Determining jurisdiction at conciliation and arbitration
- Authors: Snyman, Chanel
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South Africa -- Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration -- Rules and practice Arbitration, Industrial -- South Africa , Mediation and conciliation, Industrial -- South Africa Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20648 , vital:29365
- Description: Jurisdiction is the power or competence of a Court to hear and determine an issue between parties, as well as the power to compel the parties to give effect to a judgment. The approach of a CCMA commissioner faced with a jurisdictional challenge is therefore an important issue that requires legal certainty. Unfortunately, our case law has not been uniform with regard to the various issues surrounding jurisdiction of the CCMA, for example: what facts need to be established in order for the CCMA to have jurisdiction and at what stage of the process should a commissioner deal with the issue of jurisdiction. The purpose of this treatise is to consider the various approaches of our courts to the issue of the jurisdiction of the CCMA and to determine what approach is practically best suited for CCMA commissioners when the issue of jurisdiction is in dispute. The research methodology is based on the various approaches of our courts to the jurisdiction of the CCMA as set out in Bombardier Transportation v Mtiya [2010] 8 BLLR 840 (LC). The more practical “third” approach as proposed by van Niekerk J, in Bombardier Transportation v Mtiya [2010] 8 BLLR 840 (LC), has been favoured by the Labour Court and the CCMA following the judgment. The correct approach of a commissioner when dealing with specific jurisdictional facts such as condonation and the jurisdiction of a bargaining council will further be considered. However, the predicament that commissioners face is that the Labour Appeal Court’s approach to jurisdiction is in conflict with that of the Labour Court’s approach. In conclusion, it is submitted that the Labour Appeal Court must pronounce on the issue of jurisdiction, taking into consideration the approach of the Labour Court as to create certainty regarding the correct approach of a commissioner when faced with a jurisdictional challenge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Snyman, Chanel
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South Africa -- Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration -- Rules and practice Arbitration, Industrial -- South Africa , Mediation and conciliation, Industrial -- South Africa Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20648 , vital:29365
- Description: Jurisdiction is the power or competence of a Court to hear and determine an issue between parties, as well as the power to compel the parties to give effect to a judgment. The approach of a CCMA commissioner faced with a jurisdictional challenge is therefore an important issue that requires legal certainty. Unfortunately, our case law has not been uniform with regard to the various issues surrounding jurisdiction of the CCMA, for example: what facts need to be established in order for the CCMA to have jurisdiction and at what stage of the process should a commissioner deal with the issue of jurisdiction. The purpose of this treatise is to consider the various approaches of our courts to the issue of the jurisdiction of the CCMA and to determine what approach is practically best suited for CCMA commissioners when the issue of jurisdiction is in dispute. The research methodology is based on the various approaches of our courts to the jurisdiction of the CCMA as set out in Bombardier Transportation v Mtiya [2010] 8 BLLR 840 (LC). The more practical “third” approach as proposed by van Niekerk J, in Bombardier Transportation v Mtiya [2010] 8 BLLR 840 (LC), has been favoured by the Labour Court and the CCMA following the judgment. The correct approach of a commissioner when dealing with specific jurisdictional facts such as condonation and the jurisdiction of a bargaining council will further be considered. However, the predicament that commissioners face is that the Labour Appeal Court’s approach to jurisdiction is in conflict with that of the Labour Court’s approach. In conclusion, it is submitted that the Labour Appeal Court must pronounce on the issue of jurisdiction, taking into consideration the approach of the Labour Court as to create certainty regarding the correct approach of a commissioner when faced with a jurisdictional challenge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Determining the relationship between leadership, emotional intelligence and organisational performance in government agencies
- Poya, Nkululeko Andrew Stephen
- Authors: Poya, Nkululeko Andrew Stephen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa Emotional intelligence , Performance -- Psychological aspects Leadership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19861 , vital:28989
- Description: objective of this research is mainly to determine the relationship between leadership, emotional intelligence and organisational performance in state owned agencies to contribute to the debate on the role of government agencies with the South African society. The study aims to contribute to scholarly research which deals with performance related issues in the public sector.This study is however, not addressing other issues such as training needs of employees in government agencies, intelligence quotient, spiritual intelligence, corruption and ethics management. In keeping with one of the objectives of the study, a detailed review of literature was conducted in order to clearly define leadership (both transformational and transactional), emotional intelligence and organisational performance, and provide substantive reasons for the need for leaders with emotional intelligence in government agencies. The description of existing knowledge also provides outcomes of previous research pertaining to improvement of overall organisational performance. This study set out to determine the leadership approach and the level of emotional intelligence amongst the leadership sample. The research methodology employed in the study made use of a positivistic paradigm and was conducted by means of a qualitative study with careful description, analysis, interpretation and evaluation of data for the purpose of obtaining information and relevant data. The study objectives, appropriate conclusions and proposals are addressed based on the role that the two leadership approaches, linked to emotional intelligence plays with regard to organisational performance. This will ultimately enable the researcher to provide a framework for consideration during the selection of senior and executive staff members. Ultimately the recommendations made may contribute to the design of future practices aimed at improving public services in the long run in achieving the long term goals as set out in the National Development Plan.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Poya, Nkululeko Andrew Stephen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa Emotional intelligence , Performance -- Psychological aspects Leadership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19861 , vital:28989
