Rural livelihoods at Dwesa/Cwebe: poverty, development and natural resource use on the Wild Coast, South Africa
- Authors: Timmermans, Herman Gerald
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Land reform -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Income distribution -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Household surveys -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4767 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007174 , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Land reform -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Income distribution -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Household surveys -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This thesis uses the sustainable rural livelihoods framework to investigate the livelihoods of communities residing adjacent to a remote protected area on the Wild Coast. The communities living in the area are among the poorest in South Africa and are largely dependent on migrant remittances and state welfare grants for their survival. Soon after South Africa's first democratic elections in 1994, the communities lodged a land claim against the protected area on the basis of past removals. In 2001, their land rights to the protected area were restored, opening up new avenues for the development of the area. It is argued that livelihood systems in the area are complex, varied and dynamic, and that for development to be sustainable, it needs to be informed by a thorough understanding of the many factors that shape the context in which livelihoods are generated. The research is based primarily on 'in-depth' micro-studies of two villages in the area - Ntubeni and Cwebe. It includes a detailed assessment of the extent and distribution of poverty and the various factors that make households vulnerable to livelihood shocks. The role of the rich and diverse natural resource base, the property rights associated with it, and the under-development of infrastructure and services in the area, are discussed in relation to livelihood prospects. A systems approach is used to examine the various ways in which livestock husbandry, cropping, natural resource use, employment and welfare dependence interact. Finally, the thesis examines in some detail the distribution of household assets, livelihood strategies and livelihood outcomes between the two villages, and between households in different income groups.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Timmermans, Herman Gerald
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Land reform -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Income distribution -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Household surveys -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4767 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007174 , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Land reform -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Income distribution -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Household surveys -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This thesis uses the sustainable rural livelihoods framework to investigate the livelihoods of communities residing adjacent to a remote protected area on the Wild Coast. The communities living in the area are among the poorest in South Africa and are largely dependent on migrant remittances and state welfare grants for their survival. Soon after South Africa's first democratic elections in 1994, the communities lodged a land claim against the protected area on the basis of past removals. In 2001, their land rights to the protected area were restored, opening up new avenues for the development of the area. It is argued that livelihood systems in the area are complex, varied and dynamic, and that for development to be sustainable, it needs to be informed by a thorough understanding of the many factors that shape the context in which livelihoods are generated. The research is based primarily on 'in-depth' micro-studies of two villages in the area - Ntubeni and Cwebe. It includes a detailed assessment of the extent and distribution of poverty and the various factors that make households vulnerable to livelihood shocks. The role of the rich and diverse natural resource base, the property rights associated with it, and the under-development of infrastructure and services in the area, are discussed in relation to livelihood prospects. A systems approach is used to examine the various ways in which livestock husbandry, cropping, natural resource use, employment and welfare dependence interact. Finally, the thesis examines in some detail the distribution of household assets, livelihood strategies and livelihood outcomes between the two villages, and between households in different income groups.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Screening of the white margined sole, Synaptura marginata (Soleidae), as a candidate for aquaculture in South Africa
- Authors: Thompson, Ernst Frederick
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Flatfishes -- South Africa , Aquaculture -- South Africa , Soleidae -- South Africa , Soleidae
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5207 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004523 , Flatfishes -- South Africa , Aquaculture -- South Africa , Soleidae -- South Africa , Soleidae
- Description: The white margined sole Synaptura marginata (Soleidae) was isolated as the most likely candidate for flatfish aquaculture in South Africa. The aim of the study was to screen the sole as a candidate aquaculture species by way of a comprehensive study of its biology and life history strategy and to identify possible "bottlenecks". The study was undertaken on the assumption that the biological data would provide valuable information for developing specific technologies that might be required for the farming of this species. Specimens were collected monthly by spearing along the Eastern Cape coast of South Africa between December 2000 and March 2002. Length-at-age data required for modeling the growth of S. marginata was obtained from sectioned otoliths. A Von Bertalanffy growth model with an absolute error structure best describes the growth for this species. The model parameters were: L∞ = 429.5 mm TL, K = 0.24 and t₀ = -1 .79 years. Analysis of gut contents showed that S. marginata feed exclusively on polychaete worms, mainly of the genus Morphysa. S. marginata shows a protracted summer spawning season of six months, from October to April. This was determined by the calculation of a monthly gonadosomatic index and a macroscopic maturity scale. Histological examination of the ovaries revealed five ovarian developmental stages. Size at 50% and 100% sexual maturity for females was calculated to be 235 mm TL and 300 mm TL (ca. 1.5 - 2.5 years of age) and all males> 154 mm TL were mature. S. marginata is a batch spawner, releasing a minimum of 3 batches of eggs per year. Relative fecundity is high (34000 eggs per year I kg) and this coupled with the protracted spawning season would make it possible to obtain adequate numbers of juveniles (for farming) for approximately five to six months of the year. Comparative analysis of the biological characteristics in relation to other soles farmed elsewhere in the world suggests that S. marginata is a suitable candidate for marine fish culture in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Thompson, Ernst Frederick
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Flatfishes -- South Africa , Aquaculture -- South Africa , Soleidae -- South Africa , Soleidae
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5207 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004523 , Flatfishes -- South Africa , Aquaculture -- South Africa , Soleidae -- South Africa , Soleidae
- Description: The white margined sole Synaptura marginata (Soleidae) was isolated as the most likely candidate for flatfish aquaculture in South Africa. The aim of the study was to screen the sole as a candidate aquaculture species by way of a comprehensive study of its biology and life history strategy and to identify possible "bottlenecks". The study was undertaken on the assumption that the biological data would provide valuable information for developing specific technologies that might be required for the farming of this species. Specimens were collected monthly by spearing along the Eastern Cape coast of South Africa between December 2000 and March 2002. Length-at-age data required for modeling the growth of S. marginata was obtained from sectioned otoliths. A Von Bertalanffy growth model with an absolute error structure best describes the growth for this species. The model parameters were: L∞ = 429.5 mm TL, K = 0.24 and t₀ = -1 .79 years. Analysis of gut contents showed that S. marginata feed exclusively on polychaete worms, mainly of the genus Morphysa. S. marginata shows a protracted summer spawning season of six months, from October to April. This was determined by the calculation of a monthly gonadosomatic index and a macroscopic maturity scale. Histological examination of the ovaries revealed five ovarian developmental stages. Size at 50% and 100% sexual maturity for females was calculated to be 235 mm TL and 300 mm TL (ca. 1.5 - 2.5 years of age) and all males> 154 mm TL were mature. S. marginata is a batch spawner, releasing a minimum of 3 batches of eggs per year. Relative fecundity is high (34000 eggs per year I kg) and this coupled with the protracted spawning season would make it possible to obtain adequate numbers of juveniles (for farming) for approximately five to six months of the year. Comparative analysis of the biological characteristics in relation to other soles farmed elsewhere in the world suggests that S. marginata is a suitable candidate for marine fish culture in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Search algorithms on structured and unstructured data in a large database
- Du Plessis, Mathys Cornelius
- Authors: Du Plessis, Mathys Cornelius
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Online algorithms , Database searching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Information retrieval -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:11094 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019681
- Description: This project is concerned with the development of a search algorithm for a large archival database. The Port Elizabeth Genealogical Information System (PEGIS) contains a database consisting of almost 600000 individuals. The standard search algorithms are no longer sufficient to locate individuals in the database. A new algorithm was required that allows searches on any of the words or dates in the database, as well as a means to specify where in the desired record a word should occur. A ranking function of retrieved records was also required. A literature study on the field of Information Retrieval and on algorithms designed specifically for the PEGIS was done. These algorithms were adapted and hybridized to yield a search algorithm that allows for the boolean formulation of queries and the specification of the structure of search words in the desired records. The algorithm ranks retrieved records in assumed relevance to the user. The new algorithms were evaluated with regards to retrieval speed and accuracy and were found to be very effective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Du Plessis, Mathys Cornelius
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Online algorithms , Database searching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Information retrieval -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:11094 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019681
- Description: This project is concerned with the development of a search algorithm for a large archival database. The Port Elizabeth Genealogical Information System (PEGIS) contains a database consisting of almost 600000 individuals. The standard search algorithms are no longer sufficient to locate individuals in the database. A new algorithm was required that allows searches on any of the words or dates in the database, as well as a means to specify where in the desired record a word should occur. A ranking function of retrieved records was also required. A literature study on the field of Information Retrieval and on algorithms designed specifically for the PEGIS was done. These algorithms were adapted and hybridized to yield a search algorithm that allows for the boolean formulation of queries and the specification of the structure of search words in the desired records. The algorithm ranks retrieved records in assumed relevance to the user. The new algorithms were evaluated with regards to retrieval speed and accuracy and were found to be very effective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Service quality importance-performance analysis as a strategic tool for management : the exploration of key customer satisfaction drivers in a South African electricity utility
- Authors: MacColl, Barry
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Eskom (Firm) Electric power distribution -- Customer services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Electric power distribution -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Quality control Customer services -- Quality control Customer services -- Rating of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:806 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006972
