- and precinct investigations were necessary to reach an understanding of the building type and a possible architectural response to the sensitive topic. All research is qualitative using inductive reasoning. Qualtative research is based on observation to gather non-numerical data. Inductive reasoning is reasoning where the premises support the conclusion, which means that the conclusion is the part of reasoning that inductive reasoning is trying to prove. The understanding gained from the above-mentioned methods led to an appropriate architectural response in the form of a design. The design is the conclusion and proposed solution of the treatise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Steytler, Willem
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Wineries -- South Africa -- Cape Town -- Designs and plans , Wine and wine making -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39196 , vital:35057
- Description: The study focuses on Philippi as a particular place and the communities that dwell there. It aims to study the spatial dispositions caused by apartheid and colonialism. The dissertation highlights the inequality of South African cityscapes which is then extrapolated in the conditions that exists on the Cape Flats. A core focus of the study is the way in which architecture might aid the spatial inequality in a post-apartheid South Africa. The first bottle of wine was bottled in South Africa seven years after the Cape had been colonized. This means that the wine industry has always been synonymous of colonialization to a certain degree. Further research reveals that the part of the Cape Flats that is today known as Philippi Township was used for grapevine cultivation by German settlers from the 1830s, but with the advent of the forced removals, the 1950 Groups Area Act zoned that land for the relocation of the non-white community. The community on the Cape Flats experiences a significantly lower quality of life than many of the suburbs in Cape Town. (http://journals.sagepub.com) It can be noted that the areas surrounding Cape Town have an abundance of vineyards owned mostly by a singular demographic with a significantly higher income than those living in the townships. Research has indicated that the ‘terroir’, (climatic and environmental conditions) of Philippi is ideal for grapevine cultivation and there are upwards of 250 hectares of open land. The viticulture industry is one of the biggest sources of income for the Western Cape but the problem lies in the fact that the revenue created is channeled only to an elite group of people. To counteract the repercussions of apartheid many strategies have been implemented by the government; among these is land reform. The physical and spatial nature of this place is investigated to create an architectural viewpoint on the matter. The treatise explores the design of a community-owned winery in the Philippi Informal Settlement and examines how the resultant architecture might address the impaired configuration of the urban make-up while strengthening the sense of identity. The idea is that through leap-frog development locals will plant vineyards in open spaces, making the township a greener space to live in, whilst also generating income for the local inhabitants and allowing for the transfer of knowledge. The use of precedent studies into the nature of building type, site visits as well as site- and precinct investigations were necessary to reach an understanding of the building type and a possible architectural response to the sensitive topic. All research is qualitative using inductive reasoning. Qualtative research is based on observation to gather non-numerical data. Inductive reasoning is reasoning where the premises support the conclusion, which means that the conclusion is the part of reasoning that inductive reasoning is trying to prove. The understanding gained from the above-mentioned methods led to an appropriate architectural response in the form of a design. The design is the conclusion and proposed solution of the treatise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Factors impacting the design of a mobile application for soil management: a case study of the Eastern Cape crops
- Authors: Botha, Stephan
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mobile soil management application
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44581 , vital:38127
- Description: Some of the biggest challenges the global community has to face are the ever-dwindling levels of freshwater resources, the drastic impact of the greenhouse gases on the global climate and the loss of non-renewable fertile soil. South African agriculture contributes a total of 12.7% to the overall South African GDP (gross domestic product). Only a small portion of the South African soil is considered as being able to grow healthy and nutritious crops. The world of information communication technology (ICT) is extremely vast and growing daily with newly created tools, to accommodate the needs of a specific sector, such as agriculture. As the ICT-based agricultural solutions increase and improve, the uptake of these solutions within the South African agricultural sector becomes even smaller. The reasons for the low uptake of mobile soil management solutions for crop growing farmers are unknown, due to limited research conducted. The identified problem was a lack of understanding of the way mobile technologies can be designed to adequately support farmers to correctly manage their soil to produce the best possible crops. The primary objective of this research study was to identify factors, which may have a significant impact on the design of a mobile soil management application for crop farmers in the Eastern Cape (South Africa). The secondary objectives were as follows: (i) to determine what soil management is and which aspects are required to implement soil management effectively; (ii) to identify possible mobile technologies suitable to act as an effective support structure for a mobile soil management application; and (iii) to identify which user experience guidelines are key for the development of an effective mobile soil management solution and to compile a user experience guideline for an effective mobile soil management solution. Achieving these objectives, resulted in a better understanding of the identified problem. The problem was addressed by conducting a thorough literature review and a case study to better grasp the different aspects of the identified problem. Quantitative data was collected by conducting a user interface evaluation. Qualitative data were also gathered by means of a field test using the mobile soil management application. The field test was done in conjunction with a heuristic evaluation, completed by the participants. Data triangulation was used to compare the results of the gathered data. The results from the data triangulation were used to confirm the factors, which made the most significant impact on the success of the soil management application. These confirmed design factors were used to produce a list of guidelines to improve the design of future mobile ICT soil management applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Botha, Stephan