- Description: objective of this research is mainly to determine the relationship between leadership, emotional intelligence and organisational performance in state owned agencies to contribute to the debate on the role of government agencies with the South African society. The study aims to contribute to scholarly research which deals with performance related issues in the public sector.This study is however, not addressing other issues such as training needs of employees in government agencies, intelligence quotient, spiritual intelligence, corruption and ethics management. In keeping with one of the objectives of the study, a detailed review of literature was conducted in order to clearly define leadership (both transformational and transactional), emotional intelligence and organisational performance, and provide substantive reasons for the need for leaders with emotional intelligence in government agencies. The description of existing knowledge also provides outcomes of previous research pertaining to improvement of overall organisational performance. This study set out to determine the leadership approach and the level of emotional intelligence amongst the leadership sample. The research methodology employed in the study made use of a positivistic paradigm and was conducted by means of a qualitative study with careful description, analysis, interpretation and evaluation of data for the purpose of obtaining information and relevant data. The study objectives, appropriate conclusions and proposals are addressed based on the role that the two leadership approaches, linked to emotional intelligence plays with regard to organisational performance. This will ultimately enable the researcher to provide a framework for consideration during the selection of senior and executive staff members. Ultimately the recommendations made may contribute to the design of future practices aimed at improving public services in the long run in achieving the long term goals as set out in the National Development Plan.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Deterrents to continued blood donation among regular blood donors
- Authors: Harris, Maryke
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Marketing -- Decision making -- Health aspects -- South Africa Blood donors -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Blood -- Collection and preservation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15934 , vital:28292
- Description: Collecting blood from repeat blood donors is cost effective and safer compared to other donor types. At the end of 2012, 84% of the SANBS donor panel were inactive or lapsed. There is a lack of research available on lapsed donors in the South African context and available research is mostly quantitative with subtle contradictions. Donors who donated blood in 2012 at fixed site donor centres in Port Elizabeth, and did not return in 2013, were studied. A descriptive analysis was done and a random sample of 78 lapsed donors were selected to participate in a face-to-face interview. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed. A grounded model was developed from various existing theories to seek out and conceptualise social patterns and structures of lapsed blood donors through a process of comparison. There were 10 062 donors who donated blood in 2012 and 4 923 became lapsed during 2013. Analysis of sub groups showed a higher proportion of donors who became lapsed in the following sub-categories: new donors (95%), re-joined donors (64%), black donors (63%), donors younger than 40 (61%), female donors (52%). The feedback received from the 11 participants highlighted peer pressure as the biggest motivator. Of the six communication theories applied, The Social Penetration Theory highlighted the cost-minus-benefit ratio which played a big role in a donor’s motivation and decision to return. The AIDA Marketing Model application described lapsed donor behaviour most comprehensively and it highlighted a missing step which was created as part of a Grounded Model and is called the AIDAA Model. The role and existence of peer pressure is directly linked to donor motivation and is categorised as an Action Motivator in the AIDAA Model. The new model creates additional recruitment opportunities which has not been explored and applied strategically before.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Harris, Maryke
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Marketing -- Decision making -- Health aspects -- South Africa Blood donors -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Blood -- Collection and preservation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15934 , vital:28292
- Description: Collecting blood from repeat blood donors is cost effective and safer compared to other donor types. At the end of 2012, 84% of the SANBS donor panel were inactive or lapsed. There is a lack of research available on lapsed donors in the South African context and available research is mostly quantitative with subtle contradictions. Donors who donated blood in 2012 at fixed site donor centres in Port Elizabeth, and did not return in 2013, were studied. A descriptive analysis was done and a random sample of 78 lapsed donors were selected to participate in a face-to-face interview. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed. A grounded model was developed from various existing theories to seek out and conceptualise social patterns and structures of lapsed blood donors through a process of comparison. There were 10 062 donors who donated blood in 2012 and 4 923 became lapsed during 2013. Analysis of sub groups showed a higher proportion of donors who became lapsed in the following sub-categories: new donors (95%), re-joined donors (64%), black donors (63%), donors younger than 40 (61%), female donors (52%). The feedback received from the 11 participants highlighted peer pressure as the biggest motivator. Of the six communication theories applied, The Social Penetration Theory highlighted the cost-minus-benefit ratio which played a big role in a donor’s motivation and decision to return. The AIDA Marketing Model application described lapsed donor behaviour most comprehensively and it highlighted a missing step which was created as part of a Grounded Model and is called the AIDAA Model. The role and existence of peer pressure is directly linked to donor motivation and is categorised as an Action Motivator in the AIDAA Model. The new model creates additional recruitment opportunities which has not been explored and applied strategically before.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Development of a liposomal acyclovir mucoadhesive film
- Authors: Nalungwe, Sarah
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Clinical pharmacology , Liposomes Nanomedicine
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14212 , vital:27451
- Description: Acyclovir is a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue with in vitro and in vivo inhibitory activity against herpes simplex virus types 1 (HSV-1), 2 (HSV-2), and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The efficacy of oral acyclovir is limited as a result of its low bioavailability (15-30%) as it is poorly water soluble and therefore requires a frequent dosing regimen. When orally administered, peak plasma concentration occurs after 1.5–2.5 hours, while its elimination half-life is approximately 2-3 hours. Acyclovir displays poor solubility in water and in lipid bilayers, which leads to poor drug levels at target sites after oral, local, or parenteral administration. In order to improve this lack of solubility, novel amphiphilic derivatives have been designed to form nanoparticles, which allow for the efficient encapsulation of this hydrophobic antiviral agent. Reformulation of drugs in liposomes has provided an opportunity to enhance the therapeutic indices of various agents mainly via alteration of their bio-distribution. Liposomal drug delivery systems have received considerable attention due to their immense advantages which include, effective encapsulation of both small and large molecules that have a wide range of hydrophobicity levels and pKa values, prolonging and targeting release of therapeutic agents by modification of liposomal surface and also minimising clinical drug dose thus reducing toxicity effects. Liposomes exhibit a number of special biological characteristics, including specific interactions with biological membranes and various cells, hence, liposomes are used as biocompatible carriers to improve delivery properties across mucus membranes. Mucoadhesive dosage forms may be designed to