Livelihood strategies of the aged people in Mubaira Community, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Muruviwa, Addmore Tapfuma
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Older people -- Zimbabwe , Older people -- Zimbabwe -- Social conditions , Older people -- Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe , Community development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Sociology)
- Identifier: vital:11953 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/334 , Older people -- Zimbabwe , Older people -- Zimbabwe -- Social conditions , Older people -- Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe , Community development -- Zimbabwe
- Description: In today‘s changing demographic, economic, political and environmental context the livelihood strategies developed by the rapidly growing older population deserve particular attention. Lack of support by the state coupled with economic crises and decreasing family availability has meant that older people are increasingly expected to find their own means of support into old age, develop their own strategies and rely on their own resources. Heterogeneity in old age means that while some older people are amongst the most vulnerable and socially down and out, others have accumulated resources that enable them to implement diverse and enterprising livelihood strategies to maintain their wellbeing in old age. This study uses an explorative approach in its quest to understand the various livelihood strategies of the elderly. In-depth interviews and life histories have been utilized as data collection instruments. In addition to this inductive and qualitative research approach, the dissertation uses the sustainable livelihoods framework to examine the different kinds of livelihood strategies employed by the elderly in Mubaira to stave off poverty in old age in the absence of social security systems. A comparative analysis with other regional countries reveals that old age pensions have been able to reduce poverty at old age significantly. By engaging in different livelihood activities, in the absence of old age pensions, the elderly in Mubaira community in Zimbabwe have been able to make a living. Agriculture is the dominant activity the aged people engage in as they try to avert food insecurity. Besides agriculture, aged people diversify their livelihoods through self employments that add income value to their households. The impact of cash and non-cash remittances has seen aged people being able to buy basic goods and a few essentials. Although the state has been dysfunctional, civil society has stepped in to address the livelihood challenges faced by the aged population and in v particular to provide an alternative solution to the needs of the elderly people within the sustainable livelihoods framework which remains one of the most important models for the analysis of rural livelihoods. Through the livelihoods approach‘s vulnerability approach the study also analyses the various impacts affecting the attainment of sustainable livelihood outcomes. Through the utilization of the livelihoods framework in addition to the qualitative research methodology as indicated above, the study found that livelihood activities of the aged require a stock of capital assets which include natural, human, physical, social and financial capital. The life histories of the aged in Mubaira revealed that through the years the aged did accumulate various assets that assist them even now. As the life course perspective suggests events in earlier life do have a bearing on later life, access to a range of capital assets helped old aged people in Mubaira to fully engage in livelihood strategies that ensured their survival and escape from poverty.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Muruviwa, Addmore Tapfuma
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Older people -- Zimbabwe , Older people -- Zimbabwe -- Social conditions , Older people -- Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe , Community development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Sociology)
- Identifier: vital:11953 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/334 , Older people -- Zimbabwe , Older people -- Zimbabwe -- Social conditions , Older people -- Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions , Rural development -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe , Community development -- Zimbabwe
- Description: In today‘s changing demographic, economic, political and environmental context the livelihood strategies developed by the rapidly growing older population deserve particular attention. Lack of support by the state coupled with economic crises and decreasing family availability has meant that older people are increasingly expected to find their own means of support into old age, develop their own strategies and rely on their own resources. Heterogeneity in old age means that while some older people are amongst the most vulnerable and socially down and out, others have accumulated resources that enable them to implement diverse and enterprising livelihood strategies to maintain their wellbeing in old age. This study uses an explorative approach in its quest to understand the various livelihood strategies of the elderly. In-depth interviews and life histories have been utilized as data collection instruments. In addition to this inductive and qualitative research approach, the dissertation uses the sustainable livelihoods framework to examine the different kinds of livelihood strategies employed by the elderly in Mubaira to stave off poverty in old age in the absence of social security systems. A comparative analysis with other regional countries reveals that old age pensions have been able to reduce poverty at old age significantly. By engaging in different livelihood activities, in the absence of old age pensions, the elderly in Mubaira community in Zimbabwe have been able to make a living. Agriculture is the dominant activity the aged people engage in as they try to avert food insecurity. Besides agriculture, aged people diversify their livelihoods through self employments that add income value to their households. The impact of cash and non-cash remittances has seen aged people being able to buy basic goods and a few essentials. Although the state has been dysfunctional, civil society has stepped in to address the livelihood challenges faced by the aged population and in v particular to provide an alternative solution to the needs of the elderly people within the sustainable livelihoods framework which remains one of the most important models for the analysis of rural livelihoods. Through the livelihoods approach‘s vulnerability approach the study also analyses the various impacts affecting the attainment of sustainable livelihood outcomes. Through the utilization of the livelihoods framework in addition to the qualitative research methodology as indicated above, the study found that livelihood activities of the aged require a stock of capital assets which include natural, human, physical, social and financial capital. The life histories of the aged in Mubaira revealed that through the years the aged did accumulate various assets that assist them even now. As the life course perspective suggests events in earlier life do have a bearing on later life, access to a range of capital assets helped old aged people in Mubaira to fully engage in livelihood strategies that ensured their survival and escape from poverty.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Lumberjacks and hoodrats: negotiating subject positions of lesbian representation in two South African television programmes
- Authors: Donaldson, Natalie
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Lesbianism on television -- Research -- South Africa , Lesbians -- Research -- South Africa , Gay rights -- Research -- South Africa , Television actors and actresses -- Research -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:2964 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002473 , Lesbianism on television -- Research -- South Africa , Lesbians -- Research -- South Africa , Gay rights -- Research -- South Africa , Television actors and actresses -- Research -- South Africa
- Description: With the inclusion of sexual orientation in the Equality clause of the post-Apartheid constitution which demands equal rights and protection for all individuals regardless of sexual orientation, South Africa has been praised as one of the most liberal countries in the world. Because of this legal equality, gay and lesbian experiences have become a lot more visible in every day South African lives. This includes visibility in South African television programmes and film. Today, a number of South African produced television programmes have included at least one lesbian character in their storyline and many LGBTIQ activist organisations have deemed this increased visibility as a positive step for LGBTIQ rights. However, discriminatory discourses such as same-sex sexualities as 'un-African ' and unnatural, which often result in brutal hate crimes against LGBTIQ individuals (such as corrective rape), contribute to the social and cultural intolerance of same-sex sexualities. South African research into the lives of lesbian women has often related lesbian experience to that of gay men or has focused on lesbian women as victims of corrective rape and oppressive practices at the hands of the dominant heteronormative culture. This research was a discursive reception study, using three focus group discussions with self-identified lesbian audiences (black and white). The study explored how this audience received (interpreted/talked about) the available fictional representations of 'black' lesbian women and 'white' lesbian women in three clips from two South African television programmes, Society and The Mating Game. Using Wetherell's (1998) critical discursive psychology approach, this research focused on examining the 1) Subject positions made available in/by these representations; 2) Interpretive repertoires used by the audience in appropriating and/or negotiating and/or reSisting these subject positions; and 3) Ideological dilemmas experienced by participants in this negotiation process. The predominant subject positions made available in these representations were differentiated according to binary racial categories of white lesbian women and black lesbian women. For example, participants positioned white lesbian women as "lumberjacks" and "tomboys" while black lesbian women were positioned as "township lesbians" and "hood rats". In working with these subject positions, participants drew on interpretative repertoires of othering and otherness as well as interpretative repertoires of survival. In negotiating with these subject positions and others found in the discussions, ideological dilemmas often arose when participants found themselves having to draw on interpretative repertoires which extend from a heteronormative discourse. These kinds of interpretative repertoires included religion, nature, and compromise which contradicted and created a troubled position when used in relation to the participants' lesbian sexualities. Therefore, when the ideological dilemma and troubled position became apparent, participants had to work to repair the troubled position by justifying their use of these heteronormative interpretative repertoires.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Donaldson, Natalie
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Lesbianism on television -- Research -- South Africa , Lesbians -- Research -- South Africa , Gay rights -- Research -- South Africa , Television actors and actresses -- Research -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:2964 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002473 , Lesbianism on television -- Research -- South Africa , Lesbians -- Research -- South Africa , Gay rights -- Research -- South Africa , Television actors and actresses -- Research -- South Africa
- Description: With the inclusion of sexual orientation in the Equality clause of the post-Apartheid constitution which demands equal rights and protection for all individuals regardless of sexual orientation, South Africa has been praised as one of the most liberal countries in the world. Because of this legal equality, gay and lesbian experiences have become a lot more visible in every day South African lives. This includes visibility in South African television programmes and film. Today, a number of South African produced television programmes have included at least one lesbian character in their storyline and many LGBTIQ activist organisations have deemed this increased visibility as a positive step for LGBTIQ rights. However, discriminatory discourses such as same-sex sexualities as 'un-African ' and unnatural, which often result in brutal hate crimes against LGBTIQ individuals (such as corrective rape), contribute to the social and cultural intolerance of same-sex sexualities. South African research into the lives of lesbian women has often related lesbian experience to that of gay men or has focused on lesbian women as victims of corrective rape and oppressive practices at the hands of the dominant heteronormative culture. This research was a discursive reception study, using three focus group discussions with self-identified lesbian audiences (black and white). The study explored how this audience received (interpreted/talked about) the available fictional representations of 'black' lesbian women and 'white' lesbian women in three clips from two South African television programmes, Society and The Mating Game. Using Wetherell's (1998) critical discursive psychology approach, this research focused on examining the 1) Subject positions made available in/by these representations; 2) Interpretive repertoires used by the audience in appropriating and/or negotiating and/or reSisting these subject positions; and 3) Ideological dilemmas experienced by participants in this negotiation process. The predominant subject positions made available in these representations were differentiated according to binary racial categories of white lesbian women and black lesbian women. For example, participants positioned white lesbian women as "lumberjacks" and "tomboys" while black lesbian women were positioned as "township lesbians" and "hood rats". In working with these subject positions, participants drew on interpretative repertoires of othering and otherness as well as interpretative repertoires of survival. In negotiating with these subject positions and others found in the discussions, ideological dilemmas often arose when participants found themselves having to draw on interpretative repertoires which extend from a heteronormative discourse. These kinds of interpretative repertoires included religion, nature, and compromise which contradicted and created a troubled position when used in relation to the participants' lesbian sexualities. Therefore, when the ideological dilemma and troubled position became apparent, participants had to work to repair the troubled position by justifying their use of these heteronormative interpretative repertoires.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Maintenance of university facilities in developing countries
- Authors: Bowazi, Kenneth Mtunduwatha
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: College facilities -- Developing countries , Educational planning -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9723 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008472 , College facilities -- Developing countries , Educational planning -- Developing countries
- Description: Universities in developing countries are deteriorating physically due to lack of planned maintenance, lack of maintenance policies in the institutions, lack of up-to-date security system, and also lack of qualified personnel at decision-making level. Lack of planning leads to reactive maintenance. It also leads to unbudgeted expenditure and has an impact on the amount of money allocated to maintenance which results in unavailability of funds to carry out maintenance duties. Institutions which have no maintenance policy lack guidelines to follow when a maintenance problem arises. Most personnel in charge of maintenance are junior management or at supervisory level as a result they are not part of middle management that strategically directs the organisation. Most of the decisions made at supervisory scale are easily overruled at management level where the maintenance manager is not present during meetings to motivate maintenance cases. Lack of efficient security also allows vandalism to rise which contributes to the deterioration of facilities. Universities lack creativity and cost management skills to raise its own funds to supplement the maintenance budget, which is largely funded by the government. This study recommends employment of built environment professionals in decision-making positions. It also recommends that organizations should have a maintenance policy in place. Investment should be made in good security systems and management of the facilities should include income generating activities that could subsidise the maintenance budget.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Bowazi, Kenneth Mtunduwatha