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mobile soil management application
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44581 , vital:38127
- Description: Some of the biggest challenges the global community has to face are the ever-dwindling levels of freshwater resources, the drastic impact of the greenhouse gases on the global climate and the loss of non-renewable fertile soil. South African agriculture contributes a total of 12.7% to the overall South African GDP (gross domestic product). Only a small portion of the South African soil is considered as being able to grow healthy and nutritious crops. The world of information communication technology (ICT) is extremely vast and growing daily with newly created tools, to accommodate the needs of a specific sector, such as agriculture. As the ICT-based agricultural solutions increase and improve, the uptake of these solutions within the South African agricultural sector becomes even smaller. The reasons for the low uptake of mobile soil management solutions for crop growing farmers are unknown, due to limited research conducted. The identified problem was a lack of understanding of the way mobile technologies can be designed to adequately support farmers to correctly manage their soil to produce the best possible crops. The primary objective of this research study was to identify factors, which may have a significant impact on the design of a mobile soil management application for crop farmers in the Eastern Cape (South Africa). The secondary objectives were as follows: (i) to determine what soil management is and which aspects are required to implement soil management effectively; (ii) to identify possible mobile technologies suitable to act as an effective support structure for a mobile soil management application; and (iii) to identify which user experience guidelines are key for the development of an effective mobile soil management solution and to compile a user experience guideline for an effective mobile soil management solution. Achieving these objectives, resulted in a better understanding of the identified problem. The problem was addressed by conducting a thorough literature review and a case study to better grasp the different aspects of the identified problem. Quantitative data was collected by conducting a user interface evaluation. Qualitative data were also gathered by means of a field test using the mobile soil management application. The field test was done in conjunction with a heuristic evaluation, completed by the participants. Data triangulation was used to compare the results of the gathered data. The results from the data triangulation were used to confirm the factors, which made the most significant impact on the success of the soil management application. These confirmed design factors were used to produce a list of guidelines to improve the design of future mobile ICT soil management applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A performance management model for organisational performance excellence in the South African railway industry
- Authors: Mtati, Tabisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Success in business -- South Africa Railroads -- South Africa -- Track
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33043 , vital:32501
- Description: The South African railway industry has seven times more of labour productivity than its counterparts within Sub-Saharan Africa. Though, when compared to countries in Europe, the United States of America, and China, the South African railway industry is non-competitive. The National Railway Safety Regulator of South Africa (NRSR) has been gradually considering novel ways of measuring organisational performance which encompass a broad approach that goes beyond infrastructure. To that end, a business excellence model adoption is proposed for an integrated agile performance management system. Performance management is viewed as a method that involves measuring goals against a set of standards within an organisation so as to evaluate whether or not the intended objectives have been (successfully) accomplished. Management quality systems (MQS) is one seamless system which integrates the Individual Performance Assessments, ISO-Systems, and Total Quality Management (TQM) in order to achieve the operational distinction in pursuit of the organisational performance excellence. Similarly, organisational excellence is continuous efforts made to build an internal framework of standards and processes intended to involve and motivate employees to deliver products and services within organisational expectations. Various business excellence models, such as the European Framework of Quality Management (EFQM), Common Assessment Framework (CAF), Malcolm Bridge National Quality Awards (MBNQA), International Standard Organisation (ISO) 9000/1/4 and South African Excellence Models (SAEM) have been proposed as continuous improvement (CI) tools. Embedded within these frameworks are areas such as leadership, strategic planning, total quality human resources management, CI, communications, culture, process management and organisational results. Even though attention has been paid to quality performance management in literature, limited empirical research has been conducted on the impact of these models to organisational performance in the railway industry. Moreover, few studies have been conducted to investigate this within the South African context. In this study, the difference in perceptions regarding the envisioned model will be measured to determine the level of employee awareness on quality management. Secondly, the impact of the implementation of MQS factors on organisational performance is investigated to determine critical success factors. Lastly, the barriers to effective MQS implementation are explored and discussed. The study focuses on enablers (i.e. leadership, strategy planning, total quality human resources management, CI, communications, culture and process management) and their impact on organisational performance. An empirical survey has been conducted in this study to examine the influence of the identified factors on business performance. In order to measure the impact of the above factors on improving of organisational performance, the MQS model has been used. The data collected has been statistically analysed using descriptive statistics, correlational relationships and regression analysis. The results of the study indicate that the MQS is useful and effective for the improvement of organisational performance in pursuit of organisational excellence. Furthermore, the critical success factors that, when prioritised, will directly influence organisational performance have been identified. Also, all the measured factors are correlated with organisational performance. It has been proven that though there are signs of implementation of MQS, the employees have not yet owned the process and do not implement quality practises in their daily operations. It is recommended that for future studies a more representative sample be sought in order to validate the relationship between strategy planning; communication and organisational performance, and the overall impact of implementing of MQS in the rail industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mtati, Tabisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Success in business -- South Africa Railroads -- South Africa -- Track