enable prolonged retention at the site of application, providing a controlled rate of drug release for improved therapeutic outcome. The aim of this study was to develop an acyclovir liposomal mucoadhesive film by actively encapsulating acyclovir into liposomes and preparing a mucoadhesive film to optimise delivery of acyclovir liposomes at target sites. To actively encapsulate acyclovir and prepare the acyclovir-containing liposomes, a comprehensive statistical methodology was used in optimising the liposome formulation to encapsulate acyclovir. Central composite design was used as the response surface methodology statistical tool to design and develop an optimised method for active encapsulation of acyclovir into liposomes. The predicted optimised encapsulation parameters were incubation temperature of 60 °C and incubation time of 45 minutes. The mean percentage encapsulation calculated was 27.72%. The overall average size of the liposomes was 99.5 nm with a narrow distribution polydispersity index of 0.105 and were physically characterised as small unilamellar vesicles which possessed an average zeta potential of -45.6 mV. High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was used to analyse and determine acyclovir drug content in the liposomes and drug release pattern from the mucoadhesive film. Polyvinyl-pyrrolidone (PVP) and Polyethylene glycol (PEG) were used in the preparation of mucoadhesive film, in which the acyclovir encapsulated liposomes were incorporated. The average amount of acyclovir drug content quantified to be in 4 cm2 of the mucoadhesive film was 36.8543 μg. The average tensile strength of the mucoadhesive film was determined to be 3.06 N/mm2 with an elongation percentage of 4.54%. The toughness of the film was 71.50 N.mm and the force required to rupture film was 16.49 N. The work and maximum force required to detach the mucoadhesive film from the glass side was 2.58 N.mm and 11615.32 mN, respectively. A Franz diffusion cell was used to perform acyclovir drug release studies from the mucoadhesive film and a commercial brand of acyclovir cream (Acitop®). Percentage acyclovir drug release from the film and cream was plotted against time using Sigmaplot® software version 13 following First order, Peppas, Hixon and Crowell, Higuchi (Square Root Time) and Bakers and Lonsdale mathematical models. The mucoadhesive film acyclovir attained the highest correlation coefficient r2 of 0.9879 following the Baker & Lonsdale mathematical model which describes controlled drug release from spherical matrices hence fits the model as the acyclovir is encapsulated in liposomes which are incorporated in the polymer mucoadhesive film. And the acyclovir cream (Acitop®) attained the highest correlation coefficient r2 of 0.9944 following the Peppas mathematical model. The Peppas model has been used to describe drug release from various release dosage forms when there is more than one type of dosage release or when release mechanism is not well known. One assumption of this model is that drug release occurs in one dimension, which is a suitable release profile for the cream as it is absorbed through the skin in one dimension when applied topically. There was significant difference between the drug release data for the mucoadhesive film and the acyclovir cream (Acitop®). A physically stable mucoadhesive film containing acyclovir-loaded liposomes was developed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Nalungwe, Sarah
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Clinical pharmacology , Liposomes Nanomedicine
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14212 , vital:27451
- Description: Acyclovir is a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue with in vitro and in vivo inhibitory activity against herpes simplex virus types 1 (HSV-1), 2 (HSV-2), and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The efficacy of oral acyclovir is limited as a result of its low bioavailability (15-30%) as it is poorly water soluble and therefore requires a frequent dosing regimen. When orally administered, peak plasma concentration occurs after 1.5–2.5 hours, while its elimination half-life is approximately 2-3 hours. Acyclovir displays poor solubility in water and in lipid bilayers, which leads to poor drug levels at target sites after oral, local, or parenteral administration. In order to improve this lack of solubility, novel amphiphilic derivatives have been designed to form nanoparticles, which allow for the efficient encapsulation of this hydrophobic antiviral agent. Reformulation of drugs in liposomes has provided an opportunity to enhance the therapeutic indices of various agents mainly via alteration of their bio-distribution. Liposomal drug delivery systems have received considerable attention due to their immense advantages which include, effective encapsulation of both small and large molecules that have a wide range of hydrophobicity levels and pKa values, prolonging and targeting release of therapeutic agents by modification of liposomal surface and also minimising clinical drug dose thus reducing toxicity effects. Liposomes exhibit a number of special biological characteristics, including specific interactions with biological membranes and various cells, hence, liposomes are used as biocompatible carriers to improve delivery properties across mucus membranes. Mucoadhesive dosage forms may be designed to enable prolonged retention at the site of application, providing a controlled rate of drug release for improved therapeutic outcome. The aim of this study was to develop an acyclovir liposomal mucoadhesive film by actively encapsulating acyclovir into liposomes and preparing a mucoadhesive film to optimise delivery of acyclovir liposomes at target sites. To actively encapsulate acyclovir and prepare the acyclovir-containing liposomes, a comprehensive statistical methodology was used in optimising the liposome formulation to encapsulate acyclovir. Central composite design was used as the response surface methodology statistical tool to design and develop an optimised method for active encapsulation of acyclovir into liposomes. The predicted optimised encapsulation parameters were incubation temperature of 60 °C and incubation time of 45 minutes. The mean percentage encapsulation calculated was 27.72%. The overall average size of the liposomes was 99.5 nm with a narrow distribution polydispersity index of 0.105 and were physically characterised as small unilamellar vesicles which possessed an average zeta potential of -45.6 mV. High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was used to analyse and determine acyclovir drug content in the liposomes and drug release pattern from the mucoadhesive film. Polyvinyl-pyrrolidone (PVP) and Polyethylene glycol (PEG) were used in the preparation of mucoadhesive film, in which the acyclovir encapsulated liposomes were incorporated. The average amount of acyclovir drug content quantified to be in 4 cm2 of the mucoadhesive film was 36.8543 μg. The average tensile strength of the mucoadhesive film was determined to be 3.06 N/mm2 with an elongation percentage of 4.54%. The toughness of the film was 71.50 N.mm and the force required to rupture film was 16.49 N. The work and maximum force required to detach the mucoadhesive film from the glass side was 2.58 N.mm and 11615.32 mN, respectively. A Franz diffusion cell was used to perform acyclovir drug release studies from the mucoadhesive film and a commercial brand of acyclovir cream (Acitop®). Percentage acyclovir drug release from the film and cream was plotted against time using Sigmaplot® software version 13 following First order, Peppas, Hixon and Crowell, Higuchi (Square Root Time) and Bakers and Lonsdale mathematical models. The mucoadhesive film acyclovir attained the highest correlation coefficient r2 of 0.9879 following the Baker & Lonsdale mathematical model which describes controlled drug release from spherical matrices hence fits the model as the acyclovir is encapsulated in liposomes which are incorporated in the polymer mucoadhesive film. And the acyclovir cream (Acitop®) attained the highest correlation coefficient r2 of 0.9944 following the Peppas mathematical model. The Peppas model has been used to describe drug release from various release dosage forms when there is more than one type of dosage release or when release mechanism is not well known. One assumption of this model is that drug release occurs in one dimension, which is a suitable release profile for the cream as it is absorbed through the skin in one dimension when applied topically. There was significant difference between the drug release data for the mucoadhesive film and the acyclovir cream (Acitop®). A physically stable mucoadhesive film containing acyclovir-loaded liposomes was developed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Devulcanization of model compounds by a variety of diphenyldisulfides
