The coping orientation and self-esteem of black learners enrolled in under-resourced schools in the Nelson Mandela Metropole
- Authors: Ogle, Zimbini
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Educational psychology -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Educational psychology -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Self-esteem -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Problems, exercises, etc. , Right to education -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Public schools -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9941 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012591 , Educational psychology -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Educational psychology -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Self-esteem -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Problems, exercises, etc. , Right to education -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Public schools -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: It is common knowledge that the delivery of a high quality, well-resourced educational service to learners enrolled in state schools in the Eastern Cape has ground to a halt and this lack of service delivery has now become a pervasive problem. South African education has to a large extent failed to meet the needs of Black learners. Schools, like other contexts of childhood and adolescence are intimate places where youths construct identities, build a sense of self, read how society views them, develop the capacity to sustain relations and forge the skills to initiate change. These are the contexts where youth grow or shrink. Buildings in disrepair are not, therefore, merely a distraction; they are identity producing and selfdefining. There has been much debate on the topic of self-esteem and its relationship to school performance and academic achievement. Previous studies have highlighted that selfesteem and resilience do play a role in academic achievement. Despite the many challenges facing learners in under-resourced schools, many learners have overcome such challenges and achieved academic success. This study aimed to explore and describe the coping orientation and self-esteem of Black learners enrolled in under-resourced state schools in the Nelson Mandela Metropole. An exploratory, descriptive survey design was employed and eighty-five research participants completed the Orientation to Life Questionnaire 29 Item (OLQ 29 Item), Battle‟s Culture Free Self-Esteem Inventory Form AD (CFSEI Form AD) and a biographical questionnaire. Key findings revealed fairly high mean scores on the OLQ 29 Item and low total self-esteem scores. The General, Social and Personal self-esteem of the learners were found to be average. The results also revealed that learners with a high sense of coherence are likely to have high self-esteem; hence high sense of coherence is better explained by high self-esteem and low sense of coherence is better explained by low selfesteem.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Ogle, Zimbini
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Educational psychology -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Educational psychology -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Self-esteem -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Problems, exercises, etc. , Right to education -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Public schools -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9941 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012591 , Educational psychology -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Educational psychology -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Self-esteem -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Problems, exercises, etc. , Right to education -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Public schools -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: It is common knowledge that the delivery of a high quality, well-resourced educational service to learners enrolled in state schools in the Eastern Cape has ground to a halt and this lack of service delivery has now become a pervasive problem. South African education has to a large extent failed to meet the needs of Black learners. Schools, like other contexts of childhood and adolescence are intimate places where youths construct identities, build a sense of self, read how society views them, develop the capacity to sustain relations and forge the skills to initiate change. These are the contexts where youth grow or shrink. Buildings in disrepair are not, therefore, merely a distraction; they are identity producing and selfdefining. There has been much debate on the topic of self-esteem and its relationship to school performance and academic achievement. Previous studies have highlighted that selfesteem and resilience do play a role in academic achievement. Despite the many challenges facing learners in under-resourced schools, many learners have overcome such challenges and achieved academic success. This study aimed to explore and describe the coping orientation and self-esteem of Black learners enrolled in under-resourced state schools in the Nelson Mandela Metropole. An exploratory, descriptive survey design was employed and eighty-five research participants completed the Orientation to Life Questionnaire 29 Item (OLQ 29 Item), Battle‟s Culture Free Self-Esteem Inventory Form AD (CFSEI Form AD) and a biographical questionnaire. Key findings revealed fairly high mean scores on the OLQ 29 Item and low total self-esteem scores. The General, Social and Personal self-esteem of the learners were found to be average. The results also revealed that learners with a high sense of coherence are likely to have high self-esteem; hence high sense of coherence is better explained by high self-esteem and low sense of coherence is better explained by low selfesteem.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The credit risk management skills shortage in Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole
- Authors: Teka, Babalwa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- Risk management -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Credit -- Management , Risk management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8834 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019893
- Description: Tito Mboweni (2011) said one of South Africa’s biggest tests is the overwhelming the skills shortage. He was echoing the views of Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande who himself said “South Africa could not afford to have an economy "constrained by a severe lack of skills". There are numerous initiatives that having been undertaken by government in an attempt to solve the skills shortage problem. However, these initiatives are not aimed at the tertiary education system. The tertiary education system is the focus of this study as the author investigates how the NMMU Business School can play a significant role in addressing the skills shortage in the credit risk management sector. Following a literature review, surveys were completed by the NMMU Business School MBA students (ninety of them completed it) and personal interviews were conducted with three Provincial HR managers from South Africa’s “four big banks” in Nelson Mandela Bay (Nedbank, Standard Bank and ABSA). The study found that the skills shortage is indeed a problem. The study found that reasons including the legacy left by apartheid and students pursuing the wrong degrees were highlighted as some of the reason for this skills shortage. An opportunity for the NMMU Business School was identified to support the banking industry in addressing credit risk management skills shortage. The benefits include financial reward and more importantly an opportunity to differentiate the Business School and the courses offered at the school from the rest. Some of the recommendations included sourcing of the best practices from institutions like the Millpark Business School on effective partnering with the banking industry as well as a proactive approach to be adopted by the banking industry in terms of lobbying support from other potential role players for example but not limited to, student bodies, BankSeta and the smaller banks in the industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Teka, Babalwa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- Risk management -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Credit -- Management , Risk management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8834 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019893
- Description: Tito Mboweni (2011) said one of South Africa’s biggest tests is the overwhelming the skills shortage. He was echoing the views of Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande who himself said “South Africa could not afford to have an economy "constrained by a severe lack of skills". There are numerous initiatives that having been undertaken by government in an attempt to solve the skills shortage problem. However, these initiatives are not aimed at the tertiary education system. The tertiary education system is the focus of this study as the author investigates how the NMMU Business School can play a significant role in addressing the skills shortage in the credit risk management sector. Following a literature review, surveys were completed by the NMMU Business School MBA students (ninety of them completed it) and personal interviews were conducted with three Provincial HR managers from South Africa’s “four big banks” in Nelson Mandela Bay (Nedbank, Standard Bank and ABSA). The study found that the skills shortage is indeed a problem. The study found that reasons including the legacy left by apartheid and students pursuing the wrong degrees were highlighted as some of the reason for this skills shortage. An opportunity for the NMMU Business School was identified to support the banking industry in addressing credit risk management skills shortage. The benefits include financial reward and more importantly an opportunity to differentiate the Business School and the courses offered at the school from the rest. Some of the recommendations included sourcing of the best practices from institutions like the Millpark Business School on effective partnering with the banking industry as well as a proactive approach to be adopted by the banking industry in terms of lobbying support from other potential role players for example but not limited to, student bodies, BankSeta and the smaller banks in the industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The development and optimization of a cosmetic formulation that facilitates the process of detangling braids from African hair
- Authors: Mkentane, Kwezikazi
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Cosmetics--Patents , Hairdressing of Blacks , Braids (Hairdressing)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10366 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1662 , Cosmetics--Patents , Hairdressing of Blacks , Braids (Hairdressing)
- Description: A large number of people throughout the world have naturally kinky hair that may be very difficult to manage. These people often subject their hair to vigorous and harsh treatment processes in order to straighten it and hence make it more manageable. Hair braiding is a popular and fashionable trend amongst many people, in particular people of African descent. Braided hairstyles serve to preserve hair and protect it, and to give it time to rejuvenate after a period of harsh treatment. During the braiding process synthetic hair is attached to natural hair by weaving a length of the natural hair into one end of each braid. Other materials like wool or cotton may be use used to achieve different hairstyles and textures. Several strands of natural hair are used to secure each braid. The braids are normally left intact for a number of weeks or even months. Although braiding is a helpful African hair grooming practice, the process of taking down or detangling the braids is labor intensive and entails each braid being cut just below where the natural hair ceases and the natural hair being untangled from the braid using a safety pin, a needle or a fine toothed comb. The labor and long hours required to detangle braided hairstyles often results in braid wearers frustratingly pulling on their braided hair. This behavior inevitably destroys the hair follicle and leaves the hair damaged. According to a study conducted by the University of Cape Town’s dermatology department, braiding may be the root cause of traction alopecia (TA) amongst braid wearers. Traction alopecia is a form of alopecia, or gradual hair loss that is caused primarily by excessive pulling forces applied to the hair. The purpose of this current study was to investigate the factors, other than braid tightness, that affect the way and ease with which braids are detangled from the human hair. The study hypothesized that frictional forces present in braided hair were amongst these factors. It was hypothesized that introducing a lubricating formulation in the braids would allow for easier braid detangling. In order to decrease the prevalence of traction alopecia from braided hair, two hair strengthening actives were included in the test formulation. The study investigated the effects of the test formulations on braid detangling, hair friction and on the tensile strength of human hair. The study found that the method used did not pick up any significant differences between the braid detangling forces of treated braids when compared to the braid vi detangling forces of untreated hair. The same method used to measure braid detangling forces was able to show that there are variations in the braid detangling forces of different sections along the braid length. The method to measure braid detangling was based on the principles of hair combability measurements. The study also found that although the method used to measure braid detangling forces was unsuccessful in picking up significant differences in braid detangling forces of treated hair and untreated hair, the method used to measure the frictional forces of human hair showed that the frictional forces of hair treated with test formulations were significantly different than that of untreated hair. The method used to measure frictional forces was based on the capstan approach. The Capstan method measures the forces required to slide a weighted hair fibre over a curved surface of reference material. The interaction between the weighted fibre and the reference material simulates the movement of hair out of a braid ensemble in the braid detangling process. The optimum mixture with the minimum coefficient of friction, predicted a coefficient of friction of 0.61 ± 0.04. The optimum formulation was found to be one that contained 30% Cyclopentasiloxane , 0% PEG-12 Dimethicone, 10% 18-MEA, 29% water, 10% hair strengthening actives, 12.86% emulsifier combination and 8% other oils. The study also showed that including hair strengthening actives, such as hydrolysed proteins had significant effects in the tensile strength properties of chemically treated African hair.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mkentane, Kwezikazi