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33043 , vital:32501
- Description: The South African railway industry has seven times more of labour productivity than its counterparts within Sub-Saharan Africa. Though, when compared to countries in Europe, the United States of America, and China, the South African railway industry is non-competitive. The National Railway Safety Regulator of South Africa (NRSR) has been gradually considering novel ways of measuring organisational performance which encompass a broad approach that goes beyond infrastructure. To that end, a business excellence model adoption is proposed for an integrated agile performance management system. Performance management is viewed as a method that involves measuring goals against a set of standards within an organisation so as to evaluate whether or not the intended objectives have been (successfully) accomplished. Management quality systems (MQS) is one seamless system which integrates the Individual Performance Assessments, ISO-Systems, and Total Quality Management (TQM) in order to achieve the operational distinction in pursuit of the organisational performance excellence. Similarly, organisational excellence is continuous efforts made to build an internal framework of standards and processes intended to involve and motivate employees to deliver products and services within organisational expectations. Various business excellence models, such as the European Framework of Quality Management (EFQM), Common Assessment Framework (CAF), Malcolm Bridge National Quality Awards (MBNQA), International Standard Organisation (ISO) 9000/1/4 and South African Excellence Models (SAEM) have been proposed as continuous improvement (CI) tools. Embedded within these frameworks are areas such as leadership, strategic planning, total quality human resources management, CI, communications, culture, process management and organisational results. Even though attention has been paid to quality performance management in literature, limited empirical research has been conducted on the impact of these models to organisational performance in the railway industry. Moreover, few studies have been conducted to investigate this within the South African context. In this study, the difference in perceptions regarding the envisioned model will be measured to determine the level of employee awareness on quality management. Secondly, the impact of the implementation of MQS factors on organisational performance is investigated to determine critical success factors. Lastly, the barriers to effective MQS implementation are explored and discussed. The study focuses on enablers (i.e. leadership, strategy planning, total quality human resources management, CI, communications, culture and process management) and their impact on organisational performance. An empirical survey has been conducted in this study to examine the influence of the identified factors on business performance. In order to measure the impact of the above factors on improving of organisational performance, the MQS model has been used. The data collected has been statistically analysed using descriptive statistics, correlational relationships and regression analysis. The results of the study indicate that the MQS is useful and effective for the improvement of organisational performance in pursuit of organisational excellence. Furthermore, the critical success factors that, when prioritised, will directly influence organisational performance have been identified. Also, all the measured factors are correlated with organisational performance. It has been proven that though there are signs of implementation of MQS, the employees have not yet owned the process and do not implement quality practises in their daily operations. It is recommended that for future studies a more representative sample be sought in order to validate the relationship between strategy planning; communication and organisational performance, and the overall impact of implementing of MQS in the rail industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The challenges of professional women in a male-dominated South African construction industry
- Authors: Tyindyana, Xolile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry -- South Africa , Construction industry -- South Africa -- Management Women industrialists -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44962 , vital:38192
- Description: The opinions that South African construction industry is the most untransformed sector, highly gender active and men have difficulty in accepting women in the construction industry, hindered the development of the South African economy. The improved number of professional women entering the statuses of this male dominance is noticeable, but the percentage of men still speak volume. Hence, there are imbalances that are correspondent to discrimination trials. This study explore challenges faced by professional women in the construction industry of South Africa, in the Eastern Cape. The study embraced exploratory research design in order to formulate preliminary investigations based on relatively unknown areas of professional women in construction industry. Therefore, this qualitative method incorporated interpretivism as its research philosophy, with the motive that this paradigm succeeds individual ontology that does not perceive as objective and independent. The purposeful sampling technique deployed in identifying the research participants, coupled by ten (10) women rendering professional services in the construction industry. Data collected was analysed thematically, which gave rise to presented themes, deliberated and construed in headings framed from research objectives. The study revealed that professional women still trapped between resisting, accommodating masculine politics and femininity distinctions regardless of evolutions. Most participants attested to the gender imbalances that propagates marginalisation, which is in line with the revelations. The study also suggest that men reject professionalism identity in the context of women. Other key challenges were not limited to backgrounds of the industry, outlook and progression that necessitated women taking executive positions. Further still, participants are aware of flouted construction industry policies and the strategies to use to by their counterparts to obscure them. Hence, the study suggested monitoring and review of policies in place by the policy makers. A recommended that similar research be carried out in South Africa, particularly provinces, as a literature gap has been identified. These recommended studies could enhance professional women, men and policy makers in profound consideration of the challenges faced by professional women in the construction industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Tyindyana, Xolile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry -- South Africa , Construction industry -- South Africa -- Management Women industrialists -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44962 , vital:38192