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: College facilities -- Developing countries , Educational planning -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9723 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008472 , College facilities -- Developing countries , Educational planning -- Developing countries
- Description: Universities in developing countries are deteriorating physically due to lack of planned maintenance, lack of maintenance policies in the institutions, lack of up-to-date security system, and also lack of qualified personnel at decision-making level. Lack of planning leads to reactive maintenance. It also leads to unbudgeted expenditure and has an impact on the amount of money allocated to maintenance which results in unavailability of funds to carry out maintenance duties. Institutions which have no maintenance policy lack guidelines to follow when a maintenance problem arises. Most personnel in charge of maintenance are junior management or at supervisory level as a result they are not part of middle management that strategically directs the organisation. Most of the decisions made at supervisory scale are easily overruled at management level where the maintenance manager is not present during meetings to motivate maintenance cases. Lack of efficient security also allows vandalism to rise which contributes to the deterioration of facilities. Universities lack creativity and cost management skills to raise its own funds to supplement the maintenance budget, which is largely funded by the government. This study recommends employment of built environment professionals in decision-making positions. It also recommends that organizations should have a maintenance policy in place. Investment should be made in good security systems and management of the facilities should include income generating activities that could subsidise the maintenance budget.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Male and female cardiovascular risk in an urban, black working population
- Authors: Jackson, Lindsay May
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Cardiovascular system -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Obesity -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Hypertension -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Hypercholesteremia -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Diabetes -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Lifestyles -- Health aspects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Health behavior -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Health attitudes -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Black people -- South Africa -- Grahamstown -- Health and hygiene
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5127 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005205 , Cardiovascular system -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Obesity -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Hypertension -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Hypercholesteremia -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Diabetes -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Lifestyles -- Health aspects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Health behavior -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Health attitudes -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Black people -- South Africa -- Grahamstown -- Health and hygiene
- Description: The aim of this research project was to assess and compare cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in black males and females from an urban, working population in the Makana (Grahamstown) region of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Two-hundred and ninety one individuals (males: n = 143, females: n = 148) with a mean age of 42.6 (±8.1) years were voluntarily recruited from the greater urban Makana (Grahamstown) area. Eight Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks were assessed: stature and mass were obtained in order to calculate body mass index (BMI) (mass/stature2). Obesity, defined as a morphological risk, was classified according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) BMI criteria (BMI>30kg.m-2), as well as according to measures of waist circumference (WC) and body composition. Hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and type II diabetes, were grouped as cardiovascular (CV) risks. Hypertension was defined as a blood pressure greater than 140/90mmHg (JNC-7); hypercholesterolemia, as total cholesterol greater than 6.2mmol.L-1 (NCEP); and type II diabetes, as total glucose greater than 12mmol.L-1 (WHO). Physical activity, diet, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption and dependence were grouped as lifestyle-related risks. These were assessed by means of self-reporting through the use of various validated questionnaires. Finally, self-reporting of obesity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and type II diabetes was assessed, in addition to perception questions on individuals’ perceived body shape and size (Ziebland figures). Self-reported and perceived responses were then compared to actual measures. Females were significantly (p<0.001) heavier than the males (92.7kg compared to 72.1kg) and had significantly (p<0.001) higher BMIs than their male counterparts (37.6kg.m-2 compared to 25.7 kg.-2). They also recorded significantly (p<0.001) higher waist circumference (WC) values and had significantly (p<0.001) higher percentage and total body fat. Significantly (p<0.001) more females were obese (81%) compared to males (17%). While a higher percentage of males (25 % compared to 22%) presented with stage I hypertension (≥140/90mmHg, <160/95mmHg), significantly (p<0.05) more females (14% compared to 8%) presented with stage II hypertension (>160/95mmHg). The prevalence of hypercholesterolemia at a high level of risk (>6.2mmol.L-1) was relatively low (2.1 % of males, 3.4% of females), but notably more participants (22% of males and 26% of females) presented with the condition at a moderate level of risk (>5mmol.L-1). Type II diabetes was the least prevalent CV risk factor, with no males and only 3% of females presenting with the condition. Males consumed significantly (p<0.05) more in terms of total energy intake (9024 vs. 7234 kJ) and were significantly (p<0.05) more active (3315 compared to 2660 MET-mins.week). A significantly (p<0.05) higher percentage of males smoked (51.1% compared to 3.4%), consumed alcohol (73.4% compared to 46.6%) and were alcohol dependent (40% compared to 33.5%). Both males and females tended to be ignorant of their health status, with both samples under-reporting obesity, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, while over-reporting type II diabetes. Furthermore, obesity was significantly (p<0.05) underestimated, with both male and female individuals perceiving themselves to be notably smaller than they actually were. Physical activity and diet were important determinants of CVD risk in this black urban sample of individuals. Obesity, in particular central adiposity, was the most notable risk (particularly in females), followed by hypertension (particularly in males). Although some risks presented at a moderate level of risk, a clustering of risk factors was evident in both samples, with 12.6% and 41.2% of males and females presenting with two risk factors, and 2.8% and 8.1% of males and females respectively presenting with three risks.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Jackson, Lindsay May
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Cardiovascular system -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Obesity -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Hypertension -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Hypercholesteremia -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Diabetes -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Lifestyles -- Health aspects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Health behavior -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Health attitudes -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Black people -- South Africa -- Grahamstown -- Health and hygiene
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5127 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005205 , Cardiovascular system -- Diseases -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Obesity -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Hypertension -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Hypercholesteremia -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Diabetes -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Lifestyles -- Health aspects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Health behavior -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Health attitudes -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Black people -- South Africa -- Grahamstown -- Health and hygiene
- Description: The aim of this research project was to assess and compare cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in black males and females from an urban, working population in the Makana (Grahamstown) region of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Two-hundred and ninety one individuals (males: n = 143, females: n = 148) with a mean age of 42.6 (±8.1) years were voluntarily recruited from the greater urban Makana (Grahamstown) area. Eight Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks were assessed: stature and mass were obtained in order to calculate body mass index (BMI) (mass/stature2). Obesity, defined as a morphological risk, was classified according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) BMI criteria (BMI>30kg.m-2), as well as according to measures of waist circumference (WC) and body composition. Hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and type II diabetes, were grouped as cardiovascular (CV) risks. Hypertension was defined as a blood pressure greater than 140/90mmHg (JNC-7); hypercholesterolemia, as total cholesterol greater than 6.2mmol.L-1 (NCEP); and type II diabetes, as total glucose greater than 12mmol.L-1 (WHO). Physical activity, diet, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption and dependence were grouped as lifestyle-related risks. These were assessed by means of self-reporting through the use of various validated questionnaires. Finally, self-reporting of obesity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and type II diabetes was assessed, in addition to perception questions on individuals’ perceived body shape and size (Ziebland figures). Self-reported and perceived responses were then compared to actual measures. Females were significantly (p<0.001) heavier than the males (92.7kg compared to 72.1kg) and had significantly (p<0.001) higher BMIs than their male counterparts (37.6kg.m-2 compared to 25.7 kg.-2). They also recorded significantly (p<0.001) higher waist circumference (WC) values and had significantly (p<0.001) higher percentage and total body fat. Significantly (p<0.001) more females were obese (81%) compared to males (17%). While a higher percentage of males (25 % compared to 22%) presented with stage I hypertension (≥140/90mmHg, <160/95mmHg), significantly (p<0.05) more females (14% compared to 8%) presented with stage II hypertension (>160/95mmHg). The prevalence of hypercholesterolemia at a high level of risk (>6.2mmol.L-1) was relatively low (2.1 % of males, 3.4% of females), but notably more participants (22% of males and 26% of females) presented with the condition at a moderate level of risk (>5mmol.L-1). Type II diabetes was the least prevalent CV risk factor, with no males and only 3% of females presenting with the condition. Males consumed significantly (p<0.05) more in terms of total energy intake (9024 vs. 7234 kJ) and were significantly (p<0.05) more active (3315 compared to 2660 MET-mins.week). A significantly (p<0.05) higher percentage of males smoked (51.1% compared to 3.4%), consumed alcohol (73.4% compared to 46.6%) and were alcohol dependent (40% compared to 33.5%). Both males and females tended to be ignorant of their health status, with both samples under-reporting obesity, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, while over-reporting type II diabetes. Furthermore, obesity was significantly (p<0.05) underestimated, with both male and female individuals perceiving themselves to be notably smaller than they actually were. Physical activity and diet were important determinants of CVD risk in this black urban sample of individuals. Obesity, in particular central adiposity, was the most notable risk (particularly in females), followed by hypertension (particularly in males). Although some risks presented at a moderate level of risk, a clustering of risk factors was evident in both samples, with 12.6% and 41.2% of males and females presenting with two risk factors, and 2.8% and 8.1% of males and females respectively presenting with three risks.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Management of type 2 diabetes mellitus : a pharmacoepidemiological review
- Authors: Saugur, Anusooya
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Diabetes , Diabetes -- Management , Diabetes -- Diet therapy , Diabetes -- Prevention , Insulin -- Therapeutic use , Hypoglycemia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:10129 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1635 , Diabetes , Diabetes -- Management , Diabetes -- Diet therapy , Diabetes -- Prevention , Insulin -- Therapeutic use , Hypoglycemia
- Description: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is a progressive disease characterised by hyperglycaemia caused by defects in insulin secretion and insulin action. In early stages of type 2 DM, dietary and lifestyle changes are often sufficient to control blood glucose levels. However, over time, many patients experience β cell dysfunction and require insulin therapy, either alone or in combination with oral agents. There are guidelines available to structure the management of this disease state, including both the use of oral hypoglycaemic agents and or insulin. Besides health complications, there are economic burdens associated with the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to determine the management of type 2 DM in a South African sample group of patients drawn from a large medical aid database. The objectives of the study were: to establish the prevalence of type 2 DM relative to age, examine the nature of chronic comorbid disease states, establish trends in the prescribing of insulin relative to other oral hypoglycaemic agents, investigate cost implications, and determine trends in the use of blood and urine monitoring materials by patients. The study was quantitative and retrospective and descriptive statistics were used in the analysis. DM was found to be most prevalent amongst patients between 50 and 59 years old. Results also demonstrated that 83% of DM patients also suffered from other chronic comorbid diseases, with cardiovascular diseases, especially hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia being the most prominent. This study also revealed that DM is predominantly managed with oral hypoglycaemic agents. Changes in drug prescribing, for chronic disease states such as DM may have medical, social and economic implications both for individual patients and for society and it is envisaged that the results of this study can be used to influence future management of DM. Keywords: Pharmacoepidemiology, management, type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Saugur, Anusooya
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Diabetes , Diabetes -- Management , Diabetes -- Diet therapy , Diabetes -- Prevention , Insulin -- Therapeutic use , Hypoglycemia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:10129 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1635 , Diabetes , Diabetes -- Management , Diabetes -- Diet therapy , Diabetes -- Prevention , Insulin -- Therapeutic use , Hypoglycemia