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Cosmetics--Patents , Hairdressing of Blacks , Braids (Hairdressing)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10366 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1662 , Cosmetics--Patents , Hairdressing of Blacks , Braids (Hairdressing)
- Description: A large number of people throughout the world have naturally kinky hair that may be very difficult to manage. These people often subject their hair to vigorous and harsh treatment processes in order to straighten it and hence make it more manageable. Hair braiding is a popular and fashionable trend amongst many people, in particular people of African descent. Braided hairstyles serve to preserve hair and protect it, and to give it time to rejuvenate after a period of harsh treatment. During the braiding process synthetic hair is attached to natural hair by weaving a length of the natural hair into one end of each braid. Other materials like wool or cotton may be use used to achieve different hairstyles and textures. Several strands of natural hair are used to secure each braid. The braids are normally left intact for a number of weeks or even months. Although braiding is a helpful African hair grooming practice, the process of taking down or detangling the braids is labor intensive and entails each braid being cut just below where the natural hair ceases and the natural hair being untangled from the braid using a safety pin, a needle or a fine toothed comb. The labor and long hours required to detangle braided hairstyles often results in braid wearers frustratingly pulling on their braided hair. This behavior inevitably destroys the hair follicle and leaves the hair damaged. According to a study conducted by the University of Cape Town’s dermatology department, braiding may be the root cause of traction alopecia (TA) amongst braid wearers. Traction alopecia is a form of alopecia, or gradual hair loss that is caused primarily by excessive pulling forces applied to the hair. The purpose of this current study was to investigate the factors, other than braid tightness, that affect the way and ease with which braids are detangled from the human hair. The study hypothesized that frictional forces present in braided hair were amongst these factors. It was hypothesized that introducing a lubricating formulation in the braids would allow for easier braid detangling. In order to decrease the prevalence of traction alopecia from braided hair, two hair strengthening actives were included in the test formulation. The study investigated the effects of the test formulations on braid detangling, hair friction and on the tensile strength of human hair. The study found that the method used did not pick up any significant differences between the braid detangling forces of treated braids when compared to the braid vi detangling forces of untreated hair. The same method used to measure braid detangling forces was able to show that there are variations in the braid detangling forces of different sections along the braid length. The method to measure braid detangling was based on the principles of hair combability measurements. The study also found that although the method used to measure braid detangling forces was unsuccessful in picking up significant differences in braid detangling forces of treated hair and untreated hair, the method used to measure the frictional forces of human hair showed that the frictional forces of hair treated with test formulations were significantly different than that of untreated hair. The method used to measure frictional forces was based on the capstan approach. The Capstan method measures the forces required to slide a weighted hair fibre over a curved surface of reference material. The interaction between the weighted fibre and the reference material simulates the movement of hair out of a braid ensemble in the braid detangling process. The optimum mixture with the minimum coefficient of friction, predicted a coefficient of friction of 0.61 ± 0.04. The optimum formulation was found to be one that contained 30% Cyclopentasiloxane , 0% PEG-12 Dimethicone, 10% 18-MEA, 29% water, 10% hair strengthening actives, 12.86% emulsifier combination and 8% other oils. The study also showed that including hair strengthening actives, such as hydrolysed proteins had significant effects in the tensile strength properties of chemically treated African hair.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The development of a programmable engine management system for a formula student race vehicle
- Authors: Parmar, Hiten
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Automobiles -- Motors -- Computer control systems , Automotive computers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9601 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1010957 , Automobiles -- Motors -- Computer control systems , Automotive computers
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Parmar, Hiten
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Automobiles -- Motors -- Computer control systems , Automotive computers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9601 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1010957 , Automobiles -- Motors -- Computer control systems , Automotive computers
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The development of an optimised rotor software design tool to improve performance of small horizontal axis wind turbines
- Authors: Newey, Kerryn Brett
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Wind turbines -- Design , Wind power , Turbines -- Design
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9620 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1009431 , Wind turbines -- Design , Wind power , Turbines -- Design
- Description: Horizontal axis wind turbines are by far the most common and well understood forms of wind turbine. Typically a large amount of research and development has been invested in the technology of large scale wind turbines. Unfortunately, development of small machines (rotor diameter smaller than 10 metres) has not been as forthcoming. The advantages of small turbines are that they are accessible to the individual consumer and they are a very attractive project for the home builder. The disadvantage of small turbines is that due to the negative influence of economies of scale, they tend to be costly in relation to their power output and suffer from a long-term return on investment. Furthermore, trends in the wind industry have shown that smaller machines tend to be relatively simple devices that have been developed with very little research and development. As a result, small turbines can be inefficient, unreliable and expensive to maintain. In many cases rotor design is less than optimal, with very little blade refinement. This is especially critical for small rotors due to low Reynolds Number operation. Further exacerbating the problem is that the rotors are typically not well matched to the generator. In many cases the machines are not suited to the wind speed range in which they are designed to operate, reducing the financial viability due to poor performance. It is envisaged that by applying optimising techniques and automating some of the design complexities into a software design tool, more cost-effective and viable machines can be developed that will deliver improved performance and therefore become more financially viable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Newey, Kerryn Brett
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Wind turbines -- Design , Wind power , Turbines -- Design
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9620 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1009431 , Wind turbines -- Design , Wind power , Turbines -- Design
- Description: Horizontal axis wind turbines are by far the most common and well understood forms of wind turbine. Typically a large amount of research and development has been invested in the technology of large scale wind turbines. Unfortunately, development of small machines (rotor diameter smaller than 10 metres) has not been as forthcoming. The advantages of small turbines are that they are accessible to the individual consumer and they are a very attractive project for the home builder. The disadvantage of small turbines is that due to the negative influence of economies of scale, they tend to be costly in relation to their power output and suffer from a long-term return on investment. Furthermore, trends in the wind industry have shown that smaller machines tend to be relatively simple devices that have been developed with very little research and development. As a result, small turbines can be inefficient, unreliable and expensive to maintain. In many cases rotor design is less than optimal, with very little blade refinement. This is especially critical for small rotors due to low Reynolds Number operation. Further exacerbating the problem is that the rotors are typically not well matched to the generator. In many cases the machines are not suited to the wind speed range in which they are designed to operate, reducing the financial viability due to poor performance. It is envisaged that by applying optimising techniques and automating some of the design complexities into a software design tool, more cost-effective and viable machines can be developed that will deliver improved performance and therefore become more financially viable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The development of an orodispersible sildenafil citrate tablet intended for paediatric use
- Authors: Dagnolo, Bianca
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Drug development -- Children -- Research -- South Africa , Pulmonary hypertension -- Children -- Research , Tablets (Medicine) -- Development , Pharmaceutical chemistry -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3751 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003229 , Drug development -- Children -- Research -- South Africa , Pulmonary hypertension -- Children -- Research , Tablets (Medicine) -- Development , Pharmaceutical chemistry -- Research
- Description: Sildenafil citrate (SC) is a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor that is used to treat pulmonary hypertension (PH) in paediatric patients. The purpose of these studies was to develop a formulation and manufacture an orodispersible tablet (ODT) that can be easily administered to neonates and children with PH. The advantages of ODT dosage forms include ease of administration, rapid dissolution of the API, SC. Furthermore the dosage form can be taken without water which is beneficial to patients without immediate access to potable fluids. A simple, rapid, accurate, precise and selective reversed-phase HPLC method was developed and validated in accordance with International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines and was successfully used for the analysis of SC as raw material and in SC containing pharmaceutical dosage forms. Preformulation studies were performed on SC, alone and in combination with potential excipients that could be used to make tablets. Investigations into potential interactions between SC and the excipients were performed using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Infrared Spectroscopy (IR). DSC results revealed that SC was compatible with all potential excipients except mannitol and magnesium stearate. However these interactions were not observed with IR and therefore it was concluded that the interactions were induced by the high temperatures that DSC operates at. Particle size and shape was also established by use of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and flow properties were monitored by calculating Carr’s Index (CI) and the Hausner Ratio (HR). Direct compression was used as the method of manufacture for SC tablets as this approach is simple and the most economic production approach. The powder blends were assessed for bulk and tapped density and the CI and HR were used to determine the flowability of the blends. The quality attributes of the resultant tablets that were monitored included uniformity of weight, friability, crushing strength, tensile strength, disintegration, wetting and in vitro dispersion times. Design of Experiments is an efficient statistical approach that has become a popular tool used in the pharmaceutical industry to optimize formulation compositions, as it allows for the investigation of several input factors at the same time whilst not using the tedious and traditional “ modification of one variable at a time” approach. A Central composite experimental design was chosen as the most appropriate means to optimize the formulation as it produces more accurate results as opposed to other experimental designs approaches as input factors are investigated at five different levels. Through the use of mathematical modelling, optimum concentrations of disintegrant(s) and an appropriate blending time were established. Analysis of the data from the experimental design and mathematical modelling studies reveal that no changes in disintegrant concentration or blending time altered the disintegration time of the formulation to any significant extent. This result is most likely due to the fact that the critical disintegrant concentration has been reached and increasing the disintegrant concentration further has no effect on disintegration time. It was also established that a change in the concentration of CMS and CRP altered the wetting time of the tablet significantly. Finally it was noted that there was a linear relationship between blending time and the uniformity of content of the tablets produced in these studies. The optimized product was a white tablet with a diameter of 7.31 mm with a thickness of 2.80mm.The dosage form had no visible cracks or evidence of picking or sticking. The tablet exhibits suitable friability and tensile strength while exhibiting a disintegration time of only 8s. Therefore an orodispersible tablet containing SC intended for paediatric use has been successfully developed, manufactured and optimized through the use of preformulation studies, appropriate quality control monitoring and mathematical modelling. These formulations require further optimization in respect of addition of flavours and or additional sweetening agents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Dagnolo, Bianca
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Drug development -- Children -- Research -- South Africa , Pulmonary hypertension -- Children -- Research , Tablets (Medicine) -- Development , Pharmaceutical chemistry -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3751 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003229 , Drug development -- Children -- Research -- South Africa , Pulmonary hypertension -- Children -- Research , Tablets (Medicine) -- Development , Pharmaceutical chemistry -- Research