- Description: This research was initiated due to declining customer satisfaction indices in the Southern region of Eskom, an electricity utility in South Africa. Given the link between customer satisfaction and purchase intentions, the sustainability of the business is at stake. The validity of the current MaxiCare survey tool is questioned and explored, as is the congruence of management and customers' perceptions regarding the key service quality constructs in the industry. The study's objective was to provide management with a reliable and valid customer satisfaction survey instrument as an alternate to the existing tool and to use the knowledge gained through the research process to recommend improvement strategies aimed at closing specific satisfaction gaps identified. The research was performed in two stages; firstly, semistructured interviews with customers and management to gain an understanding of the most important satisfaction dimensions. These influenced the design of a survey instrument based largely on the SERVPERF tool with the inclusion of importance ratings per item in the second stage. The quantitative survey results were used to assess the reliability and validity of the research and to suggest areas for future work. The results show that communication, quality of supply, assurance and price are uppermost in the consumer's mind. Tangibles are not significant and the inclusion of empathy is inconclusive. Management and customer perceptions at a macro level are closely aligned, however the two populations are not in agreement as to the underlying micro considerations. Similarly, the MaxiCare instrument is found to be valid as a macro indicator but lacks sufficient detail to be useful as a strategic tool and needs to be supplemented with additional sources of market information. The survey instrument used in the second phase is both descriptive and reliable but the number of factors it measures, the mix of items and the inclusion of the 'importance' dimension need further refinement to improve its validity. Future revisions of the tool will provide management with specific information that allows them to focus improvement strategies on disgruntled customers and their key service issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: MacColl, Barry
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Eskom (Firm) Electric power distribution -- Customer services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Electric power distribution -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Quality control Customer services -- Quality control Customer services -- Rating of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:806 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006972
- Description: This research was initiated due to declining customer satisfaction indices in the Southern region of Eskom, an electricity utility in South Africa. Given the link between customer satisfaction and purchase intentions, the sustainability of the business is at stake. The validity of the current MaxiCare survey tool is questioned and explored, as is the congruence of management and customers' perceptions regarding the key service quality constructs in the industry. The study's objective was to provide management with a reliable and valid customer satisfaction survey instrument as an alternate to the existing tool and to use the knowledge gained through the research process to recommend improvement strategies aimed at closing specific satisfaction gaps identified. The research was performed in two stages; firstly, semistructured interviews with customers and management to gain an understanding of the most important satisfaction dimensions. These influenced the design of a survey instrument based largely on the SERVPERF tool with the inclusion of importance ratings per item in the second stage. The quantitative survey results were used to assess the reliability and validity of the research and to suggest areas for future work. The results show that communication, quality of supply, assurance and price are uppermost in the consumer's mind. Tangibles are not significant and the inclusion of empathy is inconclusive. Management and customer perceptions at a macro level are closely aligned, however the two populations are not in agreement as to the underlying micro considerations. Similarly, the MaxiCare instrument is found to be valid as a macro indicator but lacks sufficient detail to be useful as a strategic tool and needs to be supplemented with additional sources of market information. The survey instrument used in the second phase is both descriptive and reliable but the number of factors it measures, the mix of items and the inclusion of the 'importance' dimension need further refinement to improve its validity. Future revisions of the tool will provide management with specific information that allows them to focus improvement strategies on disgruntled customers and their key service issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Sexual harassment in employment
- Authors: Ristow, Liezel
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Sexual harassment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Sex discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11062 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/341 , Sexual harassment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Sex discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: Africa as no exception. It is generally accepted that women constitute the vast majority of sexual harassment victims. Sexual harassment is therefore one of the major barriers to women’s equality as it is a significant obstacle to women’s entrance into many sectors of the labour market. The Constitution now provides that no person may unfairly discriminate against anyone on grounds of, inter alia, sex and gender. The Employment Equity Act now provides that harassment is a form of unfair discrimination. It has been said that harassment is discriminatory because it raises an arbitrary barrier to the full and equal enjoyment of a person’s rights in the workplace. Much can be learned from the law of the United States and that country’s struggle to fit harassment under its discrimination laws. The Code of Good Practice on the Handling of Sexual Harassment Cases attempts to eliminate sexual harassment in the workplace by providing procedures that will enable employers to deal with occurrences of sexual harassment and to implement preventative measures. The Code also encourages employers to develop and implement policies on sexual harassment that will serve as a guideline for the conduct of all employees. Although the Code has been subject to some criticism, particularly regarding the test for sexual harassment, it remains a valuable guide to both employers and employees alike. The appropriate test for sexual harassment as a form of unfair discrimination has given rise to debate. Both the subjective test and the objective test for sexual harassment present problems. Some authors recommend a compromise between these two tests in the form of the “reasonable victim” test. The Employment Equity Act makes the employer liable for the prohibited acts of the employee in certain circumstances. The Act, however, places certain responsibilities on the employer and the employee-victim before the employer will be held liable for sexual harassment committed by an employee. Sexual harassment committed by an employee constitutes misconduct and can be a dismissible offence. An employer may also be held to have constructively dismissed an employee, if the employer was aware of the sexual harassment and failed to control such behaviour, and the employee is forced to resign. The test for determining the appropriateness of the sanction of dismissal for sexual harassment is whether or not the employee’s misconduct is serious and of such gravity that it makes a continued employment relationship intolerable. However, for such a dismissal to be fair it must be both substantively fair and procedurally fair.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Ristow, Liezel
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Sexual harassment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Sex discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11062 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/341 , Sexual harassment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Sex discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: Africa as no exception. It is generally accepted that women constitute the vast majority of sexual harassment victims. Sexual harassment is therefore one of the major barriers to women’s equality as it is a significant obstacle to women’s entrance into many sectors of the labour market. The Constitution now provides that no person may unfairly discriminate against anyone on grounds of, inter alia, sex and gender. The Employment Equity Act now provides that harassment is a form of unfair discrimination. It has been said that harassment is discriminatory because it raises an arbitrary barrier to the full and equal enjoyment of a person’s rights in the workplace. Much can be learned from the law of the United States and that country’s struggle to fit harassment under its discrimination laws. The Code of Good Practice on the Handling of Sexual Harassment Cases attempts to eliminate sexual harassment in the workplace by providing procedures that will enable employers to deal with occurrences of sexual harassment and to implement preventative measures. The Code also encourages employers to develop and implement policies on sexual harassment that will serve as a guideline for the conduct of all employees. Although the Code has been subject to some criticism, particularly regarding the test for sexual harassment, it remains a valuable guide to both employers and employees alike. The appropriate test for sexual harassment as a form of unfair discrimination has given rise to debate. Both the subjective test and the objective test for sexual harassment present problems. Some authors recommend a compromise between these two tests in the form of the “reasonable victim” test. The Employment Equity Act makes the employer liable for the prohibited acts of the employee in certain circumstances. The Act, however, places certain responsibilities on the employer and the employee-victim before the employer will be held liable for sexual harassment committed by an employee. Sexual harassment committed by an employee constitutes misconduct and can be a dismissible offence. An employer may also be held to have constructively dismissed an employee, if the employer was aware of the sexual harassment and failed to control such behaviour, and the employee is forced to resign. The test for determining the appropriateness of the sanction of dismissal for sexual harassment is whether or not the employee’s misconduct is serious and of such gravity that it makes a continued employment relationship intolerable. However, for such a dismissal to be fair it must be both substantively fair and procedurally fair.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
SIDVI: a model for secure distributed data integration
- Authors: Routly, Wayne A
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Data protection
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Information Technology)
- Identifier: vital:10805 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/261 , Data protection
- Description: The new millennium has brought about an increase in the use of business intelligence and knowledge management systems. The very foundations of these systems are the multitude of source databases that store the data. The ability to derive information from these databases is brought about by means of data integration. With the current emphasis on security in all walks of information and communication technology, a renewed interest must be placed in the systems that provide us with information; data integration systems. This dissertation investigates security issues at specific stages in the data integration cycle, with special reference to problems when performing data integration in a peer-topeer environment, as in distributed data integration. In the database environment we are concerned with the database itself and the media used to connect to and from the database. In distributed data integration, the concept of the database is redefined to the source database, from which we extract data and the storage database in which the integrated data is stored. This postulates three distinct areas in which to apply security, the data source, the network medium and the data store. All of these areas encompass data integration and must be considered holistically when implementing security. Data integration is never only one server or one database; it is various geographically dispersed components working together towards a common goal. It is important then that we consider all aspects involved when attempting to provide security for data integration. This dissertation will focus on the areas of security threats and investigates a model to ensure the integrity and security of data during the entire integration process. In order to ensure effective security in a data integration environment, that security, should be present at all stages, it should provide for end-to-end protection.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Routly, Wayne A
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Data protection
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Information Technology)
- Identifier: vital:10805 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/261 , Data protection