- Description: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is a progressive disease characterised by hyperglycaemia caused by defects in insulin secretion and insulin action. In early stages of type 2 DM, dietary and lifestyle changes are often sufficient to control blood glucose levels. However, over time, many patients experience β cell dysfunction and require insulin therapy, either alone or in combination with oral agents. There are guidelines available to structure the management of this disease state, including both the use of oral hypoglycaemic agents and or insulin. Besides health complications, there are economic burdens associated with the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to determine the management of type 2 DM in a South African sample group of patients drawn from a large medical aid database. The objectives of the study were: to establish the prevalence of type 2 DM relative to age, examine the nature of chronic comorbid disease states, establish trends in the prescribing of insulin relative to other oral hypoglycaemic agents, investigate cost implications, and determine trends in the use of blood and urine monitoring materials by patients. The study was quantitative and retrospective and descriptive statistics were used in the analysis. DM was found to be most prevalent amongst patients between 50 and 59 years old. Results also demonstrated that 83% of DM patients also suffered from other chronic comorbid diseases, with cardiovascular diseases, especially hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia being the most prominent. This study also revealed that DM is predominantly managed with oral hypoglycaemic agents. Changes in drug prescribing, for chronic disease states such as DM may have medical, social and economic implications both for individual patients and for society and it is envisaged that the results of this study can be used to influence future management of DM. Keywords: Pharmacoepidemiology, management, type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Marine anti-malarial isonitriles : a synthetic and computational study
- Authors: Adendorff, Matthew Ralph
- Date: 2011 , 2010-05-17
- Subjects: Isocyanides , Isocyanates , Marine pharmacology , Antimalarials , Antimalarials -- Development , Drug development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4398 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006674 , Isocyanides , Isocyanates , Marine pharmacology , Antimalarials , Antimalarials -- Development , Drug development
- Description: The development of Plasmodium falciparum malarial resistance to the current armoury of anti-malarial drugs requires the development of new treatments to help combat this disease. The marine environment is a well established source of potential pharmaceuticals. Of interest to us are isonitrile, isocyanate and isothiocyanate compounds isolated from marine sponges and molluscs which have exhibited nano-molar anti-plasmodial activities. Through quantitative structure-activity relation studies (QSAR), a literature precedent exists for a pseudoreceptor model from which a pharmacophore for the design of novel anti-malarial agents was proposed. The current theory suggests that these marine compounds exert their inhibitory action through interfering with the heme detoxification pathway in P. falciparum. We propose that the computational methods used to draw detailed conclusions about the mode of action of these marine compounds were inadequate. This thesis addresses this problem using contemporary computational methodologies and seeks to propose a more robust method for the rational design of new anti-malarial drug compounds that inhibit heme polymerization to hemozoin. In order to investigate the interactions of the marine compounds with their heme targets, a series of modern computational procedures were formulated, validated and then applied to theoretical systems. The validations of these algorithms, before their application to the marine compound-heme systems, were achieved through two case studies. The first was used to investigate the applicability of the statistical docking algorithm AutoDock to be used for the exploration of conformational space around the heme target. A theoretical P. falciparum 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate reductoisomerase (PfDXR) enzyme model, constructed by the Biochemistry Department at Rhodes University, provided the ideal model to validate the AutoDock program. The protein model was accordingly subjected to rigorous docking simulations with over 30 different ligand molecules using the AutoDock algorithm which allowed for the docking algorithm’s limitations to be ascertained and improved upon. This investigation facilitated the successful validation of the protein model, which can now be used for the rational design of new PfDXR-inhibiting anti-plasmodial compounds, as well as enabling us to propose an improvement of the docking algorithm for application to the heme systems. The second case study was used to investigate the applicability of an ab initio molecular dynamics algorithm for simulation of bond breaking/forming events between the marine compounds and their heme target. This validation involved the exploration of intermolecular interactions in a naturally occurring nonoligomeric zipper using the Car-Parrinello Molecular Dynamics (CPMD) method. This study allowed us to propose a model for the intermolecular forces responsible for zipper self-assembly and showcased the CPMD method’s abilities to simulate and predict bond forming/breaking events. Data from the computational analyses suggested that the interactions between marine isonitriles, isocyanates and isothiocyanates occur through bond-less electrostatic attractions rather than through formal intermolecular bonds as had been previously suggested. Accordingly, a simple bicyclic tertiary isonitrile (5.14) was synthesized using Kitano et al’s relatively underutilized isonitrile synthetic method for the conversion of tertiary alcohols to their corresponding isonitriles. This compound’s potential for heme detoxification inhibition was then explored in vitro via the pyridine-hemochrome assay. The assay data suggested that the synthesized isonitrile was capable of inhibiting heme polymerization in a similar fashion to the known inhibitor chloroquine. Attempts to synthesize tricyclic analogues of 5.14 were unsuccessful and highlighted the limitation of Kitano et al’s isonitrile synthetic methodology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Adendorff, Matthew Ralph
- Date: 2011 , 2010-05-17
- Subjects: Isocyanides , Isocyanates , Marine pharmacology , Antimalarials , Antimalarials -- Development , Drug development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4398 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006674 , Isocyanides , Isocyanates , Marine pharmacology , Antimalarials , Antimalarials -- Development , Drug development
- Description: The development of Plasmodium falciparum malarial resistance to the current armoury of anti-malarial drugs requires the development of new treatments to help combat this disease. The marine environment is a well established source of potential pharmaceuticals. Of interest to us are isonitrile, isocyanate and isothiocyanate compounds isolated from marine sponges and molluscs which have exhibited nano-molar anti-plasmodial activities. Through quantitative structure-activity relation studies (QSAR), a literature precedent exists for a pseudoreceptor model from which a pharmacophore for the design of novel anti-malarial agents was proposed. The current theory suggests that these marine compounds exert their inhibitory action through interfering with the heme detoxification pathway in P. falciparum. We propose that the computational methods used to draw detailed conclusions about the mode of action of these marine compounds were inadequate. This thesis addresses this problem using contemporary computational methodologies and seeks to propose a more robust method for the rational design of new anti-malarial drug compounds that inhibit heme polymerization to hemozoin. In order to investigate the interactions of the marine compounds with their heme targets, a series of modern computational procedures were formulated, validated and then applied to theoretical systems. The validations of these algorithms, before their application to the marine compound-heme systems, were achieved through two case studies. The first was used to investigate the applicability of the statistical docking algorithm AutoDock to be used for the exploration of conformational space around the heme target. A theoretical P. falciparum 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate reductoisomerase (PfDXR) enzyme model, constructed by the Biochemistry Department at Rhodes University, provided the ideal model to validate the AutoDock program. The protein model was accordingly subjected to rigorous docking simulations with over 30 different ligand molecules using the AutoDock algorithm which allowed for the docking algorithm’s limitations to be ascertained and improved upon. This investigation facilitated the successful validation of the protein model, which can now be used for the rational design of new PfDXR-inhibiting anti-plasmodial compounds, as well as enabling us to propose an improvement of the docking algorithm for application to the heme systems. The second case study was used to investigate the applicability of an ab initio molecular dynamics algorithm for simulation of bond breaking/forming events between the marine compounds and their heme target. This validation involved the exploration of intermolecular interactions in a naturally occurring nonoligomeric zipper using the Car-Parrinello Molecular Dynamics (CPMD) method. This study allowed us to propose a model for the intermolecular forces responsible for zipper self-assembly and showcased the CPMD method’s abilities to simulate and predict bond forming/breaking events. Data from the computational analyses suggested that the interactions between marine isonitriles, isocyanates and isothiocyanates occur through bond-less electrostatic attractions rather than through formal intermolecular bonds as had been previously suggested. Accordingly, a simple bicyclic tertiary isonitrile (5.14) was synthesized using Kitano et al’s relatively underutilized isonitrile synthetic method for the conversion of tertiary alcohols to their corresponding isonitriles. This compound’s potential for heme detoxification inhibition was then explored in vitro via the pyridine-hemochrome assay. The assay data suggested that the synthesized isonitrile was capable of inhibiting heme polymerization in a similar fashion to the known inhibitor chloroquine. Attempts to synthesize tricyclic analogues of 5.14 were unsuccessful and highlighted the limitation of Kitano et al’s isonitrile synthetic methodology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Measurement of the bulk flow and transport characteristics of selected fractured rock aquifer systems in South Africa: a case study of the Balfour Formation in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Yu, Liuji
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Aquifers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Groundwater -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water well drilling -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sedimentary structures -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Formations (Geology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geology)
- Identifier: vital:11522 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/415 , Aquifers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Groundwater -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water well drilling -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sedimentary structures -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Formations (Geology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Hydrogeologists have faced serious challenges worldwide in the characterization of fractured rock aquifers due to the heterogeneous nature of the imbedded geology. The bulk flow parameters in the Karoo strata in South Africa are specifically uncertain since most models are based on homogenous block systems. As part of a WRC research project, entitled “Measurement of the bulk flow and transport characteristics of selected fractured rock aquifer systems in South Africa”, this study focuses on the characterization, borehole drilling, flow parameter measurements and groundwater quality assessment of the Balfour Formation in the Beaufort Group of the Karoo Supergroup in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, which is seriously heterogeneous in deposition and has also been largely neglected as drilling targets for groundwater. The Balfour Formation comprises mostly mudstone, shale and sandstone, formed in a braided and meandering river system. In addition to the heterogeneous deposition, the flow pathways in this aquifer system are not fully understood due to lack of actual measurement data. The methods used in this study include field mapping, site characterization, borehole drilling, and pumping and tracer testing in order to obtain the borehole yield, aquifer transmissivity, storativity and groundwater flow velocity. In addition, the groundwater chemistry was also studied to determine quality for use and possible connectivity with the nearby Tyume River and to determine potential sources of groundwater contamination. The results obtained include: 1) The study area is predominantly mudstone/shale with thin layers and lenses of siltstone and sandstone, which are interbedded; 2) Two boreholes were successfully drilled, which had yields in excess of 10 l/s in four water levels (at 7, 22, 54 and 65 m); 3) The estimated average transmissivity is 246 m 2/day according to the recovery test; 4) The estimated seepage velocity is 120 m/day according to tracer tests in the aquifer between the two boreholes which are 5 m apart; and 5) The water chemical type is the combination of HCO3-, Cl-and SO42- , which is distinguishable from that of the Tyume river; 6) There is no evidence for groundwater recharge to the deep aquifers from the Tyume river, based on the differences of the water chemistry; 7) The elements Ca, Cl, Na and C are distributed more than 90% as free ion species in BH2 borehole water; and 8) The groundwater in BH2 borehole is undersaturated (negative SI) with respect to some minerals (for example: anhydrite, fluorite, gypsum and halite), oversaturated (positive SI) with respect to some minerals (for example: aragonite, calcite and dolomite). It is concluded that there is a great potential to obtain drilling targets for high yielding boreholes in the sedimentary rocks of the Balfour Formation in the Karoo Supergroup.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Yu, Liuji
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Aquifers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Groundwater -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water well drilling -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sedimentary structures -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Formations (Geology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geology)