- Description: Sildenafil citrate (SC) is a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor that is used to treat pulmonary hypertension (PH) in paediatric patients. The purpose of these studies was to develop a formulation and manufacture an orodispersible tablet (ODT) that can be easily administered to neonates and children with PH. The advantages of ODT dosage forms include ease of administration, rapid dissolution of the API, SC. Furthermore the dosage form can be taken without water which is beneficial to patients without immediate access to potable fluids. A simple, rapid, accurate, precise and selective reversed-phase HPLC method was developed and validated in accordance with International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines and was successfully used for the analysis of SC as raw material and in SC containing pharmaceutical dosage forms. Preformulation studies were performed on SC, alone and in combination with potential excipients that could be used to make tablets. Investigations into potential interactions between SC and the excipients were performed using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Infrared Spectroscopy (IR). DSC results revealed that SC was compatible with all potential excipients except mannitol and magnesium stearate. However these interactions were not observed with IR and therefore it was concluded that the interactions were induced by the high temperatures that DSC operates at. Particle size and shape was also established by use of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and flow properties were monitored by calculating Carr’s Index (CI) and the Hausner Ratio (HR). Direct compression was used as the method of manufacture for SC tablets as this approach is simple and the most economic production approach. The powder blends were assessed for bulk and tapped density and the CI and HR were used to determine the flowability of the blends. The quality attributes of the resultant tablets that were monitored included uniformity of weight, friability, crushing strength, tensile strength, disintegration, wetting and in vitro dispersion times. Design of Experiments is an efficient statistical approach that has become a popular tool used in the pharmaceutical industry to optimize formulation compositions, as it allows for the investigation of several input factors at the same time whilst not using the tedious and traditional “ modification of one variable at a time” approach. A Central composite experimental design was chosen as the most appropriate means to optimize the formulation as it produces more accurate results as opposed to other experimental designs approaches as input factors are investigated at five different levels. Through the use of mathematical modelling, optimum concentrations of disintegrant(s) and an appropriate blending time were established. Analysis of the data from the experimental design and mathematical modelling studies reveal that no changes in disintegrant concentration or blending time altered the disintegration time of the formulation to any significant extent. This result is most likely due to the fact that the critical disintegrant concentration has been reached and increasing the disintegrant concentration further has no effect on disintegration time. It was also established that a change in the concentration of CMS and CRP altered the wetting time of the tablet significantly. Finally it was noted that there was a linear relationship between blending time and the uniformity of content of the tablets produced in these studies. The optimized product was a white tablet with a diameter of 7.31 mm with a thickness of 2.80mm.The dosage form had no visible cracks or evidence of picking or sticking. The tablet exhibits suitable friability and tensile strength while exhibiting a disintegration time of only 8s. Therefore an orodispersible tablet containing SC intended for paediatric use has been successfully developed, manufactured and optimized through the use of preformulation studies, appropriate quality control monitoring and mathematical modelling. These formulations require further optimization in respect of addition of flavours and or additional sweetening agents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The diet and ecological role of black-backed jackals, Canis Mesomelas, in two conservation areas in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Brassine, Mathilde Chloé
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Black-backed jackal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- Food , Wildlife conservation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5660 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005344 , Black-backed jackal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- Food , Wildlife conservation
- Description: Mammalian predators are keystone species and can have disproportionately large impacts, relative to their abundance, on the communities and ecosystems they inhabit. In addition, predator-prey interactions (including bottom-up and top-down effects) are the fundamental linkage among species in food webs. Thus, understanding the food requirements of predators is imperative. There have been no comprehensive studies on the diet of black-backed jackals (Canis mesomelas) across a full seasonal cycle in the Albany Thicket Biome of the Eastern Cape Province. This biome is rich in plant diversity, is highly nutritious for herbivores and supports a large number of mammalian species, yet it is poorly conserved. The aim of the present study was to establish the diet of black-backed jackals on two conservation areas where thicket vegetation dominates (Great Fish River Reserve and Kwandwe Private Game Reserve). The diet was assessed using scats collected monthly from June 2009 to May 2010 and a sample of 25 stomachs over the same period. At both sites and across all seasons, mammalian hair was encountered most often (93% of all scats) and a total of 23 mammal species were consumed. Of the mammals recorded in the scats, hair from several ungulate species was encountered most frequently and these were mostly hider species (offspring hidden in tall vegetation just after birth). On a seasonal basis, the proportion of mammalian hair was lowest in autumn. However, the contribution of fruits (Carissa haematocarpa, Diospyros lycioides and Grewia robusta) to the diet was significantly higher during this season. This suggests that black-backed jackals may employ diet switching in the Eastern Cape as a mechanism to capitalise on seasonally abundant food sources. Based on the stomach content analysis, invertebrates were consumed as frequently as mammalian prey throughout the year but mammalian prey was recorded in greater quantity (i.e. volume and mass). Thus, scat analysis may have overestimated mammalian prey and fruits and underestimated the importance of invertebrates, particularly highly digestible species (e.g. termites). In spite of these differences, scat analysis demonstrated similar general and seasonal trends as the stomach content analysis. Thus, scat analysis can provide an efficient and relatively accurate source of information on the diet of blackbacked jackals in the Eastern Cape. Both stomach content and scat collection methods depicted the black-backed jackal as a generalist and opportunistic predator, mainly relying on mammals and invertebrates. Although the results of my study suggest that black-backed jackal may be important predators of certain ungulate species, further study on their prey preferences, actual biomass ingested and the effects on the population viability of prey species is required in order to develop a robust management plan for the species in the protected areas of the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Brassine, Mathilde Chloé
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Black-backed jackal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- Food , Wildlife conservation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5660 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005344 , Black-backed jackal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- Food , Wildlife conservation
- Description: Mammalian predators are keystone species and can have disproportionately large impacts, relative to their abundance, on the communities and ecosystems they inhabit. In addition, predator-prey interactions (including bottom-up and top-down effects) are the fundamental linkage among species in food webs. Thus, understanding the food requirements of predators is imperative. There have been no comprehensive studies on the diet of black-backed jackals (Canis mesomelas) across a full seasonal cycle in the Albany Thicket Biome of the Eastern Cape Province. This biome is rich in plant diversity, is highly nutritious for herbivores and supports a large number of mammalian species, yet it is poorly conserved. The aim of the present study was to establish the diet of black-backed jackals on two conservation areas where thicket vegetation dominates (Great Fish River Reserve and Kwandwe Private Game Reserve). The diet was assessed using scats collected monthly from June 2009 to May 2010 and a sample of 25 stomachs over the same period. At both sites and across all seasons, mammalian hair was encountered most often (93% of all scats) and a total of 23 mammal species were consumed. Of the mammals recorded in the scats, hair from several ungulate species was encountered most frequently and these were mostly hider species (offspring hidden in tall vegetation just after birth). On a seasonal basis, the proportion of mammalian hair was lowest in autumn. However, the contribution of fruits (Carissa haematocarpa, Diospyros lycioides and Grewia robusta) to the diet was significantly higher during this season. This suggests that black-backed jackals may employ diet switching in the Eastern Cape as a mechanism to capitalise on seasonally abundant food sources. Based on the stomach content analysis, invertebrates were consumed as frequently as mammalian prey throughout the year but mammalian prey was recorded in greater quantity (i.e. volume and mass). Thus, scat analysis may have overestimated mammalian prey and fruits and underestimated the importance of invertebrates, particularly highly digestible species (e.g. termites). In spite of these differences, scat analysis demonstrated similar general and seasonal trends as the stomach content analysis. Thus, scat analysis can provide an efficient and relatively accurate source of information on the diet of blackbacked jackals in the Eastern Cape. Both stomach content and scat collection methods depicted the black-backed jackal as a generalist and opportunistic predator, mainly relying on mammals and invertebrates. Although the results of my study suggest that black-backed jackal may be important predators of certain ungulate species, further study on their prey preferences, actual biomass ingested and the effects on the population viability of prey species is required in order to develop a robust management plan for the species in the protected areas of the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The diet of black-backed jackal (Canis Mesomelas) on two contrasting land-use types in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa and the validation of a new analytical method of mammalian hair identification
- Authors: Forbes, Ross William
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Black-backed jackal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- Food , Mammals -- Identification
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5661 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005345 , Black-backed jackal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- Food , Mammals -- Identification
- Description: Diet assessments are critical for understanding the foraging behaviour, habitat use and trophic separation of mammalian predators and are vital for gaining insight into how predators influence prey populations. The aim of this research was to qualitatively describe the diet of black-backed jackals (Canis mesomelas, Schreber 1775) using scat analysis on two contrasting land-use types in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Scats were collected on a monthly basis from November 2009 to October 2010 from two game reserves (Great Fish River Reserve and Shamwari Private Game Reserve) and two neighbouring livestock farms. The relative frequency of occurrence of mammal hair (33 – 47 %) and vegetation (32 – 45%)dominated jackal diet throughout the year across the four study sites. Other important prey items included invertebrates (8 – 21 %) and fruit and seeds (3 – 11 %). Birds and reptiles constituted ≤ 2 % of the diet and were only recorded on the game reserves. Significant seasonal dietary shifts were observed on the game reserves but not on the farms. Fruit and seeds were significantly more frequent in the diet during autumn at Great Fish River Reserve and invertebrates were significantly less common in the diet during winter on both reserves. In addition, vegetation was significantly more common in the diet during winter at Shamwari Private Game Reserve. The significant temporal variation of certain prey items is testament to black-backed jackals being opportunistic generalists, foraging on those food items which are most abundant, accessible and energetically beneficial. Land-use type also influenced the diet of black-backed jackals with significantly more invertebrates and, fruit and seeds being recorded on the game reserves than on the farms. By contrast, significantly more mammal hair and vegetation were present in the diet on the farms compared with the game reserves. The mammalian component of the diet was dominated by ruminants and rodents on the game reserves and by ruminants and livestock on the farms. The presence of livestock in the diet of black-backed jackals on the farms highlights their potential impact on the livestock industry in the region and may assist farmers in determining which predators are responsible for stock loss. Previous approaches for identifying mammalian hairs from predator scats have utilised dichotomous keys and reference collections but these are often time-consuming and require a trained individual to carry out the identification. Thus, I also tested the efficacy of an automated pattern recognition programme (HairSnap) for identifying mammalian hairs from black-backed jackal scats. The overall accuracy of the programme was 38 % with black-backed jackal, Greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) and striped polecat (Ictonyx striatus) hairs being accurately identified more often (70 – 80 %) than any other species tested. It is likely that both the size and species composition of the sample resulted in the poor accuracy of the programme. However, with the implementation of several improvement measures (e.g. adjustment of the algorithm) the programme may offer a superior, bias-free method of mammalian hair identification. The dietary information gathered here furthers our knowledge of the biology of the blackbacked jackals, especially in the locally important thicket biome. Moreover, understanding their foraging habits allows for more effective management of the species on both game reserves and farmlands. I recommend that future research should focus on quantitatively assessing the diet of black-backed jackals in the Eastern Cape Province and elsewhere. This will compliment the dietary description provided in this study and may offer a biologically more meaningful indication of the relative importance of the prey items.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Forbes, Ross William