- Authors: Boyce, Annemè
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Rubber -- Recycling Rubber, Reclaimed , Rubber -- Standards -- South Africa Rubber -- Research Chromatographic analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14730 , vital:27834
- Description: Improvements to the properties of recycled rubber, by developing a more selective breakdown process, is an important issue and a global challenge. Devulcanization is the most promising way to achieve this. It is a process which aims to totally or partially cleave monosulfidic (C-S-C), disulfidic (C-S-S-C) and polysulfidic (C-Sx-C) crosslinks of vulcanized rubber. In this study, the devulcanization of sulfur-vulcanized natural rubber with a variety of diphenyldisulfides has been studied using 2,3-dimethyl-2-butene and squalene as model compounds, vulcanized by sulfur and 2-bisbenzothiazole-2,2’-disulfide. 2-aminodiphenyldisulfide; 4-amino-diphenyldisulfide; bis(2-benzamido-)diphenyldisulfide and 2,2’-bithiosalicylic acid were used as aromatic disulfides devulcanization agents. Thermal analysis was used to investigate interactions between various combinations of curatives in the vulcanization systems in the absence of model compounds. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to detect mass changes during vulcanization and whether the samples decompose/evaporate so as not to contaminate differential scanning calorimetry instrumentation. Differential scanning calorimetry was used to investigate reactions occurring between curatives. Comparison of reversing and non-reversing signals in modulated experiments are suggestive of reactions between devulcanization agents and sulfur, and accelerators Vulcanization of the model compounds were performed in 10m evacuated sealed glass ampoules placed in an oil bath at 160 °C and agitated for the duration of vulcanization. After 60 min the ampoules were removed and quenched. These were then devulcanized by exposure to a devulcanization agent in a sealed ampoule at 180 for 60 min. Crosslinked 2,3-dimethyl-2-butene species were isolated and analysed by reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography. Particular attention was paid to changes in the number of sulfur atoms in the crosslinks. Results indicate that of the devulcanization agents tested 4-amino-diphenyldisulfide was the most effective. No detrimental effect on devulcanization efficiency was caused by the substitution of a basic amino group with an acidic carboxylic acid group Gel permeation chromatography was performed on devulcanized squalene crosslinks using a tetrahydrofuran eluent. GPC investigations with squalene were less effective than HPLC experiments with 2,3-dimethyl-2-butene at evaluating the relative efficiency of individual devulcanization agents. Results were, however, consistent with 4-amino-diphenyldisulfide again being the most efficient devulcanization agent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Boyce, Annemè
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Rubber -- Recycling Rubber, Reclaimed , Rubber -- Standards -- South Africa Rubber -- Research Chromatographic analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14730 , vital:27834
- Description: Improvements to the properties of recycled rubber, by developing a more selective breakdown process, is an important issue and a global challenge. Devulcanization is the most promising way to achieve this. It is a process which aims to totally or partially cleave monosulfidic (C-S-C), disulfidic (C-S-S-C) and polysulfidic (C-Sx-C) crosslinks of vulcanized rubber. In this study, the devulcanization of sulfur-vulcanized natural rubber with a variety of diphenyldisulfides has been studied using 2,3-dimethyl-2-butene and squalene as model compounds, vulcanized by sulfur and 2-bisbenzothiazole-2,2’-disulfide. 2-aminodiphenyldisulfide; 4-amino-diphenyldisulfide; bis(2-benzamido-)diphenyldisulfide and 2,2’-bithiosalicylic acid were used as aromatic disulfides devulcanization agents. Thermal analysis was used to investigate interactions between various combinations of curatives in the vulcanization systems in the absence of model compounds. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to detect mass changes during vulcanization and whether the samples decompose/evaporate so as not to contaminate differential scanning calorimetry instrumentation. Differential scanning calorimetry was used to investigate reactions occurring between curatives. Comparison of reversing and non-reversing signals in modulated experiments are suggestive of reactions between devulcanization agents and sulfur, and accelerators Vulcanization of the model compounds were performed in 10m evacuated sealed glass ampoules placed in an oil bath at 160 °C and agitated for the duration of vulcanization. After 60 min the ampoules were removed and quenched. These were then devulcanized by exposure to a devulcanization agent in a sealed ampoule at 180 for 60 min. Crosslinked 2,3-dimethyl-2-butene species were isolated and analysed by reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography. Particular attention was paid to changes in the number of sulfur atoms in the crosslinks. Results indicate that of the devulcanization agents tested 4-amino-diphenyldisulfide was the most effective. No detrimental effect on devulcanization efficiency was caused by the substitution of a basic amino group with an acidic carboxylic acid group Gel permeation chromatography was performed on devulcanized squalene crosslinks using a tetrahydrofuran eluent. GPC investigations with squalene were less effective than HPLC experiments with 2,3-dimethyl-2-butene at evaluating the relative efficiency of individual devulcanization agents. Results were, however, consistent with 4-amino-diphenyldisulfide again being the most efficient devulcanization agent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Diamond turning of contact lens polymers
- Authors: Liman, Muhammad Mukhtar
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Diamond turning Contact lenses , Electrostatic lenses Lenses -- Design and construction Neural networks (Computer science)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19223 , vital:28789