- Description: The opinions that South African construction industry is the most untransformed sector, highly gender active and men have difficulty in accepting women in the construction industry, hindered the development of the South African economy. The improved number of professional women entering the statuses of this male dominance is noticeable, but the percentage of men still speak volume. Hence, there are imbalances that are correspondent to discrimination trials. This study explore challenges faced by professional women in the construction industry of South Africa, in the Eastern Cape. The study embraced exploratory research design in order to formulate preliminary investigations based on relatively unknown areas of professional women in construction industry. Therefore, this qualitative method incorporated interpretivism as its research philosophy, with the motive that this paradigm succeeds individual ontology that does not perceive as objective and independent. The purposeful sampling technique deployed in identifying the research participants, coupled by ten (10) women rendering professional services in the construction industry. Data collected was analysed thematically, which gave rise to presented themes, deliberated and construed in headings framed from research objectives. The study revealed that professional women still trapped between resisting, accommodating masculine politics and femininity distinctions regardless of evolutions. Most participants attested to the gender imbalances that propagates marginalisation, which is in line with the revelations. The study also suggest that men reject professionalism identity in the context of women. Other key challenges were not limited to backgrounds of the industry, outlook and progression that necessitated women taking executive positions. Further still, participants are aware of flouted construction industry policies and the strategies to use to by their counterparts to obscure them. Hence, the study suggested monitoring and review of policies in place by the policy makers. A recommended that similar research be carried out in South Africa, particularly provinces, as a literature gap has been identified. These recommended studies could enhance professional women, men and policy makers in profound consideration of the challenges faced by professional women in the construction industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The development of a socio-economic model to promote women empowerment initiatives in the renewable energy sector of South Africa
- Authors: Keown, Harvey
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women -- Employment -- South Africa , Women in development -- South Africa Equality -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 2000-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40621 , vital:36199
- Description: The objective of this research was, therefore, to evaluate and recommend new approaches to mainstream gender in the renewable energy sector. This objective would be achieved by introducing a model of the factors that contribute to the perceived success of the socio-economic empowerment of women within the renewable energy sector of the RSA. This study is equally beneficial to any Country that might be embarking on a Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program. Also, the research findings and recommendations are equally relevant to the mining, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors who wish to mainstream gender in their sectors. From the empirical evidence, Executive Leadership (ethical leadership) positively influences Good Governance and Successful Women’s Empowerment. Therefore, the inference can be made that the respondents deemed Executive Leadership to be a primary contributing factor to both Good Governance and Successful Women’s Empowerment. According to the empirical results, Social Investment (funding) and Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (policy) positively influence Successful Women’s Empowerment. Finally, the empirical results indicate that Sustainable Programmes are a positive contributing factor to Good Governance. The respondents did not consider Stakeholder Engagement statistically significant in relation to Good Governance or Successful Women’s Empowerment. This could be a case of misinterpretation, or lack of experience regarding the importance of Stakeholder Engagement. However, the literature indicates the criticality of Stakeholder Engagement, as well as Change Management. Further research should be conducted to establish the lack of appreciation by respondents for the importance of Stakeholder Engagement and Change Management. These findings shed light on the opportunities for the socio-economic empowerment of women in the renewable energy sector of the RSA, by developing women-led Independent Power Producers.The South African Constitution is lauded as one of the most progressive in the world, and in some respects considered better than the Constitution of the United States of America with regards to Human and Socio-Economic Rights. Yet, South Africa exhibits the highest incidence of recorded rape in the world, with an increase in femicides, violence against women and children, and even more barbaric acts of burning their victims, and cannibalism in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. This research argues that if women were economically empowered, they would be able to extricate themselves from these perilous situations. The paradox between the South African Constitution and the reality, is indicative of deep structural challenges that will require exceptional solutions that will address the systemic issues that this study will discuss. The renewable energy sector, which is one of the fastest growing business sectors in South Africa, could be that catalyst for this change, and, more importantly, change the stereotypical paradigm of women entrepreneurs as owners of ‘chicken coops’ and ‘veggie patches’, to become owner-operators of their own power generation facilities, thereby making a meaningful contribution to women-led Independent Power Producers. However, it would be a lost opportunity if the renewable energy sector were to follow a similar trajectory to the mining sector in failing to mainstream gender, or if the renewable energy sector were to repeat the errors of the mining sector in attempting to empower women. Based on the literature review, guidance from subject matter experts, survey data, and personal field experience, I examine the primary research question: What are the main contributors and variables which can positively influence the socioeconomic empowerment of women initiatives in the renewable energy sector in the Republic of South Africa? In order to respond to this primary research question, a theoretical model was developed, which was informed by the academic literature, reports and studies from the public and private sectors, data garnered through a questionnaire, as well as face-to-face dialogue sessions. In order to address the primary objective of developing the theoretical model, several secondary goals were established by developing a conceptual model that comprised of variables determined through a detailed review of the related gender and renewable energy literature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Keown, Harvey