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Black-backed jackal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- Food , Mammals -- Identification
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5661 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005345 , Black-backed jackal -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Jackals -- Food , Mammals -- Identification
- Description: Diet assessments are critical for understanding the foraging behaviour, habitat use and trophic separation of mammalian predators and are vital for gaining insight into how predators influence prey populations. The aim of this research was to qualitatively describe the diet of black-backed jackals (Canis mesomelas, Schreber 1775) using scat analysis on two contrasting land-use types in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Scats were collected on a monthly basis from November 2009 to October 2010 from two game reserves (Great Fish River Reserve and Shamwari Private Game Reserve) and two neighbouring livestock farms. The relative frequency of occurrence of mammal hair (33 – 47 %) and vegetation (32 – 45%)dominated jackal diet throughout the year across the four study sites. Other important prey items included invertebrates (8 – 21 %) and fruit and seeds (3 – 11 %). Birds and reptiles constituted ≤ 2 % of the diet and were only recorded on the game reserves. Significant seasonal dietary shifts were observed on the game reserves but not on the farms. Fruit and seeds were significantly more frequent in the diet during autumn at Great Fish River Reserve and invertebrates were significantly less common in the diet during winter on both reserves. In addition, vegetation was significantly more common in the diet during winter at Shamwari Private Game Reserve. The significant temporal variation of certain prey items is testament to black-backed jackals being opportunistic generalists, foraging on those food items which are most abundant, accessible and energetically beneficial. Land-use type also influenced the diet of black-backed jackals with significantly more invertebrates and, fruit and seeds being recorded on the game reserves than on the farms. By contrast, significantly more mammal hair and vegetation were present in the diet on the farms compared with the game reserves. The mammalian component of the diet was dominated by ruminants and rodents on the game reserves and by ruminants and livestock on the farms. The presence of livestock in the diet of black-backed jackals on the farms highlights their potential impact on the livestock industry in the region and may assist farmers in determining which predators are responsible for stock loss. Previous approaches for identifying mammalian hairs from predator scats have utilised dichotomous keys and reference collections but these are often time-consuming and require a trained individual to carry out the identification. Thus, I also tested the efficacy of an automated pattern recognition programme (HairSnap) for identifying mammalian hairs from black-backed jackal scats. The overall accuracy of the programme was 38 % with black-backed jackal, Greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) and striped polecat (Ictonyx striatus) hairs being accurately identified more often (70 – 80 %) than any other species tested. It is likely that both the size and species composition of the sample resulted in the poor accuracy of the programme. However, with the implementation of several improvement measures (e.g. adjustment of the algorithm) the programme may offer a superior, bias-free method of mammalian hair identification. The dietary information gathered here furthers our knowledge of the biology of the blackbacked jackals, especially in the locally important thicket biome. Moreover, understanding their foraging habits allows for more effective management of the species on both game reserves and farmlands. I recommend that future research should focus on quantitatively assessing the diet of black-backed jackals in the Eastern Cape Province and elsewhere. This will compliment the dietary description provided in this study and may offer a biologically more meaningful indication of the relative importance of the prey items.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The dionysian in performance reclaiming the female transgressive performing body
- Authors: Solomon, Zanne
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Dionysia , Feminism and theater , Human body in literature , Performance art , Performing arts , Body image in women , Self-perception in women , Human body -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2148 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002380
- Description: In this thesis I investigate the theoretical or philosophical notion/archetype of the Dionysian in relation to the transgressive female body in performance. I do so through 1) an investigation into the theories behind the Dionysian and the transgressive; 2) an examination of the performative practice of the transgressive female body; and 3) a personal exploration of the theatrical practice. 1) In the first chapter I introduce and thoroughly explore the archetypal concept of the Dionysian, and identify its significance because of its intrinsic association with the transgressive. I associate it with its oppositional force, the Apollonian, which is similarly significant because it is through the Dionysian disruption of the Apollonian from which the very notion of the transgressive springs. Through a review of Camille Paglia's seminal text on the subject of the Dionysian¹, this chapter provides a historical, mythological and theoretical context for the schism between the two archetypal aesthetics, starting from the description of the mythology of the ancient Greek gods, Dionysus and Apollo, and unpacks the transgressive nature of the Dionysian. Drawing on concurring theories of Friedrich Nietzsche and Julia Kristeva, as well as Hans Thies-Lehmann's writings on post-dramatic theatre², Chapter One attempts to firmly establish the inherent link between the Dionysian and theatre and performance, as well as the Dionysian and the transgressive, and provide a thorough theoretical framework for the rest of the thesis. 2) The second chapter investigates the work of two female performance artists³ who (re)present⁴ their bodies as transgressive in performance, namely Marina Abramovic and Karen Finley. It critically examines specific performance works of theirs, and through this examination it explores how they (re)present their bodies as transgressive in performance, and why they do so. This chapter furthermore establishes the connection between the transgressive female performing body, as (re)presented by Abramovic and Finley, and the Dionysian. In so doing it explores how they negotiate this ancient aesthetic or practice in a contemporary performance context. I believe that these performance artists are in fact striving to celebrate and reclaim the Dionysian within their work, and I attempt to establish this within this chapter. 3) The third chapter of this thesis analyses my own practical exploration of the transgressive female body in performance in a piece entitled Bleeding Mermaid (2008). It examines this exploration in the context of the theory of the Dionysian, as well as investigating how and why I (re)presented my body as transgressive in the performance. The analysis furthermore questions how I understand my work on the (re)presentation of the transgressive female body in relation to, and within the context of, Finley and Abramovic's work on the same subject. Through this investigation, I aim to establish a link between the Dionysian and the transgressive female performing body; and investigate the motivation(s) behind the (re)presentation of the transgressive female body in performance. I hope to open up a pathway to the reclamation of the Dionysian, both in performance practice and research. ¹Paglia, Camille. Sexual Personae: Art and Decadence from Nefertiti to Emily Dickinson. England: Penguin Books, 1990. ²Lehmann, Hans-Thies. Postdramatic Theatre. Trans. and Intro. Karen Jürs-Munby. London and New York: Routledge, 2006. ³Performance Art began around the 1960s in Europe and America. It is performance with a sense of immediacy – in that it is hard to replicate as it interacts with each unique audience – it is thus effectively a fresh/new experience each time. It breaks the boundaries of traditional theatre (form, structure, venue, time etc) and is often shocking or provocative in nature. It mixed the aesthetics of theatre and art, often taking place in installation settings. Performance Art has developed and morphed throughout the years, and is also referred to as Live Art in Britain. A performance artist is someone who produces performance art. It is possible that Performance Art no longer exists/is possible because it no longer shocks or affects the audience. ⁴My use of the brackets in (re)presented/(re)present throughout this thesis is because I would like to make simultaneous reference to the words/connotations of "presentation" and "representation", without being bound to the connotations of illusion/falseness/non-reality as is associated with the word "representation" (in opposition to the concept of the "real"), and thus be left only with the one-dimensional approach/meaning of "presentation".
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Solomon, Zanne
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Dionysia , Feminism and theater , Human body in literature , Performance art , Performing arts , Body image in women , Self-perception in women , Human body -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2148 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002380
- Description: In this thesis I investigate the theoretical or philosophical notion/archetype of the Dionysian in relation to the transgressive female body in performance. I do so through 1) an investigation into the theories behind the Dionysian and the transgressive; 2) an examination of the performative practice of the transgressive female body; and 3) a personal exploration of the theatrical practice. 1) In the first chapter I introduce and thoroughly explore the archetypal concept of the Dionysian, and identify its significance because of its intrinsic association with the transgressive. I associate it with its oppositional force, the Apollonian, which is similarly significant because it is through the Dionysian disruption of the Apollonian from which the very notion of the transgressive springs. Through a review of Camille Paglia's seminal text on the subject of the Dionysian¹, this chapter provides a historical, mythological and theoretical context for the schism between the two archetypal aesthetics, starting from the description of the mythology of the ancient Greek gods, Dionysus and Apollo, and unpacks the transgressive nature of the Dionysian. Drawing on concurring theories of Friedrich Nietzsche and Julia Kristeva, as well as Hans Thies-Lehmann's writings on post-dramatic theatre², Chapter One attempts to firmly establish the inherent link between the Dionysian and theatre and performance, as well as the Dionysian and the transgressive, and provide a thorough theoretical framework for the rest of the thesis. 2) The second chapter investigates the work of two female performance artists³ who (re)present⁴ their bodies as transgressive in performance, namely Marina Abramovic and Karen Finley. It critically examines specific performance works of theirs, and through this examination it explores how they (re)present their bodies as transgressive in performance, and why they do so. This chapter furthermore establishes the connection between the transgressive female performing body, as (re)presented by Abramovic and Finley, and the Dionysian. In so doing it explores how they negotiate this ancient aesthetic or practice in a contemporary performance context. I believe that these performance artists are in fact striving to celebrate and reclaim the Dionysian within their work, and I attempt to establish this within this chapter. 3) The third chapter of this thesis analyses my own practical exploration of the transgressive female body in performance in a piece entitled Bleeding Mermaid (2008). It examines this exploration in the context of the theory of the Dionysian, as well as investigating how and why I (re)presented my body as transgressive in the performance. The analysis furthermore questions how I understand my work on the (re)presentation of the transgressive female body in relation to, and within the context of, Finley and Abramovic's work on the same subject. Through this investigation, I aim to establish a link between the Dionysian and the transgressive female performing body; and investigate the motivation(s) behind the (re)presentation of the transgressive female body in performance. I hope to open up a pathway to the reclamation of the Dionysian, both in performance practice and research. ¹Paglia, Camille. Sexual Personae: Art and Decadence from Nefertiti to Emily Dickinson. England: Penguin Books, 1990. ²Lehmann, Hans-Thies. Postdramatic Theatre. Trans. and Intro. Karen Jürs-Munby. London and New York: Routledge, 2006. ³Performance Art began around the 1960s in Europe and America. It is performance with a sense of immediacy – in that it is hard to replicate as it interacts with each unique audience – it is thus effectively a fresh/new experience each time. It breaks the boundaries of traditional theatre (form, structure, venue, time etc) and is often shocking or provocative in nature. It mixed the aesthetics of theatre and art, often taking place in installation settings. Performance Art has developed and morphed throughout the years, and is also referred to as Live Art in Britain. A performance artist is someone who produces performance art. It is possible that Performance Art no longer exists/is possible because it no longer shocks or affects the audience. ⁴My use of the brackets in (re)presented/(re)present throughout this thesis is because I would like to make simultaneous reference to the words/connotations of "presentation" and "representation", without being bound to the connotations of illusion/falseness/non-reality as is associated with the word "representation" (in opposition to the concept of the "real"), and thus be left only with the one-dimensional approach/meaning of "presentation".
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The dispersal of African wild dogs (Lycaon Pictus) from protected areas in the Northern KwaZulu‐Natal Province, South Africa.