- Description: Contact lens production requires high accuracy and good surface integrity. Surface roughness is generally used to measure the index quality of a turning process. It has been an important response because it has direct influence toward the part performance and the production cost. Hence, choosing optimal cutting parameters will not only improve the quality measure but also the productivity. In this study, an ONSI-56 (Onsifocon A) contact lens buttons were used to investigate the triboelectric phenomena and the effects of turning parameters on surface finish of the lens materials. ONSI-56 specimens are machined by Precitech Nanoform Ultra-grind 250 precision machine and the roughness values of the diamond turned surfaces are measured by Taylor Hopson PGI Profilometer. Electrostatics values were measured using electrostatic voltmeter. An artificial neural network (ANN) and response surface (RS) model were developed to predict surface roughness and electrostatic discharge (ESD) on the turned ONSI-56. In the development of predictive models, turning parameters of cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut were considered as model variables. The required data for predictive models were obtained by conducting a series of turning test and measuring the surface roughness and ESD data. Good agreement is observed between the predictive models results and the experimental measurements. The ANN and RSM models for ONSI-56 are compared with each other using mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) for accuracy and computational cost.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Liman, Muhammad Mukhtar
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Diamond turning Contact lenses , Electrostatic lenses Lenses -- Design and construction Neural networks (Computer science)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19223 , vital:28789
- Description: Contact lens production requires high accuracy and good surface integrity. Surface roughness is generally used to measure the index quality of a turning process. It has been an important response because it has direct influence toward the part performance and the production cost. Hence, choosing optimal cutting parameters will not only improve the quality measure but also the productivity. In this study, an ONSI-56 (Onsifocon A) contact lens buttons were used to investigate the triboelectric phenomena and the effects of turning parameters on surface finish of the lens materials. ONSI-56 specimens are machined by Precitech Nanoform Ultra-grind 250 precision machine and the roughness values of the diamond turned surfaces are measured by Taylor Hopson PGI Profilometer. Electrostatics values were measured using electrostatic voltmeter. An artificial neural network (ANN) and response surface (RS) model were developed to predict surface roughness and electrostatic discharge (ESD) on the turned ONSI-56. In the development of predictive models, turning parameters of cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut were considered as model variables. The required data for predictive models were obtained by conducting a series of turning test and measuring the surface roughness and ESD data. Good agreement is observed between the predictive models results and the experimental measurements. The ANN and RSM models for ONSI-56 are compared with each other using mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) for accuracy and computational cost.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Direct income tax and the digital economy
- Authors: Mackenzie, Lara
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Income tax Corporations -- Taxation , information technology -- Economic aspects Electronic commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18047 , vital:28568
- Description: Due to the nature of the digital economy, multi-national entities are able to trade in countries over the internet without a physical presence, they are setting up group structures across the world, housing intellectual property in tax havens and shifting profits between jurisdictions, lowering their group tax rates. This treatise considered the OECD/G20 BEPS Project 2015 Final Report on Action Plan 1 which discusses the nature, risks and proposed options to combat base erosion and profit sharing (BEPS). Although the OECD have made no recommendations in their report many countries have taken action to protect their tax bases. The scope of this treatise is limited to multi-national entities who avoid tax presence in a country or shift profits to off-shore entities in low/no tax jurisdictions. The aim of this treatise is to identify the risks posed by the nature of the digital economy to direct taxation and analyse proposed solutions to respond to these risks. A comparative study of the proposal and changes implemented in the UK, Australia and India was undertaken to gain an understanding of international thinking regarding the best way to combat BEPS. These proposals were then compared to the South African perspective in order to determine which of the proposals would be feasible to combat BEPS in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mackenzie, Lara
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Income tax Corporations -- Taxation , information technology -- Economic aspects Electronic commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18047 , vital:28568
- Description: Due to the nature of the digital economy, multi-national entities are able to trade in countries over the internet without a physical presence, they are setting up group structures across the world, housing intellectual property in tax havens and shifting profits between jurisdictions, lowering their group tax rates. This treatise considered the OECD/G20 BEPS Project 2015 Final Report on Action Plan 1 which discusses the nature, risks and proposed options to combat base erosion and profit sharing (BEPS). Although the OECD have made no recommendations in their report many countries have taken action to protect their tax bases. The scope of this treatise is limited to multi-national entities who avoid tax presence in a country or shift profits to off-shore entities in low/no tax jurisdictions. The aim of this treatise is to identify the risks posed by the nature of the digital economy to direct taxation and analyse proposed solutions to respond to these risks. A comparative study of the proposal and changes implemented in the UK, Australia and India was undertaken to gain an understanding of international thinking regarding the best way to combat BEPS. These proposals were then compared to the South African perspective in order to determine which of the proposals would be feasible to combat BEPS in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Discrimination based on age in labour law
- Authors: Oosthuizen, Tania
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Age and employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Age discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19484 , vital:28884
- Description: This piece aims to prove that a compulsory retirement age can no longer be justified in South Africa as a constitutional state. In times where people are gradually reaching older ages due to advances in a variety of fields, it seemed that the concept of a compulsory retirement age requires an in depth consideration. This is especially measured against the backdrop of equality and discrimination legislation within The Republic of South Africa. The development of social security law provides the larger framework in which to understand the concept and intentions around retirement. Discrimination and equality legislation demonstrates that age as a listed ground for discrimination does not necessarily simplify the jurisprudence pertaining to it, especially where alternatives have been developed for continued employment. The main point of reference in the South African justice system concerning discrimination disputes is the Harksen v Lane test, whereas the principle encapsulated in Waco v Schweitzer, relates particularly to discrimination based on age. These judgements and subsequent application will be illustrated and considered during the course of this research. The influence of fund rules and fixed-term contracts on the situation will aim to show the reality of the situation. In an effort to show that the problem of an ageing workforce and retirement is not localised to South Africa, an international overview of other constitutional countries is included for context. The comparison goes further to include non-constitutional countries to illustrate the global issue. This comparison was also included in an effort to find alternative strategies that may be utilised in South Africa for retirement and age discrimination legislations and social policies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Oosthuizen, Tania