- Identifier: vital:11522 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/415 , Aquifers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Groundwater -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water well drilling -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sedimentary structures -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Formations (Geology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Hydrogeologists have faced serious challenges worldwide in the characterization of fractured rock aquifers due to the heterogeneous nature of the imbedded geology. The bulk flow parameters in the Karoo strata in South Africa are specifically uncertain since most models are based on homogenous block systems. As part of a WRC research project, entitled “Measurement of the bulk flow and transport characteristics of selected fractured rock aquifer systems in South Africa”, this study focuses on the characterization, borehole drilling, flow parameter measurements and groundwater quality assessment of the Balfour Formation in the Beaufort Group of the Karoo Supergroup in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, which is seriously heterogeneous in deposition and has also been largely neglected as drilling targets for groundwater. The Balfour Formation comprises mostly mudstone, shale and sandstone, formed in a braided and meandering river system. In addition to the heterogeneous deposition, the flow pathways in this aquifer system are not fully understood due to lack of actual measurement data. The methods used in this study include field mapping, site characterization, borehole drilling, and pumping and tracer testing in order to obtain the borehole yield, aquifer transmissivity, storativity and groundwater flow velocity. In addition, the groundwater chemistry was also studied to determine quality for use and possible connectivity with the nearby Tyume River and to determine potential sources of groundwater contamination. The results obtained include: 1) The study area is predominantly mudstone/shale with thin layers and lenses of siltstone and sandstone, which are interbedded; 2) Two boreholes were successfully drilled, which had yields in excess of 10 l/s in four water levels (at 7, 22, 54 and 65 m); 3) The estimated average transmissivity is 246 m 2/day according to the recovery test; 4) The estimated seepage velocity is 120 m/day according to tracer tests in the aquifer between the two boreholes which are 5 m apart; and 5) The water chemical type is the combination of HCO3-, Cl-and SO42- , which is distinguishable from that of the Tyume river; 6) There is no evidence for groundwater recharge to the deep aquifers from the Tyume river, based on the differences of the water chemistry; 7) The elements Ca, Cl, Na and C are distributed more than 90% as free ion species in BH2 borehole water; and 8) The groundwater in BH2 borehole is undersaturated (negative SI) with respect to some minerals (for example: anhydrite, fluorite, gypsum and halite), oversaturated (positive SI) with respect to some minerals (for example: aragonite, calcite and dolomite). It is concluded that there is a great potential to obtain drilling targets for high yielding boreholes in the sedimentary rocks of the Balfour Formation in the Karoo Supergroup.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Membership attraction and retention strategies for the Port Elizabeth Club
- Authors: Geel, Rudolf Christiaan
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Organizational change -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management , Organizational change -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Clubs -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Success in business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8587 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1643 , Organizational change -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management , Organizational change -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Clubs -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Success in business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: Human beings have been gathering with other human beings for any and all reasons. These gatherings have occurred since biblical times. The Roman baths were the first gatherings that can be classified as clubs. In contemporary terms, humans gather in small numbers for a coffee with friends at a coffee restaurant, they gather in the thousands to show their dejection of wage offerings and they gather in the millions to support a sports jersey. The common factor in all of these gatherings is that they do it because of one shared goal, one shared vision. The places where people with the same interests gather, called clubs and organisations, have been around for many years. They fulfil some of the very basic human needs as well as some of the most intricate human wants. Ensuring that clubs or organisations remain in our social fibre for many years to come is in the best interest of all of their stakeholders. These clubs or organisations need to adjust to the times of present and adjust the offering they make to the members as the needs of the members change over time. It is this premise that led the researcher to The Port Elizabeth Club. This social club is struggling with dwindling membership numbers and the development of a membership strategy that will increase its membership numbers and the benefits that are offered to them. The secondary literature study conducted revealed many benefits and strategies that clubs currently use or that they could use to improve their membership brand. It further showed the different approaches, of the different clubs, to attracting and retaining the members they wanted. These benefits and strategies formed the basis iv of the primary study that was conducted by the researcher and were the main constructs in the study. The primary study was in the form of questionnaires and these were given to the target market of The Port Elizabeth Club as well as The Port Elizabeth Club members themselves. The primary study revealed that many of the benefits and strategies found in the literature can be used by The Port Elizabeth Club to improve their membership offering. The literature also stated this type of study, a questionnaire or survey, should be done on a regular basis by The Port Elizabeth Club to ensure that it is on track with its members’ needs and wants. The literature revealed that many club members feel that the value that is offered by clubs are diminishing and this results in the loss of members and disinterest from prospective members. It is for this reason that the research study conducted is important to The Port Elizabeth Club and shows that they should focus on the value they offer to their members and continue to improve this value offering. The research study concludes with a detailed description of benefits that The Port Elizabeth Club could implement for its members as well as strategies that will assist it in attracting new members and retaining its current members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Geel, Rudolf Christiaan
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Organizational change -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management , Organizational change -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Clubs -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Success in business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8587 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1643 , Organizational change -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management , Organizational change -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Clubs -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Success in business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: Human beings have been gathering with other human beings for any and all reasons. These gatherings have occurred since biblical times. The Roman baths were the first gatherings that can be classified as clubs. In contemporary terms, humans gather in small numbers for a coffee with friends at a coffee restaurant, they gather in the thousands to show their dejection of wage offerings and they gather in the millions to support a sports jersey. The common factor in all of these gatherings is that they do it because of one shared goal, one shared vision. The places where people with the same interests gather, called clubs and organisations, have been around for many years. They fulfil some of the very basic human needs as well as some of the most intricate human wants. Ensuring that clubs or organisations remain in our social fibre for many years to come is in the best interest of all of their stakeholders. These clubs or organisations need to adjust to the times of present and adjust the offering they make to the members as the needs of the members change over time. It is this premise that led the researcher to The Port Elizabeth Club. This social club is struggling with dwindling membership numbers and the development of a membership strategy that will increase its membership numbers and the benefits that are offered to them. The secondary literature study conducted revealed many benefits and strategies that clubs currently use or that they could use to improve their membership brand. It further showed the different approaches, of the different clubs, to attracting and retaining the members they wanted. These benefits and strategies formed the basis iv of the primary study that was conducted by the researcher and were the main constructs in the study. The primary study was in the form of questionnaires and these were given to the target market of The Port Elizabeth Club as well as The Port Elizabeth Club members themselves. The primary study revealed that many of the benefits and strategies found in the literature can be used by The Port Elizabeth Club to improve their membership offering. The literature also stated this type of study, a questionnaire or survey, should be done on a regular basis by The Port Elizabeth Club to ensure that it is on track with its members’ needs and wants. The literature revealed that many club members feel that the value that is offered by clubs are diminishing and this results in the loss of members and disinterest from prospective members. It is for this reason that the research study conducted is important to The Port Elizabeth Club and shows that they should focus on the value they offer to their members and continue to improve this value offering. The research study concludes with a detailed description of benefits that The Port Elizabeth Club could implement for its members as well as strategies that will assist it in attracting new members and retaining its current members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Microwave Mediated synthesis of cyclic compounds
- Authors: Ndebvu, Rumbidzayi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Cyclic compounds -- Synthesis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:18488 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007382
- Description: The scope of microwave induced synthesis of various cyclic compounds was investigated and considerably expanded. The advantages of this synthetic method were clearly demonstrated when compared to conventional heating methods of organic synthesis. The exposure of organic compounds to continual Ultraviolet (UV) radiation damages the materials and reduces their chemical and physical properties and in most cases irreversibly and this is not only a concern for industry but for consumers as well. Particularly prevalent are incidences of skin cancer now linked to UV radiation. Research efforts are directed towards finding cheap and efficient UV-absorbers to protect such light sensitive materials. Phenyl salicylates and hydroxybenzophenones constitute families of UV-absorber compounds, and this has necessitated this research. The condensation of differently substituted phenols with salicylic acid, catalyzed by either phosphoric acid (PPA), POCl3/ZnCl2 or ZnCl2 afforded the anticipated phenolic type UV -absorber molecules such as phenyl salicylate, 4-hydroxyphenyl-2-hydroxybenzoate, 2,3-dihydroxyphenyl-2-hydroxyphenylbenzoate, 3-hydroxyphenyl-2-hydroxybenzoate, (2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)(2-hydroxyphenyl)methanone, (2,3-dihydroxyphenyl)(2-hydroxyphenyl) methanone and 1,3-dihydroxyxanthone. PPA proved to be a more efficient catalyst for the condensation of salicylic acid with phenol, hydroquinone, pyrogallol and catechol while POCl3/ZnCl2 gave higher yields for resorcinol and phloroglucinol. In all cases, ZnCl2 alone did not show significant yield enhancement. The second part of this research work describes a convenient one-pot synthesis of NMethyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) an important industrial solvent by a conventional heating process and by microwave irradiation. The intermediate N-Methyl-hydroxybutyramide formed from the exothermic reaction of =-butyrolactone with aqueous monomethylamine, underwent an intramolecular condensation reaction catalyzed by highly active copper powder to form the anticipated product in very good yields.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Ndebvu, Rumbidzayi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Cyclic compounds -- Synthesis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:18488 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007382
- Description: The scope of microwave induced synthesis of various cyclic compounds was investigated and considerably expanded. The advantages of this synthetic method were clearly demonstrated when compared to conventional heating methods of organic synthesis. The exposure of organic compounds to continual Ultraviolet (UV) radiation damages the materials and reduces their chemical and physical properties and in most cases irreversibly and this is not only a concern for industry but for consumers as well. Particularly prevalent are incidences of skin cancer now linked to UV radiation. Research efforts are directed towards finding cheap and efficient UV-absorbers to protect such light sensitive materials. Phenyl salicylates and hydroxybenzophenones constitute families of UV-absorber compounds, and this has necessitated this research. The condensation of differently substituted phenols with salicylic acid, catalyzed by either phosphoric acid (PPA), POCl3/ZnCl2 or ZnCl2 afforded the anticipated phenolic type UV -absorber molecules such as phenyl salicylate, 4-hydroxyphenyl-2-hydroxybenzoate, 2,3-dihydroxyphenyl-2-hydroxyphenylbenzoate, 3-hydroxyphenyl-2-hydroxybenzoate, (2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)(2-hydroxyphenyl)methanone, (2,3-dihydroxyphenyl)(2-hydroxyphenyl) methanone and 1,3-dihydroxyxanthone. PPA proved to be a more efficient catalyst for the condensation of salicylic acid with phenol, hydroquinone, pyrogallol and catechol while POCl3/ZnCl2 gave higher yields for resorcinol and phloroglucinol. In all cases, ZnCl2 alone did not show significant yield enhancement. The second part of this research work describes a convenient one-pot synthesis of NMethyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) an important industrial solvent by a conventional heating process and by microwave irradiation. The intermediate N-Methyl-hydroxybutyramide formed from the exothermic reaction of =-butyrolactone with aqueous monomethylamine, underwent an intramolecular condensation reaction catalyzed by highly active copper powder to form the anticipated product in very good yields.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Modelling of the crystallisation process of highly concentrated ammonium nitrate emulsions
- Authors: Simpson, Brenton
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Explosives , Blasting , Chemical explosives , Ammonium nitrate
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10415 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012622 , Explosives , Blasting , Chemical explosives , Ammonium nitrate
- Description: Highly concentrated ammonium nitrate emulsions are extensively used as an explosive in the mining industry. The emulsion is made from a supercooled aqueous salt solution with various stabilisers and an organic hydrocarbon phase under vigorous stirring to room temperature. The resulting emulsion is thermodynamically unstable and tends to crystallise over time. This is not suitable for the transportation or pumping of the emulsion in its application. This study showed that the crystallisation process of highly concentrated ammonium nitrate emulsions can be influenced by varying the emulsion droplet size as well as the types and ratios of surfactants used during the preparation stage. The results showed that there were significant differences in the rheological properties of the freshly-prepared emulsion, based on both the emulsion droplet size, and the type of surfactant and ratio of surfactants used. A decrease of the emulsion droplet size resulted in the increase of the elastic character, which can be explained by more compact network organisation of droplets. In terms of the different surfactants, it was shown that the Pibsa-Imide stabilised emulsions resulted in an emulsion with the highest storage modulus over the entire strain amplitude regions as well as the highest shear stresses over the whole shear rate region. The study showed that the relatively slow emulsion crystallisation process can be studied by using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD). The amount of amorphous and crystalline phases present in the sample can be effectively quantified by using the Partial Or No Known Crystal Structural (PONKCS) method which can model accurately the contributions of the amorphous halo. An external standard calibration method, which used a different amorphous material with the crystalline material to obtain a suitable calibration constant, was employed. The results showed that the method would quantify the amount of the fully crystallised emulsion to be between 80 and 90 percent, which was in agreement with the solid content added during sample preparation and confirmed by Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA). The simultaneous TGA / DSC results were able to show the number of solid/solid peak transitions as well as the total moisture content to be around 20 percent by mass in various emulsion samples studied. The study was able to model the crystallisation by using the Avrami and Tobin kinetic relationships which are commonly used for the crystallisation processes of polymers. The Avrami relationship proved to be useful in describing the type of crystallisation that occurred. This was based on literature where the exponent parameter (n) which was between 1 and 4 would relate to different types of crystallisation models. The results of this study showed that the crystallisation process would change for the samples that had shown a longer crystallisation process. The results indicated that the samples prepared with the lower Pibsa-Urea ratio showed a more sporadic crystallisation process, whereas the samples with the higher ratio of Pibsa-Urea showed a more controlled crystallisation process. The study also considered the rheological properties of the fresh emulsion, which showed that droplet size also had an influence on the stress strain relationship of the emulsion droplets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Simpson, Brenton