- Description: The new millennium has brought about an increase in the use of business intelligence and knowledge management systems. The very foundations of these systems are the multitude of source databases that store the data. The ability to derive information from these databases is brought about by means of data integration. With the current emphasis on security in all walks of information and communication technology, a renewed interest must be placed in the systems that provide us with information; data integration systems. This dissertation investigates security issues at specific stages in the data integration cycle, with special reference to problems when performing data integration in a peer-topeer environment, as in distributed data integration. In the database environment we are concerned with the database itself and the media used to connect to and from the database. In distributed data integration, the concept of the database is redefined to the source database, from which we extract data and the storage database in which the integrated data is stored. This postulates three distinct areas in which to apply security, the data source, the network medium and the data store. All of these areas encompass data integration and must be considered holistically when implementing security. Data integration is never only one server or one database; it is various geographically dispersed components working together towards a common goal. It is important then that we consider all aspects involved when attempting to provide security for data integration. This dissertation will focus on the areas of security threats and investigates a model to ensure the integrity and security of data during the entire integration process. In order to ensure effective security in a data integration environment, that security, should be present at all stages, it should provide for end-to-end protection.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Small town South Africa: the historical geography of selected Eastern Cape towns and current development initiatives within them
- White, Richard Charles Crookes
- Authors: White, Richard Charles Crookes
- Date: 2004 , 2013-06-03
- Subjects: Cities and towns -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Growth , Cities and towns -- South Africa -- Population -- Statistics , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- History , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Economic conditions , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:4805 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003288 , Cities and towns -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Growth , Cities and towns -- South Africa -- Population -- Statistics , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- History , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Economic conditions , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Social conditions
- Description: Small towns can be seen as the fundamental building blocks of tbe urban system. Through time, some of these towns have lost the primary reason for their existence. Some towns that have been declining or stagnating include old mining and industrial towns, such as Indwe in the Eastern Cape or Welkom in the Free State. Some towns have also changed the main focus of tbeir economy, for example, from that of mining to that of tourism, as in the case of Utrecht in Kwa-Zulu Natal (Nel, 2002). In light of the above, this thesis seeks to critically evaluate what has happened in selected small towns in the Eastern Cape. The research investigated a number of towns in the Eastern Cape, looking at the history and influence of colonisation, population dynamics, education levels, employment opportunities, migration and the influence of capitalism on the economic and social structure of the town, as well as tbe evolution of its economy. The research sample consisted of interviews witb local historians, community leaders, development agencies and individuals who were benefiting from tbe various development initiatives/project in the towns. These interviews, in conjunction with the literature identified, were conducted in the selected small towns, assessing whether development was succeeding and, in conclusion, identifying witb reference to the study sites, what was learnt. The research process generated a number of lessons that need to be taken into consideration when attempting social and economic upliftment in small towns. These include: the need for leadership, support from the local population and the need for financial assistance to support and uplift the community. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: White, Richard Charles Crookes
- Date: 2004 , 2013-06-03
- Subjects: Cities and towns -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Growth , Cities and towns -- South Africa -- Population -- Statistics , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- History , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Economic conditions , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:4805 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003288 , Cities and towns -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Growth , Cities and towns -- South Africa -- Population -- Statistics , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- History , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Economic conditions , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Social conditions
- Description: Small towns can be seen as the fundamental building blocks of tbe urban system. Through time, some of these towns have lost the primary reason for their existence. Some towns that have been declining or stagnating include old mining and industrial towns, such as Indwe in the Eastern Cape or Welkom in the Free State. Some towns have also changed the main focus of tbeir economy, for example, from that of mining to that of tourism, as in the case of Utrecht in Kwa-Zulu Natal (Nel, 2002). In light of the above, this thesis seeks to critically evaluate what has happened in selected small towns in the Eastern Cape. The research investigated a number of towns in the Eastern Cape, looking at the history and influence of colonisation, population dynamics, education levels, employment opportunities, migration and the influence of capitalism on the economic and social structure of the town, as well as tbe evolution of its economy. The research sample consisted of interviews witb local historians, community leaders, development agencies and individuals who were benefiting from tbe various development initiatives/project in the towns. These interviews, in conjunction with the literature identified, were conducted in the selected small towns, assessing whether development was succeeding and, in conclusion, identifying witb reference to the study sites, what was learnt. The research process generated a number of lessons that need to be taken into consideration when attempting social and economic upliftment in small towns. These include: the need for leadership, support from the local population and the need for financial assistance to support and uplift the community. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Sobriety of crisp and fuzzy topological spaces
- Authors: Jacot-Guillarmod, Paul
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Topological spaces , Fuzzy sets
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5414 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005228 , Topological spaces , Fuzzy sets
- Description: The objective of this thesis is a survey of crisp and fuzzy sober topological spaces. We begin by examining sobriety of crisp topological spaces. We then extend this to the L- topological case and obtain analogous results and characterizations to those of the crisp case. We then brie y examine semi-sobriety of (L;M)-topological spaces.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Jacot-Guillarmod, Paul
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Topological spaces , Fuzzy sets
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5414 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005228 , Topological spaces , Fuzzy sets
- Description: The objective of this thesis is a survey of crisp and fuzzy sober topological spaces. We begin by examining sobriety of crisp topological spaces. We then extend this to the L- topological case and obtain analogous results and characterizations to those of the crisp case. We then brie y examine semi-sobriety of (L;M)-topological spaces.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Spirituality in the fiction of Henry Rider Haggard
- Authors: Senior, John
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Haggard, H. Rider (Henry Rider), 1856-1925 -- Religion Haggard, H. Rider (Henry Rider), 1856-1925 -- Criticism and interpretation Religion in literature Spirituality in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2209 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002252
- Description: Neither an unquestioning support for British imperialism nor a personal pre-Jungian philosophy were the driving forces behind Rider Haggard’s beliefs or his literature. These two concerns were secondary to the author’s fascination with the supernatural, a theme prominent in his era, but less so in our own. A declining faith in European religion provided the dominant focal point in Haggard’s work. Although there are important overtones of imperial concern and indeed points of Jungian significance in the texts, these are generally subservient to an intensive wide-ranging spiritual discourse. The place of Haggard’s work in history and its literary merit are thus misunderstood when his spiritualism is not taken into account. No analysis of the author’s work can be complete without first coming to terms with his spiritual ideas and then with their impact on other topics of significance to both the author and audiences of his day. The spiritual or religious aspect of his writing has been largely ignored because of its subtle nature and its relative unfashionability throughout most of the twentieth century in the critical and intellectual climate of the Western world. However, in the Victorian era, under the materialist impact of Darwin, Marx and industrialization, Europe's Christian God was pushed from centre stage, creating widespread spiritual hunger and anguish. In the resulting religious vacuum Haggard's overtures were of particular significance to his audience. In fact, when considered in terms of his immense contemporary popularity, the pervasive presence of spirituality throughout Haggard's works and in his personal writing gives some indication of the subject's enormous importance not only to the author, but to late Victorian society as a whole. In light of this Victorian significance, the spiritual element rises, by its constant presence and persistent foregrounding, to subvert not only the imperial and the Jungian, but even Haggard's overt adventure text by dealing directly with the underlying metaphysical crisis in Western society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Senior, John
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Haggard, H. Rider (Henry Rider), 1856-1925 -- Religion Haggard, H. Rider (Henry Rider), 1856-1925 -- Criticism and interpretation Religion in literature Spirituality in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2209 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002252
- Description: Neither an unquestioning support for British imperialism nor a personal pre-Jungian philosophy were the driving forces behind Rider Haggard’s beliefs or his literature. These two concerns were secondary to the author’s fascination with the supernatural, a theme prominent in his era, but less so in our own. A declining faith in European religion provided the dominant focal point in Haggard’s work. Although there are important overtones of imperial concern and indeed points of Jungian significance in the texts, these are generally subservient to an intensive wide-ranging spiritual discourse. The place of Haggard’s work in history and its literary merit are thus misunderstood when his spiritualism is not taken into account. No analysis of the author’s work can be complete without first coming to terms with his spiritual ideas and then with their impact on other topics of significance to both the author and audiences of his day. The spiritual or religious aspect of his writing has been largely ignored because of its subtle nature and its relative unfashionability throughout most of the twentieth century in the critical and intellectual climate of the Western world. However, in the Victorian era, under the materialist impact of Darwin, Marx and industrialization, Europe's Christian God was pushed from centre stage, creating widespread spiritual hunger and anguish. In the resulting religious vacuum Haggard's overtures were of particular significance to his audience. In fact, when considered in terms of his immense contemporary popularity, the pervasive presence of spirituality throughout Haggard's works and in his personal writing gives some indication of the subject's enormous importance not only to the author, but to late Victorian society as a whole. In light of this Victorian significance, the spiritual element rises, by its constant presence and persistent foregrounding, to subvert not only the imperial and the Jungian, but even Haggard's overt adventure text by dealing directly with the underlying metaphysical crisis in Western society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Strategies for sourcing IT skills for South African tertiary institutions
- Authors: Moller, Alison
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Electronic data processing departments -- Contracting out -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- Services for -- Contracting out -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Business Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:10804 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/263 , Electronic data processing departments -- Contracting out -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- Services for -- Contracting out -- South Africa
