Assessing authentic leadership and workplace trust amongst managerial government employees in Lesotho
- Authors: Damane, Likeleko
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Leadership -- Moral and ethical aspects , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9033 , vital:26458
- Description: In today‘s world, characterised by highly competitive global economies, organisations have realised the need for a positive approach in order to remain competitive, sustainable and to attract and retain talent. A positive approach to leadership and an organisational environment characterised by trust has been one of the fundamental tools towards achieving this goal. The main objective of the present study was to assess the existence of positive organizational approaches (authentic leadership and workplace trust) within the government of Lesotho, especially at a time when the country was facing difficulties. The study was descriptive in nature, and followed a non-experimental quantitative approach. The survey made use of a sample of 153 civil servants occupying positions from supervisory to senior management. Data was acquired through the use of an electronic questionnaire made up of two scales: one was a self-assessment instrument on authentic leadership adopted from Walumbwa and associates, and the other scale was on workplace trust developed by Natalie Ferres. The analysis of data involved descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, post hoc tests and Cohen‘s d. The results of the study provided evidence that there were high levels of the authentic leadership and trust in the workplace. Demographic variables were not found to influence the outcome of authentic leadership scores, however, education and managerial level were found to have an influence on organisational trust. The findings of the study provoked the researcher to call for an implementation of policy on positive training for management and for further research in this area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Damane, Likeleko
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Leadership -- Moral and ethical aspects , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9033 , vital:26458
- Description: In today‘s world, characterised by highly competitive global economies, organisations have realised the need for a positive approach in order to remain competitive, sustainable and to attract and retain talent. A positive approach to leadership and an organisational environment characterised by trust has been one of the fundamental tools towards achieving this goal. The main objective of the present study was to assess the existence of positive organizational approaches (authentic leadership and workplace trust) within the government of Lesotho, especially at a time when the country was facing difficulties. The study was descriptive in nature, and followed a non-experimental quantitative approach. The survey made use of a sample of 153 civil servants occupying positions from supervisory to senior management. Data was acquired through the use of an electronic questionnaire made up of two scales: one was a self-assessment instrument on authentic leadership adopted from Walumbwa and associates, and the other scale was on workplace trust developed by Natalie Ferres. The analysis of data involved descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, post hoc tests and Cohen‘s d. The results of the study provided evidence that there were high levels of the authentic leadership and trust in the workplace. Demographic variables were not found to influence the outcome of authentic leadership scores, however, education and managerial level were found to have an influence on organisational trust. The findings of the study provoked the researcher to call for an implementation of policy on positive training for management and for further research in this area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Assessing the effect of absenteeism in the Eastern Cape Department of Health
- Authors: Simon, Nobuzwe
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Absenteeism (Labor) Public health personnel Absenteeism (Labor) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2271 , vital:27736
- Description: The Department of Health is experiencing repeated negative press releases with the respect to the quality of service delivery in the Eastern Cape. The public sector is an entity that provides a unique service. This is made evident by the services provided such as provision of free health services for primary health care as well as free health services to children under six, disabled and senior citizens. The Eastern Cape Department of Health has developed service standards adopted in 2007 by the Eastern Cape Department of Health. This study aims to determine the casual effect of absenteeism and their relationship to poor service delivery. According to Makhubu (2006) many vacancies in the Eastern Cape Department of Health exist which result in service delivery problems. In terms of the second principle in the Batho Pele Principles the norms and standards which are service standards serves as a baseline where the Department of Public Service and Administration (2007) issued directive that the vacancy rate of any government department should range between ten and fifteen percent Makhubu (2006) further refers to the doctors/patient ratio as one is to three hundred patients (1:300), which is unhealthy and abnormal as the doctor/patient ration in terms of the Health Professional is one is to thirty (1:30). Such cases pose an opportunity to those employees who are within the service to absent themselves from such unhealthy situations and this behavior later result in the exodus (professional drainage) of employee. Schultz, Nel, Gerber, Hassbroek, Van Dyk and Werner (2001:582) define absenteeism as withdrawal of levels of productivity and collegial interaction for a given time to escape a perceived undesirable working environment. This behavior is disruptive to continuous organizational efficiency. Absenteeism is found in two forms that are avoidable and unavoidable. In the unavoidable forms of absenteeism, the situation in unplanned and is governed by external factors, thus it is beyond one’s control and has to be managed differently. Control of absenteeism can exercise by the immediate manager through the human resource section regarding the duration and terms of absence pertaining salary and terms of services.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Simon, Nobuzwe
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Absenteeism (Labor) Public health personnel Absenteeism (Labor) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2271 , vital:27736
- Description: The Department of Health is experiencing repeated negative press releases with the respect to the quality of service delivery in the Eastern Cape. The public sector is an entity that provides a unique service. This is made evident by the services provided such as provision of free health services for primary health care as well as free health services to children under six, disabled and senior citizens. The Eastern Cape Department of Health has developed service standards adopted in 2007 by the Eastern Cape Department of Health. This study aims to determine the casual effect of absenteeism and their relationship to poor service delivery. According to Makhubu (2006) many vacancies in the Eastern Cape Department of Health exist which result in service delivery problems. In terms of the second principle in the Batho Pele Principles the norms and standards which are service standards serves as a baseline where the Department of Public Service and Administration (2007) issued directive that the vacancy rate of any government department should range between ten and fifteen percent Makhubu (2006) further refers to the doctors/patient ratio as one is to three hundred patients (1:300), which is unhealthy and abnormal as the doctor/patient ration in terms of the Health Professional is one is to thirty (1:30). Such cases pose an opportunity to those employees who are within the service to absent themselves from such unhealthy situations and this behavior later result in the exodus (professional drainage) of employee. Schultz, Nel, Gerber, Hassbroek, Van Dyk and Werner (2001:582) define absenteeism as withdrawal of levels of productivity and collegial interaction for a given time to escape a perceived undesirable working environment. This behavior is disruptive to continuous organizational efficiency. Absenteeism is found in two forms that are avoidable and unavoidable. In the unavoidable forms of absenteeism, the situation in unplanned and is governed by external factors, thus it is beyond one’s control and has to be managed differently. Control of absenteeism can exercise by the immediate manager through the human resource section regarding the duration and terms of absence pertaining salary and terms of services.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Comparative analysis of characteristics of the various sugarcane bagasse types in terms of gasification
- Authors: Kula, Mpumezo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Bagasse Sugarcane -- Breeding Coal gasification
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13392 , vital:39656
- Description: The insight that the fossil fuel reserves are limited, together with concerns over security of supply (i.e. the oil crises), initiated the first raise of interest in biomass and all other renewable energy forms. However, the concern grew that global warming and the resulting climate change were enhanced by carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions resulting from fossil fuel consumption. Meanwhile, biomass energy is thought to account for 14–15percent of total world energy consumption. Hence, the exploitation and utilization of biomass energy are effective and necessary for relieving the pressures caused by environmental pollution and fossil fuel shortage (Lv et al., 2010). Recently, extensive research aimed at converting biomass to useful energy have been carried out, especially pyrolysis and gasification, which are particularly suitable for the effective and efficient utilization of biomass. Sugarcane bagasse is the main byproduct of sugarcane mill, ready available at the production site so that it may be a suitable raw material for the production of biofuels, chemicals, and electricity. Among the methods that have been previously studied, is this particular study we explore thermochemical process, gasification. The properties of sugarcane bagasse relevant to gasification are briefly reviewed. The compositions of the bagasse as a fuel are variable, especially with respect to inorganic constituents important to the critical problems of sintering, fouling and slagging. Alkali and alkaline earth metals, in combination with other fuel elements such as silica and sulfur, are responsible for many undesirable reactions in a gasifier system. The three sugarcane bagasse types namely washed, unwashed and the depithed sugarcane bagasse were subjected in different types of characterization to review and compare their characteristics for gasification. Ultimate analysis was used to determine the elemental compositions and this was helpful in estimating the energy input of the materials. Elemental compositions were determined with the CHNS analyzer which gave the percent compositions of each fuel in terms of Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen, Sulphur as well as Oxygen (by difference) and the SEM/EDX which gave the elemental composition of the materials as can be viewed from the EDX. The proximate analysis which is the physical characterization of the materials was carried out to preview the behavior of the sugarcane bagasse when subjected into high temperatures as the gasification process uses very high temperatures. These were determined by the TGA and the volatile matter content; fixed carbon content, moisture content and ash content were extrapolated from the resulting thermogram. SEM images for surface structures of the bagasse and FTIR for the structural functionality and bonding structures. The characterization of the bagasse was conducted to compare their gasification properties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Kula, Mpumezo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Bagasse Sugarcane -- Breeding Coal gasification