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women -- Employment -- South Africa , Women in development -- South Africa Equality -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 2000-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40621 , vital:36199
- Description: The objective of this research was, therefore, to evaluate and recommend new approaches to mainstream gender in the renewable energy sector. This objective would be achieved by introducing a model of the factors that contribute to the perceived success of the socio-economic empowerment of women within the renewable energy sector of the RSA. This study is equally beneficial to any Country that might be embarking on a Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program. Also, the research findings and recommendations are equally relevant to the mining, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors who wish to mainstream gender in their sectors. From the empirical evidence, Executive Leadership (ethical leadership) positively influences Good Governance and Successful Women’s Empowerment. Therefore, the inference can be made that the respondents deemed Executive Leadership to be a primary contributing factor to both Good Governance and Successful Women’s Empowerment. According to the empirical results, Social Investment (funding) and Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (policy) positively influence Successful Women’s Empowerment. Finally, the empirical results indicate that Sustainable Programmes are a positive contributing factor to Good Governance. The respondents did not consider Stakeholder Engagement statistically significant in relation to Good Governance or Successful Women’s Empowerment. This could be a case of misinterpretation, or lack of experience regarding the importance of Stakeholder Engagement. However, the literature indicates the criticality of Stakeholder Engagement, as well as Change Management. Further research should be conducted to establish the lack of appreciation by respondents for the importance of Stakeholder Engagement and Change Management. These findings shed light on the opportunities for the socio-economic empowerment of women in the renewable energy sector of the RSA, by developing women-led Independent Power Producers.The South African Constitution is lauded as one of the most progressive in the world, and in some respects considered better than the Constitution of the United States of America with regards to Human and Socio-Economic Rights. Yet, South Africa exhibits the highest incidence of recorded rape in the world, with an increase in femicides, violence against women and children, and even more barbaric acts of burning their victims, and cannibalism in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. This research argues that if women were economically empowered, they would be able to extricate themselves from these perilous situations. The paradox between the South African Constitution and the reality, is indicative of deep structural challenges that will require exceptional solutions that will address the systemic issues that this study will discuss. The renewable energy sector, which is one of the fastest growing business sectors in South Africa, could be that catalyst for this change, and, more importantly, change the stereotypical paradigm of women entrepreneurs as owners of ‘chicken coops’ and ‘veggie patches’, to become owner-operators of their own power generation facilities, thereby making a meaningful contribution to women-led Independent Power Producers. However, it would be a lost opportunity if the renewable energy sector were to follow a similar trajectory to the mining sector in failing to mainstream gender, or if the renewable energy sector were to repeat the errors of the mining sector in attempting to empower women. Based on the literature review, guidance from subject matter experts, survey data, and personal field experience, I examine the primary research question: What are the main contributors and variables which can positively influence the socioeconomic empowerment of women initiatives in the renewable energy sector in the Republic of South Africa? In order to respond to this primary research question, a theoretical model was developed, which was informed by the academic literature, reports and studies from the public and private sectors, data garnered through a questionnaire, as well as face-to-face dialogue sessions. In order to address the primary objective of developing the theoretical model, several secondary goals were established by developing a conceptual model that comprised of variables determined through a detailed review of the related gender and renewable energy literature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Synthesis, characterization and application of novel acetals derived from Eucalyptus oil
- Authors: Burger, Kirstin.
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Plasticizers , Eucalyptus citriodora
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23548 , vital:30579
- Description: The aim of the project was to develop new bio-plasticizer compounds which could be incorporated into infant plastics. Plasticizers increase flexibility of plastic. These plasticizer compounds were derived from crude natural oils such as Eucalyptus citriodora oil and virgin coconut oil. A reagent which could be synthesized from Eucalyptus citriodora oil was, para-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD) which was present in a 60:40 ratio of cis and trans isomers of the diol. A green procedure to synthesize the diol, where an environmentally friendly catalyst, citric acid was used. Optimal conditions were 7% aqueous citric acid as the catalyst and 12 hour reaction which resulted in a citronellal conversion of 88.4 ± 0.80% and PMD selectivity of 75.4 ± 1.22%. As the diol was present in isomers, it was of interest to separate the cis and trans isomers for characterization purposes and later for subsequent individual isomer acetalization reactions. Yields obtained for the reaction for cis and trans-PMD were 51% and 36%, respectively. The kinetics for PMD synthesis from Eucalyptus citriodora oil was determined as second order with a rate constant