- Whittington‐Jones, Brendan Mark
- Authors: Whittington‐Jones, Brendan Mark
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: African wild dog , African wild dog -- Conservation -- South Africa -- KwazuluNatal , African wild dog -- Dispersal -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , African wild dog -- Effect of human beings on -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5893 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013414
- Description: The number of African wild dogs Lycaon pictus in Northern KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa has increased substantially over the last six years. This is largely due to a managed metapopulation approach of introductions onto protected areas and private game reserves since 1998. Because of the increasing wild dog population, the likelihood of rural communities surrounding protected areas encountering dispersing wild dogs in northern KwaZulu‐Natal has also increased. Resident wild dog populations currently occur in Hluhluwe‐iMfolozi Park (HiP), Mkhuze Game Reserve (MGR) of Isimangaliso Wetland Park and Thanda Private Game Reserve (TPGR) all of which are bordered by a matrix of natural habitats and human settlements. Thus, land outside these protected areas could be utilized to expand wild dog distribution and provide connectivity between existing resident populations of wild dogs within KwaZulu‐Natal. To investigate the viability of such an approach, Maximum Entropy Modelling (Maxent) was used to characterize habitat niche selection of dispersing wild dogs, and to identify potential dispersal linkages between current wild dog metapopulation reserves. The model was calibrated using 132 location points collected from 2006 until 2009. From 2008 to 2009 I also conducted a survey of 247 community members in tribal authorities bordering HiP and MGR, to understand factors influencing attitudes towards wild dogs. A habitat suitability model with seven predictor variables had an AUC of 0.96 (SD = 0.02) and indicated four variables which best predicted probability of presence for dispersing wild dogs: elevation, road density, land cover and human density. The results suggest that elevation and land cover may be of greater influence for dispersing wild dogs than human density or activity. Elevation was the single most effective variable indicating a higher probability of presence for dispersing wild dogs in lower lying locations; peaking at approximately 200 – 300m a.s.l. Wild dogs also showed a preference for Woodland and Bushland habitats which in KwaZulu‐Natal tend to be found on lower lying topography. A preference for areas of lower human density and a highest probability of presence at road densities of approximately 0.7km/km2 or less would suggest that while wild dogs may show a tendency to avoid areas of high human activity, they can coexist in close proximity to humans. Respondent’s attitudes, knowledge of wild dogs and livestock husbandry were interpreted by the development of a set of indices. Attitudes were positively related to formal education levels and wild dog‐specific education, but were not influenced by demographic factors such as gender, age and employment status. Eighty three percent of respondents believed efforts to protect wild dogs should continue. Respondents with higher numbers of livestock tended to have more positive attitudes towards wild dogs despite generally incurring higher losses to carnivore depredation than those with less livestock. This appears to be because the financial burden of livestock losses to those with fewer livestock is perceived to be a loss of a greater proportion of total financial wealth. The study highlighted the substantial scope for improvement in livestock management. Theft (34 percent), drought (30 percent) and disease (14 percent) were ranked as the greatest problems facing livestock owners while predators were ranked as the greatest problem by only 4 percent of respondents. My findings suggest that wild dogs are generally viewed positively or with ambivalence. Concerns over the potentially increasing threat to livestock, as natural prey numbers outside protected areas decline and wild dogs disperse from natal packs, are likely to be manageable. However, wild dog population expansion within KwaZulu‐Natal will continue to rely on managed core populations on perimeter‐fenced metapopulation reserves with tolerant communities and landowners contributing to the connectivity of isolated reserves. Generation of tolerance can be instilled through continued advocacy and education, supported by conflict mitigation initiatives and rapid response to conflict reports. The implementation of incentive schemes for adjoining private landowners to co‐manage wild dog populations will need to be addressed in conjunction with managed metapopulation practices and law enforcement, to promote range expansion, and reduce potentially lethal edge effects and wild dog‐human conflict.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Whittington‐Jones, Brendan Mark
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: African wild dog , African wild dog -- Conservation -- South Africa -- KwazuluNatal , African wild dog -- Dispersal -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , African wild dog -- Effect of human beings on -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5893 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013414
- Description: The number of African wild dogs Lycaon pictus in Northern KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa has increased substantially over the last six years. This is largely due to a managed metapopulation approach of introductions onto protected areas and private game reserves since 1998. Because of the increasing wild dog population, the likelihood of rural communities surrounding protected areas encountering dispersing wild dogs in northern KwaZulu‐Natal has also increased. Resident wild dog populations currently occur in Hluhluwe‐iMfolozi Park (HiP), Mkhuze Game Reserve (MGR) of Isimangaliso Wetland Park and Thanda Private Game Reserve (TPGR) all of which are bordered by a matrix of natural habitats and human settlements. Thus, land outside these protected areas could be utilized to expand wild dog distribution and provide connectivity between existing resident populations of wild dogs within KwaZulu‐Natal. To investigate the viability of such an approach, Maximum Entropy Modelling (Maxent) was used to characterize habitat niche selection of dispersing wild dogs, and to identify potential dispersal linkages between current wild dog metapopulation reserves. The model was calibrated using 132 location points collected from 2006 until 2009. From 2008 to 2009 I also conducted a survey of 247 community members in tribal authorities bordering HiP and MGR, to understand factors influencing attitudes towards wild dogs. A habitat suitability model with seven predictor variables had an AUC of 0.96 (SD = 0.02) and indicated four variables which best predicted probability of presence for dispersing wild dogs: elevation, road density, land cover and human density. The results suggest that elevation and land cover may be of greater influence for dispersing wild dogs than human density or activity. Elevation was the single most effective variable indicating a higher probability of presence for dispersing wild dogs in lower lying locations; peaking at approximately 200 – 300m a.s.l. Wild dogs also showed a preference for Woodland and Bushland habitats which in KwaZulu‐Natal tend to be found on lower lying topography. A preference for areas of lower human density and a highest probability of presence at road densities of approximately 0.7km/km2 or less would suggest that while wild dogs may show a tendency to avoid areas of high human activity, they can coexist in close proximity to humans. Respondent’s attitudes, knowledge of wild dogs and livestock husbandry were interpreted by the development of a set of indices. Attitudes were positively related to formal education levels and wild dog‐specific education, but were not influenced by demographic factors such as gender, age and employment status. Eighty three percent of respondents believed efforts to protect wild dogs should continue. Respondents with higher numbers of livestock tended to have more positive attitudes towards wild dogs despite generally incurring higher losses to carnivore depredation than those with less livestock. This appears to be because the financial burden of livestock losses to those with fewer livestock is perceived to be a loss of a greater proportion of total financial wealth. The study highlighted the substantial scope for improvement in livestock management. Theft (34 percent), drought (30 percent) and disease (14 percent) were ranked as the greatest problems facing livestock owners while predators were ranked as the greatest problem by only 4 percent of respondents. My findings suggest that wild dogs are generally viewed positively or with ambivalence. Concerns over the potentially increasing threat to livestock, as natural prey numbers outside protected areas decline and wild dogs disperse from natal packs, are likely to be manageable. However, wild dog population expansion within KwaZulu‐Natal will continue to rely on managed core populations on perimeter‐fenced metapopulation reserves with tolerant communities and landowners contributing to the connectivity of isolated reserves. Generation of tolerance can be instilled through continued advocacy and education, supported by conflict mitigation initiatives and rapid response to conflict reports. The implementation of incentive schemes for adjoining private landowners to co‐manage wild dog populations will need to be addressed in conjunction with managed metapopulation practices and law enforcement, to promote range expansion, and reduce potentially lethal edge effects and wild dog‐human conflict.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The distinction between types of commercial and residential property for value-added tax purposes in South Africa
- Authors: Ferreira, Melanie
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Property tax -- South Africa , Value-added tax -- South Africa , Tax assessment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:8955 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008710 , Property tax -- South Africa , Value-added tax -- South Africa , Tax assessment -- South Africa
- Description: It is important to distinguish between types of commercial and residential property for value-added tax (VAT) purposes. The reason for this is because the supply of residential property may be exempt from VAT in certain cases, whereas the supply of commercial property is a taxable supply. One of the aims of this treatise was to generate some characteristics that can assist vendors to distinguish between types of commercial and residential property for VAT purposes. SARS proposed numerous changes to the VAT Act with regards to fixed property in 2011. This treatise explains the reason for the changes made and also comments on them. Firstly, property developers previously had to account for an output tax adjustment when they changed the use of their property i.e. from a taxable use (selling the completed units) to a non-taxable use (renting the completed units as a residential dwelling). This „output tax adjustment‟ sometimes places developers in a financial dilemma, especially in times of an economic depression. SARS therefore provided „developers‟ as defined with a short term solution. This short term solution provides property developers with a 36 month temporarily relief period, before they have to account for the „output tax adjustment‟. Therefore, the new section 18B was proposed to assist property developers in times of an economic recession. Secondly, in the past a vendor who acquired a property from a non-vendor to make taxable supplies was allowed a notional input tax deduction, limited to the transfer duty paid. SARS has however "delinked VAT from transfer duty‟, which means that the notional input tax deduction will no longer be limited to the transfer duty paid. This change may benefit vendors as they may now be allowed a bigger input tax deduction. Furthermore, the treatise also compares the VAT treatment of the above issues to that of the goods and services tax treatment in New Zealand. The treatise concludes with a summary of all distinguishing characteristics identified and other findings noted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Ferreira, Melanie
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Property tax -- South Africa , Value-added tax -- South Africa , Tax assessment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:8955 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008710 , Property tax -- South Africa , Value-added tax -- South Africa , Tax assessment -- South Africa
- Description: It is important to distinguish between types of commercial and residential property for value-added tax (VAT) purposes. The reason for this is because the supply of residential property may be exempt from VAT in certain cases, whereas the supply of commercial property is a taxable supply. One of the aims of this treatise was to generate some characteristics that can assist vendors to distinguish between types of commercial and residential property for VAT purposes. SARS proposed numerous changes to the VAT Act with regards to fixed property in 2011. This treatise explains the reason for the changes made and also comments on them. Firstly, property developers previously had to account for an output tax adjustment when they changed the use of their property i.e. from a taxable use (selling the completed units) to a non-taxable use (renting the completed units as a residential dwelling). This „output tax adjustment‟ sometimes places developers in a financial dilemma, especially in times of an economic depression. SARS therefore provided „developers‟ as defined with a short term solution. This short term solution provides property developers with a 36 month temporarily relief period, before they have to account for the „output tax adjustment‟. Therefore, the new section 18B was proposed to assist property developers in times of an economic recession. Secondly, in the past a vendor who acquired a property from a non-vendor to make taxable supplies was allowed a notional input tax deduction, limited to the transfer duty paid. SARS has however "delinked VAT from transfer duty‟, which means that the notional input tax deduction will no longer be limited to the transfer duty paid. This change may benefit vendors as they may now be allowed a bigger input tax deduction. Furthermore, the treatise also compares the VAT treatment of the above issues to that of the goods and services tax treatment in New Zealand. The treatise concludes with a summary of all distinguishing characteristics identified and other findings noted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The distribution and diversity of macroalgae in selected estuaries along the Eastern Cape coast of South Africa
- Authors: Prinsloo, Shireen