- Description: Traditional methods of IT recruitment in tertiary institutions need to be reviewed and more modern approaches analysed. A lot of successes and failures have been reported for each type of sourcing strategy in the IT sector. Many organizations have been liquidated due to poorly planned mergers, takeovers, and total outsourcing strategic shifts. The primary objective is to review the current IT sourcing strategies in tertiary institutions and to analyse and discuss the benefits and limitations of employing permanent IT staff, contract workers or outsourced staff.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Moller, Alison
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Electronic data processing departments -- Contracting out -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- Services for -- Contracting out -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Business Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:10804 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/263 , Electronic data processing departments -- Contracting out -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- Services for -- Contracting out -- South Africa
- Description: Traditional methods of IT recruitment in tertiary institutions need to be reviewed and more modern approaches analysed. A lot of successes and failures have been reported for each type of sourcing strategy in the IT sector. Many organizations have been liquidated due to poorly planned mergers, takeovers, and total outsourcing strategic shifts. The primary objective is to review the current IT sourcing strategies in tertiary institutions and to analyse and discuss the benefits and limitations of employing permanent IT staff, contract workers or outsourced staff.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Studies on parasitoids of the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), in South Africa
- Authors: Nofemela, Sicelo Robert
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Plutellidae -- South Africa , Plutellidae -- Biological control , Plutellidae -- Parasites , Parasitoids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5780 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005468 , Plutellidae -- South Africa , Plutellidae -- Biological control , Plutellidae -- Parasites , Parasitoids
- Description: The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), is a major pest of Brassica crops in many parts of the world. Because of its ability to develop resistance to virtually all major groups of insecticides, including Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt), much attention has therefore been given to biological control using parasitoids. South Africa has an abundance of parasitoids attacking this pest. Cotesia plutellae (Kurdjumov) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is the most abundant larval parasitoid of P. xylostella in South Africa. In East Africa, its role in biological control of P. xylostella is insignificant, and the most abundant parasitoid there is Diadegma mollipla (Holmgren) (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae), a larvalpupal parasitoid. In South Africa, however, D. mollipla is out-competed by C. plutellae. Total parasitism of P. xylostella in East Africa rarely exceeds 15%, therefore there is a need to introduce more effective and heat-tolerant parasitoids of P. xylostella to that region. This study was therefore initiated to examine the potential of C. plutellae and D. mollipla as biological control agents by studying certain aspects of their biology in the laboratory, as well as the suitability of C. plutellae for introduction into East Africa. Biological aspects studied were: (i) host instar preference, fecundity, and searching efficiency of C. plutellae and D. mollipla at different host and parasitoid densities; (ii) effects of temperature on parasitism of P. xylostella by C. plutellae and D. mollipla, and on their rates of development and emergence. In addition, the role of parasitoids in controlling P. xylostella on unsprayed cabbage plots was investigated. Both C. plutellae and D. mollipla preferred to attack second and third instar hosts than fourth instars in choice and no-choice tests. However, D. mollipla attacked more fourth instar hosts than C. plutellae. Cotesia plutellae laid mainly female eggs in second and third instar hosts than in fourth instars, whereas D. mollipla laid more female eggs in fourth instar hosts than in second and third instar hosts. Diadegma mollipla was more fecund [82.57 ± 32.87, (mean ± s.d.) than C. plutellae (42.13 ± 12.2), and was long lived (7.13 ± 3.69 days) compared to the latter (5.23 ± 2.7 days). An increase in host density resulted in the reduction in the area of discovery (a) and the killing power (K) for both parasitoids. No significant differences were detected between the searching efficiency (t = -1.42NS, d.f. = 48, P < 0.001) of the two parasitoids. An increase in parasitoid density also resulted in a decline in searching efficiency, but not the killing power, of both parasitoids. Cotesia plutellae completed development at all temperatures tested (21-33°C), whereas D. mollipla completed development at temperatures from 18-30°C, and C. plutellae had a lower threshold for development (8.14°C) compared to D. mollipla (10.23°C). At all tested temperatures, the generation time for C. plutellae was shorter compared to D. mollipla. The possible reasons for the dominance of C. plutellae over D. mollipla in the field are: shorter generation time, high production of female progeny in younger hosts, low interference among searching females, and relatively wide thermal tolerance. The role of parasitoids in regulating diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), populations was studied for two years (February 2000-January 2002) on unsprayed cabbage fields at Brits, North West Province, South Africa. Cabbage seedlings were transplanted in three consecutive times each year. Cabbage infestations by P. xylostella larvae and pupae, and their parasitoids, were monitored at weekly intervals. The flight activity of P. xylostella male moths was monitored using sex-pheromone traps. Trap catches indicated that the moths were active throughout the year. The flight activity of the moths corresponded with infestations on the crop. Trap catches and infestation levels were generally low from December to August and high from September to November. Eight hymenopteran parasitoids were reared: the larval parasitoids Cotesia plutellae (Kurdjumov) (Braconidae) and Apanteles halfordi (Ullyett) (Braconidae); the larval-pupal parasitoids Oomyzus sokolowskii (Kurdjumov) (Eulophidae) and Diadegma mollipla (Holmgren)(Ichneumonidae); the pupal parasitoid Diadromus collaris (Gravenhorst) (Ichneumonidae); and the hyperparasitoids Eurytoma sp. (Eurytomidae), Mesochorus sp. (Ichneumonidae), and Pteromalus sp. (Pteromalidae). Cotesia plutellae was the most abundant parasitoid of P. xylostella followed by O. sokolowskii, D. collaris, A. halfordi and D. mollipla. Parasitism of P. xylostella larvae was high reaching 100% on several occasions during late spring to end of autumn (November-May) each year. Parasitism was lower (<50%) in winter and early spring (June-September). Apanteles halfordi was absent in winter but re-appeared in spring. Parasitism of P. xylostella pupae by D. collaris was high only during spring (September-October). Hyperparasitism was generally low except when primary parasitoids were abundant in spring (September-November) and summer (December-February) when up to 25% of P. xylostella larvae and C. plutellae cocoons yielded hyperparasitoids. The role of other biotic and abiotic mortality factors on the population dynamics of P. xylostella is discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Nofemela, Sicelo Robert
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Plutellidae -- South Africa , Plutellidae -- Biological control , Plutellidae -- Parasites , Parasitoids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5780 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005468 , Plutellidae -- South Africa , Plutellidae -- Biological control , Plutellidae -- Parasites , Parasitoids
- Description: The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), is a major pest of Brassica crops in many parts of the world. Because of its ability to develop resistance to virtually all major groups of insecticides, including Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt), much attention has therefore been given to biological control using parasitoids. South Africa has an abundance of parasitoids attacking this pest. Cotesia plutellae (Kurdjumov) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is the most abundant larval parasitoid of P. xylostella in South Africa. In East Africa, its role in biological control of P. xylostella is insignificant, and the most abundant parasitoid there is Diadegma mollipla (Holmgren) (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae), a larvalpupal parasitoid. In South Africa, however, D. mollipla is out-competed by C. plutellae. Total parasitism of P. xylostella in East Africa rarely exceeds 15%, therefore there is a need to introduce more effective and heat-tolerant parasitoids of P. xylostella to that region. This study was therefore initiated to examine the potential of C. plutellae and D. mollipla as biological control agents by studying certain aspects of their biology in the laboratory, as well as the suitability of C. plutellae for introduction into East Africa. Biological aspects studied were: (i) host instar preference, fecundity, and searching efficiency of C. plutellae and D. mollipla at different host and parasitoid densities; (ii) effects of temperature on parasitism of P. xylostella by C. plutellae and D. mollipla, and on their rates of development and emergence. In addition, the role of parasitoids in controlling P. xylostella on unsprayed cabbage plots was investigated. Both C. plutellae and D. mollipla preferred to attack second and third instar hosts than fourth instars in choice and no-choice tests. However, D. mollipla attacked more fourth instar hosts than C. plutellae. Cotesia plutellae laid mainly female eggs in second and third instar hosts than in fourth instars, whereas D. mollipla laid more female eggs in fourth instar hosts than in second and third instar hosts. Diadegma mollipla was more fecund [82.57 ± 32.87, (mean ± s.d.) than C. plutellae (42.13 ± 12.2), and was long lived (7.13 ± 3.69 days) compared to the latter (5.23 ± 2.7 days). An increase in host density resulted in the reduction in the area of discovery (a) and the killing power (K) for both parasitoids. No significant differences were detected between the searching efficiency (t = -1.42NS, d.f. = 48, P < 0.001) of the two parasitoids. An increase in parasitoid density also resulted in a decline in searching efficiency, but not the killing power, of both parasitoids. Cotesia plutellae completed development at all temperatures tested (21-33°C), whereas D. mollipla completed development at temperatures from 18-30°C, and C. plutellae had a lower threshold for development (8.14°C) compared to D. mollipla (10.23°C). At all tested temperatures, the generation time for C. plutellae was shorter compared to D. mollipla. The possible reasons for the dominance of C. plutellae over D. mollipla in the field are: shorter generation time, high production of female progeny in younger hosts, low interference among searching females, and relatively wide thermal tolerance. The role of parasitoids in regulating diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), populations was studied for two years (February 2000-January 2002) on unsprayed cabbage fields at Brits, North West Province, South Africa. Cabbage seedlings were transplanted in three consecutive times each year. Cabbage infestations by P. xylostella larvae and pupae, and their parasitoids, were monitored at weekly intervals. The flight activity of P. xylostella male moths was monitored using sex-pheromone traps. Trap catches indicated that the moths were active throughout the year. The flight activity of the moths corresponded with infestations on the crop. Trap catches and infestation levels were generally low from December to August and high from September to November. Eight hymenopteran parasitoids were reared: the larval parasitoids Cotesia plutellae (Kurdjumov) (Braconidae) and Apanteles halfordi (Ullyett) (Braconidae); the larval-pupal parasitoids Oomyzus sokolowskii (Kurdjumov) (Eulophidae) and Diadegma mollipla (Holmgren)(Ichneumonidae); the pupal parasitoid Diadromus collaris (Gravenhorst) (Ichneumonidae); and the hyperparasitoids Eurytoma sp. (Eurytomidae), Mesochorus sp. (Ichneumonidae), and Pteromalus sp. (Pteromalidae). Cotesia plutellae was the most abundant parasitoid of P. xylostella followed by O. sokolowskii, D. collaris, A. halfordi and D. mollipla. Parasitism of P. xylostella larvae was high reaching 100% on several occasions during late spring to end of autumn (November-May) each year. Parasitism was lower (<50%) in winter and early spring (June-September). Apanteles halfordi was absent in winter but re-appeared in spring. Parasitism of P. xylostella pupae by D. collaris was high only during spring (September-October). Hyperparasitism was generally low except when primary parasitoids were abundant in spring (September-November) and summer (December-February) when up to 25% of P. xylostella larvae and C. plutellae cocoons yielded hyperparasitoids. The role of other biotic and abiotic mortality factors on the population dynamics of P. xylostella is discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
Substantive fairness of dismissal for misconduct
- Authors: Toba, Wilson