of 0.0008hr-1 and Ea of 15.77kJ/mol. The isomers of para-menthane-3,8-diol could be separated from the isomeric mixture by solvent extraction at -78°C with n-heptane. Individual rod-shaped crystals could be isolated with this procedure and was characterized by X-ray crystallography techniques and identified as cis-para-menthane-3,8-diol. The trans-para-menthane-3,8-diol was successfully separated, however adequate crystals were not grown for X-ray crystallography analysis. Another method of isomer separation was investigated for PMD by the formation of a complex where anhydrous copper chloride could only form a novel complex with cis-para-menthane-3,8-diol. The trans isomer remained unreacted in the filtrate. The cis-para-menthane-3,8-diol isomer could be freed from the complex to yield pure cis isomer. Aldehydes could be synthesized from virgin coconut oil with carboxylic acid extraction procedures of the crude oil. Subsequent synthesis reactions from carboxylic acid to form aldehydes were performed and octanal (85% yield), decanal (88% yield), dodecanal (86% yield) and tetradecanal (14% yield) could be successfully synthesized as precursors to the novel acetalization reactions. Eight novel cyclic acetals with a characteristic 1,3-dioxine ring were successfully synthesized. However, diastereoisomers of cis-acetal and trans-acetal were present and required separation for characterization 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, FT-IR, GC-MS and optical rotation techniques. The eight novel acetals were further characterized according to their physical properties such as there was no data available for these compounds. The following properties were determined: molecular mass, molecular formula, density, viscosity, boiling point, refractive index, enthalpy of vaporization, flash point, UV-VIS compatibility, solubility’s, colour and odour determination. Yields of up to 97% were obtained for these acetal compounds. The synthesis of acetals was optimized with batch reactions and optimum conditions were determined where eight catalysts were screened. These catalysts included: scandium triflate, Zeolite, sulphuric acid, p-toluene-sulfonic acid, Amberlyst 15®, Amberlyst 36®, Amberlite® IRA-120 and formic acid. Optimal conditions were with Amberlyst 15® catalyst, 50 minute reaction time at 65°C reaction temperature. The kinetics of the reaction was determined as zero order with a rate constant of 11.92 hr-1 and Ea of 0.050 kJ/mol. The acetalization reaction was evaluated using a UniQsis FlowSyn continuous flow reactor. One of the eight acetals (hexanal acetal) was used for the optimization study and the remaining acetals were evaluated with the optimum flow conditions. The reaction was improved with the use of continuous flow chemistry techniques by lowering of the optimum batch conditions. Various residence times (3.46-17.30 minutes) and temperature range (25-85°C) were studied to obtain optimum conditions. This process was efficient and low maintenance, which produced high acetal product selectivity of Optimum continuous flow conditions were determined at 55°C and 17.30 minute residence time with the flow rate of 0.1 ml/min. Heterogeneous catalysts such as Amberlyst 15® and Zeolite were screened and Amberlyst 15® determined as most favourable. The effect of Amberlyst 15® catalyst loading (0.5-2 g) was investigated over a temperature range of 25-85°C. Optimum catalyst loading was determined at 1g. The 8 compounds were tested for potential as plasticizers. This included mechanical, thermal, migratory and aesthetic testing. The novel acetals had to be compared to known plasticizers. Therefore, their plasticizer properties were compared to two commercial plasticizers: DBP and Eastman 168. As the compounds were derived from natural resources, they would be classified as bio-plasticizers if they exhibited such properties. Therefore, it was of interest to compare the novel compounds to a known bio-plasticizer: PMD-citronellal acetal. This compound was also present as a diastereoisomers mixture of cis and trans isomers. Therefore, diastereoisomers of the 8 acetals were separated as cis and trans isomers in high yields for plasticizer testing purposes. All 11 compounds (8 novel acetals, PMD-citronellal acetal, DBP and Eastman 168) were formulated in PVC to produce plastic films. As previously stated, isomers were present for the acetal compounds and these individual isomers were formulated into PVC formulations to evaluate if there was an effect of stereochemistry in the plastic films. Studies on this phenomenon were limited and therefore of interest. For isomeric plasticizer testing, 9 acetals (8 novel acetals and PMD-citronellal acetal) were used in the testing. Therefore 18 test compounds were formulated in PVC films for isomer plasticizer testing. The effect of increasing the compound amount in the PVC formulation was investigated in the range of 3-12% (w/w). The following tests were evaluated for all PVC test films: elongation, stress to fracture, glass transition temperature, leaching rate, flexibility, gloss and opacity. To validate the data and observations made, statistical validation models were developed to justify experimental design and trends observed. All novel compounds had plasticizer properties and one acetal compound was concluded as superior to DBP and Eastman 168, within the testing scope of the research. It was observed that higher molecular mass acetal compounds had increased plasticizer properties. Isomers for all acetal compounds were concluded to affect plasticizer properties differently and were highly significant. As the novel acetal compounds could be synthesized from natural crude resources, it was interesting to investigate if the synthesized acetals retained their anti-bacterial properties which the precursor oils possessed. Anti-bacterial testing of isomeric mixtures of C5-C12 acetal was investigated and compared to PMD-citronellal acetal and the two commercial plasticizers: DBP and Eastman 168. As the scope of the research focussed on bio-plasticizers for infant plastic products, test bacterial strains were chosen based on the pathogenic strains which cause diseases in babies. Six strains of bacteria were evaluated. It was of interest to evaluate the potency of the compounds by determining the minimum concentration of the compounds which would be potent enough to inhibit the bacteria. The commercial plasticizers inhibited no bacteria within the scope of the research. The acetals retained their anti-bacterial properties where C12 acetal was superior in 4/6 strains of bacteria and PMD-citronellal acetal was superior in 2/6 strains of bacteria. This research is novel and there are presently no data available on this. It was concluded that 8 new bio-plasticizers were synthesized, optimized and tested, within the scope of this research. These compounds were comparable to industry standards in all tests and possessed anti-bacterial properties which the industrial standards don’t possess.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Burger, Kirstin.