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Age and employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Age discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19484 , vital:28884
- Description: This piece aims to prove that a compulsory retirement age can no longer be justified in South Africa as a constitutional state. In times where people are gradually reaching older ages due to advances in a variety of fields, it seemed that the concept of a compulsory retirement age requires an in depth consideration. This is especially measured against the backdrop of equality and discrimination legislation within The Republic of South Africa. The development of social security law provides the larger framework in which to understand the concept and intentions around retirement. Discrimination and equality legislation demonstrates that age as a listed ground for discrimination does not necessarily simplify the jurisprudence pertaining to it, especially where alternatives have been developed for continued employment. The main point of reference in the South African justice system concerning discrimination disputes is the Harksen v Lane test, whereas the principle encapsulated in Waco v Schweitzer, relates particularly to discrimination based on age. These judgements and subsequent application will be illustrated and considered during the course of this research. The influence of fund rules and fixed-term contracts on the situation will aim to show the reality of the situation. In an effort to show that the problem of an ageing workforce and retirement is not localised to South Africa, an international overview of other constitutional countries is included for context. The comparison goes further to include non-constitutional countries to illustrate the global issue. This comparison was also included in an effort to find alternative strategies that may be utilised in South Africa for retirement and age discrimination legislations and social policies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Donor funds and economic dependence: an investigation of community-driven development in the Eastern Cape, Chris Hani District Municipality
- Authors: Roto, Khanyile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Economic assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Flow of funds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 21st century South Africa -- Politics and government -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19982 , vital:29017
- Description: This research focused mainly on the progress of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community-driven development projects (CDDs) in assisting the Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) community. The research identified the main types of CDDs that are found in the CHDM as agricultural, caregivers, manufacturing, tourism, performing arts, and education services. Thirty-eight NGOs participated in this project with two participants representing each NGO. These NGOs were looked at from a thematic perspective. Three main themes emerged, namely; a) the quality of life in CHDM or specifically in the areas of operation of the NGOs, b) operations of the NGOs where the name and main objectives CDDs were identified, and c) challenges, funding and impact of the CDDs. This research set out to ask the following questions: What is the nature and origin of projects operational in Chris Hani District? What is the impact and sustainability of donor-aided projects on CDD in the Chris Hani District? Can NGO projects be sustained without donor aid? Are there any alternative forms of funding apart from donor funds? To answer these questions, a number of qualitative methods and techniques were used to collect and analyse data. These included focus group discussions with project beneficiaries, observations of projects, activities and individual project participants, and key informant interviews with different categories of respondents depending on their roles and level of involvement in the implementation of projects as well as their experience in the implementation of donor-aided programmes. These discussions were guided by different interview schedules with respective respondents. Random and snowball sampling methods were used to choose the respondents as well as groups that participated in the study. The research also focused on assessing the survivability of donor-aided NGO projects if the donor funds were discontinued for any reason. It sought to determine the continuity and feasibility of developmental projects and their impact on the socio- economic welfare of the rural poor in the Chris Hani District without donations. This research found evidence indicating that, by and large, NGOs in the Chris Hani District play a crucial role in CDD. Be that as it may, this research established that on average, 98 per cent of NGOs had been economically and socially affected by the donor-funded projects. It was established that, on average, the donor dependency ratio was 74 per cent. It was also seen that most donor-funded projects could only survive for 12 days if the funding was withdrawn. However, this hypothetical withdrawal of funds does not cause much concern because of the security found in the funding types of the NGOs in the Chris Hani District. In practical terms, these community-driven projects are likely to continue for decades ceteris paribus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Roto, Khanyile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Economic assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Flow of funds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 21st century South Africa -- Politics and government -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19982 , vital:29017
- Description: This research focused mainly on the progress of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community-driven development projects (CDDs) in assisting the Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) community. The research identified the main types of CDDs that are found in the CHDM as agricultural, caregivers, manufacturing, tourism, performing arts, and education services. Thirty-eight NGOs participated in this project with two participants representing each NGO. These NGOs were looked at from a thematic perspective. Three main themes emerged, namely; a) the quality of life in CHDM or specifically in the areas of operation of the NGOs, b) operations of the NGOs where the name and main objectives CDDs were identified, and c) challenges, funding and impact of the CDDs. This research set out to ask the following questions: What is the nature and origin of projects operational in Chris Hani District? What is the impact and sustainability of donor-aided projects on CDD in the Chris Hani District? Can NGO projects be sustained without donor aid? Are there any alternative forms of funding apart from donor funds? To answer these questions, a number of qualitative methods and techniques were used to collect and analyse data. These included focus group discussions with project beneficiaries, observations of projects, activities and individual project participants, and key informant interviews with different categories of respondents depending on their roles and level of involvement in the implementation of projects as well as their experience in the implementation of donor-aided programmes. These discussions were guided by different interview schedules with respective respondents. Random and snowball sampling methods were used to choose the respondents as well as groups that participated in the study. The research also focused on assessing the survivability of donor-aided NGO projects if the donor funds were discontinued for any reason. It sought to determine the continuity and feasibility of developmental projects and their impact on the socio- economic welfare of the rural poor in the Chris Hani District without donations. This research found evidence indicating that, by and large, NGOs in the Chris Hani District play a crucial role in CDD. Be that as it may, this research established that on average, 98 per cent of NGOs had been economically and socially affected by the donor-funded projects. It was established that, on average, the donor dependency ratio was 74 per cent. It was also seen that most donor-funded projects could only survive for 12 days if the funding was withdrawn. However, this hypothetical withdrawal of funds does not cause much concern because of the security found in the funding types of the NGOs in the Chris Hani District. In practical terms, these community-driven projects are likely to continue for decades ceteris paribus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Drivers of employee engagement in a lean manufacturing environment during a period of change