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor discipline -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11063 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/355 , Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor discipline -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: In the employment context employers may view certain conduct/behaviour committed by an employee or a group of employees to be repugnant and unacceptable resulting in the disciplinary action that may lead to a dismissal sanction taken against such employee or employees. Even though the employer has a right to discipline the employees for a contravention of a rule or a policy and even dismiss the employee/s involved, such a disciplinary action and dismissal must be based on a certain procedure where the principle of fairness must be adhered to. The Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 (“the Act”) and Schedule 8 of the Code of Good Practice deals with the aspects of dismissals related to conduct and capacity, however, each case is unique, it has to be approached on its own merits. Schedule 8(3) states that, “formal procedures in disciplinary measures do not have to be invoked every time a rule is broken or a standard is not met”. It is therefore necessary that there should be a disciplinary code which guides the workers and the employers, it must be clear and be understood by all the parties. The disciplinary code of conduct serves as the foundation of good discipline because everybody knows the consequences of his/her contravention of those guidelines enumerated in the Code of Conduct. The Code of Good Practice under Schedule 8(3), states that “while employees should be protected from arbitrary action, employers are entitled to satisfactory conduct and work performance from their employees”, so a very good relationship between the two parties is most important if there is to be stability and industrial peace in the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Toba, Wilson
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor discipline -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11063 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/355 , Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor discipline -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: In the employment context employers may view certain conduct/behaviour committed by an employee or a group of employees to be repugnant and unacceptable resulting in the disciplinary action that may lead to a dismissal sanction taken against such employee or employees. Even though the employer has a right to discipline the employees for a contravention of a rule or a policy and even dismiss the employee/s involved, such a disciplinary action and dismissal must be based on a certain procedure where the principle of fairness must be adhered to. The Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 (“the Act”) and Schedule 8 of the Code of Good Practice deals with the aspects of dismissals related to conduct and capacity, however, each case is unique, it has to be approached on its own merits. Schedule 8(3) states that, “formal procedures in disciplinary measures do not have to be invoked every time a rule is broken or a standard is not met”. It is therefore necessary that there should be a disciplinary code which guides the workers and the employers, it must be clear and be understood by all the parties. The disciplinary code of conduct serves as the foundation of good discipline because everybody knows the consequences of his/her contravention of those guidelines enumerated in the Code of Conduct. The Code of Good Practice under Schedule 8(3), states that “while employees should be protected from arbitrary action, employers are entitled to satisfactory conduct and work performance from their employees”, so a very good relationship between the two parties is most important if there is to be stability and industrial peace in the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The adaptive development and use of learning support materials in response to the 1st principle of the revised national curriculum statement : the case of Hadeda Island
- Authors: Olvitt, Lausanne Laura
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Environmental education -- South Africa -- Case studies Environmental education -- Curricula -- South Africa Teaching -- Aids and devices -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1938 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007719
- Description: This case study describes the development and trial use of the Hadeda Island Big Book. Developed within a transforming South African curriculum framework, the study recognises that current educational practices are shaped and steered by historical, cultural, political and economic realities. This perspective guides the research design, which considers each of the three participating schools as contextually unique. The Hadeda Island Big Book was developed in response to the 1st Principle of the Revised National Curriculum Statement (RNCS). This calls for all curriculum activities to develop learners' understandings of the relationship between social justice, a healthy environment, human rights and inclusivity. The study probes ways in which learning support materials might respond in line with the vision of the RNCS 1st Principle. Associated challenges, tensions and opportunities are discussed in relation to schools' interactions with the Hadeda Island Big Book. The diverse and creative responses to the book lead this study to foreground generative approaches to curriculum work. Emphasis is thus redirected from hierarchical, stipulative views of curriculum to more dynamic, responsive views of curriculum as a guiding framework. This is regarded as a valuable orientation to the development of future learning support materials. The study comments on the challenge of supporting teachers to develop curriculum activities that reflect a view of 'environment' as socially shaped and multi-dimensional. Tendencies to focus on either the 'ecological' or the 'social' dimensions of environmental issues rather than on the interacting socio-ecological dimensions are recognised as limiting the material's potential to strengthen environmental learning in schools. The study recommends that greater attention be paid to the environmentally-oriented Learning Outcomes and Assessment Standards of all Learning Areas in the RNCS. In so doing, socio-ecological learning processes may be strengthened through curriculum work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Olvitt, Lausanne Laura
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Environmental education -- South Africa -- Case studies Environmental education -- Curricula -- South Africa Teaching -- Aids and devices -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1938 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007719
- Description: This case study describes the development and trial use of the Hadeda Island Big Book. Developed within a transforming South African curriculum framework, the study recognises that current educational practices are shaped and steered by historical, cultural, political and economic realities. This perspective guides the research design, which considers each of the three participating schools as contextually unique. The Hadeda Island Big Book was developed in response to the 1st Principle of the Revised National Curriculum Statement (RNCS). This calls for all curriculum activities to develop learners' understandings of the relationship between social justice, a healthy environment, human rights and inclusivity. The study probes ways in which learning support materials might respond in line with the vision of the RNCS 1st Principle. Associated challenges, tensions and opportunities are discussed in relation to schools' interactions with the Hadeda Island Big Book. The diverse and creative responses to the book lead this study to foreground generative approaches to curriculum work. Emphasis is thus redirected from hierarchical, stipulative views of curriculum to more dynamic, responsive views of curriculum as a guiding framework. This is regarded as a valuable orientation to the development of future learning support materials. The study comments on the challenge of supporting teachers to develop curriculum activities that reflect a view of 'environment' as socially shaped and multi-dimensional. Tendencies to focus on either the 'ecological' or the 'social' dimensions of environmental issues rather than on the interacting socio-ecological dimensions are recognised as limiting the material's potential to strengthen environmental learning in schools. The study recommends that greater attention be paid to the environmentally-oriented Learning Outcomes and Assessment Standards of all Learning Areas in the RNCS. In so doing, socio-ecological learning processes may be strengthened through curriculum work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The application of rheological techniques in the characterization of semisolids in the pharmaceutical industry
- Authors: Jaganath, Nelesh
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Drugs -- Dosage forms , Rheology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10128 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/380 , Drugs -- Dosage forms , Rheology
- Description: Rheological characterization of pharmaceutical semisolids is of importance as it provides fundamental information required for the assessment of some of the final properties of a product such as viscosity, elasticity, quality and storage stability. The effect of formulation variables on product characteristics such as consistency and correlation of consumer evaluation of consistency can also be attained. (Ramachandran et al., 1999) This study focussed on using rheological techniques to fully characterize the properties of various semisolid formulations being developed or produced at a South African-based generic pharmaceutical company. Various tests were employed to characterize the semisolid dosage forms (creams and ointments), including continuous shear tests such as flow and viscosity curves and yield point measurements, oscillatory tests such as amplitude and frequency sweeps, as well as step and temperature ramp tests. A method to determine justifiable and meaningful viscosity specifications was developed, where excellent reproducibility of results were obtained when compared to the single-point viscosity determinations usually used. An evaluation as to whether rheology can be utilized as an assessment tool for product stability revealed varying results, with the oscillation-frequency sweep test displaying modest predictive capabilities. Observable differences in rheological character were found when evaluating ointment formulations exhibiting deviating quality characteristics. When analysing the effect of varying processing parameters, namely, cooling rate and mixing speed, during the manufacture of a cream, statistically significant rheological differences were obtained, while a thorough characterization of a scale-up procedure was also achieved upon analysis of various rheological properties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Jaganath, Nelesh
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Drugs -- Dosage forms , Rheology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10128 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/380 , Drugs -- Dosage forms , Rheology
- Description: Rheological characterization of pharmaceutical semisolids is of importance as it provides fundamental information required for the assessment of some of the final properties of a product such as viscosity, elasticity, quality and storage stability. The effect of formulation variables on product characteristics such as consistency and correlation of consumer evaluation of consistency can also be attained. (Ramachandran et al., 1999) This study focussed on using rheological techniques to fully characterize the properties of various semisolid formulations being developed or produced at a South African-based generic pharmaceutical company. Various tests were employed to characterize the semisolid dosage forms (creams and ointments), including continuous shear tests such as flow and viscosity curves and yield point measurements, oscillatory tests such as amplitude and frequency sweeps, as well as step and temperature ramp tests. A method to determine justifiable and meaningful viscosity specifications was developed, where excellent reproducibility of results were obtained when compared to the single-point viscosity determinations usually used. An evaluation as to whether rheology can be utilized as an assessment tool for product stability revealed varying results, with the oscillation-frequency sweep test displaying modest predictive capabilities. Observable differences in rheological character were found when evaluating ointment formulations exhibiting deviating quality characteristics. When analysing the effect of varying processing parameters, namely, cooling rate and mixing speed, during the manufacture of a cream, statistically significant rheological differences were obtained, while a thorough characterization of a scale-up procedure was also achieved upon analysis of various rheological properties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The career development of adolescents in a children's home: a career systems perspective
- Authors: Dullabh, Asha
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Career development -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Institutional care -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Psychology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11024 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/319 , Career development -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Institutional care -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Psychology -- South Africa