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Plasticizers , Eucalyptus citriodora
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23548 , vital:30579
- Description: The aim of the project was to develop new bio-plasticizer compounds which could be incorporated into infant plastics. Plasticizers increase flexibility of plastic. These plasticizer compounds were derived from crude natural oils such as Eucalyptus citriodora oil and virgin coconut oil. A reagent which could be synthesized from Eucalyptus citriodora oil was, para-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD) which was present in a 60:40 ratio of cis and trans isomers of the diol. A green procedure to synthesize the diol, where an environmentally friendly catalyst, citric acid was used. Optimal conditions were 7% aqueous citric acid as the catalyst and 12 hour reaction which resulted in a citronellal conversion of 88.4 ± 0.80% and PMD selectivity of 75.4 ± 1.22%. As the diol was present in isomers, it was of interest to separate the cis and trans isomers for characterization purposes and later for subsequent individual isomer acetalization reactions. Yields obtained for the reaction for cis and trans-PMD were 51% and 36%, respectively. The kinetics for PMD synthesis from Eucalyptus citriodora oil was determined as second order with a rate constant of 0.0008hr-1 and Ea of 15.77kJ/mol. The isomers of para-menthane-3,8-diol could be separated from the isomeric mixture by solvent extraction at -78°C with n-heptane. Individual rod-shaped crystals could be isolated with this procedure and was characterized by X-ray crystallography techniques and identified as cis-para-menthane-3,8-diol. The trans-para-menthane-3,8-diol was successfully separated, however adequate crystals were not grown for X-ray crystallography analysis. Another method of isomer separation was investigated for PMD by the formation of a complex where anhydrous copper chloride could only form a novel complex with cis-para-menthane-3,8-diol. The trans isomer remained unreacted in the filtrate. The cis-para-menthane-3,8-diol isomer could be freed from the complex to yield pure cis isomer. Aldehydes could be synthesized from virgin coconut oil with carboxylic acid extraction procedures of the crude oil. Subsequent synthesis reactions from carboxylic acid to form aldehydes were performed and octanal (85% yield), decanal (88% yield), dodecanal (86% yield) and tetradecanal (14% yield) could be successfully synthesized as precursors to the novel acetalization reactions. Eight novel cyclic acetals with a characteristic 1,3-dioxine ring were successfully synthesized. However, diastereoisomers of cis-acetal and trans-acetal were present and required separation for characterization 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, FT-IR, GC-MS and optical rotation techniques. The eight novel acetals were further characterized according to their physical properties such as there was no data available for these compounds. The following properties were determined: molecular mass, molecular formula, density, viscosity, boiling point, refractive index, enthalpy of vaporization, flash point, UV-VIS compatibility, solubility’s, colour and odour determination. Yields of up to 97% were obtained for these acetal compounds. The synthesis of acetals was optimized with batch reactions and optimum conditions were determined where eight catalysts were screened. These catalysts included: scandium triflate, Zeolite, sulphuric acid, p-toluene-sulfonic acid, Amberlyst 15®, Amberlyst 36®, Amberlite® IRA-120 and formic acid. Optimal conditions were with Amberlyst 15® catalyst, 50 minute reaction time at 65°C reaction temperature. The kinetics of the reaction was determined as zero order with a rate constant of 11.92 hr-1 and Ea of 0.050 kJ/mol. The acetalization reaction was evaluated using a UniQsis FlowSyn continuous flow reactor. One of the eight acetals (hexanal acetal) was used for the optimization study and the remaining acetals were evaluated with the optimum flow conditions. The reaction was improved with the use of continuous flow chemistry techniques by lowering of the optimum batch conditions. Various residence times (3.46-17.30 minutes) and temperature range (25-85°C) were studied to obtain optimum conditions. This process was efficient and low maintenance, which produced high acetal product selectivity of Optimum continuous flow conditions were determined at 55°C and 17.30 minute residence time with the flow rate of 0.1 ml/min. Heterogeneous catalysts such as Amberlyst 15® and Zeolite were screened and Amberlyst 15® determined as most favourable. The effect of Amberlyst 15® catalyst loading (0.5-2 g) was investigated over a temperature range of 25-85°C. Optimum catalyst loading was determined at 1g. The 8 compounds were tested for potential as plasticizers. This included mechanical, thermal, migratory and aesthetic testing. The novel acetals had to be compared to known plasticizers. Therefore, their plasticizer properties were compared to two commercial plasticizers: DBP and Eastman 168. As the compounds were derived from natural resources, they would be classified as bio-plasticizers if they exhibited such properties. Therefore, it was of interest to compare the novel compounds to a known bio-plasticizer: PMD-citronellal acetal. This compound was also present as a diastereoisomers mixture of cis and trans isomers. Therefore, diastereoisomers of the 8 acetals were separated as cis and trans isomers in high yields for plasticizer testing purposes. All 11 compounds (8 novel acetals, PMD-citronellal acetal, DBP and Eastman 168) were formulated in PVC to produce plastic