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13392 , vital:39656
- Description: The insight that the fossil fuel reserves are limited, together with concerns over security of supply (i.e. the oil crises), initiated the first raise of interest in biomass and all other renewable energy forms. However, the concern grew that global warming and the resulting climate change were enhanced by carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions resulting from fossil fuel consumption. Meanwhile, biomass energy is thought to account for 14–15percent of total world energy consumption. Hence, the exploitation and utilization of biomass energy are effective and necessary for relieving the pressures caused by environmental pollution and fossil fuel shortage (Lv et al., 2010). Recently, extensive research aimed at converting biomass to useful energy have been carried out, especially pyrolysis and gasification, which are particularly suitable for the effective and efficient utilization of biomass. Sugarcane bagasse is the main byproduct of sugarcane mill, ready available at the production site so that it may be a suitable raw material for the production of biofuels, chemicals, and electricity. Among the methods that have been previously studied, is this particular study we explore thermochemical process, gasification. The properties of sugarcane bagasse relevant to gasification are briefly reviewed. The compositions of the bagasse as a fuel are variable, especially with respect to inorganic constituents important to the critical problems of sintering, fouling and slagging. Alkali and alkaline earth metals, in combination with other fuel elements such as silica and sulfur, are responsible for many undesirable reactions in a gasifier system. The three sugarcane bagasse types namely washed, unwashed and the depithed sugarcane bagasse were subjected in different types of characterization to review and compare their characteristics for gasification. Ultimate analysis was used to determine the elemental compositions and this was helpful in estimating the energy input of the materials. Elemental compositions were determined with the CHNS analyzer which gave the percent compositions of each fuel in terms of Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen, Sulphur as well as Oxygen (by difference) and the SEM/EDX which gave the elemental composition of the materials as can be viewed from the EDX. The proximate analysis which is the physical characterization of the materials was carried out to preview the behavior of the sugarcane bagasse when subjected into high temperatures as the gasification process uses very high temperatures. These were determined by the TGA and the volatile matter content; fixed carbon content, moisture content and ash content were extrapolated from the resulting thermogram. SEM images for surface structures of the bagasse and FTIR for the structural functionality and bonding structures. The characterization of the bagasse was conducted to compare their gasification properties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The impact of gain-sharing on employee job satisfaction at a manufacturing company in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Mbotshelwa, Sipo Victor
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Gain sharing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11691 , vital:26955
- Description: In this economically challenging era, companies have got to find the best system that can help to enhance productivity. A very important method is by encouraging takeholders through various forms of incentives. The gain-sharing incentive has been adopted by many organisations today to enhance staff loyalty and productivity. A gain-sharing programme ensures that both the organisation and team members benefit from the expected performances, rather than an individual or group incentive which is given based on a specific finite goal which could be achieved at the cost of other key critical business need. A couple of years ago Autocast Aluminium decided to enhance employee performance by initiating the gain-sharing incentive programme. After the programme was rolled out, the organisation is yet to examine the extent to which it enhances job satisfaction in the organisation. The primary objective or aim of the study is to examine the extent to which gain-sharing at Autocast meets the purpose for which it was created. The sample of the study was 176 of the employees at Autocast Aluminium; however 130 questionnaires were distributed. A total of 88 questionnaires were returned, of which 80 were usable, whilst eight were scrapped due to more half of the questionnaire having missing data. This resulted in a 68 % response rate. A framework has been developed to measure to what extent does the programme enable employees to feel satisfied with their jobs. The empirical results revealed that out of six independent variables tested: fair payment, involvement, personal growth, communication, job security and leadership style, only three that plays significant role on employee job satisfaction. These are fair payment, communication and leadership style.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mbotshelwa, Sipo Victor
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Gain sharing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11691 , vital:26955
- Description: In this economically challenging era, companies have got to find the best system that can help to enhance productivity. A very important method is by encouraging takeholders through various forms of incentives. The gain-sharing incentive has been adopted by many organisations today to enhance staff loyalty and productivity. A gain-sharing programme ensures that both the organisation and team members benefit from the expected performances, rather than an individual or group incentive which is given based on a specific finite goal which could be achieved at the cost of other key critical business need. A couple of years ago Autocast Aluminium decided to enhance employee performance by initiating the gain-sharing incentive programme. After the programme was rolled out, the organisation is yet to examine the extent to which it enhances job satisfaction in the organisation. The primary objective or aim of the study is to examine the extent to which gain-sharing at Autocast meets the purpose for which it was created. The sample of the study was 176 of the employees at Autocast Aluminium; however 130 questionnaires were distributed. A total of 88 questionnaires were returned, of which 80 were usable, whilst eight were scrapped due to more half of the questionnaire having missing data. This resulted in a 68 % response rate. A framework has been developed to measure to what extent does the programme enable employees to feel satisfied with their jobs. The empirical results revealed that out of six independent variables tested: fair payment, involvement, personal growth, communication, job security and leadership style, only three that plays significant role on employee job satisfaction. These are fair payment, communication and leadership style.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Formulation development and thermorheological properties of crumb rubber/eva modified bitumen
- Authors: Nare, Keith Dumisani
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Crumb rubber Bitumen , Vinyl acetate
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11974 , vital:27015
- Description: The study deals with the formulation development and thermorheological properties of crumb rubber/ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) modified bitumen with the aim of optimizing the amount of crumb rubber and EVA loadings in bitumen based on thermorheological parameters complex shear modulus, phase angle and rutting parameter. In the modified binders EVA offers plastomer properties whereas the crumb rubber confers elasticity to the bitumen. 13.75% crumb rubber and 2.5% EVA loadings based on aging indices gave the best optimized mixture. The thermorheological behaviour of the best optimized mixture was compared to industrial grade EVA (AP-1) and crumb rubber (AR-1) modified bitumen. Improving aging behaviour of the bitumen was evaluated using four antioxidants: carbon black, hydrated lime, Irganox 1010 and Irgafos 168. The least aging indices at 58˚C and 64˚C were obtained from a 1:1:1 Irganox 1010/hydrated lime/carbon black mixture. SARA (saturates, aromatics, resins and asphaltene) analysis gave the chemical background for application of antioxidants to reduce the propensity of short term aging. To further improve the EVA/crumb rubber optimized mixture for workability FT wax (Sasobit®) was assayed at loadings from 0-2.5%. This was done to match the EVA content and maintain the original maximum loading of 2.5% in the optimized mixture. The phase change abilities of FT wax owing to the high latent heat enabled co-crystallization with the EVA with the elastomeric backbone of crumb rubber acting as support material. The energy-sustainability nexus was found to have worked at less than 1% loading of FT wax in the EVA/crumb rubber modified bitumen. Response surface methodology approach to all the sections of work was used to come up with the optimized mixtures based on rheological parameters complex shear modulus, phase angle and rutting parameter at test temperature 64˚C. The interaction chemistry of bitumen, crumb rubber, EVA and FT wax was found to be first and second order in all cases involving individual contributions and co-interaction amongst the factors. Project costing for each section of work (optimizing section, antioxidant section and FT wax section) was conducted involving the raw materials used, equipment used, labour involved and other costs incurred for all the project work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Nare, Keith Dumisani
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Crumb rubber Bitumen , Vinyl acetate
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11974 , vital:27015
- Description: The study deals with the formulation development and thermorheological properties of crumb rubber/ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) modified bitumen with the aim of optimizing the amount of crumb rubber and EVA loadings in bitumen based on thermorheological parameters complex shear modulus, phase angle and rutting parameter. In the modified binders EVA offers plastomer properties whereas the crumb rubber confers elasticity to the bitumen. 13.75% crumb rubber and 2.5% EVA loadings based on aging indices gave the best optimized mixture. The thermorheological behaviour of the best optimized mixture was compared to industrial grade EVA (AP-1) and crumb rubber (AR-1) modified bitumen. Improving aging behaviour of the bitumen was evaluated using four antioxidants: carbon black, hydrated lime, Irganox 1010 and Irgafos 168. The least aging indices at 58˚C and 64˚C were obtained from a 1:1:1 Irganox 1010/hydrated lime/carbon black mixture. SARA (saturates, aromatics, resins and asphaltene) analysis gave the chemical background for application of antioxidants to reduce the propensity of short term aging. To further improve the EVA/crumb rubber optimized mixture for workability FT wax (Sasobit®) was assayed at loadings from 0-2.5%. This was done to match the EVA content and maintain the original maximum loading of 2.5% in the optimized mixture. The phase change abilities of FT wax owing to the high latent heat enabled co-crystallization with the EVA with the elastomeric backbone of crumb rubber acting as support material. The energy-sustainability nexus was found to have worked at less than 1% loading of FT wax in the EVA/crumb rubber modified bitumen. Response surface methodology approach to all the sections of work was used to come up with the optimized mixtures based on rheological parameters complex shear modulus, phase angle and rutting parameter at test temperature 64˚C. The interaction chemistry of bitumen, crumb rubber, EVA and FT wax was found to be first and second order in all cases involving individual contributions and co-interaction amongst the factors. Project costing for each section of work (optimizing section, antioxidant section and FT wax section) was conducted involving the raw materials used, equipment used, labour involved and other costs incurred for all the project work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Site Fidelity of southern right (Eubalaena australis) and humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in Algoa Bay, South Africa
- Authors: Drost, Eduard F
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Marine mammals -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay Southern right whale -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay Humpback whale -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21735 , vital:29742
- Description: Mysticetes, or baleen whales, make up one of two sub-orders of the Order Cetacea within the Class Mammalia (Drikamer et al, 2013). It contains three families, each characterized by baleen plates (Drikamer et al, 2013). These baleen plates consist of keratin that replaced the tooth structures for feeding in these mammals (Drikamer et al, 2013). Other biological characteristics of these animals include paired external nares (blowholes), a sternum consisting of a single bone, symmetrical skull and the most conspicuous of all, the body length of between ten to thirty metres (Drikamer et al, 2013). It is thought that the size characteristic was probably the main factor when categorising them as cetaceans, with the Latin word ‘Cetus’ referring to ‘sea monster’ (Carnaby, 2006). In this literature review, the focus will fall on two species of mysticetes from separate families, namely that of the southern right whale, Eubalaena australis of the Balaenidae family, and the humpback whale, Megaptera novaeangliae of the Balaenopteridae family. Emphasis in this review will fall on the aspect of site fidelity of the mother-calf pairs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Drost, Eduard F
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Marine mammals -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay Southern right whale -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay Humpback whale -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21735 , vital:29742
- Description: Mysticetes, or baleen whales, make up one of two sub-orders of the Order Cetacea within the Class Mammalia (Drikamer et al, 2013). It contains three families, each characterized by baleen plates (Drikamer et al, 2013). These baleen plates consist of keratin that replaced the tooth structures for feeding in these mammals (Drikamer et al, 2013). Other biological characteristics of these animals include paired external nares (blowholes), a sternum consisting of a single bone, symmetrical skull and the most conspicuous of all, the body length of between ten to thirty metres (Drikamer et al, 2013). It is thought that the size characteristic was probably the main factor when categorising them as cetaceans, with the Latin word ‘Cetus’ referring to ‘sea monster’ (Carnaby, 2006). In this literature review, the focus will fall on two species of mysticetes from separate families, namely that of the southern right whale, Eubalaena australis of the Balaenidae family, and the humpback whale, Megaptera novaeangliae of the Balaenopteridae family. Emphasis in this review will fall on the aspect of site fidelity of the mother-calf pairs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Reporting on radiographic images in after-hours trauma units :Experiences of radiographers and medical practitioners
- Authors: Van der Venter, Riaan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Radiography, Medical -- Image quality Radiography, Medical -- Examinations, questions, etc Nurse practitioners -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23779 , vital:30619
- Description: Globally there is a lack of radiologists, which results in unreported radiographic examinations, or a delay in reporting on radiographic images even in emergency situations. In order to mitigate and alleviate the situation, and optimise the utilisation of radiographers a red dot system was introduced in the United Kingdom, which later aided in the transformation of the role of radiographers in terms of formal reporting of various radiographic examinations. Although there is a shortage of medical practitioners and radiologists in South Africa the extended role of radiographers has not been yet realised for radiographers. At present, radiographers and medical practitioners work in collaboration to interpret and report on radiographic examinations informally, to facilitate effective and efficient patient management, but this is done illegally because the regulations defining the scope of the profession of radiography does not allow for such practice, putting radiographers and organisations at risk of litigation. In order to gain an in-depth knowledge of the phenomena, to enable the researcher to provide recommendations to the Professional Board of Radiography and Clinical Technology (PBRCT) of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive, and contextual research study was undertaken. Radiographers and medical practitioners were interviewed in order to elicit rich descriptions of their experiences regarding reporting of trauma related radiographic images in the after-hours trauma units. Data were gathered using in-depth semi-structured interviews, and the data were analysed using kesch’s method of thematic synthesis. Three themes emerged from the data, namely the challenges radiographers and medical practitioners face in the after-hours trauma units respectively, with regards to reporting of trauma related adiographs, and suggestions were proposed to optimize the participation of radiographers with regard to trauma related radiographs in these units. A thick description and literature control was done using quotes from participants. Measures to ensure trustworthiness and ethical research practices were also implemented. Thereafter, recommendations were put forward for the PBRCT of the HPCSA, using current literature and inferences made from the findings of the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Van der Venter, Riaan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Radiography, Medical -- Image quality Radiography, Medical -- Examinations, questions, etc Nurse practitioners -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23779 , vital:30619
- Description: Globally there is a lack of radiologists, which results in unreported radiographic examinations, or a delay in reporting on radiographic images even in emergency situations. In order to mitigate and alleviate the situation, and optimise the utilisation of radiographers a red dot system was introduced in the United Kingdom, which later aided in the transformation of the role of radiographers in terms of formal reporting of various radiographic examinations. Although there is a shortage of medical practitioners and radiologists in South Africa the extended role of radiographers has not been yet realised for radiographers. At present, radiographers and medical practitioners work in collaboration to interpret and report on radiographic examinations informally, to facilitate effective and efficient patient management, but this is done illegally because the regulations defining the scope of the profession of radiography does not allow for such practice, putting radiographers and organisations at risk of litigation. In order to gain an in-depth knowledge of the phenomena, to enable the researcher to provide recommendations to the Professional Board of Radiography and Clinical Technology (PBRCT) of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive, and contextual research study was undertaken. Radiographers and medical practitioners were interviewed in order to elicit rich descriptions of their experiences regarding reporting of trauma related radiographic images in the after-hours trauma units. Data were gathered using in-depth semi-structured interviews, and the data were analysed using kesch’s method of thematic synthesis. Three themes emerged from the data, namely the challenges radiographers and medical practitioners face in the after-hours trauma units respectively, with regards to reporting of trauma related adiographs, and suggestions were proposed to optimize the participation of radiographers with regard to trauma related radiographs in these units. A thick description and literature control was done using quotes from participants. Measures to ensure trustworthiness and ethical research practices were also implemented. Thereafter, recommendations were put forward for the PBRCT of the HPCSA, using current literature and inferences made from the findings of the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Historical perspectives and future directions for access to land, water and related ecosystem services in the Lower Sundays River Valley, South Africa: implications for human well being
- Authors: Chadzingwa, Karabo
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/442 , vital:19959
- Description: The legacy of South Africa’s history has facilitated unequal access to land and water resources. In the Lower Sundays River Valley (LSRV), a predominantly commercial farming area, differential access to land and water has impacted aspects of ecosystem service access and human well‐being for disenfranchised families over time. Despite the social, political and economic reform efforts in the past two decades, severe inertia towards efforts attempting to increase equitable access to land and water has been experienced. As a result, communities have mobilized and claimed their land from the government through the land restitution process. Based on a mixed‐methods approach, this research explores the ways in which access to land and water over time has influenced current levels of human well‐being among disenfranchised families. Provisioning and cultural ecosystem services were identified as key areas of loss as a result of forced evictions from land. Freedom of choice was a central and cross‐cutting theme regarding the ability to change levels of human well‐being. Although the loss of ecosystem services associated with land and water had an impact on households, the ecosystem services which are regarded as fundamental to human well‐being do not seem to have been lost. The study recommends the wide use of freedom of choice as an indicator for well‐being in the LSRV, as well as a consideration of subjective, objective and psychological measures of well‐being with regards to natural resources and ecosystem services access. Key agents in fostering desirable pathways toward equity and sustainability in the LSRV are identified with stakeholders as private businesses; inclusive governance; empowered and skilled individuals, as well as NGOs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Chadzingwa, Karabo
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/442 , vital:19959
- Description: The legacy of South Africa’s history has facilitated unequal access to land and water resources. In the Lower Sundays River Valley (LSRV), a predominantly commercial farming area, differential access to land and water has impacted aspects of ecosystem service access and human well‐being for disenfranchised families over time. Despite the social, political and economic reform efforts in the past two decades, severe inertia towards efforts attempting to increase equitable access to land and water has been experienced. As a result, communities have mobilized and claimed their land from the government through the land restitution process. Based on a mixed‐methods approach, this research explores the ways in which access to land and water over time has influenced current levels of human well‐being among disenfranchised families. Provisioning and cultural ecosystem services were identified as key areas of loss as a result of forced evictions from land. Freedom of choice was a central and cross‐cutting theme regarding the ability to change levels of human well‐being. Although the loss of ecosystem services associated with land and water had an impact on households, the ecosystem services which are regarded as fundamental to human well‐being do not seem to have been lost. The study recommends the wide use of freedom of choice as an indicator for well‐being in the LSRV, as well as a consideration of subjective, objective and psychological measures of well‐being with regards to natural resources and ecosystem services access. Key agents in fostering desirable pathways toward equity and sustainability in the LSRV are identified with stakeholders as private businesses; inclusive governance; empowered and skilled individuals, as well as NGOs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An anthropological perspective of destitute families in the Walmer Township, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Thornton, Jessica Leigh
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Families, Black -- South Africa -- Social conditions , Economic assistance, Domestic -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45690 , vital:38927
- Description: It is noticeable that poverty and deprivation exists in all forms in most, if not all, societies. Poverty and destitution have led to the formation and development of rural settlements within an urban context, which is known as informal housing. An example of this is Port Elizabeth’s Walmer Township. Walmer Township is seen to be one of the poorest informal settlements within the Eastern Cape, and has common problems of unemployment, violence, substance abuse, HIV/Aids and illiteracy. These problems adversely affect the community’s living conditions and plummets the society further into a state of destitution. In a last attempt to alleviate poverty among communities, such as the Walmer Township, organizations and external agencies have stepped in to reduce the harmful effects caused by poverty. These include shelters, feeding schemes and job empowerment. However, questions as to whether these organizations actually assist those living in poverty, and how can the organizations or current policy be improved, still exist and are raised regularly today. Thus, the research attempts to investigate the social effects of poverty and how it compromises family units, in order to understand what external organizations are in place to assist these families in destitution, and to come up with recommendations with the view of improving the existing policy
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Thornton, Jessica Leigh
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Families, Black -- South Africa -- Social conditions , Economic assistance, Domestic -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45690 , vital:38927
- Description: It is noticeable that poverty and deprivation exists in all forms in most, if not all, societies. Poverty and destitution have led to the formation and development of rural settlements within an urban context, which is known as informal housing. An example of this is Port Elizabeth’s Walmer Township. Walmer Township is seen to be one of the poorest informal settlements within the Eastern Cape, and has common problems of unemployment, violence, substance abuse, HIV/Aids and illiteracy. These problems adversely affect the community’s living conditions and plummets the society further into a state of destitution. In a last attempt to alleviate poverty among communities, such as the Walmer Township, organizations and external agencies have stepped in to reduce the harmful effects caused by poverty. These include shelters, feeding schemes and job empowerment. However, questions as to whether these organizations actually assist those living in poverty, and how can the organizations or current policy be improved, still exist and are raised regularly today. Thus, the research attempts to investigate the social effects of poverty and how it compromises family units, in order to understand what external organizations are in place to assist these families in destitution, and to come up with recommendations with the view of improving the existing policy
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Midwives' perceptions in KwaZulu-Natal public hospitals regarding their level of competence related to cardiotocography
- Maduna, Ntsepiseng Elizabeth
- Authors: Maduna, Ntsepiseng Elizabeth
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Midwifery -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Fetal heart rate monitoring -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Public hospitals -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5698 , vital:20968
- Description: The primary purpose of CTG is to detect early signs of intrapartum hypoxia and improve foetal outcomes. Intrapartum hypoxia remains the major cause of perinatal deaths mainly in monitored labours. This is attributed to the midwives’ lack of skills in the foetal implementation and interpretation of CTG. Midwives interpret foetal heart rate patterns erroneously hence they fail to detect early signs of severe foetal compromise. Accurate interpretation of CTG is the cornerstone for clinical decision during intra-partum foetal surveillance. Therefore, it is mandatory that midwives are competent in CTG. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the perceptions of midwives in KwaZulu-Natal public hospitals regarding their level of competence related to the CTG. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the perceptions of midwives in KwaZulu-Natal public hospitals regarding their level of competence related to the CTG. The objectives of this study were: -to explore and describe the perceptions of the midwives regarding their level of competence relating to cardiotocography. -to establish the levels of competence of midwives in relation to CTG. -to develop clinical guidelines that could be utilised by midwives in the implementation and interpretation of the cardiotocograph. The study utilised a quantitative non-experimental comparative descriptive research design. A self-developed and self-administered questionnaire was developed under the supervision of a statistician and was to collect data from a purposively selected sample of midwives who work in labour wards in Kwa-Zulu Natal public hospitals. A sample of 226 practicing midwives working in labour wards of the nine KZN public hospitals was selected using a non-probability convenience sampling method; only 125 responded. Data were collected on an excel spread sheet and analysed under the supervision of the statistician and research supervisor. The researcher assured of validity and reliability of the data collection method and data as well as of the data collection instrument. The findings revealed that the midwives in KZN public hospitals perceived themselves as being competent regarding CTG tasks; however they lack knowledge and skills in the implementation and interpretation of CTG. It was also evident that the midwives’ years of midwifery clinical experience, labour ward experience, possession of additional post basic midwifery qualification and the perceived level of competence related to CTG tasks number of years of the midwives did not influence their level of competence in the implementation and interpretation of CTG. Literature control supported these findings and there was consistency with that literature. Recommendations were made and clinical guidelines were developed to assist midwives with the assessment of foetal heart rate and the interpretation of the cardiotocograph results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Maduna, Ntsepiseng Elizabeth
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Midwifery -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Fetal heart rate monitoring -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Public hospitals -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5698 , vital:20968
- Description: The primary purpose of CTG is to detect early signs of intrapartum hypoxia and improve foetal outcomes. Intrapartum hypoxia remains the major cause of perinatal deaths mainly in monitored labours. This is attributed to the midwives’ lack of skills in the foetal implementation and interpretation of CTG. Midwives interpret foetal heart rate patterns erroneously hence they fail to detect early signs of severe foetal compromise. Accurate interpretation of CTG is the cornerstone for clinical decision during intra-partum foetal surveillance. Therefore, it is mandatory that midwives are competent in CTG. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the perceptions of midwives in KwaZulu-Natal public hospitals regarding their level of competence related to the CTG. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the perceptions of midwives in KwaZulu-Natal public hospitals regarding their level of competence related to the CTG. The objectives of this study were: -to explore and describe the perceptions of the midwives regarding their level of competence relating to cardiotocography. -to establish the levels of competence of midwives in relation to CTG. -to develop clinical guidelines that could be utilised by midwives in the implementation and interpretation of the cardiotocograph. The study utilised a quantitative non-experimental comparative descriptive research design. A self-developed and self-administered questionnaire was developed under the supervision of a statistician and was to collect data from a purposively selected sample of midwives who work in labour wards in Kwa-Zulu Natal public hospitals. A sample of 226 practicing midwives working in labour wards of the nine KZN public hospitals was selected using a non-probability convenience sampling method; only 125 responded. Data were collected on an excel spread sheet and analysed under the supervision of the statistician and research supervisor. The researcher assured of validity and reliability of the data collection method and data as well as of the data collection instrument. The findings revealed that the midwives in KZN public hospitals perceived themselves as being competent regarding CTG tasks; however they lack knowledge and skills in the implementation and interpretation of CTG. It was also evident that the midwives’ years of midwifery clinical experience, labour ward experience, possession of additional post basic midwifery qualification and the perceived level of competence related to CTG tasks number of years of the midwives did not influence their level of competence in the implementation and interpretation of CTG. Literature control supported these findings and there was consistency with that literature. Recommendations were made and clinical guidelines were developed to assist midwives with the assessment of foetal heart rate and the interpretation of the cardiotocograph results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Interrogating the specific challenges of teaching play texts in heterogeneous classrooms in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Hayes, Nicola
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:6022 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021251
- Description: This study is an autoethnographic reflection, rooted in Action Research based on my teaching experience in a multicultural high school environment in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. It is an analysis, in particular, of teaching play texts in two classes, Dramatic Arts and English Home Language, at matric level. A combination of discourse analysis and autoethnography formed the theoretical basis for the interpretation of data drawn from lesson transcripts, group interviews, learners’ reflections and my own journalled reflections. This analysis has formed the foundation for a deeper reflection on culture, the colonist within, and the colonialism embedded with in my teaching, and in the education system more broadly. At a practical level, I suggest embracing student-led and co-led discussions of literature, as advocated by Mayer (2012), as well as transcultural readings (Keating, 2007), and Drama activities, as ideals in the teaching of play texts. These techniques are designed to encourage learners to develop intellectual authority as well as allowing them the space to enter discussions around culturally sensitive topics, while minimising the teacher’s hierarchical, dominant position. I also argue for the importance of making culture an overt topic of conversation. White English-speaking South African culture, in particular has been prone to “invisibility” and, through this, an unspoken normative position, particularly in multicultural school environments. I challenge myself and others to engage in ongoing efforts to articulate our particular perception of our cultures, dynamic and diverse though they may be.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Hayes, Nicola
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:6022 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021251
- Description: This study is an autoethnographic reflection, rooted in Action Research based on my teaching experience in a multicultural high school environment in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. It is an analysis, in particular, of teaching play texts in two classes, Dramatic Arts and English Home Language, at matric level. A combination of discourse analysis and autoethnography formed the theoretical basis for the interpretation of data drawn from lesson transcripts, group interviews, learners’ reflections and my own journalled reflections. This analysis has formed the foundation for a deeper reflection on culture, the colonist within, and the colonialism embedded with in my teaching, and in the education system more broadly. At a practical level, I suggest embracing student-led and co-led discussions of literature, as advocated by Mayer (2012), as well as transcultural readings (Keating, 2007), and Drama activities, as ideals in the teaching of play texts. These techniques are designed to encourage learners to develop intellectual authority as well as allowing them the space to enter discussions around culturally sensitive topics, while minimising the teacher’s hierarchical, dominant position. I also argue for the importance of making culture an overt topic of conversation. White English-speaking South African culture, in particular has been prone to “invisibility” and, through this, an unspoken normative position, particularly in multicultural school environments. I challenge myself and others to engage in ongoing efforts to articulate our particular perception of our cultures, dynamic and diverse though they may be.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The influence of power distance relationships on the success of lean manufacturing implementations
- Authors: De Beer, Lourens
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Corporate culture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6919 , vital:21166
- Description: The research project measured the influence of lean culture elements as well as power distance elements on the success of lean manufacturing implementations. The literature review revealed that lean transformations are not always successful and sustainable since organisation see these as quick win opportunities to improve short term profits. Lean, however, is a long term philosophy that entails not just quick changes but a fundamental change in the way that business is done. The elements that were measured in the study were organisational awareness, employee engagement, managerial consistency, accountability, mutual respect and autocratic behaviour. The study revealed a strong relationship between these factors and the success of lean implementations. The results indicated that there is a positive relationship between lean culture and the other lean elements. The study also indicated that autocratic behaviour has a positive relationship to lean implementation. The study showed that tools that were developed in the past are valid across various industries and that power distance does play a role in lean implementations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: De Beer, Lourens
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Corporate culture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6919 , vital:21166
- Description: The research project measured the influence of lean culture elements as well as power distance elements on the success of lean manufacturing implementations. The literature review revealed that lean transformations are not always successful and sustainable since organisation see these as quick win opportunities to improve short term profits. Lean, however, is a long term philosophy that entails not just quick changes but a fundamental change in the way that business is done. The elements that were measured in the study were organisational awareness, employee engagement, managerial consistency, accountability, mutual respect and autocratic behaviour. The study revealed a strong relationship between these factors and the success of lean implementations. The results indicated that there is a positive relationship between lean culture and the other lean elements. The study also indicated that autocratic behaviour has a positive relationship to lean implementation. The study showed that tools that were developed in the past are valid across various industries and that power distance does play a role in lean implementations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The impact of inflation on financial development in South Africa
- Authors: Muzvanya, Kudzai Fungai
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Economic development Monetary policy Consumer price indexes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13045 , vital:39440
- Description: Growing theoretical and empirical studies have predicted different influences that inflation has on financial development in different economies. This dissertation observes the impact South Africa’s inflation has on financial development over the period between 1990 and 2012. Monetary policy framework in South Africa has, to a greater extent, assisted in monitoring the movement of the consumer price index. Although inflation does affect financial sector performance, the study also looked into other variables that have an effect like private credit, money supply and gross domestic product. To test for stationarity to avoid spurious regression, the ADF test and the PP test were used. To determine the long- and short-run relationship, the Johansen Maximum Likelihood test and VECM models were used. Results of the study indicated that money supply and inflation have a negative effect on financial development. In addition, apart from money supply and inflation the findings revealed that private credit and gross domestic product play a significant part in financial sector performance. The study recommends that the South African Reserve Bank should keep the inflation rate within its target range (3-6percent). This would ensure price stability and restore investor confidence in the financial sector, which then improves financial sector development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Muzvanya, Kudzai Fungai
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Economic development Monetary policy Consumer price indexes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13045 , vital:39440
- Description: Growing theoretical and empirical studies have predicted different influences that inflation has on financial development in different economies. This dissertation observes the impact South Africa’s inflation has on financial development over the period between 1990 and 2012. Monetary policy framework in South Africa has, to a greater extent, assisted in monitoring the movement of the consumer price index. Although inflation does affect financial sector performance, the study also looked into other variables that have an effect like private credit, money supply and gross domestic product. To test for stationarity to avoid spurious regression, the ADF test and the PP test were used. To determine the long- and short-run relationship, the Johansen Maximum Likelihood test and VECM models were used. Results of the study indicated that money supply and inflation have a negative effect on financial development. In addition, apart from money supply and inflation the findings revealed that private credit and gross domestic product play a significant part in financial sector performance. The study recommends that the South African Reserve Bank should keep the inflation rate within its target range (3-6percent). This would ensure price stability and restore investor confidence in the financial sector, which then improves financial sector development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Mesopredator release and the effectiveness of camera traps for estimating mammal abundances in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Taylor, Jonathan Michael
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3587 , vital:20527
- Description: Remotely operated cameras (camera traps) have become an indispensable tool for many ecologists, particularly those studying rare and elusive animals. A plethora of camera trap makes and models are now commercially available, yet the effects of their varying design features on the quality and quantity of data recorded remains principally unknown. Better understanding of differing camera trap designs is needed before adequate management policies can be implemented, especially when the aim is to protect vulnerable and endangered species such as many carnivores. Habitat loss and human conflict has prompted worldwide declines of apex predator populations. Following this, many smaller predators have undergone population ‘explosions’ due to the lack of top-down forcing, a phenomenon known as mesopredator release. Land use changes in the Eastern Cape of South Africa have caused extensive degradation and fragmentation of the Subtropical Thicket Biome. In addition, coupled with anthropogenic persecution, apex predators including lions (Panthera leo), leopards (P. pardus), and brown hyaenas (Hyaena brunnea) have been extirpated from large areas of their historic range. Removal of these apex predators may provide opportunity for mesopredators, such as black-backed jackals (Canis mesomelas) and caracals (Caracal caracal), to be released from top-down forcing and possibly initiate trophic cascade effects. Therefore, using randomly distributed camera traps, my study aimed to explore the quality and quantity of data collected by different camera trap designs, and to investigate the mesopredator release hypothesis in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. A total of 2,989 trap nights was used to compare camera trap designs. Camera traps with narrow detection zones and fast trigger speeds (≤ 0.25 seconds) recorded a higher diversity of carnivores, but there was no significant difference in the relative abundances of carnivore species recorded by different camera trap models. A total of 19,659 trap nights was used to assess mesopredator relative abundance, occupancy, distribution and daily activity patterns at one site with, and one site without, apex predators. Consistent with the mesopredator release hypothesis, black-backed jackal relative abundance was significantly higher in the absence of apex predators, and this was supported by occupancy analyses. Further, black-backed jackal distribution was significantly concentrated in areas where apex predator activity was low, possibly indicating spatial avoidance. There was no significant difference in caracal relative abundance, occupancy, distribution, or daily activity between sites. These results provide the first indication of mesopredator release of blackbacked jackals in the Eastern Cape. The implications of black-backed jackal release including prey population structure, local extinctions, altered seed dispersal and disease dynamics are discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Taylor, Jonathan Michael
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3587 , vital:20527
- Description: Remotely operated cameras (camera traps) have become an indispensable tool for many ecologists, particularly those studying rare and elusive animals. A plethora of camera trap makes and models are now commercially available, yet the effects of their varying design features on the quality and quantity of data recorded remains principally unknown. Better understanding of differing camera trap designs is needed before adequate management policies can be implemented, especially when the aim is to protect vulnerable and endangered species such as many carnivores. Habitat loss and human conflict has prompted worldwide declines of apex predator populations. Following this, many smaller predators have undergone population ‘explosions’ due to the lack of top-down forcing, a phenomenon known as mesopredator release. Land use changes in the Eastern Cape of South Africa have caused extensive degradation and fragmentation of the Subtropical Thicket Biome. In addition, coupled with anthropogenic persecution, apex predators including lions (Panthera leo), leopards (P. pardus), and brown hyaenas (Hyaena brunnea) have been extirpated from large areas of their historic range. Removal of these apex predators may provide opportunity for mesopredators, such as black-backed jackals (Canis mesomelas) and caracals (Caracal caracal), to be released from top-down forcing and possibly initiate trophic cascade effects. Therefore, using randomly distributed camera traps, my study aimed to explore the quality and quantity of data collected by different camera trap designs, and to investigate the mesopredator release hypothesis in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. A total of 2,989 trap nights was used to compare camera trap designs. Camera traps with narrow detection zones and fast trigger speeds (≤ 0.25 seconds) recorded a higher diversity of carnivores, but there was no significant difference in the relative abundances of carnivore species recorded by different camera trap models. A total of 19,659 trap nights was used to assess mesopredator relative abundance, occupancy, distribution and daily activity patterns at one site with, and one site without, apex predators. Consistent with the mesopredator release hypothesis, black-backed jackal relative abundance was significantly higher in the absence of apex predators, and this was supported by occupancy analyses. Further, black-backed jackal distribution was significantly concentrated in areas where apex predator activity was low, possibly indicating spatial avoidance. There was no significant difference in caracal relative abundance, occupancy, distribution, or daily activity between sites. These results provide the first indication of mesopredator release of blackbacked jackals in the Eastern Cape. The implications of black-backed jackal release including prey population structure, local extinctions, altered seed dispersal and disease dynamics are discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The impact of the Mdantsane urban renewal programme on socio-economic development
- Authors: Ngxata, Thabile
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Urban renewal -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Economic development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12593 , vital:27097
- Description: Urban Renewal which originates in the concept of Local Economic Development (LED) has in recent years gained much global acceptance as a strategy to improve certain areas that are poorly developed in order to improve the quality of lives of the local residents. South Africa have adopted the Urban Renewal approach and ever since, a number of national centres have been targeted for urban renewal activities. The Buffalo City Municipality (BCMM) implemented the Mdanstane Urban Renewal Programme (MURP) which is essentially the case study of this research. Despite the government instituting the Integrated Development Planning (IDP), Buffalo City still remains one of South Africa’s poorest metropolitan areas, with a relatively high unemployment and crime rate compared to other metropolitan cities in the country (Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality,2012). The study, therefore, sought to empirically analyse the effectiveness of the URP as an initiative of Integrated Development Planning (IDP) particularly on how it has addressed socio-economic pathologies such as poverty and inequality rampant in the area of study. The Mdantsane Urban Renewal Programme was used to monitor and evaluate the impact it had on the communities and the municipality. The study used a mixed methods or triangulation approach as both qualitative and quantitative techniques were used in determining the effect of the MURP on local development as well as in exploring the different perceptions and challenges facing the programme. The data that was gathered was analysed both quantitatively using frequency tables and graphs, and qualitatively based on the key themes that emerged. The research established that whilst the MURP has scored some gains in refurbishing the area of study, there are still various challenges inherent in the MURP such as its non-inclusiveness, lack of transparency, accountability and the lack of real benefits accruing in the local communities. Thus, this research recognised a need for a more inclusive and pro-poor urban development framework that promotes local citizen participation, accountability, sustainability and equity in resource distribution and allocation, in order to improve the livehoods of the local people in Mdantsane.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ngxata, Thabile
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Urban renewal -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Economic development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12593 , vital:27097
- Description: Urban Renewal which originates in the concept of Local Economic Development (LED) has in recent years gained much global acceptance as a strategy to improve certain areas that are poorly developed in order to improve the quality of lives of the local residents. South Africa have adopted the Urban Renewal approach and ever since, a number of national centres have been targeted for urban renewal activities. The Buffalo City Municipality (BCMM) implemented the Mdanstane Urban Renewal Programme (MURP) which is essentially the case study of this research. Despite the government instituting the Integrated Development Planning (IDP), Buffalo City still remains one of South Africa’s poorest metropolitan areas, with a relatively high unemployment and crime rate compared to other metropolitan cities in the country (Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality,2012). The study, therefore, sought to empirically analyse the effectiveness of the URP as an initiative of Integrated Development Planning (IDP) particularly on how it has addressed socio-economic pathologies such as poverty and inequality rampant in the area of study. The Mdantsane Urban Renewal Programme was used to monitor and evaluate the impact it had on the communities and the municipality. The study used a mixed methods or triangulation approach as both qualitative and quantitative techniques were used in determining the effect of the MURP on local development as well as in exploring the different perceptions and challenges facing the programme. The data that was gathered was analysed both quantitatively using frequency tables and graphs, and qualitatively based on the key themes that emerged. The research established that whilst the MURP has scored some gains in refurbishing the area of study, there are still various challenges inherent in the MURP such as its non-inclusiveness, lack of transparency, accountability and the lack of real benefits accruing in the local communities. Thus, this research recognised a need for a more inclusive and pro-poor urban development framework that promotes local citizen participation, accountability, sustainability and equity in resource distribution and allocation, in order to improve the livehoods of the local people in Mdantsane.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Challenges facing water supply in the Polokwane Municipality, Mankweng Cluster
- Authors: Mashego, Irene Lerato
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Municipal water supply -- South Africa -- Polokwane , Rural public utilities -- South Africa -- Polokwane
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8109 , vital:25007
- Description: Polokwane Local Municipality is one of many municipalities in South Africa experiencing challenges of providing potable water services to their local residents. Residents’ dissatisfaction about poor potable water services have manifested in community protests. The study, which looks at the communities’ experience within the Makweng Cluster, aims to assess the main constraints facing Polokwane Local Municipality in providing potable water to the Mankweng Cluster.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mashego, Irene Lerato
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Municipal water supply -- South Africa -- Polokwane , Rural public utilities -- South Africa -- Polokwane
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8109 , vital:25007
- Description: Polokwane Local Municipality is one of many municipalities in South Africa experiencing challenges of providing potable water services to their local residents. Residents’ dissatisfaction about poor potable water services have manifested in community protests. The study, which looks at the communities’ experience within the Makweng Cluster, aims to assess the main constraints facing Polokwane Local Municipality in providing potable water to the Mankweng Cluster.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
South African school teachers' perceptions of sustainable tourism
- Authors: Vosloo, Penelope Leigh
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable tourism -- South Africa Tourism -- South Africa Leisure industry -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13215 , vital:27162
- Description: Although much research has been conducted on sustainable tourism and the education thereof internationally, a limited number of studies have focussed on education of sustainable tourism in South African secondary schools. A literature overview identified various approaches to the education of sustainability on the international front. Despite South Africa’s reliance on the tourism industry, the concept of sustainability has received little focus in classrooms where this pertinent issue should be receiving attention in order to ensure that future sustainability is ensured in the South African tourism industry. From the literature overview it was possible to identify topics pertaining to sustainability in the Tourism Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement implemented in the Further Education and Training Phase (FET) in South African secondary schools. These assisted in the development of the research tool for this study. The New Ecological Paradigm (NEP), an instrument used to establish the level of environmental concerns of groups of people, also provided guidance in the development of the research tool. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the perceptions of Tourism educators in secondary schools towards sustainability. A framework to investigate this was developed and three hypotheses formulated. To give effect to this, an empirical investigation was conducted. Tourism educators who were successful in their application to mark 2014 National Senior Certificate Tourism examinations were included in the sample of this study. The result of the descriptive statistics performed on the data showed that the level of education of the respondents was the main contributing demographic that impacted on their perceptions of sustainable tourism. It is, however, of concern to note that a very low percentage of the respondents (6.2%) have received formal training in Tourism. This situation should be cause for concern for Tourism education in the Eastern Cape. Two of the three hypotheses were accepted. The researcher believes that specialised subject relevant training is required to empower educators to teach sustainable tourism in the South African secondary school classrooms in order to ensure future sustainability in the tourism industry of South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Vosloo, Penelope Leigh
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable tourism -- South Africa Tourism -- South Africa Leisure industry -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13215 , vital:27162
- Description: Although much research has been conducted on sustainable tourism and the education thereof internationally, a limited number of studies have focussed on education of sustainable tourism in South African secondary schools. A literature overview identified various approaches to the education of sustainability on the international front. Despite South Africa’s reliance on the tourism industry, the concept of sustainability has received little focus in classrooms where this pertinent issue should be receiving attention in order to ensure that future sustainability is ensured in the South African tourism industry. From the literature overview it was possible to identify topics pertaining to sustainability in the Tourism Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement implemented in the Further Education and Training Phase (FET) in South African secondary schools. These assisted in the development of the research tool for this study. The New Ecological Paradigm (NEP), an instrument used to establish the level of environmental concerns of groups of people, also provided guidance in the development of the research tool. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the perceptions of Tourism educators in secondary schools towards sustainability. A framework to investigate this was developed and three hypotheses formulated. To give effect to this, an empirical investigation was conducted. Tourism educators who were successful in their application to mark 2014 National Senior Certificate Tourism examinations were included in the sample of this study. The result of the descriptive statistics performed on the data showed that the level of education of the respondents was the main contributing demographic that impacted on their perceptions of sustainable tourism. It is, however, of concern to note that a very low percentage of the respondents (6.2%) have received formal training in Tourism. This situation should be cause for concern for Tourism education in the Eastern Cape. Two of the three hypotheses were accepted. The researcher believes that specialised subject relevant training is required to empower educators to teach sustainable tourism in the South African secondary school classrooms in order to ensure future sustainability in the tourism industry of South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An exploratory study on lifestyle and its contribution to personal victimization among students at University of Fort Hare in Alice Campus
- Authors: Vaphi, Yanga Yandisa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Bullying Criminal behaviour
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sci
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2436 , vital:27840
- Description: This study is based on student lifestyle and its contribution to personal victimization at University of Fort Hare in Alice campus. Social Science researchers such as Fisher, Sloan, Cullen, and Lu (1998) claim that there are many incidents of criminal victimization occurring on and off university campuses. The main purpose of this study is to find out whether there is any correlation between student lifestyle and personal victimization. There are many theories, concepts and available information regarding the issue of personal victimization among students, however, this notion is thriving, especially in higher institutions. The study examined the research objectives through lenses of theories such as lifestyle exposure theory, routine activities theory, rational choice theory which serve to elaborate more about the research topic. In this study data was collected using interviews and self-administered questionnaires for triangulation purposes. Some of the findings in this study were that there is vast majority of students who suffer from personal victimization on and off-campus due to students’ different lifestyles and lack of legal responsibility by the institution. First year females were found to be the majority of students who suffer from personal victimization due to their vulnerability in their residences. Based on these findings, recommendations such as tightening security measures around campus, educating students regarding victimization, and collaboration of the university with police officials were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Vaphi, Yanga Yandisa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Bullying Criminal behaviour
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sci
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2436 , vital:27840
- Description: This study is based on student lifestyle and its contribution to personal victimization at University of Fort Hare in Alice campus. Social Science researchers such as Fisher, Sloan, Cullen, and Lu (1998) claim that there are many incidents of criminal victimization occurring on and off university campuses. The main purpose of this study is to find out whether there is any correlation between student lifestyle and personal victimization. There are many theories, concepts and available information regarding the issue of personal victimization among students, however, this notion is thriving, especially in higher institutions. The study examined the research objectives through lenses of theories such as lifestyle exposure theory, routine activities theory, rational choice theory which serve to elaborate more about the research topic. In this study data was collected using interviews and self-administered questionnaires for triangulation purposes. Some of the findings in this study were that there is vast majority of students who suffer from personal victimization on and off-campus due to students’ different lifestyles and lack of legal responsibility by the institution. First year females were found to be the majority of students who suffer from personal victimization due to their vulnerability in their residences. Based on these findings, recommendations such as tightening security measures around campus, educating students regarding victimization, and collaboration of the university with police officials were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
A study of the integration of technology in the school arts classroom
- Authors: Sauls, Maxwell Martin
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Computer-assisted instruction , Educational technology , Computer managed instruction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7364 , vital:21342
- Description: This study explores the use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Educational Technology (ET) as an educational resource in the school Arts classroom. Many teachers lack the qualifications to teach the Performing Arts (PA) of the Curriculum and Policy Statement (CAPS). Therefore, teachers rely on curriculum documentation and textbooks to help guide planning of lessons and the execution thereof. Technology as a resource tool can assist teachers as they incorporate an overwhelming amount of content/concepts in lessons. In this way they could improve classroom practice in the PA disciplines. With the emergence of Operation Phakisa: ICT in Education (Department of Education [DoE] 2015), the researcher acknowledges that the integration of ET is unavoidable. Moreover, the research highlights the importance of engaging with the rising hegemony of ICT as the defining characteristic of the information society. Literature supporting the inclusivity of media and media-related resources in education are discussed. In addition, the literature review focuses on a wide variety of ET and concludes with the implementation of ET in a South African context. Teachers from the Foundation Phase (FP), Intermediate Phase (IP) and Senior Phase (SP), namely grade R – 7, were invited to participate in the study where they were observed during contact time drawing on technology to aid teaching pedagogy. The research design involved a qualitative inquiry with aspects of crystallization where the data was collected through observations, interviews and teacher’s self-assessment. The findings suggest that teachers received little or no training in one or more PA disciplines. The integration of technology in the teaching pedagogy led to an enhanced learning environment where the teacher could actively engage learners in meaningful activities. The findings furthermore revealed that the use of technology was not uniform and did not lead to neat conclusion. Instead the researcher found that a great deal of divergence in the use of technology. This divergence was found across art disciplines and the use of technology also differed among teachers. Finally, individual teachers also differed in their use of technology across the art disciplines that they taught. The learners benefited from the use of technology insofar as they displayed a better understanding of the concepts in subsequent lessons. Furthermore, by the end of the study, teachers had begun to implement the new teaching style in learning areas other than the PA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Sauls, Maxwell Martin
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Computer-assisted instruction , Educational technology , Computer managed instruction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7364 , vital:21342
- Description: This study explores the use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Educational Technology (ET) as an educational resource in the school Arts classroom. Many teachers lack the qualifications to teach the Performing Arts (PA) of the Curriculum and Policy Statement (CAPS). Therefore, teachers rely on curriculum documentation and textbooks to help guide planning of lessons and the execution thereof. Technology as a resource tool can assist teachers as they incorporate an overwhelming amount of content/concepts in lessons. In this way they could improve classroom practice in the PA disciplines. With the emergence of Operation Phakisa: ICT in Education (Department of Education [DoE] 2015), the researcher acknowledges that the integration of ET is unavoidable. Moreover, the research highlights the importance of engaging with the rising hegemony of ICT as the defining characteristic of the information society. Literature supporting the inclusivity of media and media-related resources in education are discussed. In addition, the literature review focuses on a wide variety of ET and concludes with the implementation of ET in a South African context. Teachers from the Foundation Phase (FP), Intermediate Phase (IP) and Senior Phase (SP), namely grade R – 7, were invited to participate in the study where they were observed during contact time drawing on technology to aid teaching pedagogy. The research design involved a qualitative inquiry with aspects of crystallization where the data was collected through observations, interviews and teacher’s self-assessment. The findings suggest that teachers received little or no training in one or more PA disciplines. The integration of technology in the teaching pedagogy led to an enhanced learning environment where the teacher could actively engage learners in meaningful activities. The findings furthermore revealed that the use of technology was not uniform and did not lead to neat conclusion. Instead the researcher found that a great deal of divergence in the use of technology. This divergence was found across art disciplines and the use of technology also differed among teachers. Finally, individual teachers also differed in their use of technology across the art disciplines that they taught. The learners benefited from the use of technology insofar as they displayed a better understanding of the concepts in subsequent lessons. Furthermore, by the end of the study, teachers had begun to implement the new teaching style in learning areas other than the PA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Using bioinformatics tools to screen for trypanosomal cathepsin B cysteine protease inhibitors from the SANCDB as a novel therapeutic modality against Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT)
- Authors: Mokhawa, Gaone
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3304 , vital:20470
- Description: Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), also known as sleeping sickness, is a fatal chronic disease that is caused by flagellated protozoans, Trypanosoma brucei gambiense and Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense. HAT is spread by a bite from an infected tsetse fly of the Glosina genus. Up to 60 million people in 36 countries in sub-Saharan Africa are at a risk of infection from HAT with up to 30 000 deaths reported every year. Current chemotherapy for HAT is insufficient since the available drugs exhibit unacceptable side effects (toxicity) and parasite resistance. Novel treatments and approaches for development of specific and more potent drugs for HAT are therefore required. One approach is to target vital proteins that are essential to the life cycle of the parasite. The main interest of this study is to explore Trypanosoma brucei cathepsin B-like protease (TbCatB) structural and functional properties with the primary goal of discovering non peptide small molecule inhibitors of TbCatB using bioinformatics approaches. TbCatB is a papain family C1 cysteine protease which belongs to clan CA group and it has emerged as a potential HAT drug target. Papain family cysteine proteases of Clan CA group of Trypanosoma brucei (rhodesain and TbCatB) have demonstrated potential as chemotherapeutic targets using synthetic protease inhibitors like Z-Phe-Ala-CHN2 to kill the parasite in vitro and in vivo. TbCatB has been identified as the essential cysteine protease of T. brucei since mRNA silencing of TbCatB killed the parasite and resulted in a cure in mice infected with T. brucei while mRNA silencing of rhodesain only extended mice life. TbCatB is therefore a promising drug target against HAT and the discovery and development of compounds that can selectively inhibit TbCatB without posing any danger to the human host represent a great therapeutic solution for treatment of HAT. To understand protein-inhibitor interactions, useful information can be obtained from high resolution protease-inhibitor crystal structure complexes. This study aims to use bioinformatics approaches to carry out comparative sequence, structural and functional analysis of TbCatB protease and its homologs from T. congolense, T, cruzi, T. vivax and H. sapien as well as to identify non-peptide small molecule inhibitors of TbCatB cysteine proteases from natural compounds of South African origin. Sequences of TbCatB (PDB ID: 3HHI) homologs were retrieved by a BLAST search. Human cathepsin B (PDB ID: 3CBJ) was selected from a list of templates for homology modelling found by HHpred. MODELLER version 9.10 program was used to generate a hundred models for T. congolense, T, cruzi and T. vivax cathepsin B like proteases using 3HHI and 3CBJ as templates. The best models were chosen based on their low DOPE Z scores before validation using MetaMQAPII, ANOLEA, PROCHECK and QMEAN6. The DOPE Z scores and the RMSD (RMS) values of the calculated models indicate that the models are of acceptable energy (stability) and fold (conformation). Results from the different MQAPs indicate the models are of acceptable quality and they can be used for docking studies. High throughput screening of SANCDB using AutoDock Vina revealed nine compounds, SANC00 478, 479, 480, 481, 482, 488, 489, 490 and 491, having a strong affinity for Trypanosoma spp. cathepsin B proteases than HsCatB. SANC00488 has the strongest binding to Trypanosoma spp. cathepsin B proteases and the weakest binding to HsCatB protease. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations show that the complexes between SANC00488 and TbCatB, TcCatB, TcrCatB and TvCatB are stable and do not come apart during simulation. The complex between this compound and HsCatB however is unstable and comes apart during simulation. Residues that are important for the stability of SANC00488-TbCatB complex are Gly328 of the S2 subsite, Phe208, and Ala256. In conclusion SANC00488 is a good candidate for development of a drug against HAT.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mokhawa, Gaone
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3304 , vital:20470
- Description: Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), also known as sleeping sickness, is a fatal chronic disease that is caused by flagellated protozoans, Trypanosoma brucei gambiense and Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense. HAT is spread by a bite from an infected tsetse fly of the Glosina genus. Up to 60 million people in 36 countries in sub-Saharan Africa are at a risk of infection from HAT with up to 30 000 deaths reported every year. Current chemotherapy for HAT is insufficient since the available drugs exhibit unacceptable side effects (toxicity) and parasite resistance. Novel treatments and approaches for development of specific and more potent drugs for HAT are therefore required. One approach is to target vital proteins that are essential to the life cycle of the parasite. The main interest of this study is to explore Trypanosoma brucei cathepsin B-like protease (TbCatB) structural and functional properties with the primary goal of discovering non peptide small molecule inhibitors of TbCatB using bioinformatics approaches. TbCatB is a papain family C1 cysteine protease which belongs to clan CA group and it has emerged as a potential HAT drug target. Papain family cysteine proteases of Clan CA group of Trypanosoma brucei (rhodesain and TbCatB) have demonstrated potential as chemotherapeutic targets using synthetic protease inhibitors like Z-Phe-Ala-CHN2 to kill the parasite in vitro and in vivo. TbCatB has been identified as the essential cysteine protease of T. brucei since mRNA silencing of TbCatB killed the parasite and resulted in a cure in mice infected with T. brucei while mRNA silencing of rhodesain only extended mice life. TbCatB is therefore a promising drug target against HAT and the discovery and development of compounds that can selectively inhibit TbCatB without posing any danger to the human host represent a great therapeutic solution for treatment of HAT. To understand protein-inhibitor interactions, useful information can be obtained from high resolution protease-inhibitor crystal structure complexes. This study aims to use bioinformatics approaches to carry out comparative sequence, structural and functional analysis of TbCatB protease and its homologs from T. congolense, T, cruzi, T. vivax and H. sapien as well as to identify non-peptide small molecule inhibitors of TbCatB cysteine proteases from natural compounds of South African origin. Sequences of TbCatB (PDB ID: 3HHI) homologs were retrieved by a BLAST search. Human cathepsin B (PDB ID: 3CBJ) was selected from a list of templates for homology modelling found by HHpred. MODELLER version 9.10 program was used to generate a hundred models for T. congolense, T, cruzi and T. vivax cathepsin B like proteases using 3HHI and 3CBJ as templates. The best models were chosen based on their low DOPE Z scores before validation using MetaMQAPII, ANOLEA, PROCHECK and QMEAN6. The DOPE Z scores and the RMSD (RMS) values of the calculated models indicate that the models are of acceptable energy (stability) and fold (conformation). Results from the different MQAPs indicate the models are of acceptable quality and they can be used for docking studies. High throughput screening of SANCDB using AutoDock Vina revealed nine compounds, SANC00 478, 479, 480, 481, 482, 488, 489, 490 and 491, having a strong affinity for Trypanosoma spp. cathepsin B proteases than HsCatB. SANC00488 has the strongest binding to Trypanosoma spp. cathepsin B proteases and the weakest binding to HsCatB protease. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations show that the complexes between SANC00488 and TbCatB, TcCatB, TcrCatB and TvCatB are stable and do not come apart during simulation. The complex between this compound and HsCatB however is unstable and comes apart during simulation. Residues that are important for the stability of SANC00488-TbCatB complex are Gly328 of the S2 subsite, Phe208, and Ala256. In conclusion SANC00488 is a good candidate for development of a drug against HAT.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016