- Description: Adolescents in a children’s home are exposed to unique experiences from an early age. These adolescents develop in a system with early deprivation experiences, which may result in developmental and adjustment problems that impact on several spheres of their lives, including their career development. Given the lack of South African career research on adolescents, the present study aimed to explore and describe the career development of adolescents in a children’s home. Specifically, this exploration takes the perspective of the systems theory framework of career development which is comprised of three interrelated systems, namely the individual, social, and the environmental/societal systems. The research approach was exploratory and descriptive in nature and was conducted both within a qualitative and quantitative framework. A workbook titled My System of Career Influences (McMahon, Patton, & Watson, 2003a), was used to collect the data. A non-probability, purposive sampling technique was employed to obtain the sample which consisted of 16 English-speaking adolescents, aged between 13 and17 years. Age, gender and culture were not considered in this study. The qualitative data was subjected to content analysis to identify themes, while frequency counts were used for the quantitative data. The results indicate that the present sample of adolescents is presently in the process of exploring and crystallizing their career choice, therefore fitting well within Super’s (1990) theoretical career stage of Exploration. The majority of the adolescents indicated that their present career situation involves making choices regarding schools, subjects, and participation in activities. Quantitative findings indicate that all influences within the three interrelated career systems have an influence on the career development of adolescents in a children’s home. Based on frequency counts, individual system influences such as personality, health, interests and abilities were identified as prominent influences. Within the social system, prominent xi influences included parents, friends, teachers and reading. Within the environmental/societal system, influences such as financial support, location of universities, availability of jobs, and opportunities to work overseas were identified as prominent influences. In addition, adolescents were able to reflect on their personalized diagram of system influences and thus to examine the inter-relatedness of the three systems. The present study highlights the applicability of both the systems theory framework and the My Systems of Career Influences measure in exploring and describing the career development of adolescents in the unique contexts within which they live. Limitations and recommendations for future research based on the present findings are suggested.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dullabh, Asha
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Career development -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Institutional care -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Psychology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:11024 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/319 , Career development -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Institutional care -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Teenagers -- Psychology -- South Africa
- Description: Adolescents in a children’s home are exposed to unique experiences from an early age. These adolescents develop in a system with early deprivation experiences, which may result in developmental and adjustment problems that impact on several spheres of their lives, including their career development. Given the lack of South African career research on adolescents, the present study aimed to explore and describe the career development of adolescents in a children’s home. Specifically, this exploration takes the perspective of the systems theory framework of career development which is comprised of three interrelated systems, namely the individual, social, and the environmental/societal systems. The research approach was exploratory and descriptive in nature and was conducted both within a qualitative and quantitative framework. A workbook titled My System of Career Influences (McMahon, Patton, & Watson, 2003a), was used to collect the data. A non-probability, purposive sampling technique was employed to obtain the sample which consisted of 16 English-speaking adolescents, aged between 13 and17 years. Age, gender and culture were not considered in this study. The qualitative data was subjected to content analysis to identify themes, while frequency counts were used for the quantitative data. The results indicate that the present sample of adolescents is presently in the process of exploring and crystallizing their career choice, therefore fitting well within Super’s (1990) theoretical career stage of Exploration. The majority of the adolescents indicated that their present career situation involves making choices regarding schools, subjects, and participation in activities. Quantitative findings indicate that all influences within the three interrelated career systems have an influence on the career development of adolescents in a children’s home. Based on frequency counts, individual system influences such as personality, health, interests and abilities were identified as prominent influences. Within the social system, prominent xi influences included parents, friends, teachers and reading. Within the environmental/societal system, influences such as financial support, location of universities, availability of jobs, and opportunities to work overseas were identified as prominent influences. In addition, adolescents were able to reflect on their personalized diagram of system influences and thus to examine the inter-relatedness of the three systems. The present study highlights the applicability of both the systems theory framework and the My Systems of Career Influences measure in exploring and describing the career development of adolescents in the unique contexts within which they live. Limitations and recommendations for future research based on the present findings are suggested.
- Full Text:
The challenge of applying systematic conservation planning to the marine environment using expert knowledge (focus: Sparidae)
- Authors: Bause, Mariëtte
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Marine parks and reserves -- South Africa , Nature conservation -- South Africa , Fishery conservation -- South Africa , Sparidae
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:11064 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/343 , Marine parks and reserves -- South Africa , Nature conservation -- South Africa , Fishery conservation -- South Africa , Sparidae
- Description: Although the marine environment has generally been considered to be less in need of attention from conservationists, politicians and managers than the terrestrial environment, there has been an increasing appreciation that there is little left in the marine environment that can be considered unaltered by humans. Conservation action is therefore urgently needed to protect marine populations, species and environments from anthropogenic pressures. Since overharvesting seems to be the main cause of the collapse in coastal ecosystems, areas need to be protected so that stocks can recover. However, the proclamation of such marine protected areas (MPAs) need to be well planned to ensure that species are well represented and that their biological requirements are met in the long term. While terrestrial conservation planners have started to incorporate biological, social and economic information into so-called systematic conservation plans, marine planners have been more hesitant to use these approaches due to the greater openness of the ocean (with the associated greater dispersal of marine organisms and propogules, lower levels of endemism, and lack of ownership) and the paucity of available information. The current study aimed to investigate the applicability of systematic approaches to the process of selecting sites for a network of potential replenishment zones for seabream species that could supplement protection already afforded by existing no-fishing reserves. Since many of these seabream species are popular targets in both the recreational and commercial linefishery sectors, they have been overexploited and are in need of additional protection. Information on these species and the diversity of their associated reefs were obtained through consultations with scientists, managers and resource-users (namely SCUBA divers, spearfishers as well as recreational and commercial fishers). These data were obtained during workshops where Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) scoring and mapping methods were applied. Although ordinal-scale, rather than interval-or ratio-scale data were obtained, these data could be used in an interactive selection process. Because these methods require relatively cheap materials and few personnel, they could be used to collect information where limited budgets are available. Quantitative targets for the protection of individual species were set on the basis of their status in the Marine Living Resource Act, since this reflected their different requirements for protection. A preliminary investigation indicated that the current no-fishing reserves effectively achieved most of these goals for seabream species. The selection of sites for the replenishment network was based on irreplaceability analyses, while decisions between sites with lower irreplaceability values were based on explicit design rules. A total of 26 sites were required to achieve targets for all species. These replenishment zones could potentially be established, managed and monitored by voluntary community groups. This study therefore indicated that systematic conservation planning can successfully be applied to the marine environment, while the involvement of stakeholders is crucial to ensure that conservation action is supported.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Bause, Mariëtte
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Marine parks and reserves -- South Africa , Nature conservation -- South Africa , Fishery conservation -- South Africa , Sparidae
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:11064 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/343 , Marine parks and reserves -- South Africa , Nature conservation -- South Africa , Fishery conservation -- South Africa , Sparidae
- Description: Although the marine environment has generally been considered to be less in need of attention from conservationists, politicians and managers than the terrestrial environment, there has been an increasing appreciation that there is little left in the marine environment that can be considered unaltered by humans. Conservation action is therefore urgently needed to protect marine populations, species and environments from anthropogenic pressures. Since overharvesting seems to be the main cause of the collapse in coastal ecosystems, areas need to be protected so that stocks can recover. However, the proclamation of such marine protected areas (MPAs) need to be well planned to ensure that species are well represented and that their biological requirements are met in the long term. While terrestrial conservation planners have started to incorporate biological, social and economic information into so-called systematic conservation plans, marine planners have been more hesitant to use these approaches due to the greater openness of the ocean (with the associated greater dispersal of marine organisms and propogules, lower levels of endemism, and lack of ownership) and the paucity of available information. The current study aimed to investigate the applicability of systematic approaches to the process of selecting sites for a network of potential replenishment zones for seabream species that could supplement protection already afforded by existing no-fishing reserves. Since many of these seabream species are popular targets in both the recreational and commercial linefishery sectors, they have been overexploited and are in need of additional protection. Information on these species and the diversity of their associated reefs were obtained through consultations with scientists, managers and resource-users (namely SCUBA divers, spearfishers as well as recreational and commercial fishers). These data were obtained during workshops where Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) scoring and mapping methods were applied. Although ordinal-scale, rather than interval-or ratio-scale data were obtained, these data could be used in an interactive selection process. Because these methods require relatively cheap materials and few personnel, they could be used to collect information where limited budgets are available. Quantitative targets for the protection of individual species were set on the basis of their status in the Marine Living Resource Act, since this reflected their different requirements for protection. A preliminary investigation indicated that the current no-fishing reserves effectively achieved most of these goals for seabream species. The selection of sites for the replenishment network was based on irreplaceability analyses, while decisions between sites with lower irreplaceability values were based on explicit design rules. A total of 26 sites were required to achieve targets for all species. These replenishment zones could potentially be established, managed and monitored by voluntary community groups. This study therefore indicated that systematic conservation planning can successfully be applied to the marine environment, while the involvement of stakeholders is crucial to ensure that conservation action is supported.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The concentration of ten metals in the tissues of shark species Squalus megalops and Mustelus mustelus (Chondrichthyes) occuring along the Southeastern coast of South Africa
- Erasmus, Christina Petronella
- Authors: Erasmus, Christina Petronella
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Sharks -- South Africa -- Effect of metals on. , Marine pollutio -- South Africa.