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Explosives , Blasting , Chemical explosives , Ammonium nitrate
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10415 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012622 , Explosives , Blasting , Chemical explosives , Ammonium nitrate
- Description: Highly concentrated ammonium nitrate emulsions are extensively used as an explosive in the mining industry. The emulsion is made from a supercooled aqueous salt solution with various stabilisers and an organic hydrocarbon phase under vigorous stirring to room temperature. The resulting emulsion is thermodynamically unstable and tends to crystallise over time. This is not suitable for the transportation or pumping of the emulsion in its application. This study showed that the crystallisation process of highly concentrated ammonium nitrate emulsions can be influenced by varying the emulsion droplet size as well as the types and ratios of surfactants used during the preparation stage. The results showed that there were significant differences in the rheological properties of the freshly-prepared emulsion, based on both the emulsion droplet size, and the type of surfactant and ratio of surfactants used. A decrease of the emulsion droplet size resulted in the increase of the elastic character, which can be explained by more compact network organisation of droplets. In terms of the different surfactants, it was shown that the Pibsa-Imide stabilised emulsions resulted in an emulsion with the highest storage modulus over the entire strain amplitude regions as well as the highest shear stresses over the whole shear rate region. The study showed that the relatively slow emulsion crystallisation process can be studied by using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD). The amount of amorphous and crystalline phases present in the sample can be effectively quantified by using the Partial Or No Known Crystal Structural (PONKCS) method which can model accurately the contributions of the amorphous halo. An external standard calibration method, which used a different amorphous material with the crystalline material to obtain a suitable calibration constant, was employed. The results showed that the method would quantify the amount of the fully crystallised emulsion to be between 80 and 90 percent, which was in agreement with the solid content added during sample preparation and confirmed by Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA). The simultaneous TGA / DSC results were able to show the number of solid/solid peak transitions as well as the total moisture content to be around 20 percent by mass in various emulsion samples studied. The study was able to model the crystallisation by using the Avrami and Tobin kinetic relationships which are commonly used for the crystallisation processes of polymers. The Avrami relationship proved to be useful in describing the type of crystallisation that occurred. This was based on literature where the exponent parameter (n) which was between 1 and 4 would relate to different types of crystallisation models. The results of this study showed that the crystallisation process would change for the samples that had shown a longer crystallisation process. The results indicated that the samples prepared with the lower Pibsa-Urea ratio showed a more sporadic crystallisation process, whereas the samples with the higher ratio of Pibsa-Urea showed a more controlled crystallisation process. The study also considered the rheological properties of the fresh emulsion, which showed that droplet size also had an influence on the stress strain relationship of the emulsion droplets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Modelling trends in evapotranspiration using the MODIS LAI for selected Eastern Cape catchments
- Authors: Finca, Andiswa
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Evapotranspiration , Evapotranspiration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10651 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1009517 , Evapotranspiration , Evapotranspiration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Grassland is the dominant vegetation cover of many of the 19 Water Catchment Areas within South Africa. The inappropriate management of some of these grassland catchments by the communities that depend on them for their livelihoods, often results in overgrazed lands with low biomass or invasive alien species. The short grass maintained by grazing policies of many communities results in high storm flows that have an adverse effect on the quantity and quality of runoff and recharge. Catchment-scale water balances depend on accurate estimates of run-off, recharge and evapotranspiration (ET). This study focuses on the ET component of the catchment scale water balance and explores the effect of two different grazing strategies on ET. To achieve this, two contrasting but adjacent quaternary catchments namely: P10A (a high biomass site) and Q91C (a low biomass site) were selected within the Bushman’s River Primary catchment as primary study sites. Within each catchment, a relatively homogenous pixel of 1 km was selected, representing contrasting example of high and low intensity grazing. From an eleven year MODIS leaf area index (LAI) data stack (March 2000 – 2010), 8-day LAI values was extracted for each pixel in each catchment. Using the Penman- Monteith equation, potential evapotranspiration (ET0) was calculated using data from a nearly automatic weather station. Actual evapotranspiration was estimated by adjusting ET0 using the values extracted from the MODIS LAI product. The MODIS LAI ET (ETMODIS) obtained for the eleven year period for both 1 km pixels decreased consistently, reflecting a general trend in declining LAI throughout the Eastern Cape. The highest ETMODIS obtained from P10A was 610.3 mm (2001) and the lowest was 333.1 mm (2009). Then from Q91C the highest ET obtained was 534.7 mm (2006) and the lowest was 266.2 mm (2009). The ETMODIS results were validated for each catchment using the Open Top Chamber (OTC) which sums the water lost from vegetation and soil within the chamber. This validation was conducted during the growing season of 2010–11. Wind speed; relative humidity and temperature were measured both at the inlet and the outlet of the chamber on five clear sunny days for each 1 km pixel. ETa for the same period was compared to the OTC ET (ETOTC) using the regression analysis and a good relationship was observed with the r2 of 0.7065. The relationship observed confirmed that ETOTC closely approximates ETMODIS and that the OTC can be used as a tool to validate MODIS LAI ET on clear, low winds and sunny days. In order to demonstrate proof-of-concept for the use of this modeling of ETMODIS within a Payment for Ecosystem Services framework, the approach was applied to two other quaternary catchments under communal tenure. Within each catchment, three land use scenarios were created for each catchment to reflect potential changes in the standing aboveground biomass. For Scenario 1, the status quo was maintained; for Scenario 2, MODIS pixels representing 28 km in each catchment were selected and the LAI of these pixels was doubled; and for scenario 3, LAI was halved. ETMODIS was calculated for each scenario by adjusting the ET0 data from a nearby automatic weather station with the MODIS LAI product. The results showed that the estimated annual ETMODIS obtained from the high biomass catchment was 111 mm greater than that obtained from the low biomass catchment. When comparing between the scenarios, the annual ETMODIS obtained from scenario 2 was the highest of the 3 scenarios for both sites. These results confirm that increased leaf area results in higher annual ETMODIS. This has a positive long term impact on stream flow, as high grass biomass allows the rainfall to infiltrate the soil and be gradually released to the dams with reduced magnitude of storm flows. This approach has the potential to quantify the benefits to down-stream water users of improving above-ground biomass in catchments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Finca, Andiswa
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Evapotranspiration , Evapotranspiration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10651 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1009517 , Evapotranspiration , Evapotranspiration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Grassland is the dominant vegetation cover of many of the 19 Water Catchment Areas within South Africa. The inappropriate management of some of these grassland catchments by the communities that depend on them for their livelihoods, often results in overgrazed lands with low biomass or invasive alien species. The short grass maintained by grazing policies of many communities results in high storm flows that have an adverse effect on the quantity and quality of runoff and recharge. Catchment-scale water balances depend on accurate estimates of run-off, recharge and evapotranspiration (ET). This study focuses on the ET component of the catchment scale water balance and explores the effect of two different grazing strategies on ET. To achieve this, two contrasting but adjacent quaternary catchments namely: P10A (a high biomass site) and Q91C (a low biomass site) were selected within the Bushman’s River Primary catchment as primary study sites. Within each catchment, a relatively homogenous pixel of 1 km was selected, representing contrasting example of high and low intensity grazing. From an eleven year MODIS leaf area index (LAI) data stack (March 2000 – 2010), 8-day LAI values was extracted for each pixel in each catchment. Using the Penman- Monteith equation, potential evapotranspiration (ET0) was calculated using data from a nearly automatic weather station. Actual evapotranspiration was estimated by adjusting ET0 using the values extracted from the MODIS LAI product. The MODIS LAI ET (ETMODIS) obtained for the eleven year period for both 1 km pixels decreased consistently, reflecting a general trend in declining LAI throughout the Eastern Cape. The highest ETMODIS obtained from P10A was 610.3 mm (2001) and the lowest was 333.1 mm (2009). Then from Q91C the highest ET obtained was 534.7 mm (2006) and the lowest was 266.2 mm (2009). The ETMODIS results were validated for each catchment using the Open Top Chamber (OTC) which sums the water lost from vegetation and soil within the chamber. This validation was conducted during the growing season of 2010–11. Wind speed; relative humidity and temperature were measured both at the inlet and the outlet of the chamber on five clear sunny days for each 1 km pixel. ETa for the same period was compared to the OTC ET (ETOTC) using the regression analysis and a good relationship was observed with the r2 of 0.7065. The relationship observed confirmed that ETOTC closely approximates ETMODIS and that the OTC can be used as a tool to validate MODIS LAI ET on clear, low winds and sunny days. In order to demonstrate proof-of-concept for the use of this modeling of ETMODIS within a Payment for Ecosystem Services framework, the approach was applied to two other quaternary catchments under communal tenure. Within each catchment, three land use scenarios were created for each catchment to reflect potential changes in the standing aboveground biomass. For Scenario 1, the status quo was maintained; for Scenario 2, MODIS pixels representing 28 km in each catchment were selected and the LAI of these pixels was doubled; and for scenario 3, LAI was halved. ETMODIS was calculated for each scenario by adjusting the ET0 data from a nearby automatic weather station with the MODIS LAI product. The results showed that the estimated annual ETMODIS obtained from the high biomass catchment was 111 mm greater than that obtained from the low biomass catchment. When comparing between the scenarios, the annual ETMODIS obtained from scenario 2 was the highest of the 3 scenarios for both sites. These results confirm that increased leaf area results in higher annual ETMODIS. This has a positive long term impact on stream flow, as high grass biomass allows the rainfall to infiltrate the soil and be gradually released to the dams with reduced magnitude of storm flows. This approach has the potential to quantify the benefits to down-stream water users of improving above-ground biomass in catchments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Mohair and wool fibre surface structure and lustre determination
- Ndlovu, Ntombizikhona Beaulah
- Authors: Ndlovu, Ntombizikhona Beaulah
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Mohair and wool fibre -- Lustre
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:18484 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1006641
- Description: Textiles have always been one of the essential materials for people and have a great variety of uses such as in clothing, agriculture, medical, automotive and aerospace applications. The sort of properties needed for any type of fabric basically depend on the structure of the fibre surface. Of many geometric attributes that can be used to describe the surface appearance of a fibre, yarn, or fabric sample, one of the more common is lustre. Mohair and wool fibre surface structure have been studied using optical microscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Optical microscopy was also used to take fibre diameter measurements. Another technique, goniophotometry, was used to make quantitative lustre measurements of mohair and wool fibres. The surface structure of mohair has got a faint pattern of scales where the scales are generally unpronounced or flat and relatively long. Wool has got a scaly surface structure where the scales overlap leading to interlocking of fibres. The scale configuration on the surface of mohair and wool fibres also differs. A qualitative connection between fibre lustre and the fibre surface structure was found. Because of its smooth surface relative to that of wool, mohair reflects a greater amount of incident light specularly whereas wool reflects most of the incident light diffusely. In general, mohair fibres have a higher lustre than wool due to its less prominent cuticle structure found on its surface. Furthermore, mohair fibres with the smallest diameters give an even higher lustre.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Ndlovu, Ntombizikhona Beaulah
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Mohair and wool fibre -- Lustre
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:18484 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1006641
- Description: Textiles have always been one of the essential materials for people and have a great variety of uses such as in clothing, agriculture, medical, automotive and aerospace applications. The sort of properties needed for any type of fabric basically depend on the structure of the fibre surface. Of many geometric attributes that can be used to describe the surface appearance of a fibre, yarn, or fabric sample, one of the more common is lustre. Mohair and wool fibre surface structure have been studied using optical microscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Optical microscopy was also used to take fibre diameter measurements. Another technique, goniophotometry, was used to make quantitative lustre measurements of mohair and wool fibres. The surface structure of mohair has got a faint pattern of scales where the scales are generally unpronounced or flat and relatively long. Wool has got a scaly surface structure where the scales overlap leading to interlocking of fibres. The scale configuration on the surface of mohair and wool fibres also differs. A qualitative connection between fibre lustre and the fibre surface structure was found. Because of its smooth surface relative to that of wool, mohair reflects a greater amount of incident light specularly whereas wool reflects most of the incident light diffusely. In general, mohair fibres have a higher lustre than wool due to its less prominent cuticle structure found on its surface. Furthermore, mohair fibres with the smallest diameters give an even higher lustre.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Monetary policy transmission in South Africa: a comparative analysis of credit and exchange rate channels
- Authors: Sebitso, Nathaniel Maemu
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Monetary policy -- South Africa , Foreign exchange market -- South Africa , Financial crises -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions , South Africa -- Economic policy , Banks and banking -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1129 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020851
- Description: This thesis focuses on monetary policy transmission and particularly seeks to examine the impact of credit and exchange rate channels of monetary policy transmission in the South African economy. South Africa's monetary policy has gone through several changes over the past thirty years. In this respect, there is a need for robust empirical evidence on the effects of these channels on inflation and output. The thesis employs a structural vector autoregressive (SVAR) model to identify monetary transmission in South Africa for the period 1994:q4 - 2008:q2. The form of the SVAR used in this thesis is based on the fact that South Africa is a small open economy, which means that external shocks are an important driver of domestic activity. The impulse responses and variance decomposition results show that the repo rate, credit and exchange rate play a role in terms of their impact on inflation and output. The dynamic responses to the identified monetary policy shock are consistent with standard theory and highlight the importance of the interest rate channel. A shock to the interest rate, increasing it by one standard deviation, results in a persistent fall in credit. The response of output is immediate as it falls and bottoms out within the second year. Inflation shows a lagged response, it is positive within the first year as the exchange rate depreciates but in subsequent quarters inflation responds negatively as expected. Inflation falls and reaches a minimum by approximately eight quarters then moves towards baseline. The exchange rate shows delayed appreciation. The shock to the repo interest rate leads to an immediate depreciation of the exchange rate in the first two quarters as output declines, followed by an appreciation in the third and sixth quarter. Due to larger error bounds the impact of the repo rate on the exchange rate could be less effective within the first two years. The impulse responses suggest that monetary policy plays an effective role in stabilising the economy in response to a credit shock, notwithstanding large standard error bounds. Hence, the monetary authority reacts by increasing the repo rate as a result of inflation. The impact of credit on output is positive but is offset to some extent by the rising repo rate. In response to the rand appreciation, the monetary authority reduces the repo rate significantly during the first year with the maximum impact in the second year and then returns to baseline thereafter. Therefore the monetary authority reduces the repo rate, probably to stabilise falling inflation. The result shows that inflation falls as a result of the rand appreciation. A shock to the exchange rate causes a rise in output, though small in magnitude, which is persistent but reaches baseline at the end of the period. This result could reflect the effects of the resultant fall in the repo rate and a persistent rise in credit over the whole period, which tends to increase output. The exchange rate shows an obvious and stronger immediate impact on inflation compared to credit impact on inflation. However, the credit shock has an obvious and stronger impact on output compared to an exchange rate impact on output. However, the large standard error bounds may imply that credit and exchange rate channels are not as effective in the short run. It is important to note that the results are based on the SVAR model estimated with percentage growth rate of the variables. The variance decomposition result is in line with the impulse responses and shows that the exchange rate and credit channels could be important transmission channels in South Africa over the chosen sample period. The exchange rate and credit shocks show a stronger effect on inflation than on output, looking at both the impulse responses and variance decomposition results. The reaction of the repo interest rate to the credit and exchange rate shocks comes out as expected. The repo rate increases as a result of an increase in the credit and falls as a result of the currency appreciation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Sebitso, Nathaniel Maemu
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Monetary policy -- South Africa , Foreign exchange market -- South Africa , Financial crises -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions , South Africa -- Economic policy , Banks and banking -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1129 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020851
- Description: This thesis focuses on monetary policy transmission and particularly seeks to examine the impact of credit and exchange rate channels of monetary policy transmission in the South African economy. South Africa's monetary policy has gone through several changes over the past thirty years. In this respect, there is a need for robust empirical evidence on the effects of these channels on inflation and output. The thesis employs a structural vector autoregressive (SVAR) model to identify monetary transmission in South Africa for the period 1994:q4 - 2008:q2. The form of the SVAR used in this thesis is based on the fact that South Africa is a small open economy, which means that external shocks are an important driver of domestic activity. The impulse responses and variance decomposition results show that the repo rate, credit and exchange rate play a role in terms of their impact on inflation and output. The dynamic responses to the identified monetary policy shock are consistent with standard theory and highlight the importance of the interest rate channel. A shock to the interest rate, increasing it by one standard deviation, results in a persistent fall in credit. The response of output is immediate as it falls and bottoms out within the second year. Inflation shows a lagged response, it is positive within the first year as the exchange rate depreciates but in subsequent quarters inflation responds negatively as expected. Inflation falls and reaches a minimum by approximately eight quarters then moves towards baseline. The exchange rate shows delayed appreciation. The shock to the repo interest rate leads to an immediate depreciation of the exchange rate in the first two quarters as output declines, followed by an appreciation in the third and sixth quarter. Due to larger error bounds the impact of the repo rate on the exchange rate could be less effective within the first two years. The impulse responses suggest that monetary policy plays an effective role in stabilising the economy in response to a credit shock, notwithstanding large standard error bounds. Hence, the monetary authority reacts by increasing the repo rate as a result of inflation. The impact of credit on output is positive but is offset to some extent by the rising repo rate. In response to the rand appreciation, the monetary authority reduces the repo rate significantly during the first year with the maximum impact in the second year and then returns to baseline thereafter. Therefore the monetary authority reduces the repo rate, probably to stabilise falling inflation. The result shows that inflation falls as a result of the rand appreciation. A shock to the exchange rate causes a rise in output, though small in magnitude, which is persistent but reaches baseline at the end of the period. This result could reflect the effects of the resultant fall in the repo rate and a persistent rise in credit over the whole period, which tends to increase output. The exchange rate shows an obvious and stronger immediate impact on inflation compared to credit impact on inflation. However, the credit shock has an obvious and stronger impact on output compared to an exchange rate impact on output. However, the large standard error bounds may imply that credit and exchange rate channels are not as effective in the short run. It is important to note that the results are based on the SVAR model estimated with percentage growth rate of the variables. The variance decomposition result is in line with the impulse responses and shows that the exchange rate and credit channels could be important transmission channels in South Africa over the chosen sample period. The exchange rate and credit shocks show a stronger effect on inflation than on output, looking at both the impulse responses and variance decomposition results. The reaction of the repo interest rate to the credit and exchange rate shocks comes out as expected. The repo rate increases as a result of an increase in the credit and falls as a result of the currency appreciation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Monitoring and evaluation indicators of the HIV & AIDS programme in Grahamstown's public sector health care system
- Authors: Mahasele, Phehello Anthony
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Services for -- South Africa -- Grahamstown -- Evaluation HIV-positive persons -- Services for -- South Africa -- Grahamstown -- Evaluation Public health -- South Africa -- Grahamstown -- Evaluation Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:3770 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003248
- Description: South Africa is one of the countries hardest hit with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic. In response to the epidemic, the South African government adopted the Comprehensive HIV & AIDS Care, Management and Treatment programme strategic plan (CCMT) in 2000 (1) and developed the Operational Plan for CCMT for antiretroviral therapy rollout in 2003 (2). In order to monitor the progress of the implementation of CCMT, the National Department of Health (NDOH) adopted the Monitoring and Evaluation (M & E) framework in 2004 (3). The aim of this study was to assess the HIV & AIDS programme in Grahamstown‘s public sector health care system by using the national M & E indicators of the HIV & AIDS programme. The national M & E framework was used as the data collection tool and available information was collected from various sources such as the District Health Office (DHO), Primary Health Care (PHC) office, accredited antiretroviral sites and the provincial pharmaceutical depot. Group interviews were conducted with key stakeholder health care professionals at the District Health Office, Primary Health Care office, Settlers Hospital and the provincial Department of Health personnel. A one-on-one interview was conducted with the Deputy Director of HIV & AIDS Directorate, monitoring and evaluation in the National Department of Health. Available indicators such as budget and expenditure including antiretroviral procurement; human resources; nutrition-related indicators; prevention care and treatment indicators were collected. A group interview was conducted to document current practices, or where there was a lack of documentation, for indicators such as traditional medicines and pharmacovigilance. Most of the national M & E indicators are not required to be collected or collated by the district because the reporting format designed by the provincial Department of Health is different. Facilities, districts and provinces in South Africa are at different levels of implementation of the antiretroviral programme and hence a common format of the M & E indicators is not used by all provinces. Uniform data collection is not achieved due to human resources‘ constraints and other challenges such as continued use of manual reporting systems by the clinics. Districts are expected to report according to the formats drawn up by the provincial Department of Health (DOH) and there is a lack of awareness regarding the national M & E document amongst the Grahamstown Health Care Professionals. There is a need for training on the use of the M & E national framework so that the HCPs at the primary and secondary levels of the health care system are proficient with the process of M & E, and can provide inputs as well as take ownership of the process. The establishment of an M & E unit in Grahamstown is essential so that data collection and submission of the HIV & AIDS programme in the public sector according to the National M & E framework is addressed. However, despite all constraints and challenges in the public sector health care system in Grahamstown, available human and financial resources are being used effectively to maintain the HIV & AIDS programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mahasele, Phehello Anthony
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Services for -- South Africa -- Grahamstown -- Evaluation HIV-positive persons -- Services for -- South Africa -- Grahamstown -- Evaluation Public health -- South Africa -- Grahamstown -- Evaluation Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:3770 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003248
- Description: South Africa is one of the countries hardest hit with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic. In response to the epidemic, the South African government adopted the Comprehensive HIV & AIDS Care, Management and Treatment programme strategic plan (CCMT) in 2000 (1) and developed the Operational Plan for CCMT for antiretroviral therapy rollout in 2003 (2). In order to monitor the progress of the implementation of CCMT, the National Department of Health (NDOH) adopted the Monitoring and Evaluation (M & E) framework in 2004 (3). The aim of this study was to assess the HIV & AIDS programme in Grahamstown‘s public sector health care system by using the national M & E indicators of the HIV & AIDS programme. The national M & E framework was used as the data collection tool and available information was collected from various sources such as the District Health Office (DHO), Primary Health Care (PHC) office, accredited antiretroviral sites and the provincial pharmaceutical depot. Group interviews were conducted with key stakeholder health care professionals at the District Health Office, Primary Health Care office, Settlers Hospital and the provincial Department of Health personnel. A one-on-one interview was conducted with the Deputy Director of HIV & AIDS Directorate, monitoring and evaluation in the National Department of Health. Available indicators such as budget and expenditure including antiretroviral procurement; human resources; nutrition-related indicators; prevention care and treatment indicators were collected. A group interview was conducted to document current practices, or where there was a lack of documentation, for indicators such as traditional medicines and pharmacovigilance. Most of the national M & E indicators are not required to be collected or collated by the district because the reporting format designed by the provincial Department of Health is different. Facilities, districts and provinces in South Africa are at different levels of implementation of the antiretroviral programme and hence a common format of the M & E indicators is not used by all provinces. Uniform data collection is not achieved due to human resources‘ constraints and other challenges such as continued use of manual reporting systems by the clinics. Districts are expected to report according to the formats drawn up by the provincial Department of Health (DOH) and there is a lack of awareness regarding the national M & E document amongst the Grahamstown Health Care Professionals. There is a need for training on the use of the M & E national framework so that the HCPs at the primary and secondary levels of the health care system are proficient with the process of M & E, and can provide inputs as well as take ownership of the process. The establishment of an M & E unit in Grahamstown is essential so that data collection and submission of the HIV & AIDS programme in the public sector according to the National M & E framework is addressed. However, despite all constraints and challenges in the public sector health care system in Grahamstown, available human and financial resources are being used effectively to maintain the HIV & AIDS programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Motivations of international trophy hunters choosing to hunt in South Africa