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Estuarine ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Algal communities -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marine plants -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Estuarine area conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10631 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012314 , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Algal communities -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marine plants -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Estuarine area conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The growth and accumulation of macroalgae in estuaries are a common sight throughout the world (Boyer and Fong, 2005). Because macroalgae establish such complex but important links with other components within an estuary, it is essential to know which variables control and regulate their occurrences. The type of algae that will occur in an estuary depends however, on the physical and chemical features of the particular estuary (Lobban and Harrison, 1994). The focus of this study was to document and provide a listing of algae from estuaries around the Eastern Cape coast of South Africa and describe the communities which form within each estuarine habitat. The questions posed were: Do algae assemblages differ in estuaries with different environmental conditions? Are different plant communities inhabited by different algae communities? Also, are algae diverse in estuaries that are in a pristine condition? The estuaries were Mngazana, Ngqusi/Nxaxo, Mtati, Mpekweni, East Kleinemonde, West Kleinemonde, Kariega, Bushmans, Kowie and the Sundays estuary. Percentage cover surveys were conducted and environmental parameters recorded to determine community structure of algae and their environmental tolerances. A total of 49 different macroalgal species were identified from 11 estuaries, which were dominated by Chlorophytes (23 species) and Rhodophytes (17 species). The Ochrophytes consisted of 10 species. The highest number of species recorded was 29 at the Bushmans estuary (March 2009), while the lowest number (4 species) was recorded at Mtati (October 2008). Common Chlorophytes found included Ulva prolifera, Chaetomorpha linum and Codium tenue. In the Division Ochrophyta, species from the Genus Ectocarpus were the most common. Of the red algae filamentous reds, Polysiphonia incompta and Polysiphonia kowiensis were the common algae found at estuaries. Salinity (p= 0.029861; n= 49) and temperature (p= 0.037641; n= 49) were the driving environmental parameters of estuaries and significantly influenced richness of species. In ordination analyses, patterns of biogeographic distribution were noticeable and were described by salinity. Four gradients caused by salinity were therefore found – which is inversely correlated to water clarity. Moreover, a clear split between temporarily open/closed and the permanently open estuaries was observed. Samples grouped into four communities presumably based on the similarity in conditions of estuaries. Within each estuarine community and major type of estuary there was a range of environmental conditions. However, the macroalgae within each community may not have been colonists of or found in greatest abundances in the estuaries of these communities per se, but may have grouped together in this manner based on the optimum growing conditions for them. Also, specific algal groups were not directly determined by the type of estuary they were found in; they were driven by environmental ranges rather. The results therefore support hypothesis one which states species distribution and diversity differ and are influenced by environmental gradients of the estuary. Although close species and habitat relationships were apparent from the ordination analyses, providing support for hypothesis two which states “Different plant communities in estuaries will be inhabited by different macroalgae communities”, the evidence was not substantial enough to provide sufficient support for the hypothesis. Lastly, the hypothesis “Macroalgae are diverse in estuaries that are in a pristine condition” was not accepted as highest species numbers were found in estuaries of greatest anthropogenic disturbance (e.g. Bushmans estuary) and not in estuaries which where ecologically more natural (e.g. Mtati estuary). By doing monthly macroalgal sampling over a period of one year for example one would obtain greater information of biodiversity, and patterns of macroalgal seasonality may be uncovered as well. This is an area of reasearch which needs to be investigated in the future as it would greatly add to the understanding of the role macroalge have in an estuarine environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Prinsloo, Shireen
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Estuarine ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Algal communities -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marine plants -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Estuarine area conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10631 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012314 , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Algal communities -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marine plants -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Estuarine area conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The growth and accumulation of macroalgae in estuaries are a common sight throughout the world (Boyer and Fong, 2005). Because macroalgae establish such complex but important links with other components within an estuary, it is essential to know which variables control and regulate their occurrences. The type of algae that will occur in an estuary depends however, on the physical and chemical features of the particular estuary (Lobban and Harrison, 1994). The focus of this study was to document and provide a listing of algae from estuaries around the Eastern Cape coast of South Africa and describe the communities which form within each estuarine habitat. The questions posed were: Do algae assemblages differ in estuaries with different environmental conditions? Are different plant communities inhabited by different algae communities? Also, are algae diverse in estuaries that are in a pristine condition? The estuaries were Mngazana, Ngqusi/Nxaxo, Mtati, Mpekweni, East Kleinemonde, West Kleinemonde, Kariega, Bushmans, Kowie and the Sundays estuary. Percentage cover surveys were conducted and environmental parameters recorded to determine community structure of algae and their environmental tolerances. A total of 49 different macroalgal species were identified from 11 estuaries, which were dominated by Chlorophytes (23 species) and Rhodophytes (17 species). The Ochrophytes consisted of 10 species. The highest number of species recorded was 29 at the Bushmans estuary (March 2009), while the lowest number (4 species) was recorded at Mtati (October 2008). Common Chlorophytes found included Ulva prolifera, Chaetomorpha linum and Codium tenue. In the Division Ochrophyta, species from the Genus Ectocarpus were the most common. Of the red algae filamentous reds, Polysiphonia incompta and Polysiphonia kowiensis were the common algae found at estuaries. Salinity (p= 0.029861; n= 49) and temperature (p= 0.037641; n= 49) were the driving environmental parameters of estuaries and significantly influenced richness of species. In ordination analyses, patterns of biogeographic distribution were noticeable and were described by salinity. Four gradients caused by salinity were therefore found – which is inversely correlated to water clarity. Moreover, a clear split between temporarily open/closed and the permanently open estuaries was observed. Samples grouped into four communities presumably based on the similarity in conditions of estuaries. Within each estuarine community and major type of estuary there was a range of environmental conditions. However, the macroalgae within each community may not have been colonists of or found in greatest abundances in the estuaries of these communities per se, but may have grouped together in this manner based on the optimum growing conditions for them. Also, specific algal groups were not directly determined by the type of estuary they were found in; they were driven by environmental ranges rather. The results therefore support hypothesis one which states species distribution and diversity differ and are influenced by environmental gradients of the estuary. Although close species and habitat relationships were apparent from the ordination analyses, providing support for hypothesis two which states “Different plant communities in estuaries will be inhabited by different macroalgae communities”, the evidence was not substantial enough to provide sufficient support for the hypothesis. Lastly, the hypothesis “Macroalgae are diverse in estuaries that are in a pristine condition” was not accepted as highest species numbers were found in estuaries of greatest anthropogenic disturbance (e.g. Bushmans estuary) and not in estuaries which where ecologically more natural (e.g. Mtati estuary). By doing monthly macroalgal sampling over a period of one year for example one would obtain greater information of biodiversity, and patterns of macroalgal seasonality may be uncovered as well. This is an area of reasearch which needs to be investigated in the future as it would greatly add to the understanding of the role macroalge have in an estuarine environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The effect of an agency-based HIV/AIDS education programme on the knowledge and attitudes of undergraduate students at WSU
- Authors: Wopula, Luvuyo David
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: HIV/AIDS -- Educational programme -- Students
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:18451 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007757
- Description: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an agency-based HIV/AIDS Education programme on knowledge and attitudes of undergraduate students at the Walter Sisulu University (WSU) in South Africa. Participants were divided into experimental and control groups. A questionnaire was designed, validated and used to assess knowledge and attitudes of students towards HIV/AIDS who went through the HIV/AIDS education programme (HAEP) and those who did not. The questions were derived and based on basic HIV/AIDS information as part of the 'Alternative National Curriculum on Responsibility' (AANCHOR) programme used by first year WSU staff which was used in the United States of America. The study findings indicate that knowledge and attitudes of the students improved after the intervention. After the intervention, the t-test showed that students‟ attitudes on HIV/AIDS were found to be significant (p=0.045) when comparing the pre- experimental and intervention groups. However, the study also found that some participants displayed ignorance on the knowledge of HIV/AIDS and its effects. For example, some students believe that mosquitoes can spread HIV/AIDS. On the basis of findings the researcher recommends that all first year students should be expose to WSU HAEP because it is a necessity for empowerment with social, self- dependent skills (against HIV/AIDS) and self efficacy. Key words: HIV/AIDS, knowledge, attitudes, Education programme, students.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Wopula, Luvuyo David
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: HIV/AIDS -- Educational programme -- Students
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:18451 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007757
- Description: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an agency-based HIV/AIDS Education programme on knowledge and attitudes of undergraduate students at the Walter Sisulu University (WSU) in South Africa. Participants were divided into experimental and control groups. A questionnaire was designed, validated and used to assess knowledge and attitudes of students towards HIV/AIDS who went through the HIV/AIDS education programme (HAEP) and those who did not. The questions were derived and based on basic HIV/AIDS information as part of the 'Alternative National Curriculum on Responsibility' (AANCHOR) programme used by first year WSU staff which was used in the United States of America. The study findings indicate that knowledge and attitudes of the students improved after the intervention. After the intervention, the t-test showed that students‟ attitudes on HIV/AIDS were found to be significant (p=0.045) when comparing the pre- experimental and intervention groups. However, the study also found that some participants displayed ignorance on the knowledge of HIV/AIDS and its effects. For example, some students believe that mosquitoes can spread HIV/AIDS. On the basis of findings the researcher recommends that all first year students should be expose to WSU HAEP because it is a necessity for empowerment with social, self- dependent skills (against HIV/AIDS) and self efficacy. Key words: HIV/AIDS, knowledge, attitudes, Education programme, students.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The effect of dietary fish oil replacement with soybean oil on growth and health of dusky kob, Argyrosomus japonicus (Pisces: Sciaenidae)
- Authors: Rossetti, Nani Adami
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Sciaenidae , Fish culture , Argyrosomus -- Growth , Argyrosomus -- Feeding and feeds , Argyrosomus -- Health , Fish oils as feed , Soy oil , Lipids , Eicosapentaenoic acid , Docosahexaenoic acid
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5272 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005116 , Sciaenidae , Fish culture , Argyrosomus -- Growth , Argyrosomus -- Feeding and feeds , Argyrosomus -- Health , Fish oils as feed , Soy oil , Lipids , Eicosapentaenoic acid , Docosahexaenoic acid
- Description: Lipids are essential components for fish because they contain fatty acids that are vital for regular growth and health. Fish oil is rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are essential fatty acids for carnivorous fish, and therefore this product has traditionally been used as the main source of lipids in fish feeds. However, with declining fisheries resources worldwide and the rapid expansion of the aquaculture industry pressuring this finite resource, such ingredients are becoming less available and more expensive. It is therefore necessary to explore the utilization of ingredients that are sustainable and competitive alternatives to fish oil in marine finfish feeds. This work investigated the effects of the substitution of fish oil with soybean oil on the growth performance, feed efficiency, fatty acid composition of the liver tissue and some health parameters in juvenile dusky kob, Argyrosomus japonicus; an increasingly popular sciaenid marine aquaculture species in South Africa. Six diets (18 % total lipid and 46 % protein) with increasing percentage substitution of fish oil with soybean oil (1, 14, 28, 42, 56 and 70 %) were fed to juvenile kob. After 84 days of feeding these diets to the fish, no significant differences in fish length and weight between treatments were observed. However, there was a significant trend of a decrease in specific growth rate, ranging from (± standard error) 0.87 ± 0.06 to 0.72 ± 0.04 % body weight day⁻¹, and condition factor, ranging from 1.59 ± 0.03 to 1.54 ± 0.02, with increasing vegetable oil replacement in the diets between days 56 and 84. There were no differences in red blood cell count, haematocrit and haemoglobin concentration after 206 days of feeding. However, visceral fat index (VFI) increased significantly from 1.08 ± 0.17 % for fish fed diets with 28 % soybean oil, to 2.24 ± 0.15 % for fish fed diets with 70 % soybean oil. Similarly, hepatosomatic index (HSI) increased significantly from 0.84 ± 0.08 % to 1.80 ± 0.12 % in the control diet and the 56 % soybean oil diet, respectively. After 206 days of feeding, fish fed diets with 42 to 70 % soybean oil showed greater number of lipid vacuoles in the liver, which were also larger in size, and hepatocytes nuclei were displaced to the cell periphery. The fatty acid composition of the liver tissue strongly corresponded to the fatty acid composition of the diets. Linoleic acid accumulated in the liver of the fish fed increasing soybean oil in the diets. In contrast, EPA and DHA decreased from 13.63 to 1.97 %, and 14.34 to 3.28 %, respectively, in the liver tissue of fish fed diets with increasing soybean oil content; consequently the n-3/n-6 ratio was also significantly reduced with inclusion of vegetable oil in the diets. The trend of decreasing growth rate with increasing oil replacement towards the end of the trial corresponds with increases in VFI, HSI, as well as the fatty acid accumulation and lipid vacuoles in the liver. This suggests that dusky kob is less able to metabolise soybean oil at increased substitution levels which would account for the poorer growth at higher levels. The dependence of fish on dietary marine oil decreased significantly with each inclusion of soybean oil in the diets. Nonetheless, the calculations based on the nutrient ratio presented positive outcomes for all treatments, that is, values of marine oil dependency ratio were below one for all treatments. It is concluded that soybean oil can replace fish oil in formulated diets for dusky kob up to a level of 28 % of total dietary lipids, as evidenced by the good growth and feed efficiency, and no apparent negative health effects observed up to this level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Rossetti, Nani Adami