films. As previously stated, isomers were present for the acetal compounds and these individual isomers were formulated into PVC formulations to evaluate if there was an effect of stereochemistry in the plastic films. Studies on this phenomenon were limited and therefore of interest. For isomeric plasticizer testing, 9 acetals (8 novel acetals and PMD-citronellal acetal) were used in the testing. Therefore 18 test compounds were formulated in PVC films for isomer plasticizer testing. The effect of increasing the compound amount in the PVC formulation was investigated in the range of 3-12% (w/w). The following tests were evaluated for all PVC test films: elongation, stress to fracture, glass transition temperature, leaching rate, flexibility, gloss and opacity. To validate the data and observations made, statistical validation models were developed to justify experimental design and trends observed. All novel compounds had plasticizer properties and one acetal compound was concluded as superior to DBP and Eastman 168, within the testing scope of the research. It was observed that higher molecular mass acetal compounds had increased plasticizer properties. Isomers for all acetal compounds were concluded to affect plasticizer properties differently and were highly significant. As the novel acetal compounds could be synthesized from natural crude resources, it was interesting to investigate if the synthesized acetals retained their anti-bacterial properties which the precursor oils possessed. Anti-bacterial testing of isomeric mixtures of C5-C12 acetal was investigated and compared to PMD-citronellal acetal and the two commercial plasticizers: DBP and Eastman 168. As the scope of the research focussed on bio-plasticizers for infant plastic products, test bacterial strains were chosen based on the pathogenic strains which cause diseases in babies. Six strains of bacteria were evaluated. It was of interest to evaluate the potency of the compounds by determining the minimum concentration of the compounds which would be potent enough to inhibit the bacteria. The commercial plasticizers inhibited no bacteria within the scope of the research. The acetals retained their anti-bacterial properties where C12 acetal was superior in 4/6 strains of bacteria and PMD-citronellal acetal was superior in 2/6 strains of bacteria. This research is novel and there are presently no data available on this. It was concluded that 8 new bio-plasticizers were synthesized, optimized and tested, within the scope of this research. These compounds were comparable to industry standards in all tests and possessed anti-bacterial properties which the industrial standards don’t possess.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Ultra-high precision manufacturing
- Authors: Abou-El-Hossein, Khaled
- Subjects: Machining , Diamond turning , f-sa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Lectures
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20878 , vital:29410
- Description: One of the engineering areas focusing on the research and development of highvalue components and manufacturing technologies is precision engineering. Precision engineering represents a variety of engineering and science disciplines ranging from areas such as mechanical, electronics and industrial engineering to chemistry, physics, optics and materials science. This paper aims at familiarising the reader with the recent advances in ultra-high precision manufacturing technologies and their applications for the production of various critical components employed in different sectors of the industry. In this paper, the principles of ultra-high precision manufacturing will be discussed followed by examples of its use in various industrial applications. The status of ultra-high precision manufacturing in terms of current research issues and future trends will be discussed. In addition, research activities and projects in the area of precision manufacturing that are currently conducted at the NMMU will be also highlighted. Finally, the author looks forward to presenting herewith comprehensive information that could be useful to the reader and easy to understand by the bigger NMMU’s community.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Abou-El-Hossein, Khaled
- Subjects: Machining , Diamond turning , f-sa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Lectures
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20878 , vital:29410
- Description: One of the engineering areas focusing on the research and development of highvalue components and manufacturing technologies is precision engineering. Precision engineering represents a variety of engineering and science disciplines ranging from areas such as mechanical, electronics and industrial engineering to chemistry, physics, optics and materials science. This paper aims at familiarising the reader with the recent advances in ultra-high precision manufacturing technologies and their applications for the production of various critical components employed in different sectors of the industry. In this paper, the principles of ultra-high precision manufacturing will be discussed followed by examples of its use in various industrial applications. The status of ultra-high precision manufacturing in terms of current research issues and future trends will be discussed. In addition, research activities and projects in the area of precision manufacturing that are currently conducted at the NMMU will be also highlighted. Finally, the author looks forward to presenting herewith comprehensive information that could be useful to the reader and easy to understand by the bigger NMMU’s community.
- Full Text: