An investigation into the family life cycle within a South African context
- Authors: Koekemoer, Evan
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Consumer behavior -- South Africa , Market segmentation , Consumers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9352 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/191 , Consumer behavior -- South Africa , Market segmentation , Consumers -- South Africa
- Description: Each individual/household progresses through the family life cycle (FLC). This progression, which is characterized by various stages and varying consumption portfolios, can be traditional or non-traditional in nature. In the general marketing sense, the FLC concept has great value. The concept is utilized in a variety of marketing activities, particularly in segmentation, and is also applied in consumer behaviour. The lack of research regarding the FLC in South Africa and the need to investigate the concept’s applicability to different environments motivated this research. The aim of the study was to determine how the FLC within a South African context compared to the theoretical depiction of the concept. The evaluation of literature revealed five distinct traditional stages and an array of non-traditional stages, determined by a combination of life stage determining variables. Regarding the empirical approach, self-administered questionnaires were distributed to a convenience sample consisting of 225 students and staff members of the then Port Elizabeth Technikon. The empirical findings revealed the following. {u100083} Non-traditional stages were more prevalent than traditional stages. ii {u100083} Marital status, the presence/absence of children and living arrangement appear to be sufficient life stage determining variables for both current and prospective life stage classifications. {u100083} The consumption portfolios of individuals in the traditional FLC were similar to theory. The research provided insight into the consumption portfolios of individuals in the non-traditional FLC. {u100083} Based on the intentions of certain individuals regarding marriage, having children and living arrangements, it appears as though the future FLC will include an integration of traditional and non-traditional progressions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Koekemoer, Evan
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Consumer behavior -- South Africa , Market segmentation , Consumers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9352 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/191 , Consumer behavior -- South Africa , Market segmentation , Consumers -- South Africa
- Description: Each individual/household progresses through the family life cycle (FLC). This progression, which is characterized by various stages and varying consumption portfolios, can be traditional or non-traditional in nature. In the general marketing sense, the FLC concept has great value. The concept is utilized in a variety of marketing activities, particularly in segmentation, and is also applied in consumer behaviour. The lack of research regarding the FLC in South Africa and the need to investigate the concept’s applicability to different environments motivated this research. The aim of the study was to determine how the FLC within a South African context compared to the theoretical depiction of the concept. The evaluation of literature revealed five distinct traditional stages and an array of non-traditional stages, determined by a combination of life stage determining variables. Regarding the empirical approach, self-administered questionnaires were distributed to a convenience sample consisting of 225 students and staff members of the then Port Elizabeth Technikon. The empirical findings revealed the following. {u100083} Non-traditional stages were more prevalent than traditional stages. ii {u100083} Marital status, the presence/absence of children and living arrangement appear to be sufficient life stage determining variables for both current and prospective life stage classifications. {u100083} The consumption portfolios of individuals in the traditional FLC were similar to theory. The research provided insight into the consumption portfolios of individuals in the non-traditional FLC. {u100083} Based on the intentions of certain individuals regarding marriage, having children and living arrangements, it appears as though the future FLC will include an integration of traditional and non-traditional progressions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation into the financial management competencies of teachers in Port Elizabeth
- Joka, Monalisa Phumla Portia
- Authors: Joka, Monalisa Phumla Portia
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance, Personal , Finance, Personal , Finance -- Decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8581 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/526 , Teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance, Personal , Finance, Personal , Finance -- Decision making
- Description: The media and the Government have voiced their feelings against micro-lenders, which they refer to as “abomashonisa”. The cry has been that they enslave the poor making their lives unbearable. The fact of the matter is that it is not only the poor who find themselves slaves to the micro-lenders. The educated with better paying jobs than the poor, including teachers are also micro-lending clients. This prompted the researcher to investigate the financial management competencies of teachers. Although teachers are better paid than the poor, the manner in which they conduct their financial affairs will determine whether they live like the poor or not. Even for the poor, poor financial management skills is one of the important factors that cause them to be enslaved by micro-lenders. To meet the dissertation’s aims a literature study focusing on the origin and the development of micro-lending in South Africa and the financial management acumen of teachers in South Africa, was conducted. An empirical study was then undertaken to investigate the financial management competencies of teachers in Port Elizabeth. Based on the information obtained from the literature study and the results from the empirical survey, various recommendations and conclusions were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Joka, Monalisa Phumla Portia
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance, Personal , Finance, Personal , Finance -- Decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8581 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/526 , Teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance, Personal , Finance, Personal , Finance -- Decision making
- Description: The media and the Government have voiced their feelings against micro-lenders, which they refer to as “abomashonisa”. The cry has been that they enslave the poor making their lives unbearable. The fact of the matter is that it is not only the poor who find themselves slaves to the micro-lenders. The educated with better paying jobs than the poor, including teachers are also micro-lending clients. This prompted the researcher to investigate the financial management competencies of teachers. Although teachers are better paid than the poor, the manner in which they conduct their financial affairs will determine whether they live like the poor or not. Even for the poor, poor financial management skills is one of the important factors that cause them to be enslaved by micro-lenders. To meet the dissertation’s aims a literature study focusing on the origin and the development of micro-lending in South Africa and the financial management acumen of teachers in South Africa, was conducted. An empirical study was then undertaken to investigate the financial management competencies of teachers in Port Elizabeth. Based on the information obtained from the literature study and the results from the empirical survey, various recommendations and conclusions were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation into the impact of employment equity within Telkom: Eastern Cape
- Authors: Joseph, Gavin David
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Telkom (Firm : South Africa) -- Officials and employees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8538 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/192 , Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Telkom (Firm : South Africa) -- Officials and employees
- Description: As a country, South Africa has undergone major social and political changes, specifically over the past two decades. Along with these changes, new legislation such as the scrapping of the Group Areas Act, changed the face of residential areas to one where suburbs now reflect the demographics of the country. Inevitably, changes in the business world also came about, one significant change being the promulgation of the Employment Equity Act (No.55 of 1998) which regulates employment practices in an attempt to make the workforce a true reflection of the South African population. The change in labour legislation came at a time when the effects of globalisation increased levels of competition amongst organisations. Understandably, certain business leaders raised concerns that the introduction of the Employment Equity Act could lead to a lowering of standards and therefore competitive advantage. The purpose of this research was to establish if these early concerns were indeed valid and if the implementation of this legislation had any negative impact on Telkom SA Limited (Telkom), the organisation selected for this study. Particular attention was paid to investigate the impact of the implementation of the Act on three critical areas of business, namely: Productivity; Profitability; and Customer satisfaction. In order to achieve the objectives of the research, the following approach was followed: Firstly, a comprehensive literature study was conducted to determine what led to the passing of this legislation and to establish what the literature revealed about the advantages and challenges of a diverse workforce; Secondly, the views of Telkom management in the Eastern Cape on the impact of the implementation of employment equity were obtained by means of an empirical study which involved the completion of a comprehensive questionnaire; and Lastly, the responses to the questionnaire were collated and analysed to determine the extent to which Telkom had implemented the legislation, and if the company had experienced any negative effects due to this implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Joseph, Gavin David
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Telkom (Firm : South Africa) -- Officials and employees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8538 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/192 , Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Telkom (Firm : South Africa) -- Officials and employees
- Description: As a country, South Africa has undergone major social and political changes, specifically over the past two decades. Along with these changes, new legislation such as the scrapping of the Group Areas Act, changed the face of residential areas to one where suburbs now reflect the demographics of the country. Inevitably, changes in the business world also came about, one significant change being the promulgation of the Employment Equity Act (No.55 of 1998) which regulates employment practices in an attempt to make the workforce a true reflection of the South African population. The change in labour legislation came at a time when the effects of globalisation increased levels of competition amongst organisations. Understandably, certain business leaders raised concerns that the introduction of the Employment Equity Act could lead to a lowering of standards and therefore competitive advantage. The purpose of this research was to establish if these early concerns were indeed valid and if the implementation of this legislation had any negative impact on Telkom SA Limited (Telkom), the organisation selected for this study. Particular attention was paid to investigate the impact of the implementation of the Act on three critical areas of business, namely: Productivity; Profitability; and Customer satisfaction. In order to achieve the objectives of the research, the following approach was followed: Firstly, a comprehensive literature study was conducted to determine what led to the passing of this legislation and to establish what the literature revealed about the advantages and challenges of a diverse workforce; Secondly, the views of Telkom management in the Eastern Cape on the impact of the implementation of employment equity were obtained by means of an empirical study which involved the completion of a comprehensive questionnaire; and Lastly, the responses to the questionnaire were collated and analysed to determine the extent to which Telkom had implemented the legislation, and if the company had experienced any negative effects due to this implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation of the binding capacities of recombinant domain mutants of the human Polymeric Immunoglobulin Receptor (pIgR)
- Authors: Prinsloo, Earl Adin Gerard
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Immunoglobulins
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10307 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/403 , Immunoglobulins
- Description: The membrane bound glycoprotein, polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR) is the primary transport molecule of the polymeric immunoglobulins, dimeric IgA and pentameric IgM, across epithelial cells. This process, known as transcytosis, is essential in order to establish immunity at mucosal surfaces. Typically, pIgR binds to the polymeric immunoglobulin at the basolateral surface of the epithelial cell, via five homologous immunoglobulin-like domains of the ectodomain. Binding is covalent to IgA and non-covalent to IgM; the IgM binding varying among species. The pIgR-bound complex is released at the apical surface of the cell after cleavage of pIgR at Arg585, thereafter referred to as secretory component (SC). SC confers protective and immunologic functions to the polymeric immunoglobulin. Free SC, i.e. not complexed with polymeric immunoglobulins, is also known to be released into mucosal secretions; and binds to pathogenic bacteria and bacterial products. It is known that domain I of the ectodomain is the primary domain in the interaction with polymeric immunoglobulins, while domain V is involved in a covalent linkage with IgA. However, little is known of domains II-IV and their role in immunoglobulin binding, particularly to IgM. This study aimed to characterize the binding of recombinant human pIgR domain mutants to polymeric IgM using immunological, biophysical and cell based techniques; thereby allowing greater insight into the contribution of each of the five domains. The unique domain structure allowed for selective amplification of single and multiple domain mutants from cloned human PIGR ectodomain cDNA. Mutants were cloned and expressed in Esherichia coli BL21 (DE3) as inclusion bodies. Recombinant mutant proteins were refolded in vitro by equilibrium gradient dialysis and purified to homogeneity. Equilibrium binding data show significant contributions to specific binding as a factor of domain presence. Binding kinetics determined by biophysical surface plasmon resonance measurements show the interplay between association and dissociation rates as defined by individual domains. In vitro competitive binding studies using the human intestinal carcinoma, HT29, known to constitutively express pIgR, show that the constructed recombinant domain mutants outcompete native pIgR. The level of competition is shown to be dependant on the domains downstream of domain I. The data also confirm the biological activity of the first in vitro refolded recombinant human SC.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Prinsloo, Earl Adin Gerard
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Immunoglobulins
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10307 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/403 , Immunoglobulins
- Description: The membrane bound glycoprotein, polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR) is the primary transport molecule of the polymeric immunoglobulins, dimeric IgA and pentameric IgM, across epithelial cells. This process, known as transcytosis, is essential in order to establish immunity at mucosal surfaces. Typically, pIgR binds to the polymeric immunoglobulin at the basolateral surface of the epithelial cell, via five homologous immunoglobulin-like domains of the ectodomain. Binding is covalent to IgA and non-covalent to IgM; the IgM binding varying among species. The pIgR-bound complex is released at the apical surface of the cell after cleavage of pIgR at Arg585, thereafter referred to as secretory component (SC). SC confers protective and immunologic functions to the polymeric immunoglobulin. Free SC, i.e. not complexed with polymeric immunoglobulins, is also known to be released into mucosal secretions; and binds to pathogenic bacteria and bacterial products. It is known that domain I of the ectodomain is the primary domain in the interaction with polymeric immunoglobulins, while domain V is involved in a covalent linkage with IgA. However, little is known of domains II-IV and their role in immunoglobulin binding, particularly to IgM. This study aimed to characterize the binding of recombinant human pIgR domain mutants to polymeric IgM using immunological, biophysical and cell based techniques; thereby allowing greater insight into the contribution of each of the five domains. The unique domain structure allowed for selective amplification of single and multiple domain mutants from cloned human PIGR ectodomain cDNA. Mutants were cloned and expressed in Esherichia coli BL21 (DE3) as inclusion bodies. Recombinant mutant proteins were refolded in vitro by equilibrium gradient dialysis and purified to homogeneity. Equilibrium binding data show significant contributions to specific binding as a factor of domain presence. Binding kinetics determined by biophysical surface plasmon resonance measurements show the interplay between association and dissociation rates as defined by individual domains. In vitro competitive binding studies using the human intestinal carcinoma, HT29, known to constitutively express pIgR, show that the constructed recombinant domain mutants outcompete native pIgR. The level of competition is shown to be dependant on the domains downstream of domain I. The data also confirm the biological activity of the first in vitro refolded recombinant human SC.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation of the challenges facing the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in the provision of low-income housing
- Authors: Li, Qiang
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Housing development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8163 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/543 , Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Housing development -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of this study was to critically investigate challenges in the provision of low-income housing in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). In order to reach this goal, it was necessary to study the literature on the housing sector, especially as regards the impact between the external factors and the provision of low-income housing. A further supporting objective was to investigate and analyse the challenges in order to develop techniques and strategies for solving the challenges facing the NMBM in the provision of low-income housing. In order to address the reach problem and to fulfil the research objectives, an in-depth literature study was done. Empirical studies were also performed by means of face-to-face interviews and a questionnaire with the target group in the Housing Department of the NMBM. The literature and empirical study made it possible to identify underperformance and to recommend possible solutions for the challenges in the provision of low-income housing in the NMBM. These recommendations should be of value to all participants in the housing sector. From the investigation into the NMBM in the provision of low-income housing, the findings indicate that the constraints and challenges such as the housing backlog also exist in other parts of South Africa. Challenges such as availability of land in the NMBM can be considered to exist principally in the NMBM area. The new national policies and local government housing strategies should concur with the internationally accepted developmental approach. Recommendations were made with regard to sustainable development strategies, housing policies, finance and housing provision. Essential proposals were made, such as efficient financial support, and to train and improve certain unskilled staff in the NMBM. The study concludes with recommended techniques and strategies for the improvement of low-income housing in the NMBM, in order to overcome its challenges and to empower it on a sustainable basis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Li, Qiang
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Housing development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8163 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/543 , Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Public housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Housing development -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of this study was to critically investigate challenges in the provision of low-income housing in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). In order to reach this goal, it was necessary to study the literature on the housing sector, especially as regards the impact between the external factors and the provision of low-income housing. A further supporting objective was to investigate and analyse the challenges in order to develop techniques and strategies for solving the challenges facing the NMBM in the provision of low-income housing. In order to address the reach problem and to fulfil the research objectives, an in-depth literature study was done. Empirical studies were also performed by means of face-to-face interviews and a questionnaire with the target group in the Housing Department of the NMBM. The literature and empirical study made it possible to identify underperformance and to recommend possible solutions for the challenges in the provision of low-income housing in the NMBM. These recommendations should be of value to all participants in the housing sector. From the investigation into the NMBM in the provision of low-income housing, the findings indicate that the constraints and challenges such as the housing backlog also exist in other parts of South Africa. Challenges such as availability of land in the NMBM can be considered to exist principally in the NMBM area. The new national policies and local government housing strategies should concur with the internationally accepted developmental approach. Recommendations were made with regard to sustainable development strategies, housing policies, finance and housing provision. Essential proposals were made, such as efficient financial support, and to train and improve certain unskilled staff in the NMBM. The study concludes with recommended techniques and strategies for the improvement of low-income housing in the NMBM, in order to overcome its challenges and to empower it on a sustainable basis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An investigation of the in vitro anticancer properties of selected platinum compounds
- Authors: Du Plessis-Stoman, Debbie
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Antineoplastic agents , Platinum compounds , Cancer -- Immunological aspects , Cancer -- Chemotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10334 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/498 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012002 , Antineoplastic agents , Platinum compounds , Cancer -- Immunological aspects , Cancer -- Chemotherapy
- Description: This dissertation mainly deals with some biochemical aspects regarding the efficacy of novel platinum anticancer compounds, as part of a broader study in which both chemistry and biochemistry are involved. Various novel diamine and N-S donor chelate compounds of platinum II and IV have been developed in which factors such as stereochemistry, ligand exchange rate and biocompatibility were considered as additional parameters. In the first order testing, each of these compounds was tested with reference to their “killing” potential by comparing their rate of killing, over a period of 48 hours with those of cisplatin and oxaliplatin. Some 80 compounds were tested in this way. Although only a few could be regarded as equal to or even better than cisplatin and oxaliplatin, the testing of these compounds on cancer cells provided useful knowledge for the further development of novel compounds. Four of the better compounds, namely Y9, Y14, Y16 and Lt16.2 were selected for further studies to obtain more detailed knowledge of their anticancer action, including some flow cytometric studies. In addition to the above, cisplatin resistant cells were produced for each of the three different cell lines tested, namely, HeLa, HT29 and MCF7 cancer cell lines, by intermittent and incremental exposure to cisplatin (all the cell lines tested became resistant to cisplatin). Each of the selected compounds were exposed to the cells in the same manner, in order to attempt the induction of resistance against these compounds in the three cell lines tested (i.e. whether these cells will become resistant to the various compounds). Each of these selected platinum containing compounds were subsequently tested against the “cisplatin resistant” cell lines in order to determine their efficacy against such cells. One such compound could be singled out, since cervical cancer cells (HeLa cells) do not become resistant to it. This behaviour is similar to that of oxaliplatin against cervical cancer and colon cancer (HT29) cells (oxaliplatin is the number one treatment for colon cancer at present). This compound also proved to be more active against cisplatin resistant cell lines. It was found that all the compounds induced apoptosis in the cell lines tested as well as inhibit the DNA cycle at one or more phase. Finally, an effort was made to evaluate the different compounds by comparing them with respect to their properties relating to anticancer action.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Du Plessis-Stoman, Debbie
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Antineoplastic agents , Platinum compounds , Cancer -- Immunological aspects , Cancer -- Chemotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10334 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/498 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012002 , Antineoplastic agents , Platinum compounds , Cancer -- Immunological aspects , Cancer -- Chemotherapy
- Description: This dissertation mainly deals with some biochemical aspects regarding the efficacy of novel platinum anticancer compounds, as part of a broader study in which both chemistry and biochemistry are involved. Various novel diamine and N-S donor chelate compounds of platinum II and IV have been developed in which factors such as stereochemistry, ligand exchange rate and biocompatibility were considered as additional parameters. In the first order testing, each of these compounds was tested with reference to their “killing” potential by comparing their rate of killing, over a period of 48 hours with those of cisplatin and oxaliplatin. Some 80 compounds were tested in this way. Although only a few could be regarded as equal to or even better than cisplatin and oxaliplatin, the testing of these compounds on cancer cells provided useful knowledge for the further development of novel compounds. Four of the better compounds, namely Y9, Y14, Y16 and Lt16.2 were selected for further studies to obtain more detailed knowledge of their anticancer action, including some flow cytometric studies. In addition to the above, cisplatin resistant cells were produced for each of the three different cell lines tested, namely, HeLa, HT29 and MCF7 cancer cell lines, by intermittent and incremental exposure to cisplatin (all the cell lines tested became resistant to cisplatin). Each of the selected compounds were exposed to the cells in the same manner, in order to attempt the induction of resistance against these compounds in the three cell lines tested (i.e. whether these cells will become resistant to the various compounds). Each of these selected platinum containing compounds were subsequently tested against the “cisplatin resistant” cell lines in order to determine their efficacy against such cells. One such compound could be singled out, since cervical cancer cells (HeLa cells) do not become resistant to it. This behaviour is similar to that of oxaliplatin against cervical cancer and colon cancer (HT29) cells (oxaliplatin is the number one treatment for colon cancer at present). This compound also proved to be more active against cisplatin resistant cell lines. It was found that all the compounds induced apoptosis in the cell lines tested as well as inhibit the DNA cycle at one or more phase. Finally, an effort was made to evaluate the different compounds by comparing them with respect to their properties relating to anticancer action.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Assessing the impact of the lean manufacturing supplier development practices of an Eastern Cape vehicle manufacturer
- Authors: Botha, Christo Johannes
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Production management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial procurement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8558 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/480 , Production management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial procurement
- Description: The world automotive industry has evolved through different manufacturing methodologies over many decades. It originated from craft production, but was transformed to mass production by Henry Ford in response to increased market demand. The methodology developed by Henry Ford made it possible to produce quality vehicles in large numbers and at affordable cost to the general public. However, it cannot deliver a great variety of products to the marketplace. Mass production was overtaken by a new automotive manufacturing methodology developed in Japan after World War II. The methodology, commonly referred to as lean production, yields consistently high quality products at even lower costs, whilst being able to deliver a variety of products to the consumer. The effectiveness of the lean production methodology hinges upon the strength and closeness of the relationships that exist between the assembler and its suppliers. Different models have been developed over time to describe the relationships between automotive assemblers and their suppliers. The lean supply model is generally accepted as an effective way of describing the relationships that exist between an automotive assembler and its first tier suppliers in a lean manufacturing environment. The research study aims at gaining an improved understanding of the relationships that exist between a selected Eastern Cape automotive assembler and its first tier suppliers. The effect of its supplier support practices towards lean manufacturing implementation amongst its first tier suppliers is evaluated. For the selected assembler it is found that the effect of its supplier support practices on lean manufacturing implementation amongst its first tier suppliers is limited by a non-uniform approach followed towards the supplier base. It is shown that opportunities for improvement exist for the selected assembler to develop closer relationships with its first tier suppliers to increase its global competitiveness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Botha, Christo Johannes
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Production management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial procurement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8558 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/480 , Production management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial procurement
- Description: The world automotive industry has evolved through different manufacturing methodologies over many decades. It originated from craft production, but was transformed to mass production by Henry Ford in response to increased market demand. The methodology developed by Henry Ford made it possible to produce quality vehicles in large numbers and at affordable cost to the general public. However, it cannot deliver a great variety of products to the marketplace. Mass production was overtaken by a new automotive manufacturing methodology developed in Japan after World War II. The methodology, commonly referred to as lean production, yields consistently high quality products at even lower costs, whilst being able to deliver a variety of products to the consumer. The effectiveness of the lean production methodology hinges upon the strength and closeness of the relationships that exist between the assembler and its suppliers. Different models have been developed over time to describe the relationships between automotive assemblers and their suppliers. The lean supply model is generally accepted as an effective way of describing the relationships that exist between an automotive assembler and its first tier suppliers in a lean manufacturing environment. The research study aims at gaining an improved understanding of the relationships that exist between a selected Eastern Cape automotive assembler and its first tier suppliers. The effect of its supplier support practices towards lean manufacturing implementation amongst its first tier suppliers is evaluated. For the selected assembler it is found that the effect of its supplier support practices on lean manufacturing implementation amongst its first tier suppliers is limited by a non-uniform approach followed towards the supplier base. It is shown that opportunities for improvement exist for the selected assembler to develop closer relationships with its first tier suppliers to increase its global competitiveness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Assessing the role of leadership in strategic planning
- Authors: Solomon, Wesley Anthony
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Leadership , Strategic planning , Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8758 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/609 , Leadership , Strategic planning , Management
- Description: Effective leadership is one of the most important factors that influence the performance of an organization. Effective leadership together with supervision are similar in terms of their influence on others towards achieving the goals of the organization. Therefore, effective leadership and supervision are principal activities through which organizational goals and objectives are achieved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Solomon, Wesley Anthony
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Leadership , Strategic planning , Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8758 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/609 , Leadership , Strategic planning , Management
- Description: Effective leadership is one of the most important factors that influence the performance of an organization. Effective leadership together with supervision are similar in terms of their influence on others towards achieving the goals of the organization. Therefore, effective leadership and supervision are principal activities through which organizational goals and objectives are achieved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Changes in English writing in computer mediated communication a case study
- Authors: Yang, Ranran
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Telematics -- South Africa , English language -- Written English
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8475 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/452 , Telematics -- South Africa , English language -- Written English
- Description: This research study aims to identity the shifts in form and function of English writing in Computer Mediated Communication (CMC) and determine whether writing changed through CMC. It critically evaluates English writing in CMC in South Africa, and includes a case study of both synchronous and asynchronous forms of CMC. Chapter 1, outlines the problem concerning the changes of writing in both form and function in the present age of CMC. This chapter, also gives a detailed description and outlines the methodology of this study. Chapter 2, centres on the historical and theoretical aspects of writing using the work done by scholars such as McLuhan, Shlain and Baron. The literature is divided into two subsections. The research and theories highlights the importance and complexity of writing in human history. It also gives insight into understanding the impacts of different mediums on writing. This chapter similarly depicts an understanding in the use of writing to represent language, and in particular, how speech and writing divvied up communication functions in literature societies. Chapter 3, gives a detailed theoretical and critical outline of writing in the present age of CMC. Based on the nature of the computer medium, writing in CMC often has its own characteristics which can serve both developmental and social purposes. The aim of this chapter is to grasp an appropriate analogy through which to capture the changes the computer technology would engender in writing communication, and re-examine the relationship between writing and speech in CMC. Chapter 4, comprises of an empirical research study done in South African on-line discourse, focusing on the changes of writing in CMC. The hypothesis of this case study is that writing in CMC differentiates the conventional writing in a variety of ways. Therefore, the study looks at the particular writing style in CMC and determines whether computer-mediated writing is gradually becoming a mirror of speech. This chapter explains methodology and the process of data coding in this case study. It also includes a summary of the survey results, as well as a discussion of the findings from this case study. Chapter 5, includes a conclusion of this study and suggestions for further research. It is the hope of the researcher that this study will provoke questions and thoughts for further inquiries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Yang, Ranran
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Telematics -- South Africa , English language -- Written English
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8475 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/452 , Telematics -- South Africa , English language -- Written English
- Description: This research study aims to identity the shifts in form and function of English writing in Computer Mediated Communication (CMC) and determine whether writing changed through CMC. It critically evaluates English writing in CMC in South Africa, and includes a case study of both synchronous and asynchronous forms of CMC. Chapter 1, outlines the problem concerning the changes of writing in both form and function in the present age of CMC. This chapter, also gives a detailed description and outlines the methodology of this study. Chapter 2, centres on the historical and theoretical aspects of writing using the work done by scholars such as McLuhan, Shlain and Baron. The literature is divided into two subsections. The research and theories highlights the importance and complexity of writing in human history. It also gives insight into understanding the impacts of different mediums on writing. This chapter similarly depicts an understanding in the use of writing to represent language, and in particular, how speech and writing divvied up communication functions in literature societies. Chapter 3, gives a detailed theoretical and critical outline of writing in the present age of CMC. Based on the nature of the computer medium, writing in CMC often has its own characteristics which can serve both developmental and social purposes. The aim of this chapter is to grasp an appropriate analogy through which to capture the changes the computer technology would engender in writing communication, and re-examine the relationship between writing and speech in CMC. Chapter 4, comprises of an empirical research study done in South African on-line discourse, focusing on the changes of writing in CMC. The hypothesis of this case study is that writing in CMC differentiates the conventional writing in a variety of ways. Therefore, the study looks at the particular writing style in CMC and determines whether computer-mediated writing is gradually becoming a mirror of speech. This chapter explains methodology and the process of data coding in this case study. It also includes a summary of the survey results, as well as a discussion of the findings from this case study. Chapter 5, includes a conclusion of this study and suggestions for further research. It is the hope of the researcher that this study will provoke questions and thoughts for further inquiries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Changes in the anthropometric, physical and motor characteristics of elite soccer players aged 15 to 18 years within a training year
- Authors: Baatjes, Sherman Gerard
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Soccer -- Training -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Soccer players -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10100 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/472 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011990 , Soccer -- Training -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Soccer players -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the seasonal changes that occur in the anthropometric, physical and motor characteristics of elite junior soccer players over the course of a training year. The participants targeted were elite soccer players from the NMMU-FCK Soccer School of Excellence and a total of 18 players between the ages of 15 to 18 years were recruited to comprise the sample for the study. The participants in the sample were assessed on four separate occasions. Each testing period was separated by a three month interval with the first testing period taking place in June 2005, at the start of their pre-season period, and the last testing session taking place in March of the following year, at the end of their playing season. In order to determine which specific characteristics of soccer were to be tested, the relevant literature was reviewed to establish the requirements, attributes and indicators of success in elite soccer. Therefore the test battery used was compiled in an attempt to address each of the identified physical attributes that contributes to successful soccer play. The battery included the following tests: weight, height and percentage body fat to represent the anthropometric characteristics. The physical characteristics were assessed by testing flexibility, anaerobic speed endurance, aerobic endurance, and muscular strength tests (1 RM bench and leg press, grip strength, and isokinetic knee strength). The motor assessments comprised of tests for speed (10-m, 20-m, and 40-m), explosive leg power (vertical jump), agility, and soccer-specific tests (dribbling and shooting at goal). In addition maturity status during the study was assessed using grip strength and height scores. All of the participants within the study sample were assessed on each day of the testing period, in alphabetical order, and this order was maintained during each testing period. Each of the four testing sessions lasted three days. On entering the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University-Biokinetics and Sport Science Centre (NMMU-BSSC) laboratory on day 1, the participants completed the test battery in the following order: anthropometric measurements (weight, height, skinfolds), flexibility test (sit and reach), leg power test (vertical jump), muscular strength tests (1RM bench press, 1RM leg press, grip strength), and an aerobic endurance test (Multi-Stage Shuttle Run). The tests conducted on day 2 of the test battery were conducted as field tests at the NMMU-FCK soccer playing fields and the participants completed the tests in the same alphabetical order as day 1. The testing battery was conducted in the following order: speed tests (10m, 20m, and 40m sprinting), agility test (Illinois agility run), soccer-specific tests (dribbling and accuracy tests), speed endurance test (Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test). Testing on day 3 consisted of Isokinetic dynamometry strength testing and was conducted at the NMMU-BSSC. Each participant completed the testing protocol according to the same alphabetical order as was used on days 1 and 2. In order to achieve the aim of the study, the following objectives were set: to determine the anthropometric, physical and motor characteristics of the participants at the pre-season, start of season, mid-season and end of season stages of the training year and to identify the peak scores achieved for each variable tested; to compare the variables tested at each of the four testing sessions to determine the progression of each variable tested and to identify at which testing session peak performance related fitness was achieved; to compare the results obtained with relevant data from other research literature; and to monitor the maturation status of the participants. Based on the results achieved it can be concluded that the participants achieved peak physical fitness at the mid-season period (testing session 3). It would appear that the attainment of these results was determined by the participants being exposed to both a pre-season and an in-season training period. It seems that both the completion of the specific types of training that occurred during these two periods, as well as the competitive matches played, elevated the participants physical fitness to the levels required for success at the elite level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Baatjes, Sherman Gerard
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Soccer -- Training -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Soccer players -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10100 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/472 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011990 , Soccer -- Training -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Soccer players -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the seasonal changes that occur in the anthropometric, physical and motor characteristics of elite junior soccer players over the course of a training year. The participants targeted were elite soccer players from the NMMU-FCK Soccer School of Excellence and a total of 18 players between the ages of 15 to 18 years were recruited to comprise the sample for the study. The participants in the sample were assessed on four separate occasions. Each testing period was separated by a three month interval with the first testing period taking place in June 2005, at the start of their pre-season period, and the last testing session taking place in March of the following year, at the end of their playing season. In order to determine which specific characteristics of soccer were to be tested, the relevant literature was reviewed to establish the requirements, attributes and indicators of success in elite soccer. Therefore the test battery used was compiled in an attempt to address each of the identified physical attributes that contributes to successful soccer play. The battery included the following tests: weight, height and percentage body fat to represent the anthropometric characteristics. The physical characteristics were assessed by testing flexibility, anaerobic speed endurance, aerobic endurance, and muscular strength tests (1 RM bench and leg press, grip strength, and isokinetic knee strength). The motor assessments comprised of tests for speed (10-m, 20-m, and 40-m), explosive leg power (vertical jump), agility, and soccer-specific tests (dribbling and shooting at goal). In addition maturity status during the study was assessed using grip strength and height scores. All of the participants within the study sample were assessed on each day of the testing period, in alphabetical order, and this order was maintained during each testing period. Each of the four testing sessions lasted three days. On entering the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University-Biokinetics and Sport Science Centre (NMMU-BSSC) laboratory on day 1, the participants completed the test battery in the following order: anthropometric measurements (weight, height, skinfolds), flexibility test (sit and reach), leg power test (vertical jump), muscular strength tests (1RM bench press, 1RM leg press, grip strength), and an aerobic endurance test (Multi-Stage Shuttle Run). The tests conducted on day 2 of the test battery were conducted as field tests at the NMMU-FCK soccer playing fields and the participants completed the tests in the same alphabetical order as day 1. The testing battery was conducted in the following order: speed tests (10m, 20m, and 40m sprinting), agility test (Illinois agility run), soccer-specific tests (dribbling and accuracy tests), speed endurance test (Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test). Testing on day 3 consisted of Isokinetic dynamometry strength testing and was conducted at the NMMU-BSSC. Each participant completed the testing protocol according to the same alphabetical order as was used on days 1 and 2. In order to achieve the aim of the study, the following objectives were set: to determine the anthropometric, physical and motor characteristics of the participants at the pre-season, start of season, mid-season and end of season stages of the training year and to identify the peak scores achieved for each variable tested; to compare the variables tested at each of the four testing sessions to determine the progression of each variable tested and to identify at which testing session peak performance related fitness was achieved; to compare the results obtained with relevant data from other research literature; and to monitor the maturation status of the participants. Based on the results achieved it can be concluded that the participants achieved peak physical fitness at the mid-season period (testing session 3). It would appear that the attainment of these results was determined by the participants being exposed to both a pre-season and an in-season training period. It seems that both the completion of the specific types of training that occurred during these two periods, as well as the competitive matches played, elevated the participants physical fitness to the levels required for success at the elite level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Comparitive study of automation strategies at VW Germany and South Africa
- Authors: Wessel, Oliver
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Volkswagen (Firm) , Motor vehicle industry -- Automation Comparative studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9607 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/823 , Volkswagen (Firm) , Motor vehicle industry -- Automation Comparative studies
- Description: This master thesis analyses the Volkswagen assembly lines of the Golf A5 manufacture in the mother plant in Wolfsburg, the Touran manufacture in the Auto 5000 GmbH in Wolfsburg as well as the Golf A5 manufacture in Uitenhage in South Africa - all with regard to the level of automation. The target of the analysis is the determination of the optimal level of automation in the three production sites and therefore, the investigation of the potential to automate, or rather to deautomate in particular sections of the assembly in the prevailing production locations. The three production sites are to be investigated with regard to costs, quality and quantity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Wessel, Oliver
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Volkswagen (Firm) , Motor vehicle industry -- Automation Comparative studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9607 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/823 , Volkswagen (Firm) , Motor vehicle industry -- Automation Comparative studies
- Description: This master thesis analyses the Volkswagen assembly lines of the Golf A5 manufacture in the mother plant in Wolfsburg, the Touran manufacture in the Auto 5000 GmbH in Wolfsburg as well as the Golf A5 manufacture in Uitenhage in South Africa - all with regard to the level of automation. The target of the analysis is the determination of the optimal level of automation in the three production sites and therefore, the investigation of the potential to automate, or rather to deautomate in particular sections of the assembly in the prevailing production locations. The three production sites are to be investigated with regard to costs, quality and quantity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Corporate information risk : an information security governance framework
- Authors: Posthumus, Shaun Murray
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Computer security , Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9776 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/814 , Computer security , Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures
- Description: Information Security is currently viewed from a technical point of view only. Some authors believe that Information Security is a process that involves more than merely Risk Management at the department level, as it is also a strategic and potentially legal issue. Hence, there is a need to elevate the importance of Information Security to a governance level through Information Security Governance and propose a framework to help guide the Board of Directors in their Information Security Governance efforts. IT is a major facilitator of organizational business processes and these processes manipulate and transmit sensitive customer and financial information. IT, which involves major risks, may threaten the security if corporate information assets. Therefore, IT requires attention at board level to ensure that technology-related information risks are within an organization’s accepted risk appetite. However, IT issues are a neglected topic at board level and this could bring about enronesque disasters. Therefore, there is a need for the Board of Directors to direct and control IT-related risks effectively to reduce the potential for Information Security breaches and bring about a stronger system of internal control. The IT Oversight Committee is a proven means of achieving this, and this study further motivates the necessity for such a committee to solidify an organization’s Information Security posture among other IT-related issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Posthumus, Shaun Murray
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Computer security , Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9776 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/814 , Computer security , Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures
- Description: Information Security is currently viewed from a technical point of view only. Some authors believe that Information Security is a process that involves more than merely Risk Management at the department level, as it is also a strategic and potentially legal issue. Hence, there is a need to elevate the importance of Information Security to a governance level through Information Security Governance and propose a framework to help guide the Board of Directors in their Information Security Governance efforts. IT is a major facilitator of organizational business processes and these processes manipulate and transmit sensitive customer and financial information. IT, which involves major risks, may threaten the security if corporate information assets. Therefore, IT requires attention at board level to ensure that technology-related information risks are within an organization’s accepted risk appetite. However, IT issues are a neglected topic at board level and this could bring about enronesque disasters. Therefore, there is a need for the Board of Directors to direct and control IT-related risks effectively to reduce the potential for Information Security breaches and bring about a stronger system of internal control. The IT Oversight Committee is a proven means of achieving this, and this study further motivates the necessity for such a committee to solidify an organization’s Information Security posture among other IT-related issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Corporate social responsibility: evaluating three South African Companies' initiatives
- Authors: Fourie, Neil
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Case studies , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8563 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/568 , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Case studies , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa
- Description: The aim of this research project was to evaluate the available theoretical information on Corporate Social Responsibility and with this knowledge to then also evaluate three companieś initiatives based on this information. Gone are the days when an organisation could do business for the sole purpose of making a profit. If the organisation does not take the environment into account in doing business, or if the community where this organisation is situated or does business, feel “abused” or that their needs are not being addressed, the organisation will not survive and its future sustainability can not be assured or guaranteed. This has been proven internationally, but how does South African organisations fare when it comes to corporate social responsibility, and more specifically, what social responsible initiatives are taken? The research also attempted to determine how “industry specific” the three companies'́ initiatives are and whether any changes in initiative-directions should be considered. The Social Responsibility Initiatives of Woolworths, ENGEN and SABMiller (South Africa) were evaluated and certain shortcomings were identified and presented to the various companies. These companies deliver excellent products and services to their client base, but it was felt that should adherence be given to the recommendations that were made, the mentioned companies could in future improve their turnover, market position and increase their client support base. Finally, it could also assist in increasing brand loyalty amongst their customers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Fourie, Neil
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Case studies , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8563 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/568 , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Case studies , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa
- Description: The aim of this research project was to evaluate the available theoretical information on Corporate Social Responsibility and with this knowledge to then also evaluate three companieś initiatives based on this information. Gone are the days when an organisation could do business for the sole purpose of making a profit. If the organisation does not take the environment into account in doing business, or if the community where this organisation is situated or does business, feel “abused” or that their needs are not being addressed, the organisation will not survive and its future sustainability can not be assured or guaranteed. This has been proven internationally, but how does South African organisations fare when it comes to corporate social responsibility, and more specifically, what social responsible initiatives are taken? The research also attempted to determine how “industry specific” the three companies'́ initiatives are and whether any changes in initiative-directions should be considered. The Social Responsibility Initiatives of Woolworths, ENGEN and SABMiller (South Africa) were evaluated and certain shortcomings were identified and presented to the various companies. These companies deliver excellent products and services to their client base, but it was felt that should adherence be given to the recommendations that were made, the mentioned companies could in future improve their turnover, market position and increase their client support base. Finally, it could also assist in increasing brand loyalty amongst their customers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Cytokine signalling functions of human soluble IgE receptors in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from normal and hyper-allergic individuals and in B-lymphoblastoid and monocytic cell lines
- Authors: Askew, Sandra Lyn
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Ligands , Cell receptors , Cellular signal transduction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10305 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/455 , Ligands , Cell receptors , Cellular signal transduction
- Description: CD23 is a multifunctional receptor/ligand, found in a variety of cell types, such as human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), B-lymphoblastoid cell lines, mast cells and basophils. It is also found on a variety of haematopoietic cell lines. As the low-affinity receptor for immunoglobulin E (IgE), CD23 plays a role in antigen-presentation and macrophage activation. As a surface molecule cleaved from the cell membrane, soluble CD23 (sCD23) can act as an adhesion molecule and a cytokine. Perturbances of such molecular interactions may lead to various diseases such as allergies and other inflammatory diseases. It has been speculated that elevated levels of sCD23 may be used to bind secreted IgE, thus preventing it from binding to membrane CD23 on haematopoietic cells, preventing B cells from being activated into IgE producing cells. Signal transduction by sCD23 is dependent on cell subsets, ligands and co-factors required for its function. sCD23 plays a direct role in inducing tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and soluble IL-1 receptor from activated human monocytes and PBMCs in vitro. Recombinant forms of 25 and 37 kDa human sCD23 were produced by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-cloning into pET23a, a bacterial expression vector. The proteins were expressed and refolded, followed by purification by gel filtration chromatography. The purified proteins were biochemically characterized to ensure purity and biological activity, by observing the binding to human IgE both in enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA) and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy. ELISA showed KD values of 7.23 x 10-9M and 8.12 x 10-9M for the 25 and 37 kDa proteins, respectively. These values were significantly lower than that of Hibbert et al., (2005). SPR data obtained for the 25 kDa CD23 was not of reliable quality but SPR for the 33kDa sCD23 showed a KD of 1.18 x 10-7M, close to that of Hibbert et al., (2005), J. Exp. Med, 202: 751-760. To test the therapeutic potential of the recombinant molecule, a B-lymphoblastoid cell line (Raji), a pre-monocytic cell line (U937), and PBMCs from normal and hyper-allergic individuals were used. All cells showed no change in production of cytokines. It is essential to investigate further cytokine functions and production implicated by recombinant forms of sCD23, as well as binding of sCD23 to CD21 and CD11b/c, and in vivo IgE regulation before a conclusion can be drawn as to whether recombinant sCD23 is a potential therapeutic target against allergic disease.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Askew, Sandra Lyn
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Ligands , Cell receptors , Cellular signal transduction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10305 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/455 , Ligands , Cell receptors , Cellular signal transduction
- Description: CD23 is a multifunctional receptor/ligand, found in a variety of cell types, such as human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), B-lymphoblastoid cell lines, mast cells and basophils. It is also found on a variety of haematopoietic cell lines. As the low-affinity receptor for immunoglobulin E (IgE), CD23 plays a role in antigen-presentation and macrophage activation. As a surface molecule cleaved from the cell membrane, soluble CD23 (sCD23) can act as an adhesion molecule and a cytokine. Perturbances of such molecular interactions may lead to various diseases such as allergies and other inflammatory diseases. It has been speculated that elevated levels of sCD23 may be used to bind secreted IgE, thus preventing it from binding to membrane CD23 on haematopoietic cells, preventing B cells from being activated into IgE producing cells. Signal transduction by sCD23 is dependent on cell subsets, ligands and co-factors required for its function. sCD23 plays a direct role in inducing tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and soluble IL-1 receptor from activated human monocytes and PBMCs in vitro. Recombinant forms of 25 and 37 kDa human sCD23 were produced by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-cloning into pET23a, a bacterial expression vector. The proteins were expressed and refolded, followed by purification by gel filtration chromatography. The purified proteins were biochemically characterized to ensure purity and biological activity, by observing the binding to human IgE both in enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA) and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy. ELISA showed KD values of 7.23 x 10-9M and 8.12 x 10-9M for the 25 and 37 kDa proteins, respectively. These values were significantly lower than that of Hibbert et al., (2005). SPR data obtained for the 25 kDa CD23 was not of reliable quality but SPR for the 33kDa sCD23 showed a KD of 1.18 x 10-7M, close to that of Hibbert et al., (2005), J. Exp. Med, 202: 751-760. To test the therapeutic potential of the recombinant molecule, a B-lymphoblastoid cell line (Raji), a pre-monocytic cell line (U937), and PBMCs from normal and hyper-allergic individuals were used. All cells showed no change in production of cytokines. It is essential to investigate further cytokine functions and production implicated by recombinant forms of sCD23, as well as binding of sCD23 to CD21 and CD11b/c, and in vivo IgE regulation before a conclusion can be drawn as to whether recombinant sCD23 is a potential therapeutic target against allergic disease.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Designing a lean manufacturing model for Johnson Controls SA
- Authors: Andersson, Carl
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Production management -- South Africa , Just-in-time systems , Manufacturing resource planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8566 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/188 , Production management -- South Africa , Just-in-time systems , Manufacturing resource planning
- Description: An increase in global competitiveness has forced manufacturing organisations to re – look at their facility from an output and quality standpoint. Leveraging a manufacturing operation into a competitive advantage must at all times support the organisation’s objectives. It is therefore vital that the operation reviews its strategy so that it fulfils the everchanging needs of its market. The main objective of this research was to identify possible approaches that Johnson Controls South Africa (JCI SA) could pursue when implementing a Lean Manufacturing model. In doing this it will improve JCI SA’s manufacturing efficiency and quality, thus giving the organisation a competitive edge over its opposition. The research presented an empirical study of how a Lean Manufacturing model should be implemented in JCI SA. A theoretical and empirical study was conducted on how to successfully implement Lean Manufacturing within an organisation. The main purpose was to establish a theoretical Lean Manufacturing model that the organisation can utilise as a strategic plan to become the global leader in its market place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Andersson, Carl
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Production management -- South Africa , Just-in-time systems , Manufacturing resource planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8566 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/188 , Production management -- South Africa , Just-in-time systems , Manufacturing resource planning
- Description: An increase in global competitiveness has forced manufacturing organisations to re – look at their facility from an output and quality standpoint. Leveraging a manufacturing operation into a competitive advantage must at all times support the organisation’s objectives. It is therefore vital that the operation reviews its strategy so that it fulfils the everchanging needs of its market. The main objective of this research was to identify possible approaches that Johnson Controls South Africa (JCI SA) could pursue when implementing a Lean Manufacturing model. In doing this it will improve JCI SA’s manufacturing efficiency and quality, thus giving the organisation a competitive edge over its opposition. The research presented an empirical study of how a Lean Manufacturing model should be implemented in JCI SA. A theoretical and empirical study was conducted on how to successfully implement Lean Manufacturing within an organisation. The main purpose was to establish a theoretical Lean Manufacturing model that the organisation can utilise as a strategic plan to become the global leader in its market place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Designing for maintenance
- Authors: Syce, Melvin
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Buildings -- Maintenance -- South Africa , Buildings -- Protection -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9670 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/440 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011924 , Buildings -- Maintenance -- South Africa , Buildings -- Protection -- South Africa
- Description: This treatise is a study of the methodology and the thought processes followed when buildings are designed, in order to determine to what extent, if any, designers consider the need for buildings to be maintained long after they walk off site and part with the project. The concept of taking future maintenance requirements into account as part of the design process is referred to as “designing for maintenance” (DFM). It can be assumed that, from a professional perspective, designers must keep the client’s needs in mind when designing. Facilities managers face the challenge of balancing a budget with maintaining a functional building – a dream building would be a maintenance-free building. Armed with the knowledge of DFM it is hoped that future buildings will be designed in a manner that will facilitate maintenance, thereby achieving significant savings on the life cycle costing of buildings. Buys (2004) suggests that designers should adopt a more open-minded approach toward maintenance during the design stages of buildings. Maintenance, with reference to access, methods, material and funding, could benefit from this approach, with a positive effect on the life cycle costing of a building. In order of priority when starting a building project, the design process is at the top of the list. Because this process happens right at the outset of a project, it is important to address the level of maintenance awareness that goes into designing, at this stage. The research concludes that one of the methods which could have a permanent effect on designers’ awareness of DFM would be to include it in the subjects taught at schools where designers are trained. This idea was discussed with a number of lecturers in this field and they were all in favour of this approach. There is a perception that built environment practitioners and professionals such as architects and contractors in the various fields related to the built environment, often engage in their particular task as if they exist in isolation from the project as a whole and from the rest of the project team. However, it is becoming increasingly evident that all built environment aspects are interwoven and interlinked, and that all are part of a larger context. With reference to the built environment as a whole, no action or element exists in isolation from a larger web of activity. The challenge, to nurture within students an awareness of the range and interconnectedness of elements and processes that contribute to the holistic idea, rests with the educators in the design fields, because it is clear that the final impact of any project relies to a large extent on what was specified by the designers in terms of materials and construction methods. The impact of the world’s six billion inhabitants on the environment is clearly a critical issue but does little to influence the actions of most design professionals. Documented experiences should serve as valuable tools to guide designers towards making more educated decisions on building design. Built environment professionals should educate themselves about the range of issues involved in the analysis, design and production of the built environment and the interaction between these factors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Syce, Melvin
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Buildings -- Maintenance -- South Africa , Buildings -- Protection -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9670 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/440 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011924 , Buildings -- Maintenance -- South Africa , Buildings -- Protection -- South Africa
- Description: This treatise is a study of the methodology and the thought processes followed when buildings are designed, in order to determine to what extent, if any, designers consider the need for buildings to be maintained long after they walk off site and part with the project. The concept of taking future maintenance requirements into account as part of the design process is referred to as “designing for maintenance” (DFM). It can be assumed that, from a professional perspective, designers must keep the client’s needs in mind when designing. Facilities managers face the challenge of balancing a budget with maintaining a functional building – a dream building would be a maintenance-free building. Armed with the knowledge of DFM it is hoped that future buildings will be designed in a manner that will facilitate maintenance, thereby achieving significant savings on the life cycle costing of buildings. Buys (2004) suggests that designers should adopt a more open-minded approach toward maintenance during the design stages of buildings. Maintenance, with reference to access, methods, material and funding, could benefit from this approach, with a positive effect on the life cycle costing of a building. In order of priority when starting a building project, the design process is at the top of the list. Because this process happens right at the outset of a project, it is important to address the level of maintenance awareness that goes into designing, at this stage. The research concludes that one of the methods which could have a permanent effect on designers’ awareness of DFM would be to include it in the subjects taught at schools where designers are trained. This idea was discussed with a number of lecturers in this field and they were all in favour of this approach. There is a perception that built environment practitioners and professionals such as architects and contractors in the various fields related to the built environment, often engage in their particular task as if they exist in isolation from the project as a whole and from the rest of the project team. However, it is becoming increasingly evident that all built environment aspects are interwoven and interlinked, and that all are part of a larger context. With reference to the built environment as a whole, no action or element exists in isolation from a larger web of activity. The challenge, to nurture within students an awareness of the range and interconnectedness of elements and processes that contribute to the holistic idea, rests with the educators in the design fields, because it is clear that the final impact of any project relies to a large extent on what was specified by the designers in terms of materials and construction methods. The impact of the world’s six billion inhabitants on the environment is clearly a critical issue but does little to influence the actions of most design professionals. Documented experiences should serve as valuable tools to guide designers towards making more educated decisions on building design. Built environment professionals should educate themselves about the range of issues involved in the analysis, design and production of the built environment and the interaction between these factors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Determining the critical success factors for implementing lean manufacturing in South Africa: a case study
- Authors: Pitout, Callum John
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Production management -- South Africa , Manufacturing processes -- Control
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8915 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021082
- Description: The lean manufacturing system that evolved in Japan since World War II has leapt across the globe to North America and Europe. The secret success of Japan’s manufacturing machine has been shared. In Europe and America, lean has been identified as a manufacturing best practice that should be adopted to ensure competitive manufacturing efficiency. Many success stories have been told of American companies adopting the Japanese lean tools and techniques. Now, South African manufacturers are implementing the lean manufacturing philosophy, some with more success than others. This research paper explores lean manufacturing implementations at two South African automotive component manufacturers and identifies the critical success factors that have driven the implementation process forward. Commitment from top company executives, extensive training, worker empowerment and other critical success factors for implementing lean manufacturing into a South African environment are identified as a result of the research conducted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Pitout, Callum John
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Production management -- South Africa , Manufacturing processes -- Control
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8915 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021082
- Description: The lean manufacturing system that evolved in Japan since World War II has leapt across the globe to North America and Europe. The secret success of Japan’s manufacturing machine has been shared. In Europe and America, lean has been identified as a manufacturing best practice that should be adopted to ensure competitive manufacturing efficiency. Many success stories have been told of American companies adopting the Japanese lean tools and techniques. Now, South African manufacturers are implementing the lean manufacturing philosophy, some with more success than others. This research paper explores lean manufacturing implementations at two South African automotive component manufacturers and identifies the critical success factors that have driven the implementation process forward. Commitment from top company executives, extensive training, worker empowerment and other critical success factors for implementing lean manufacturing into a South African environment are identified as a result of the research conducted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Determining the impact of emotional intelligence on organisational effectiveness
- Authors: Paul, Stephanie
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness , Emotional intelligence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8762 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/591 , Organizational effectiveness , Emotional intelligence
- Description: Employees who are able to use their emotions intelligently can contribute meaningfully towards building an emotionally intelligent organisation, one in which everyone take responsibility for increasing his or her own emotional intelligence, for using it in relations with others, and for applying the skills of emotional intelligence to the organisation as a whole. The lack of emotional intelligence, however, undermines both an individual’s and a company’s growth and success. Expressing emotions within the workplace has for many years been considered inappropriate and irrelevant to business. This research study points to the fact that an overwhelming amount of research shows that not only are emotions very much a part if the work experience but, to a large degree, set the course that companies should follow. This research study firstly discusses the core components of emotional intelligence and its impact on individuals and how they relate to others. The study further focuses on the impact that emotional intelligence has on aspects that contribute to organisational effectiveness. This study suggests that emotional intelligence within companies could result in a situation where employees communicate with understanding and respect and where confidence and enthusiasm in the organisation are instilled. Knowing one’s own emotions and controlling them; recognizing emotions in others and managing them; and self-motivation are key dimensions of emotional intelligence covered in the theoretical perspective of emotional intelligence discussed in Chapter Two. This study points to the benefits of emotional intelligence as an indispensable element not only in creating a profitable business but also in leading a successful life. The findings discussed in Chapter Six indicate a reasonable level of emotional intelligence amongst employees at GMSA who participated in the survey. Recommendations from the study indicated a need for training in various aspects of emotional intelligence in order to derive the benefits of improved organisational effectiveness and profitability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Paul, Stephanie
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness , Emotional intelligence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8762 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/591 , Organizational effectiveness , Emotional intelligence