- Authors: Rwodzi, Bright
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Organizational change -- Management Employee motivation , Organizational behavior Work environment -- Employees Lean manufacturing -- Employees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20559 , vital:29321
- Description: Purpose - The purpose of the study was to determine the drivers of employee engagement in a lean manufacturing environment during a period of change. It also highlighted the importance of employee engagement with regards to the improvement of organisational performance especially in a lean manufacturing environment during the change. Design/methodology/approach – The most frequently mentioned drivers of employee engagement in relation to change and a lean environment were identified through a literature study. The potential drivers that emerged were vision, leadership, communication, immediate supervisory behaviour, team collaboration and training/career development. An empirical study was then carried out to study the impact of these factors on affective commitment, volunteerism and sportsmanship, the latter two are components of organisational citizenship behaviour. A survey with a questionnaire was conducted amongst 86 employees in a lean manufacturing organisation, which was undergoing change. The data analyses included descriptive statistics, correlations and multiple regression analysis. Findings – It was observed that all the six identified drivers of employee engagement namely: Vision, Leadership, Communication, Immediate Supervisor Behaviour, Team Collaboration and Training and Career Development explained 61.2 per cent of the variance in the employee engagement. However, the variables that had the biggest impact on employee engagement were the articulation of the organisational change Vision, Team Collaboration and Immediate Supervisor Behaviour. Practical implications – The results of the study emphasise that special focus and effort must be placed on factors affecting Vision, Team Collaboration and Immediate Supervisor Behaviour as they have shown significantly higher influence on employee engagement in a lean manufacturing environment during a period of change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Rwodzi, Bright
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Organizational change -- Management Employee motivation , Organizational behavior Work environment -- Employees Lean manufacturing -- Employees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20559 , vital:29321
- Description: Purpose - The purpose of the study was to determine the drivers of employee engagement in a lean manufacturing environment during a period of change. It also highlighted the importance of employee engagement with regards to the improvement of organisational performance especially in a lean manufacturing environment during the change. Design/methodology/approach – The most frequently mentioned drivers of employee engagement in relation to change and a lean environment were identified through a literature study. The potential drivers that emerged were vision, leadership, communication, immediate supervisory behaviour, team collaboration and training/career development. An empirical study was then carried out to study the impact of these factors on affective commitment, volunteerism and sportsmanship, the latter two are components of organisational citizenship behaviour. A survey with a questionnaire was conducted amongst 86 employees in a lean manufacturing organisation, which was undergoing change. The data analyses included descriptive statistics, correlations and multiple regression analysis. Findings – It was observed that all the six identified drivers of employee engagement namely: Vision, Leadership, Communication, Immediate Supervisor Behaviour, Team Collaboration and Training and Career Development explained 61.2 per cent of the variance in the employee engagement. However, the variables that had the biggest impact on employee engagement were the articulation of the organisational change Vision, Team Collaboration and Immediate Supervisor Behaviour. Practical implications – The results of the study emphasise that special focus and effort must be placed on factors affecting Vision, Team Collaboration and Immediate Supervisor Behaviour as they have shown significantly higher influence on employee engagement in a lean manufacturing environment during a period of change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Earth stewardship in prepress:a model for Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University graphic design lectures
- Authors: Lottering,John Barry
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Curriculum planning--South Africa-- Port Elizabeth Graphic arts--Study and teaching--South africa-- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44471 , vital:37842
- Description: A lack of prepress understanding is responsible for a great deal of wasted resources in the graphic design and printing industries in Nelson Mandela Bay. As the term “prepress” extends to such a vast range of design activities, it is quite difficult to ascertain where prepress begins or ends. Asking the question “What is prepress?” is like asking “How long is a piece of string?” Defining the scope of prepress can present a formidable challenge for any graphic design lecturer hoping to equip students with the necessary prepress understanding and skills required by the graphic design industry. Also, even if the academic has a sound knowledge of prepress theory and practice, how does one guarantee that all of the required knowledge is covered during the course of the student’s graphic design education, and that it is done so in a manner that meets the needs of the graphic design industry? Added to this, educators have a responsibility to consider the environmental consequences of sending graduating designers, without industry required prepress knowledge, into the design industry, an industry that has grown accustomed to training junior designers in prepress practice through trial and error. Such trial and error equates to mistakes and wasted resources, as a result this learning curve comes at the expense of the environment. The intention of this research is to provide an accessible resource for graphic design lecturers, by way of a list of prepress best practice topics, required for inclusion in the graphic design syllabus at NMMU, such that earth stewardship and sustainable design-for-print are an implicit component. This list of topics is a product of research which drew on local industry experts in Nelson Mandela Bay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Lottering,John Barry
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Curriculum planning--South Africa-- Port Elizabeth Graphic arts--Study and teaching--South africa-- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44471 , vital:37842