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Sciaenidae , Fish culture , Argyrosomus -- Growth , Argyrosomus -- Feeding and feeds , Argyrosomus -- Health , Fish oils as feed , Soy oil , Lipids , Eicosapentaenoic acid , Docosahexaenoic acid
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5272 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005116 , Sciaenidae , Fish culture , Argyrosomus -- Growth , Argyrosomus -- Feeding and feeds , Argyrosomus -- Health , Fish oils as feed , Soy oil , Lipids , Eicosapentaenoic acid , Docosahexaenoic acid
- Description: Lipids are essential components for fish because they contain fatty acids that are vital for regular growth and health. Fish oil is rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are essential fatty acids for carnivorous fish, and therefore this product has traditionally been used as the main source of lipids in fish feeds. However, with declining fisheries resources worldwide and the rapid expansion of the aquaculture industry pressuring this finite resource, such ingredients are becoming less available and more expensive. It is therefore necessary to explore the utilization of ingredients that are sustainable and competitive alternatives to fish oil in marine finfish feeds. This work investigated the effects of the substitution of fish oil with soybean oil on the growth performance, feed efficiency, fatty acid composition of the liver tissue and some health parameters in juvenile dusky kob, Argyrosomus japonicus; an increasingly popular sciaenid marine aquaculture species in South Africa. Six diets (18 % total lipid and 46 % protein) with increasing percentage substitution of fish oil with soybean oil (1, 14, 28, 42, 56 and 70 %) were fed to juvenile kob. After 84 days of feeding these diets to the fish, no significant differences in fish length and weight between treatments were observed. However, there was a significant trend of a decrease in specific growth rate, ranging from (± standard error) 0.87 ± 0.06 to 0.72 ± 0.04 % body weight day⁻¹, and condition factor, ranging from 1.59 ± 0.03 to 1.54 ± 0.02, with increasing vegetable oil replacement in the diets between days 56 and 84. There were no differences in red blood cell count, haematocrit and haemoglobin concentration after 206 days of feeding. However, visceral fat index (VFI) increased significantly from 1.08 ± 0.17 % for fish fed diets with 28 % soybean oil, to 2.24 ± 0.15 % for fish fed diets with 70 % soybean oil. Similarly, hepatosomatic index (HSI) increased significantly from 0.84 ± 0.08 % to 1.80 ± 0.12 % in the control diet and the 56 % soybean oil diet, respectively. After 206 days of feeding, fish fed diets with 42 to 70 % soybean oil showed greater number of lipid vacuoles in the liver, which were also larger in size, and hepatocytes nuclei were displaced to the cell periphery. The fatty acid composition of the liver tissue strongly corresponded to the fatty acid composition of the diets. Linoleic acid accumulated in the liver of the fish fed increasing soybean oil in the diets. In contrast, EPA and DHA decreased from 13.63 to 1.97 %, and 14.34 to 3.28 %, respectively, in the liver tissue of fish fed diets with increasing soybean oil content; consequently the n-3/n-6 ratio was also significantly reduced with inclusion of vegetable oil in the diets. The trend of decreasing growth rate with increasing oil replacement towards the end of the trial corresponds with increases in VFI, HSI, as well as the fatty acid accumulation and lipid vacuoles in the liver. This suggests that dusky kob is less able to metabolise soybean oil at increased substitution levels which would account for the poorer growth at higher levels. The dependence of fish on dietary marine oil decreased significantly with each inclusion of soybean oil in the diets. Nonetheless, the calculations based on the nutrient ratio presented positive outcomes for all treatments, that is, values of marine oil dependency ratio were below one for all treatments. It is concluded that soybean oil can replace fish oil in formulated diets for dusky kob up to a level of 28 % of total dietary lipids, as evidenced by the good growth and feed efficiency, and no apparent negative health effects observed up to this level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The effect of foreign direct investment on economic growth: evidence from South Africa
- Authors: Mazenda, Adrino
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: International Monetary Fund , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , International finance , Finance -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11462 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007027 , International Monetary Fund , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , International finance , Finance -- Developing countries
- Description: Foreign direct investment amongst other mechanisms provides capital inflow meant to stimulate economic growth. Apart from promoting economic growth, FDI can also lead to increase in employment, technology, technical knowhow and managerial skills. South Africa has implemented various policy initiatives in attempts to attract foreign investment. This study investigates on the effect of foreign direct investment on economic growth, with particular reference to the South African economy. The period of study is from 1980 to 2010. The study begins by reviewing literature on economic growth and foreign direct investment. South Africa’s macroeconomic background is examined to determine the trends in FDI inflows and economic growth. An empirical model linking theoretical and empirical literature on the effect of FDI on economic growth is estimated using the Johansen cointegration and VECM framework. Variables specified in the methodology include real gross domestic product (RGDP), foreign direct investment (FDI), domestic investment (INVE), real exchange rate (REXCH) and foreign marketable debt (DEBT). The long run results showed that FDI, REXCH and DEBT have a negative impact on growth. INVE has a positive impact on growth. Short run results indicated that there is no strong pressure on RGDP to restore long-run equilibrium whenever there is a disturbance. The short run lag of FDI was found to exert a positive impact on growth. The impulse response and variance decomposition analysis complemented the long and short-run findings. Shocks on REXCH, and DEBT generated a negative response on RGDP. The shocks were not significantly different from zero and were transitory. Results from the variance decomposition analysis revealed that the fundamentals explain some, but not all, of the variations of RGDP. For the fifth year forecast error variance RGDP explains the largest component of the variation followed by INVE, REXCH, FDI and DEBT. After a period of ten years, the influence of RGDP and INVE declines, whereas REXCH, FDI and DEBT increase. Conclusions and policy recommendations were made using these results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mazenda, Adrino
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: International Monetary Fund , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , International finance , Finance -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11462 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007027 , International Monetary Fund , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , International finance , Finance -- Developing countries
- Description: Foreign direct investment amongst other mechanisms provides capital inflow meant to stimulate economic growth. Apart from promoting economic growth, FDI can also lead to increase in employment, technology, technical knowhow and managerial skills. South Africa has implemented various policy initiatives in attempts to attract foreign investment. This study investigates on the effect of foreign direct investment on economic growth, with particular reference to the South African economy. The period of study is from 1980 to 2010. The study begins by reviewing literature on economic growth and foreign direct investment. South Africa’s macroeconomic background is examined to determine the trends in FDI inflows and economic growth. An empirical model linking theoretical and empirical literature on the effect of FDI on economic growth is estimated using the Johansen cointegration and VECM framework. Variables specified in the methodology include real gross domestic product (RGDP), foreign direct investment (FDI), domestic investment (INVE), real exchange rate (REXCH) and foreign marketable debt (DEBT). The long run results showed that FDI, REXCH and DEBT have a negative impact on growth. INVE has a positive impact on growth. Short run results indicated that there is no strong pressure on RGDP to restore long-run equilibrium whenever there is a disturbance. The short run lag of FDI was found to exert a positive impact on growth. The impulse response and variance decomposition analysis complemented the long and short-run findings. Shocks on REXCH, and DEBT generated a negative response on RGDP. The shocks were not significantly different from zero and were transitory. Results from the variance decomposition analysis revealed that the fundamentals explain some, but not all, of the variations of RGDP. For the fifth year forecast error variance RGDP explains the largest component of the variation followed by INVE, REXCH, FDI and DEBT. After a period of ten years, the influence of RGDP and INVE declines, whereas REXCH, FDI and DEBT increase. Conclusions and policy recommendations were made using these results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The effect of South African labour legislation on refugees and migrants
- Authors: Swartz, Natasha Schantal
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Refugees -- South Africa , Foreign workers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10289 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019921
- Description: Since South Africa was declared a democratic country, the number of refugees fleeing to South Africa has increased. While it is understandable that refugees would flee to a country with a Constitution that protects the rights of everyone within its territory, this influx of refugees and migrants also puts a strain on the South African economy. One of the main problems associated with refugees and migrants in this country is their illegal status. Failure to obtain legal status in the country can be attributed to their own negligence to attend to the Refugee Reception Office, upon their arrival in the country. On the other hand, the South African government also fails foreigners in that the service provided at the Refugee Reception Offices is not up to the standard promised in the legislation. A further problem associated with refugees and migrants in the country is that they are competing with South Africans for jobs that are already scarce in the country. A foreigners need to earn a living is the driving force behind entering the employment market, and often illegally. Where refugees and migrants do not have the required work permits, their employment is prohibited in terms of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 and they are thus illegal workers. Until recently, South Africa has followed the same policy as other international countries. Illegal workers did not have access to the protection provided by our labour legislation, by virtue of the illegality of their employment contracts. This position was changed by the Discovery Health case where the courts focused more on the existence of an employment relationship as oppose to an employment contract.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Swartz, Natasha Schantal
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Refugees -- South Africa , Foreign workers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10289 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019921
- Description: Since South Africa was declared a democratic country, the number of refugees fleeing to South Africa has increased. While it is understandable that refugees would flee to a country with a Constitution that protects the rights of everyone within its territory, this influx of refugees and migrants also puts a strain on the South African economy. One of the main problems associated with refugees and migrants in this country is their illegal status. Failure to obtain legal status in the country can be attributed to their own negligence to attend to the Refugee Reception Office, upon their arrival in the country. On the other hand, the South African government also fails foreigners in that the service provided at the Refugee Reception Offices is not up to the standard promised in the legislation. A further problem associated with refugees and migrants in the country is that they are competing with South Africans for jobs that are already scarce in the country. A foreigners need to earn a living is the driving force behind entering the employment market, and often illegally. Where refugees and migrants do not have the required work permits, their employment is prohibited in terms of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 and they are thus illegal workers. Until recently, South Africa has followed the same policy as other international countries. Illegal workers did not have access to the protection provided by our labour legislation, by virtue of the illegality of their employment contracts. This position was changed by the Discovery Health case where the courts focused more on the existence of an employment relationship as oppose to an employment contract.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The effect of strategic project leadership elements on successful strategic management implementation
- Authors: Nel, Nevin Narhan
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Strategic management , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8819 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018931