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:11095 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019683
- Description: The southeastern coast of South Africa is deemed unpolluted and with the exception of a few localized areas, is believed to be pristine. This study aimed to (1) assess the concentration of metals in the water and sharks (Squalus megalops, Mustelus mustelus) from different sites along the southeastern coast, (2) determine the effects that metals have on each other and investigate the accumulation and storage of metals in different shark tissues, (3) determine the effects of length and sex on metal concentration and the presence of metallothioneins in the liver. Metal concentrations in water from seven sites along the southeastern coast revealed concentrations below the detection limit of the extraction method, except for iron at St. Francis Bay which was below the recommended levels as supplied by DWAF. Met al concentrations in S. megalops from the seven sites revealed significantly elevated levels in individuals from Algoa and St. Francis Bay when compared to the other 5 sites. This was observed for all metals except manganese, which had a higher concentration at Cape Agulhas. After comparing the metal levels in muscle tissue (S. megalops) with data from the Department of Health it was concluded that the sharks caught at Algoa and St. Francis Bay were unsuited for human consumption. Liver and vertebral tissues from both S. megalops and M. mustelus were deemed unsuited for human consumption but further research should be conducted especially on vertebral metal concentrations. Comparing the metal concentration in different tissue types of S. megalops and M. mustelus significant difference were observed and attributed to differences in the maturity (thus age) of the two species. Significant differences in the metal concentration of males and females for both the species were observed. A higher number of differences were however observed in M. mustelus than in S. megalops, most probably due to the differences in maturity. Length and weight vs. metal concentration regressions in the males and females of both species revealed more negative than positive trends. This was found to be in accordance with other studies from around the world. Using the life stages of S. megalops, significant differences in the average concentration of metals were observed between the life stages, with embryos usually having the highest concentration. The metal concentration series determined for S. megalops were similar to that which have been reported in the literature in that iron and zinc occupied the highest concentration positions while cadmium, copper and manganese occupied the last three. The spleen usually had the highest metal concentration except for aluminium in skin and arsenic in muscle tissue. Pearson correlation revealed significant negative correlations between cadmium and the mentioned metals suggesting that cadmium replaces essential metals such as manganese, iron and copper as. Negative correlations between essential metals were observed most probably due to the competition for binding positions on ligands. Positive correlations were observed between metals in sp ecific tissue types and may be indicative of synergistic effects, e.g. aluminium may result in the accumulation of other metals such as cadmium. Positive and negative correlations between a specific metal and different tissue types have also been observed and it appears that there are movement of metals between tissue types. Positive correlation for essential metals between yolk and other tissue have been observed, although no correlations for non-essential metals were observed. This could potentially indicate a mechanism that prevents the accumulation of nonessential metals in embryos. Though no metallothioneins were isolated form the liver, the presence of cadmium in other proteins indicate that that cadmium is substituted for essential metals, and as this may result in deleterious physiological effects, further studies should be conducted. In conclusion it can be said that although some of the results were expected there are still quite a few unanswered question and further studies should be conducted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Erasmus, Christina Petronella
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Sharks -- South Africa -- Effect of metals on. , Marine pollutio -- South Africa.
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:11095 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019683
- Description: The southeastern coast of South Africa is deemed unpolluted and with the exception of a few localized areas, is believed to be pristine. This study aimed to (1) assess the concentration of metals in the water and sharks (Squalus megalops, Mustelus mustelus) from different sites along the southeastern coast, (2) determine the effects that metals have on each other and investigate the accumulation and storage of metals in different shark tissues, (3) determine the effects of length and sex on metal concentration and the presence of metallothioneins in the liver. Metal concentrations in water from seven sites along the southeastern coast revealed concentrations below the detection limit of the extraction method, except for iron at St. Francis Bay which was below the recommended levels as supplied by DWAF. Met al concentrations in S. megalops from the seven sites revealed significantly elevated levels in individuals from Algoa and St. Francis Bay when compared to the other 5 sites. This was observed for all metals except manganese, which had a higher concentration at Cape Agulhas. After comparing the metal levels in muscle tissue (S. megalops) with data from the Department of Health it was concluded that the sharks caught at Algoa and St. Francis Bay were unsuited for human consumption. Liver and vertebral tissues from both S. megalops and M. mustelus were deemed unsuited for human consumption but further research should be conducted especially on vertebral metal concentrations. Comparing the metal concentration in different tissue types of S. megalops and M. mustelus significant difference were observed and attributed to differences in the maturity (thus age) of the two species. Significant differences in the metal concentration of males and females for both the species were observed. A higher number of differences were however observed in M. mustelus than in S. megalops, most probably due to the differences in maturity. Length and weight vs. metal concentration regressions in the males and females of both species revealed more negative than positive trends. This was found to be in accordance with other studies from around the world. Using the life stages of S. megalops, significant differences in the average concentration of metals were observed between the life stages, with embryos usually having the highest concentration. The metal concentration series determined for S. megalops were similar to that which have been reported in the literature in that iron and zinc occupied the highest concentration positions while cadmium, copper and manganese occupied the last three. The spleen usually had the highest metal concentration except for aluminium in skin and arsenic in muscle tissue. Pearson correlation revealed significant negative correlations between cadmium and the mentioned metals suggesting that cadmium replaces essential metals such as manganese, iron and copper as. Negative correlations between essential metals were observed most probably due to the competition for binding positions on ligands. Positive correlations were observed between metals in sp ecific tissue types and may be indicative of synergistic effects, e.g. aluminium may result in the accumulation of other metals such as cadmium. Positive and negative correlations between a specific metal and different tissue types have also been observed and it appears that there are movement of metals between tissue types. Positive correlation for essential metals between yolk and other tissue have been observed, although no correlations for non-essential metals were observed. This could potentially indicate a mechanism that prevents the accumulation of nonessential metals in embryos. Though no metallothioneins were isolated form the liver, the presence of cadmium in other proteins indicate that that cadmium is substituted for essential metals, and as this may result in deleterious physiological effects, further studies should be conducted. In conclusion it can be said that although some of the results were expected there are still quite a few unanswered question and further studies should be conducted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The concentration of ten metals in the tissues of shark species Squalus megalops and Mustelus mustelus (chondrichthyes) occuring along the Southeastern coast of South Africa
- Erasmus, Christina Petronella
- Authors: Erasmus, Christina Petronella
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Sharks -- South Africa -- Effect of metals on , Marine pollution -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:11085 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/328 , Sharks -- South Africa -- Effect of metals on , Marine pollution -- South Africa
- Description: The southeastern coast of South Africa is deemed unpolluted and with the exception of a few localized areas, is believed to be pristine. This study aimed to (1) assess the concentration of metals in the water and sharks (Squalus megalops, Mustelus mustelus) from different sites along the southeastern coast, (2) determine the effects that metals have on each other and investigate the accumulation and storage of metals in different shark tissues, (3) determine the effects of length and sex on metal concentration and the presence of metallothioneins in the liver. Metal concentrations in water from seven sites along the southeastern coast revealed concentrations below the detection limit of the extraction method, except for iron at St. Francis Bay which was below the recommended levels as supplied by DWAF. Met al concentrations in S. megalops from the seven sites revealed significantly elevated levels in individuals from Algoa and St. Francis Bay when compared to the other 5 sites. This was observed for all metals except manganese, which had a higher concentration at Cape Agulhas. After comparing the metal levels in muscle tissue (S. megalops) with data from the Department of Health it was concluded that the sharks caught at Algoa and St. Francis Bay were unsuited for human consumption. Liver and vertebral tissues from both S. megalops and M. mustelus were deemed unsuited for human consumption but further research should be conducted especially on vertebral metal concentrations. Comparing the metal concentration in different tissue types of S. megalops and M. mustelus significant difference were observed and attributed to differences in the maturity (thus age) of the two species. Significant differences in the metal concentration of males and females for both the species were observed. A higher number of differences were however observed in M. mustelus than in S. megalops, most probably due to the differences in maturity. Length and weight vs. metal concentration regressions in the males and females of both species revealed more negative than positive trends. This was found to be in accordance with other studies from around the world. Using the life stages of S. megalops, significant differences in the average concentration of metals were observed between the life stages, with embryos usually having the highest concentration. The metal concentration series determined for S. megalops were similar to that which have been reported in the literature in that iron and zinc occupied the highest concentration positions while cadmium, copper and manganese occupied the last three. The spleen usually had the highest metal concentration except for aluminium in skin and arsenic in muscle tissue. Pearson correlation revealed significant negative correlations between cadmium and the mentioned metals suggesting that cadmium replaces essential metals such as manganese, iron and copper as. Negative correlations between essential metals were observed most probably due to the competition for binding positions on ligands. Positive correlations were observed between metals in sp ecific tissue types and may be indicative of synergistic effects, e.g. aluminium may result in the accumulation of other metals such as cadmium. Positive and negative correlations between a specific metal and different tissue types have also been observed and it appears that there are movement of metals between tissue types. Positive correlation for essential metals between yolk and other tissue have been observed, although no correlations for non-essential metals were observed. This could potentially indicate a mechanism that prevents the accumulation of nonessential metals in embryos. Though no metallothioneins were isolated form the liver, the presence of cadmium in other proteins indicate that that cadmium is substituted for essential metals, and as this may result in deleterious physiological effects, further studies should be conducted. In conclusion it can be said that although some of the results were expected there are still quite a few unanswered question and further studies should be conducted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Erasmus, Christina Petronella
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Sharks -- South Africa -- Effect of metals on , Marine pollution -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:11085 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/328 , Sharks -- South Africa -- Effect of metals on , Marine pollution -- South Africa