- Authors: Mulder, Attilia Cesira
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Hunting trophies -- South Africa , Hunting -- South Africa , Travelers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9360 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1328 , Hunting trophies -- South Africa , Hunting -- South Africa , Travelers
- Description: In travel research, it is generally accepted that push factors are the motivations that prompt an individual to travel, and pull factors are those by which the individual is enticed by the attractiveness of the destination, once the decision to travel has been made. Having this been said, this research examined the motivations of international trophy hunters and why they chose to hunt in South Africa. The empirical data were collected by means of a postal survey. Two thousand self-administered questionnaires were distributed to overseas hunters who had previously visited South Africa to participate in a hunting safari. One hundred and ninety one questionnaires were suitable for the data analysis. Results of the principal component factor analysis yielded six push motivational dimensions that influenced an individual to participate in trophy hunting, and three pull motivational dimensions that encouraged hunters to hunt in South Africa. Multivariate analyses (MANOVA) were conducted to examine differences between the push and pull factors across various socio-demographic characteristics. Where differences in the MANOVA were found, additional analyses were conducted to examine differences between push and pull factors on the socio-demographic subgroups. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to measure the degree of interrelationships among push and pull factors for socio-demographic factors. To address the objectives of the current study, five postulations were formulated. The first postulation revealed that personal, psychological needs and values, such as status, family, social interaction, exercise and challenge, were the main factors that push individuals to participate in trophy hunting. Postulation 2 indicated that a number of factors pull overseas hunters to hunt in South Africa namely, nature/scenery, fantasy and information sources - particularly recommendations by other hunters. The third postulation was confirmed namely that country of residence, age, gender, occupation and income have an influence on push and pull factors of motivation. Postulation 4 partly confirmed that a positive relationship exists between a number of push and pull factors of motivation. Lastly, postulation 5 verified that socio-demographics do have an influence on the relationship between push and pull factors of motivation. Results of the study thus provide destination/tourism/marketing managers and/or professionals within the hunting industry with a better understanding of hunters' travel motivation and behavior.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mulder, Attilia Cesira
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Hunting trophies -- South Africa , Hunting -- South Africa , Travelers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9360 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1328 , Hunting trophies -- South Africa , Hunting -- South Africa , Travelers
- Description: In travel research, it is generally accepted that push factors are the motivations that prompt an individual to travel, and pull factors are those by which the individual is enticed by the attractiveness of the destination, once the decision to travel has been made. Having this been said, this research examined the motivations of international trophy hunters and why they chose to hunt in South Africa. The empirical data were collected by means of a postal survey. Two thousand self-administered questionnaires were distributed to overseas hunters who had previously visited South Africa to participate in a hunting safari. One hundred and ninety one questionnaires were suitable for the data analysis. Results of the principal component factor analysis yielded six push motivational dimensions that influenced an individual to participate in trophy hunting, and three pull motivational dimensions that encouraged hunters to hunt in South Africa. Multivariate analyses (MANOVA) were conducted to examine differences between the push and pull factors across various socio-demographic characteristics. Where differences in the MANOVA were found, additional analyses were conducted to examine differences between push and pull factors on the socio-demographic subgroups. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to measure the degree of interrelationships among push and pull factors for socio-demographic factors. To address the objectives of the current study, five postulations were formulated. The first postulation revealed that personal, psychological needs and values, such as status, family, social interaction, exercise and challenge, were the main factors that push individuals to participate in trophy hunting. Postulation 2 indicated that a number of factors pull overseas hunters to hunt in South Africa namely, nature/scenery, fantasy and information sources - particularly recommendations by other hunters. The third postulation was confirmed namely that country of residence, age, gender, occupation and income have an influence on push and pull factors of motivation. Postulation 4 partly confirmed that a positive relationship exists between a number of push and pull factors of motivation. Lastly, postulation 5 verified that socio-demographics do have an influence on the relationship between push and pull factors of motivation. Results of the study thus provide destination/tourism/marketing managers and/or professionals within the hunting industry with a better understanding of hunters' travel motivation and behavior.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Nanostructures and metallophthalocyanines : applications in microbial fuel cells
- Authors: Edwards, Sean
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Microbial fuel cells , Waste products as fuel , Nanostructured materials , Electrochemistry , Nanotubes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4107 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011742 , Microbial fuel cells , Waste products as fuel , Nanostructured materials , Electrochemistry , Nanotubes
- Description: Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are a promising form of alternative energy capable of harnessing the potential energy stores in organic waste. The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) forms an integral role in the generation of electricity in MFCs however it is also a potential obstacle in enhancing the performance of MFCs. Platinum, a commonly used catalyst for the ORR, is expensive and rare. Significant research has been conducted into developing alternative catalysts. Metallophthalocyanines (MPc) have garnered attention for use as catalysts. Iron phthalocyanine (FePc) has been shown to have catalytic activity towards the reduction of oxygen. Coupling of the catalyst to nanostructured carbon materials, such as multi-walled carbon nanotubes, has been observed to have several advantages as nanostructures have a high surface-to-volume ratio. In this study, we have attempted to assess the suitability of FePc, both its bulk and nanostructured form, as an oxygen reduction catalyst and acid functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes for use as a catalyst support using electrochemical techniques such as cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. We showed, for the first time, the catalytic nature of nanostructured FePc towards the ORR. Applying the data obtained from the electrochemical analyses, electrodes were modified using FePc and MWCNTs and applied to an Enterobacter cloacae-based MFC. Several operational parameters of the MFC, such as temperature and ionic strength, were optimized during the course of the study. We showed that optimized FePc:MWCNT-modified electrodes compared favourably to platinum-based electrodes in terms of power densities obtained in a microbial fuel cell.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Edwards, Sean
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Microbial fuel cells , Waste products as fuel , Nanostructured materials , Electrochemistry , Nanotubes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4107 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011742 , Microbial fuel cells , Waste products as fuel , Nanostructured materials , Electrochemistry , Nanotubes
- Description: Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are a promising form of alternative energy capable of harnessing the potential energy stores in organic waste. The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) forms an integral role in the generation of electricity in MFCs however it is also a potential obstacle in enhancing the performance of MFCs. Platinum, a commonly used catalyst for the ORR, is expensive and rare. Significant research has been conducted into developing alternative catalysts. Metallophthalocyanines (MPc) have garnered attention for use as catalysts. Iron phthalocyanine (FePc) has been shown to have catalytic activity towards the reduction of oxygen. Coupling of the catalyst to nanostructured carbon materials, such as multi-walled carbon nanotubes, has been observed to have several advantages as nanostructures have a high surface-to-volume ratio. In this study, we have attempted to assess the suitability of FePc, both its bulk and nanostructured form, as an oxygen reduction catalyst and acid functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes for use as a catalyst support using electrochemical techniques such as cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. We showed, for the first time, the catalytic nature of nanostructured FePc towards the ORR. Applying the data obtained from the electrochemical analyses, electrodes were modified using FePc and MWCNTs and applied to an Enterobacter cloacae-based MFC. Several operational parameters of the MFC, such as temperature and ionic strength, were optimized during the course of the study. We showed that optimized FePc:MWCNT-modified electrodes compared favourably to platinum-based electrodes in terms of power densities obtained in a microbial fuel cell.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Narratives of curriculum adaptations: teacher challenges in the face of curriculum reform
- Authors: Harricharan, Romila
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Curriculum change , Basic education , Education -- South Africa , Education -- Curricula , Education and state
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9449 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008618 , Curriculum change , Basic education , Education -- South Africa , Education -- Curricula , Education and state
- Description: Prior to the landmark 1994 democratic elections the South African education system was unequal and departmentalised. The transformation in South African politics was reflected in the changes implemented in the education curriculum. A massive shift in the basic education process was put into operation, in an attempt to create an amalgamated system which would equally benefit all learners (Hackenberg, 2002:20). These curriculum alterations created a lot of dissatisfaction and a sense of frustration among the teaching fraternity (Maphalala, 2006:7 and Knight, 2005:27). The basis of this study focuses on my concern that teachers, already tense and overworked, face many challenges when curriculum modifications occur, and may find it extremely difficult to cope with them. The associated challenges may lead to excess stress, adversity and teachers becoming ill. For this research study I evaluated how teachers confront and cope with the challenges associated with changes to curriculum. The method and success of these coping skills and the management of curriculum revision is directly linked to certain issues, which may exacerbate problems stemming from these changes and have negative effects of on the teachers themselves. This study is a narrative of teachers’ experiences and was primarily conducted in the Umlazi Circuit of the KwaZulu Natal Department of Education. Purposive sampling was utilised by me, whereby the respondents, teachers who had over twenty years of teaching experience, were carefully selected from four primary schools and one secondary school. The study used the qualitative research approach within the interpretive paradigm, allowing for an in-depth insight into the challenges faced by teachers with changes to the curriculum. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and observation. The data was later analysed using codes, themes and categories. This analysis revealed that curriculum changes cause teachers to experience many challenges in the classroom. These challenges include, amongst others, lack of resources; discipline problems; excessive workloads; overcrowded classrooms; and insufficient professional development workshops.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Harricharan, Romila
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Curriculum change , Basic education , Education -- South Africa , Education -- Curricula , Education and state
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9449 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008618 , Curriculum change , Basic education , Education -- South Africa , Education -- Curricula , Education and state
- Description: Prior to the landmark 1994 democratic elections the South African education system was unequal and departmentalised. The transformation in South African politics was reflected in the changes implemented in the education curriculum. A massive shift in the basic education process was put into operation, in an attempt to create an amalgamated system which would equally benefit all learners (Hackenberg, 2002:20). These curriculum alterations created a lot of dissatisfaction and a sense of frustration among the teaching fraternity (Maphalala, 2006:7 and Knight, 2005:27). The basis of this study focuses on my concern that teachers, already tense and overworked, face many challenges when curriculum modifications occur, and may find it extremely difficult to cope with them. The associated challenges may lead to excess stress, adversity and teachers becoming ill. For this research study I evaluated how teachers confront and cope with the challenges associated with changes to curriculum. The method and success of these coping skills and the management of curriculum revision is directly linked to certain issues, which may exacerbate problems stemming from these changes and have negative effects of on the teachers themselves. This study is a narrative of teachers’ experiences and was primarily conducted in the Umlazi Circuit of the KwaZulu Natal Department of Education. Purposive sampling was utilised by me, whereby the respondents, teachers who had over twenty years of teaching experience, were carefully selected from four primary schools and one secondary school. The study used the qualitative research approach within the interpretive paradigm, allowing for an in-depth insight into the challenges faced by teachers with changes to the curriculum. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and observation. The data was later analysed using codes, themes and categories. This analysis revealed that curriculum changes cause teachers to experience many challenges in the classroom. These challenges include, amongst others, lack of resources; discipline problems; excessive workloads; overcrowded classrooms; and insufficient professional development workshops.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Nearshore subtidal soft-bottom macrozoobenthic community structure in the western sector of Algoa Bay, South Africa
- Authors: Masikane, Ntuthuko Fortune
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Benthic animals -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay , Benthos
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10684 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1466 , Benthic animals -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay , Benthos