- Description: Employees who are able to use their emotions intelligently can contribute meaningfully towards building an emotionally intelligent organisation, one in which everyone take responsibility for increasing his or her own emotional intelligence, for using it in relations with others, and for applying the skills of emotional intelligence to the organisation as a whole. The lack of emotional intelligence, however, undermines both an individual’s and a company’s growth and success. Expressing emotions within the workplace has for many years been considered inappropriate and irrelevant to business. This research study points to the fact that an overwhelming amount of research shows that not only are emotions very much a part if the work experience but, to a large degree, set the course that companies should follow. This research study firstly discusses the core components of emotional intelligence and its impact on individuals and how they relate to others. The study further focuses on the impact that emotional intelligence has on aspects that contribute to organisational effectiveness. This study suggests that emotional intelligence within companies could result in a situation where employees communicate with understanding and respect and where confidence and enthusiasm in the organisation are instilled. Knowing one’s own emotions and controlling them; recognizing emotions in others and managing them; and self-motivation are key dimensions of emotional intelligence covered in the theoretical perspective of emotional intelligence discussed in Chapter Two. This study points to the benefits of emotional intelligence as an indispensable element not only in creating a profitable business but also in leading a successful life. The findings discussed in Chapter Six indicate a reasonable level of emotional intelligence amongst employees at GMSA who participated in the survey. Recommendations from the study indicated a need for training in various aspects of emotional intelligence in order to derive the benefits of improved organisational effectiveness and profitability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Development of an employee management model to address conflict and discipline in SME's
- Authors: Wren, Beverley
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Conflict management , Personnel management , Small business -- South Africa -- George
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8748 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/646 , Conflict management , Personnel management , Small business -- South Africa -- George
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study is to determine what effect current labour legislation has on small and medium enterprises (SME’s), in particular with regard to handling conflict and disciplinary procedures in the workplace. To achieve this objective a literature study was undertaken to ascertain what labour relations practices are recommended and/or enforced by law. The literature study included a look at the effect of conflict on the workforce and the resultant cause and effect of the stress that conflict causes. The literature study was then used to develop a questionnaire to test the degree to which small to medium sized business managers, in the coastal city of George in the Western Cape, complied with the law and application of the necessary regulations governing labour relations. The empirical study results indicated a healthy adherence to labour legislation in general. The results indicated that the role-players, namely owners and managers of small to medium sized businesses, had valid arguments both for and against the weight of the labour legislation imposed on small businesses. Those businesses that had not indicated a strict adherence to regulation run the risk of costly fines and penalties being imposed on them. Such enterprises would do well to employ an independent consultant to “audit” and update employee records on a regular (6 monthly) basis. Failure to take the time to have all the correct documentation prepared could result in costly labour disputes and government intervention, which far outweighs the cost of a professional ensuring that all the necessary paperwork is correct and in place
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Wren, Beverley
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Conflict management , Personnel management , Small business -- South Africa -- George
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8748 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/646 , Conflict management , Personnel management , Small business -- South Africa -- George
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study is to determine what effect current labour legislation has on small and medium enterprises (SME’s), in particular with regard to handling conflict and disciplinary procedures in the workplace. To achieve this objective a literature study was undertaken to ascertain what labour relations practices are recommended and/or enforced by law. The literature study included a look at the effect of conflict on the workforce and the resultant cause and effect of the stress that conflict causes. The literature study was then used to develop a questionnaire to test the degree to which small to medium sized business managers, in the coastal city of George in the Western Cape, complied with the law and application of the necessary regulations governing labour relations. The empirical study results indicated a healthy adherence to labour legislation in general. The results indicated that the role-players, namely owners and managers of small to medium sized businesses, had valid arguments both for and against the weight of the labour legislation imposed on small businesses. Those businesses that had not indicated a strict adherence to regulation run the risk of costly fines and penalties being imposed on them. Such enterprises would do well to employ an independent consultant to “audit” and update employee records on a regular (6 monthly) basis. Failure to take the time to have all the correct documentation prepared could result in costly labour disputes and government intervention, which far outweighs the cost of a professional ensuring that all the necessary paperwork is correct and in place
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Dismissal due to pregnancy
- Authors: Ledwaba, Lesetsa Joel
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Sex discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Pregnant women -- Employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10190 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/433 , Sex discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Pregnant women -- Employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: Previously, our workplaces were characterised by serious hardships emanating from labour laws which did not always cater for all areas of the employment relationship. South African female employees were without a clear legitimate remedial right precluding any severe violation and infringement to their fundamental rights resulting from their pregnancy; a task they did not opt for in the first place, but was instead, naturally imposed on them as a result of their gender category. Undoubtedly, many female employees were victims of unfair discrimination. The legislature therefore saw it fit to democratise the workplace by making rapid statutory interventions. As a result, a number of significant changes in various spheres of our labour laws were brought in. Amongst the greatly notable valuable changes was the introduction of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998. This piece of legislation has generally reformed our industrial society by bringing in the elimination of unfair discrimination and thereby enhancing the principle of equity in the workplace. The act has further touched a place within hearts of female employees for fear of discrimination as a result of their pregnancy status or any reasons related to their pregnancy. The act further codified Industrial Court decisions that were already established under the discrimination law jurisprudence from the Labour Relations Act 28 of 1956. The application of the provisions of the Act has made the employment relationship no longer to be a comfort zone for employers. These general changes to the law also impact on the dismissal law regime. The purpose of this treatise is to give an overview of the applicable legislation and contributions made by the Labour Courts in developing pregnancy dismissal and discrimination law. The Labour Courts have handed down few judgements that have helped in clarifying the provisions of both the current Labour Relations Act and the Employment Equity Act around the topic. One should hasten to say that this has never been a smooth process by the courts. It is further shown in this treatise that some of the court decisions were not well accepted in the light of other important considerations, such as the equality provisions of the Constitution. For the purpose of effectively dealing with this topic, this treatise contains a discussion of the historical context of discrimination law in the form of common-law position, and the discrimination law before the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. It then endeavours to identify the legislative provision of the Act when it comes to discrimination law provisions. At the same time the important court decisions that were made are identified and examined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Ledwaba, Lesetsa Joel
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Sex discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Pregnant women -- Employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10190 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/433 , Sex discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Pregnant women -- Employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: Previously, our workplaces were characterised by serious hardships emanating from labour laws which did not always cater for all areas of the employment relationship. South African female employees were without a clear legitimate remedial right precluding any severe violation and infringement to their fundamental rights resulting from their pregnancy; a task they did not opt for in the first place, but was instead, naturally imposed on them as a result of their gender category. Undoubtedly, many female employees were victims of unfair discrimination. The legislature therefore saw it fit to democratise the workplace by making rapid statutory interventions. As a result, a number of significant changes in various spheres of our labour laws were brought in. Amongst the greatly notable valuable changes was the introduction of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998. This piece of legislation has generally reformed our industrial society by bringing in the elimination of unfair discrimination and thereby enhancing the principle of equity in the workplace. The act has further touched a place within hearts of female employees for fear of discrimination as a result of their pregnancy status or any reasons related to their pregnancy. The act further codified Industrial Court decisions that were already established under the discrimination law jurisprudence from the Labour Relations Act 28 of 1956. The application of the provisions of the Act has made the employment relationship no longer to be a comfort zone for employers. These general changes to the law also impact on the dismissal law regime. The purpose of this treatise is to give an overview of the applicable legislation and contributions made by the Labour Courts in developing pregnancy dismissal and discrimination law. The Labour Courts have handed down few judgements that have helped in clarifying the provisions of both the current Labour Relations Act and the Employment Equity Act around the topic. One should hasten to say that this has never been a smooth process by the courts. It is further shown in this treatise that some of the court decisions were not well accepted in the light of other important considerations, such as the equality provisions of the Constitution. For the purpose of effectively dealing with this topic, this treatise contains a discussion of the historical context of discrimination law in the form of common-law position, and the discrimination law before the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. It then endeavours to identify the legislative provision of the Act when it comes to discrimination law provisions. At the same time the important court decisions that were made are identified and examined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006