- Description: The southeastern coast of South Africa is deemed unpolluted and with the exception of a few localized areas, is believed to be pristine. This study aimed to (1) assess the concentration of metals in the water and sharks (Squalus megalops, Mustelus mustelus) from different sites along the southeastern coast, (2) determine the effects that metals have on each other and investigate the accumulation and storage of metals in different shark tissues, (3) determine the effects of length and sex on metal concentration and the presence of metallothioneins in the liver. Metal concentrations in water from seven sites along the southeastern coast revealed concentrations below the detection limit of the extraction method, except for iron at St. Francis Bay which was below the recommended levels as supplied by DWAF. Met al concentrations in S. megalops from the seven sites revealed significantly elevated levels in individuals from Algoa and St. Francis Bay when compared to the other 5 sites. This was observed for all metals except manganese, which had a higher concentration at Cape Agulhas. After comparing the metal levels in muscle tissue (S. megalops) with data from the Department of Health it was concluded that the sharks caught at Algoa and St. Francis Bay were unsuited for human consumption. Liver and vertebral tissues from both S. megalops and M. mustelus were deemed unsuited for human consumption but further research should be conducted especially on vertebral metal concentrations. Comparing the metal concentration in different tissue types of S. megalops and M. mustelus significant difference were observed and attributed to differences in the maturity (thus age) of the two species. Significant differences in the metal concentration of males and females for both the species were observed. A higher number of differences were however observed in M. mustelus than in S. megalops, most probably due to the differences in maturity. Length and weight vs. metal concentration regressions in the males and females of both species revealed more negative than positive trends. This was found to be in accordance with other studies from around the world. Using the life stages of S. megalops, significant differences in the average concentration of metals were observed between the life stages, with embryos usually having the highest concentration. The metal concentration series determined for S. megalops were similar to that which have been reported in the literature in that iron and zinc occupied the highest concentration positions while cadmium, copper and manganese occupied the last three. The spleen usually had the highest metal concentration except for aluminium in skin and arsenic in muscle tissue. Pearson correlation revealed significant negative correlations between cadmium and the mentioned metals suggesting that cadmium replaces essential metals such as manganese, iron and copper as. Negative correlations between essential metals were observed most probably due to the competition for binding positions on ligands. Positive correlations were observed between metals in sp ecific tissue types and may be indicative of synergistic effects, e.g. aluminium may result in the accumulation of other metals such as cadmium. Positive and negative correlations between a specific metal and different tissue types have also been observed and it appears that there are movement of metals between tissue types. Positive correlation for essential metals between yolk and other tissue have been observed, although no correlations for non-essential metals were observed. This could potentially indicate a mechanism that prevents the accumulation of nonessential metals in embryos. Though no metallothioneins were isolated form the liver, the presence of cadmium in other proteins indicate that that cadmium is substituted for essential metals, and as this may result in deleterious physiological effects, further studies should be conducted. In conclusion it can be said that although some of the results were expected there are still quite a few unanswered question and further studies should be conducted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The consultation and other requirements of dismissal for operational reasons
- Authors: Dyakala, Maynard
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Downsizing of organizations -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11040 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/344 , Downsizing of organizations -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: Our employment law which originates from the common principles has in recent years undergone significant changes. Under common law the employers and employees capacity to regulate their relationship has always been limited. The recommendations of the Wiehahn Commission introduced amendments to the Labour Relations Act of 1956. The introduction of the unfair labour practice concept and the establishment of the Industrial Court was a direct consequence of the recommendation of the Wiehahn Commission. The Industrial Court together with the higher courts developed new principles regarding unfair labour practices. In the process, a wealth of unfair labour practice jurisprudence was developed by these courts. However, the unfair labour practice definition did not include dismissals. The coming into power of the democratic government played an important role in transforming our labour law system. After the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 was implemented on 11 November 1996, the old Labour Relations Act of 1956 was repealed. The law on retrenchment forms an integral part of our law of dismissals. The South African labour market has in the past years been characterised by restructuring and consequently retrenchment of employees. In most cases, employer’s decisions to retrench were challenged by the employees and unions in our courts. Section 189 of the Labour Relations Act of 1995 stipulates procedures to be followed by an employer when contemplating dismissal of one or more employees for reasons based on operational requirements. The employer does not only have to follow the procedures set out in section 189 to render dismissals for operational reasons fair, but there must also be a valid reason to dismiss. The courts have always not been willing to second-guess the employer’s decision to retrench provided that the decision is made in good faith. Whilst section 189 deals with small-scale retrenchments, section 189A applies to large-scale retrenchments. These are employers who employ more than 50 employees and who contemplate retrenchment of more than the number of employees provided for in section 189(1)(a) or (b). Section 189A also introduced a facilitation process to be conducted in terms of regulations made by the Minister of Labour. The amendments to section 189 should be seen as an attempt to tighten the procedural aspect of retrenchments. The new law on retrenchments is a product of tough negotiations between the social partners at NEDLAC in which compromises were reached. There are still certain areas of concern to both labour and business. In those areas in which uncertainty still exists, the courts will be required to provide some guidance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Dyakala, Maynard
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Downsizing of organizations -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11040 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/344 , Downsizing of organizations -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: Our employment law which originates from the common principles has in recent years undergone significant changes. Under common law the employers and employees capacity to regulate their relationship has always been limited. The recommendations of the Wiehahn Commission introduced amendments to the Labour Relations Act of 1956. The introduction of the unfair labour practice concept and the establishment of the Industrial Court was a direct consequence of the recommendation of the Wiehahn Commission. The Industrial Court together with the higher courts developed new principles regarding unfair labour practices. In the process, a wealth of unfair labour practice jurisprudence was developed by these courts. However, the unfair labour practice definition did not include dismissals. The coming into power of the democratic government played an important role in transforming our labour law system. After the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 was implemented on 11 November 1996, the old Labour Relations Act of 1956 was repealed. The law on retrenchment forms an integral part of our law of dismissals. The South African labour market has in the past years been characterised by restructuring and consequently retrenchment of employees. In most cases, employer’s decisions to retrench were challenged by the employees and unions in our courts. Section 189 of the Labour Relations Act of 1995 stipulates procedures to be followed by an employer when contemplating dismissal of one or more employees for reasons based on operational requirements. The employer does not only have to follow the procedures set out in section 189 to render dismissals for operational reasons fair, but there must also be a valid reason to dismiss. The courts have always not been willing to second-guess the employer’s decision to retrench provided that the decision is made in good faith. Whilst section 189 deals with small-scale retrenchments, section 189A applies to large-scale retrenchments. These are employers who employ more than 50 employees and who contemplate retrenchment of more than the number of employees provided for in section 189(1)(a) or (b). Section 189A also introduced a facilitation process to be conducted in terms of regulations made by the Minister of Labour. The amendments to section 189 should be seen as an attempt to tighten the procedural aspect of retrenchments. The new law on retrenchments is a product of tough negotiations between the social partners at NEDLAC in which compromises were reached. There are still certain areas of concern to both labour and business. In those areas in which uncertainty still exists, the courts will be required to provide some guidance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
The development of a business model for a non-profit organisation in Port Elizabeth : a case study
- Authors: Inman, Lydia Alice Annabel
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Nonprofit organizations -- Planning , Business planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10868 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/216 , Nonprofit organizations -- Planning , Business planning
- Description: Non-profit organisations are a niche sector of the service industry, which is increasing worldwide. This entails more competition for funding and a need for such organisations to adopt a management approach that is more akin to business, in order that the organisation will operate as effectively and efficiently as possible. Unlike business whose goal is to be profitable, the aim of non-profit organisations is to render a service to the community. Therefore, incorporating business principles into the management of the organisation is often in conflict with its aims. Furthermore, while the organisation’s donors want sound management, they want funding to be used for the recipients of the service and not for administration and salaries that help to ensure good governance. This study involved one such non-profit organisation that has been compelled to conform to management criteria as prescribed by the South African, Department of Social Development, in order to continue receiving the annual subsidies for salaries and running costs. This has meant various adjustments to the organisation’s operations including increased administration, the completion of an annual business plan and a change in emphasis to the service delivery. Through increased communication, the interviewees achieved greater consensus as to what business features were important for the effective management of the organisation. In addition, the development of a business model for a non-profit organisation was viewed as relevant, as it could assist in showing the stakeholders how the organisation operates. This would be particularly appropriate to its donors from business, who themselves use and understand such models and would see this development as a further move towards managing the organisation according to business principles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004
- Authors: Inman, Lydia Alice Annabel
- Date: 2004
- Subjects: Nonprofit organizations -- Planning , Business planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10868 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/216 , Nonprofit organizations -- Planning , Business planning
- Description: Non-profit organisations are a niche sector of the service industry, which is increasing worldwide. This entails more competition for funding and a need for such organisations to adopt a management approach that is more akin to business, in order that the organisation will operate as effectively and efficiently as possible. Unlike business whose goal is to be profitable, the aim of non-profit organisations is to render a service to the community. Therefore, incorporating business principles into the management of the organisation is often in conflict with its aims. Furthermore, while the organisation’s donors want sound management, they want funding to be used for the recipients of the service and not for administration and salaries that help to ensure good governance. This study involved one such non-profit organisation that has been compelled to conform to management criteria as prescribed by the South African, Department of Social Development, in order to continue receiving the annual subsidies for salaries and running costs. This has meant various adjustments to the organisation’s operations including increased administration, the completion of an annual business plan and a change in emphasis to the service delivery. Through increased communication, the interviewees achieved greater consensus as to what business features were important for the effective management of the organisation. In addition, the development of a business model for a non-profit organisation was viewed as relevant, as it could assist in showing the stakeholders how the organisation operates. This would be particularly appropriate to its donors from business, who themselves use and understand such models and would see this development as a further move towards managing the organisation according to business principles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2004