- Description: Executives and managers are required to develop the required competencies to ensure the long term success of their organisations. In the competitive and dynamic business environment organisations are faced with, strategic management and planning has gained momentum as a management science which aids managers and executives in circumventing the challenges that such a dynamic environment can present. Strategic management and planning is, however, of no consequence unless the strategic plan is deployed and implemented in an organisation and the implemented plan is evaluated in action. Many organisations find the process of strategy implementation much more of a challenge than the process of strategy formulation. Consequently, many of these organisations have utilised project management to assist in the strategic management implementation process. The competitive and dynamic business environment also requires organisations to constantly develop and execute more innovative business strategies to remain competitive. In order to do this, many organisations have started to explore the alignment between business strategy and project management strategy. Various commentators note that successful implementation of strategy is challenging, especially considering the 70 per cent execution failure rate. It is further noted that organisations only realise 60 per cent of the potential value of their intended strategies due to failures in planning and implementation. Consequently, projects are often chosen as vehicles to implement these business strategies. The primary objective of this research is to improve the implementation of strategic management initiatives within organisations. This was achieved by investigating whether Shenhar’s strategic project leadership elements (i.e. organisational structure, process definition, implementation metrics, implementation tools and organisational culture) have an impact on the successful implementation of strategic management initiatives. The study also aims to investigate whether age, gender, race, designation, education, industry experience and tenure at Eskom Telecommunications, have an impact on the perception of the following variables under investigation: Implementation metrics; Implementation tools; Organisational structure; Organisational culture; Process definition; and Strategic management implementation. If the correlation between strategic management implementation and Shenhar’s strategic project leadership elements is established, it would assist organisations in the implementation of successful strategic management initiatives, by aiding an understanding of how these independent variables affect the implementation process. Improved implementation of strategic management initiatives would assist management teams in organisations to overcome the unique challenges that change in an organisation’s internal and external environment cause. The scope of this study was limited to be conducted in Eskom Telecommunications only. The study is concluded with a number of recommendations that Eskom Telecommunications could implement to improve strategic management implementation and a synopsis of this study’s contribution to theory is provided, in addition to recommendations for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Nel, Nevin Narhan
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Strategic management , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8819 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018931
- Description: Executives and managers are required to develop the required competencies to ensure the long term success of their organisations. In the competitive and dynamic business environment organisations are faced with, strategic management and planning has gained momentum as a management science which aids managers and executives in circumventing the challenges that such a dynamic environment can present. Strategic management and planning is, however, of no consequence unless the strategic plan is deployed and implemented in an organisation and the implemented plan is evaluated in action. Many organisations find the process of strategy implementation much more of a challenge than the process of strategy formulation. Consequently, many of these organisations have utilised project management to assist in the strategic management implementation process. The competitive and dynamic business environment also requires organisations to constantly develop and execute more innovative business strategies to remain competitive. In order to do this, many organisations have started to explore the alignment between business strategy and project management strategy. Various commentators note that successful implementation of strategy is challenging, especially considering the 70 per cent execution failure rate. It is further noted that organisations only realise 60 per cent of the potential value of their intended strategies due to failures in planning and implementation. Consequently, projects are often chosen as vehicles to implement these business strategies. The primary objective of this research is to improve the implementation of strategic management initiatives within organisations. This was achieved by investigating whether Shenhar’s strategic project leadership elements (i.e. organisational structure, process definition, implementation metrics, implementation tools and organisational culture) have an impact on the successful implementation of strategic management initiatives. The study also aims to investigate whether age, gender, race, designation, education, industry experience and tenure at Eskom Telecommunications, have an impact on the perception of the following variables under investigation: Implementation metrics; Implementation tools; Organisational structure; Organisational culture; Process definition; and Strategic management implementation. If the correlation between strategic management implementation and Shenhar’s strategic project leadership elements is established, it would assist organisations in the implementation of successful strategic management initiatives, by aiding an understanding of how these independent variables affect the implementation process. Improved implementation of strategic management initiatives would assist management teams in organisations to overcome the unique challenges that change in an organisation’s internal and external environment cause. The scope of this study was limited to be conducted in Eskom Telecommunications only. The study is concluded with a number of recommendations that Eskom Telecommunications could implement to improve strategic management implementation and a synopsis of this study’s contribution to theory is provided, in addition to recommendations for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The effectiveness of agricultural extension as perceived by small scale farm holders
- Authors: Olufayo, Ayowumi Motunrayo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Agricultural extension work -- South Africa , Agriculture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10592 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019765
- Description: Empirical studies have suggested that agricultural extension can increase agricultural productivity. However, the increase in productivity is dependent on a number of issues. As a result, this particular study was conducted among farmers in order to examine the relationship between the provision of extension services and increased productivity in a regional context. The perceptions of vegetable home gardeners resident in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan area, who participated in the Siyazondla Homestead Production Programme, formed the source of the primary data. The views of these farmers were analysed to determine how extension services affected their performance. The findings revealed that the farmers have a good perception of the extension services, although this negatively correlates with their level of performance. In addition, the data indicate that farmers who had a poor perception of extension services tend to achieve high production while those with a good impression of services had a poor performance. It was however observed that level of education, farming experience and exposure to print media influenced the responses that were captured in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Olufayo, Ayowumi Motunrayo
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Agricultural extension work -- South Africa , Agriculture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10592 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019765
- Description: Empirical studies have suggested that agricultural extension can increase agricultural productivity. However, the increase in productivity is dependent on a number of issues. As a result, this particular study was conducted among farmers in order to examine the relationship between the provision of extension services and increased productivity in a regional context. The perceptions of vegetable home gardeners resident in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan area, who participated in the Siyazondla Homestead Production Programme, formed the source of the primary data. The views of these farmers were analysed to determine how extension services affected their performance. The findings revealed that the farmers have a good perception of the extension services, although this negatively correlates with their level of performance. In addition, the data indicate that farmers who had a poor perception of extension services tend to achieve high production while those with a good impression of services had a poor performance. It was however observed that level of education, farming experience and exposure to print media influenced the responses that were captured in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The effectiveness of internal newsletters: case study of Transnet Freight Rail's platform
- Matshoba, Thembekile Phillinah
- Authors: Matshoba, Thembekile Phillinah
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Newsletters , Business communication
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8420 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015672
- Description: The research is based on a case study of an internal newsletter, Platform. The objective was to obtain more information about Transnet Freight Rail employees‘ thoughts on its effectiveness and the effectiveness of internal newsletters by using Platform as an example. The treatise explored the perceptions of employees and Transnet in terms of the effectiveness of the internal newsletter as a communication tool as well as their attitudes towards the newsletter as an information disseminating medium. A mixed methods approach was used for analysis in this study. The first methodological paradigm took an interpretivist approach, focusing primarily on analysing the content of the newsletter. The second methodological design was based on the positivistic theory approach and utilised a survey by questionnaire. One hundred and twenty (120) questionnaires were issued to Transnet Freight Rail employees representing the three regions: Central Region, Eastern Region & Western Region and the Head Office of which 120 (100 percent) were received back by the deadline. Of these respondents 56 (46,66 percent) said that they find Platform very relevant as an internal newsletter. A further finding was that 68,33 percent of the respondents said Platform should stay as it is. About 58,33 percent of the respondents took 30 minutes to an hour to read the newsletter with ratings of 72,5 percent interested in communication from management, 65 percent in financial performance, 60 percent in news about people and 59,16 percent in departmental information. The main types of information required are about updates on business performance and safety news. The content of six editions of the newsletter was analysed. The newsletter editions used were from the latest one published counting backwards. The content of the newsletter varies in each edition and depends on the theme. There are similar themes that come up with every edition such as safety. The style of writing used is simple to ensure maximum understanding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Matshoba, Thembekile Phillinah
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Newsletters , Business communication
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8420 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015672
- Description: The research is based on a case study of an internal newsletter, Platform. The objective was to obtain more information about Transnet Freight Rail employees‘ thoughts on its effectiveness and the effectiveness of internal newsletters by using Platform as an example. The treatise explored the perceptions of employees and Transnet in terms of the effectiveness of the internal newsletter as a communication tool as well as their attitudes towards the newsletter as an information disseminating medium. A mixed methods approach was used for analysis in this study. The first methodological paradigm took an interpretivist approach, focusing primarily on analysing the content of the newsletter. The second methodological design was based on the positivistic theory approach and utilised a survey by questionnaire. One hundred and twenty (120) questionnaires were issued to Transnet Freight Rail employees representing the three regions: Central Region, Eastern Region & Western Region and the Head Office of which 120 (100 percent) were received back by the deadline. Of these respondents 56 (46,66 percent) said that they find Platform very relevant as an internal newsletter. A further finding was that 68,33 percent of the respondents said Platform should stay as it is. About 58,33 percent of the respondents took 30 minutes to an hour to read the newsletter with ratings of 72,5 percent interested in communication from management, 65 percent in financial performance, 60 percent in news about people and 59,16 percent in departmental information. The main types of information required are about updates on business performance and safety news. The content of six editions of the newsletter was analysed. The newsletter editions used were from the latest one published counting backwards. The content of the newsletter varies in each edition and depends on the theme. There are similar themes that come up with every edition such as safety. The style of writing used is simple to ensure maximum understanding.
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- Date Issued: 2012
The effectiveness of school management: conflict management skills as a missing link in selected schools in Gauteng
- Authors: Msila, Vuyisile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa -- Gauteng , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8288 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018647
- Description: Growing research in educational leadership and management shows that there are many factors that have an impact on the running of effective schools. Many people are now aware of the importance of the school management‟s role in guiding successful schools. This quantitative study was conducted in Gauteng where 100 school managers responded to a questionnaire which probed them about their conflict management and competence skills. The participants responded to a 40 item Likert scale instrument. Each of the items had five alternatives to choose from. The results demonstrate that many teachers were never trained in conflict management skills and that they also find it hard to resolve disputes in their schools. Furthermore, a majority of the participants attributed the dysfunctionality and lack of teacher commitment to the pervading unresolved conflicts in their schools. There was also consensus that intractable conflict adversely affects the culture of learning and teaching in schools. Among the recommendations highlighted at the end are to ensure that prospective school managers are empowered with conflict management skills before assuming their positions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Msila, Vuyisile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa -- Gauteng , School management and organization -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8288 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018647
- Description: Growing research in educational leadership and management shows that there are many factors that have an impact on the running of effective schools. Many people are now aware of the importance of the school management‟s role in guiding successful schools. This quantitative study was conducted in Gauteng where 100 school managers responded to a questionnaire which probed them about their conflict management and competence skills. The participants responded to a 40 item Likert scale instrument. Each of the items had five alternatives to choose from. The results demonstrate that many teachers were never trained in conflict management skills and that they also find it hard to resolve disputes in their schools. Furthermore, a majority of the participants attributed the dysfunctionality and lack of teacher commitment to the pervading unresolved conflicts in their schools. There was also consensus that intractable conflict adversely affects the culture of learning and teaching in schools. Among the recommendations highlighted at the end are to ensure that prospective school managers are empowered with conflict management skills before assuming their positions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012