- Description: The objectives of this study were to characterise macrozoobenthic community structure of the western sector of Algoa Bay, to identify the drivers of community structure and to develop a long-term monitoring framework. Data were collected from six study sites stratified along-shore. Each site comprised three stations; most sites were located in areas directly influenced by anthropogenic activities such as inflow from storm water drains and areas where dredged spoil was dumped. Other sites included areas in close proximity to estuary mouths. Physico-chemical parameters of the water column were measured with a YSI instrument, sediment for faunal and physico-chemical analyses was sampled with a Van Veen grab, and collected macrofauna were sedated and preserved pending analysis. In the laboratory, macrofauna were identified to finest taxonomic resolution possible under dissecting and compound microscopes, and enumerated. Sediment samples for physico-chemical analyses were kept frozen pending analysis. Up to 187 species belonging to 137 genera and 105 families were identified. Univariate community parameters such as abundance and number of species varied significantly along-shore, generally increasing towards less wave-exposed sites. Multivariate analyses revealed that community assemblages were heterogeneously distributed along-shore, corresponding to areas where anthropogenic influences such as effluent discharge and commercial harbour activities prevailed. During the 2008 survey, species assemblages separated into six groups corresponding to the six sites but xvii during the 2009 survey, species assemblages separated into four groups probably due to changes in environmental parameters such as the hydrodynamic regime. In both surveys the assemblage opposite a drainage canal (Papenkuils outfall) was distinct as it was dissimilar to all other assemblages. This site was also heterogeneous over relatively small spatial scales. Important physico-chemical variables influencing community structures during the 2008 survey included bottom measurements of temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, coarse sand and mud. During the 2009 survey, only bottom temperature and mud content were identified as important physico-chemical variables structuring community assemblages. The principal variable was probably the hydrodynamic regime, driving community structure at a larger scale in Algoa Bay. On a localised scale, communities were probably structured by other factors such as effluent discharges, influence of estuary mouths and activities associated with the harbour. With a lack of information on keystone species (regarded as good monitoring species) in Algoa Bay, it was proposed that groups that cumulatively comprise 50–75 percent of total abundance within communities be monitored annually. Included are amphipods, polychaetes, cumaceans, ostracods, tanaids and bivalves. It was also proposed that areas opposite estuary mouths, effluent outfalls and the dredged spoil dumpsite be monitored. This routine monitoring programme should be accompanied by periodic hypothesis driven research to assess the importance of stochastic events (e.g., upwelling) on macrozoobenthic community dynamics. Keywords: macrozoobenthos, soft-bottom, community assemblages, spatial distribution patterns, environmental drivers, long-term monitoring framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Masikane, Ntuthuko Fortune
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Benthic animals -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay , Benthos
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10684 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1466 , Benthic animals -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay , Benthos
- Description: The objectives of this study were to characterise macrozoobenthic community structure of the western sector of Algoa Bay, to identify the drivers of community structure and to develop a long-term monitoring framework. Data were collected from six study sites stratified along-shore. Each site comprised three stations; most sites were located in areas directly influenced by anthropogenic activities such as inflow from storm water drains and areas where dredged spoil was dumped. Other sites included areas in close proximity to estuary mouths. Physico-chemical parameters of the water column were measured with a YSI instrument, sediment for faunal and physico-chemical analyses was sampled with a Van Veen grab, and collected macrofauna were sedated and preserved pending analysis. In the laboratory, macrofauna were identified to finest taxonomic resolution possible under dissecting and compound microscopes, and enumerated. Sediment samples for physico-chemical analyses were kept frozen pending analysis. Up to 187 species belonging to 137 genera and 105 families were identified. Univariate community parameters such as abundance and number of species varied significantly along-shore, generally increasing towards less wave-exposed sites. Multivariate analyses revealed that community assemblages were heterogeneously distributed along-shore, corresponding to areas where anthropogenic influences such as effluent discharge and commercial harbour activities prevailed. During the 2008 survey, species assemblages separated into six groups corresponding to the six sites but xvii during the 2009 survey, species assemblages separated into four groups probably due to changes in environmental parameters such as the hydrodynamic regime. In both surveys the assemblage opposite a drainage canal (Papenkuils outfall) was distinct as it was dissimilar to all other assemblages. This site was also heterogeneous over relatively small spatial scales. Important physico-chemical variables influencing community structures during the 2008 survey included bottom measurements of temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, coarse sand and mud. During the 2009 survey, only bottom temperature and mud content were identified as important physico-chemical variables structuring community assemblages. The principal variable was probably the hydrodynamic regime, driving community structure at a larger scale in Algoa Bay. On a localised scale, communities were probably structured by other factors such as effluent discharges, influence of estuary mouths and activities associated with the harbour. With a lack of information on keystone species (regarded as good monitoring species) in Algoa Bay, it was proposed that groups that cumulatively comprise 50–75 percent of total abundance within communities be monitored annually. Included are amphipods, polychaetes, cumaceans, ostracods, tanaids and bivalves. It was also proposed that areas opposite estuary mouths, effluent outfalls and the dredged spoil dumpsite be monitored. This routine monitoring programme should be accompanied by periodic hypothesis driven research to assess the importance of stochastic events (e.g., upwelling) on macrozoobenthic community dynamics. Keywords: macrozoobenthos, soft-bottom, community assemblages, spatial distribution patterns, environmental drivers, long-term monitoring framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Negotiating the global : how young women in Nairobi shape their local identities in response to aspects of the mexican telenovela, Cuando seas mia
- Authors: Jiwaji, Aamera Hamzaali
- Date: 2011 , 2010-09-15
- Subjects: Cuando seas mia (Television program) , Television soap operas -- Kenya , Motion pictures and youth -- Kenya , Emigration and immigration in motion pictures -- Kenya , Ethnicity in motion pictures -- Kenya , Arts and society -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3532 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013364
- Description: Latin American telenovelas have been exported to more than a hundred countries across the globe. While they are popular in their country of production because their messages resonate with their audience’s everyday experiences, their popularity amongst global audiences with whom they share neither a social nor a cultural history is unexplained. Kenya has been importing and airing Latin American telenovelas since the early 1990s, and telenovelas have permeated many aspects of Kenyan daily life, when compared to other foreign globally-distributed media products that are aired on Kenyan television. As global media products, telenovelas remain open to criticisms from the media imperialism thesis. This research adopts an ethnographic approach to the study of audiences, and looks at the reception of a Mexican telenovela, Cuando Seas Mia, by a group of young Kenyan women in Nairobi. It reflects upon the media imperialism thesis from an African perspective by investigating the meanings that these women make from Cuando Seas Mia, and how these shape their changing local identities and cultures. The young women in this study, most of whom have moved to the city from the rural areas, are influenced by traditional, patriarchal Kenyan society and by the modern, Western influences of an urban environment. They experience a tension between their evolving rural and urban roles and identities and are drawn to telenovelas because their exploration of rural-urban themes holds a relevance to their own lives. They negotiate their contemporary African youth identities, gender roles and heterosexual relationships in relation to representations in the telenovela, questioning and destabilising African and Western definitions. These women select aspects from their traditional, African cultures and from their modern, Western experiences (and consumption of global media) and reconstruct them into a transitional youth identity which suits their day to day lives as young women living in an urban African environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Jiwaji, Aamera Hamzaali
- Date: 2011 , 2010-09-15
- Subjects: Cuando seas mia (Television program) , Television soap operas -- Kenya , Motion pictures and youth -- Kenya , Emigration and immigration in motion pictures -- Kenya , Ethnicity in motion pictures -- Kenya , Arts and society -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3532 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013364
- Description: Latin American telenovelas have been exported to more than a hundred countries across the globe. While they are popular in their country of production because their messages resonate with their audience’s everyday experiences, their popularity amongst global audiences with whom they share neither a social nor a cultural history is unexplained. Kenya has been importing and airing Latin American telenovelas since the early 1990s, and telenovelas have permeated many aspects of Kenyan daily life, when compared to other foreign globally-distributed media products that are aired on Kenyan television. As global media products, telenovelas remain open to criticisms from the media imperialism thesis. This research adopts an ethnographic approach to the study of audiences, and looks at the reception of a Mexican telenovela, Cuando Seas Mia, by a group of young Kenyan women in Nairobi. It reflects upon the media imperialism thesis from an African perspective by investigating the meanings that these women make from Cuando Seas Mia, and how these shape their changing local identities and cultures. The young women in this study, most of whom have moved to the city from the rural areas, are influenced by traditional, patriarchal Kenyan society and by the modern, Western influences of an urban environment. They experience a tension between their evolving rural and urban roles and identities and are drawn to telenovelas because their exploration of rural-urban themes holds a relevance to their own lives. They negotiate their contemporary African youth identities, gender roles and heterosexual relationships in relation to representations in the telenovela, questioning and destabilising African and Western definitions. These women select aspects from their traditional, African cultures and from their modern, Western experiences (and consumption of global media) and reconstruct them into a transitional youth identity which suits their day to day lives as young women living in an urban African environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University students' perceptions of sexualised advertisements of three South African fast food brands
- Authors: Wignall, Andrea
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Sex in advertising -- South Africa -- Childhood and youth , Food industry and trade -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8408 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011443 , Sex in advertising -- South Africa -- Childhood and youth , Food industry and trade -- South Africa
- Description: This research study aimed to provide the South African fast food industry and their advertising representatives with insights into 18-28-year-olds‟ perception of using sexual appeal to elicit their attention, and whether using this advertising technique is gaining positive brand recognition with this target market. This research study aimed to determine the selected sample‟s (NMMU students) perceptions of three South African fast food brands, namely KFC, Nando’s and Steers, in terms of their use of sexualised fast food advertisements. An electronic survey questionnaire was conducted with both closed and open-ended questions relating to the use of sexual appeal in advertising within the three South African fast food brands. The survey questionnaire helped determine what the selected sample‟s perceptions were of each advertisement, and whether the use of sexual appeal captured their attention. A semiotic analysis of each advertisement was conducted to determine if the advertisements do contain the use of sexual appeal, by examining the sign. This includes looking at the three aspects of a sign namely the signifier, the referent and the signified. In terms of this study, the signifier represents the T.V. advertisements; the signified represents the meaning of the advertisements and the referent represents to what the advertisements are initially referring. The results of the study indicated that each of the three fast food advertisements incorporated the use of sexual appeal in varying degrees. Respondents indicated that the sexual appeal in the advertisements was appropriate if they were directed at the right age group. The respondents indicated that these three advertisements were more likely to attract the males, in the target market and they felt that the advertisements leaned towards objectifying the women, which would be offensive to the females in the target market. It was determined that if the advertisements contained humour, they were more effective and memorable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Wignall, Andrea
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Sex in advertising -- South Africa -- Childhood and youth , Food industry and trade -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8408 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011443 , Sex in advertising -- South Africa -- Childhood and youth , Food industry and trade -- South Africa
- Description: This research study aimed to provide the South African fast food industry and their advertising representatives with insights into 18-28-year-olds‟ perception of using sexual appeal to elicit their attention, and whether using this advertising technique is gaining positive brand recognition with this target market. This research study aimed to determine the selected sample‟s (NMMU students) perceptions of three South African fast food brands, namely KFC, Nando’s and Steers, in terms of their use of sexualised fast food advertisements. An electronic survey questionnaire was conducted with both closed and open-ended questions relating to the use of sexual appeal in advertising within the three South African fast food brands. The survey questionnaire helped determine what the selected sample‟s perceptions were of each advertisement, and whether the use of sexual appeal captured their attention. A semiotic analysis of each advertisement was conducted to determine if the advertisements do contain the use of sexual appeal, by examining the sign. This includes looking at the three aspects of a sign namely the signifier, the referent and the signified. In terms of this study, the signifier represents the T.V. advertisements; the signified represents the meaning of the advertisements and the referent represents to what the advertisements are initially referring. The results of the study indicated that each of the three fast food advertisements incorporated the use of sexual appeal in varying degrees. Respondents indicated that the sexual appeal in the advertisements was appropriate if they were directed at the right age group. The respondents indicated that these three advertisements were more likely to attract the males, in the target market and they felt that the advertisements leaned towards objectifying the women, which would be offensive to the females in the target market. It was determined that if the advertisements contained humour, they were more effective and memorable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011