- Description: A lack of prepress understanding is responsible for a great deal of wasted resources in the graphic design and printing industries in Nelson Mandela Bay. As the term “prepress” extends to such a vast range of design activities, it is quite difficult to ascertain where prepress begins or ends. Asking the question “What is prepress?” is like asking “How long is a piece of string?” Defining the scope of prepress can present a formidable challenge for any graphic design lecturer hoping to equip students with the necessary prepress understanding and skills required by the graphic design industry. Also, even if the academic has a sound knowledge of prepress theory and practice, how does one guarantee that all of the required knowledge is covered during the course of the student’s graphic design education, and that it is done so in a manner that meets the needs of the graphic design industry? Added to this, educators have a responsibility to consider the environmental consequences of sending graduating designers, without industry required prepress knowledge, into the design industry, an industry that has grown accustomed to training junior designers in prepress practice through trial and error. Such trial and error equates to mistakes and wasted resources, as a result this learning curve comes at the expense of the environment. The intention of this research is to provide an accessible resource for graphic design lecturers, by way of a list of prepress best practice topics, required for inclusion in the graphic design syllabus at NMMU, such that earth stewardship and sustainable design-for-print are an implicit component. This list of topics is a product of research which drew on local industry experts in Nelson Mandela Bay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Ecology of key cerithioidean gastropods in the mangroves of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal South Africa
- Authors: Raw, Jacqueline Leoni
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Gastropoda -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Mangrove ecology -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11942 , vital:27009
- Description: Gastropods are one of the most diverse species groups in mangrove habitats, however, many of their specific roles in relation to ecological patterns and processes are currently largely unknown. The overall aim of this research project was to provide basic ecological information for key gastropod species from subtropical mangroves within a protected area. South African mangroves cover relatively small areas and are restricted to estuaries, these habitats therefore present unique opportunities and challenges to the species that occur in them. Three gastropod species, Terebralia palustris, Cerithidea decollata, and Melanoides tuberculata, all occur at their natural southernmost range limit within South Africa and were selected based on their prominence and occurrence in mangrove habitats of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trophic linkages and resource partitioning, resource utilization rates, and ecological resilience were investigated respectively using: 1) a stable isotope (δ15N and δ13C) approach; 2) an experimental approach to quantify feeding dynamics (ingestion rate, consumption/digestion efficiency and grazing impact); and 3) a mixed-effects modelling approach to relate population responses to environmental variables. The diet of T. palustris was seasonally variable and a number of sources were incorporated by different sized snails, but their grazing impact on microphytobenthos was not significant. The results also indicated an ontogenetic shift in the dietary niche for T. palustris through robust partitioning of resources between different size classes. The diets of C. decollata and M. tuberculata were dominated by different primary resources as a function of where they occurred in the mangroves. Melanoides tuberculata consumed a wide variety of primary resources, a typical trait of an opportunistic generalist species. The ingestion rate of M. tuberculata was not dependent on the availability of microphytobenthos, and was highest when conditions were oligotrophic. The resilience of C. decollata was related to the tree-climbing behaviour of this species and its occurrence was best explained by sediment conductivity. These responses were considered in conjunction to what has previously been reported on the resilience of the mangrove trees. The results of this research project have provided new basic ecological information for all three gastropod species in this data-deficient subtropical region. This information can potentially be used in comparative studies for these species in other regions or in broader scale ecological studies. Terebralia palustris has recently experienced a range contraction along the South African coastline. This research project has shown that the diet of this species is highly variable and that food limitation and competition for resources should be considered as potential drivers of the local decline. Cerithidea decollata has in contrast expanded its distributional range in this region. This research project has shown that this species has a generalist diet and exhibits traits in relation to tolerance that are expected to have facilitated its expansion into temperate saltmarsh habitats that occur in dynamic estuaries. Melanoides tuberculata is a globally invasive species, and as South African populations are within its native range, ecological information from this region is valuable as it can be used to investigate the potential ecological effects following introduction into new habitats beyond the native range. Biological drivers have a significant impact on mangrove ecosystem functioning, particularly in relation to recycling and the retention of organic carbon generated through primary productivity. Understanding the ecological linkages that maintain ecological functioning and stability is therefore an important step towards conserving and sustainably managing threatened ecosystems such as mangrove forests.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Raw, Jacqueline Leoni
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Gastropoda -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal Mangrove ecology -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11942 , vital:27009
- Description: Gastropods are one of the most diverse species groups in mangrove habitats, however, many of their specific roles in relation to ecological patterns and processes are currently largely unknown. The overall aim of this research project was to provide basic ecological information for key gastropod species from subtropical mangroves within a protected area. South African mangroves cover relatively small areas and are restricted to estuaries, these habitats therefore present unique opportunities and challenges to the species that occur in them. Three gastropod species, Terebralia palustris, Cerithidea decollata, and Melanoides tuberculata, all occur at their natural southernmost range limit within South Africa and were selected based on their prominence and occurrence in mangrove habitats of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trophic linkages and resource partitioning, resource utilization rates, and ecological resilience were investigated respectively using: 1) a stable isotope (δ15N and δ13C) approach; 2) an experimental approach to quantify feeding dynamics (ingestion rate, consumption/digestion efficiency and grazing impact); and 3) a mixed-effects modelling approach to relate population responses to environmental variables. The diet of T. palustris was seasonally variable and a number of sources were incorporated by different sized snails, but their grazing impact on microphytobenthos was not significant. The results also indicated an ontogenetic shift in the dietary niche for T. palustris through robust partitioning of resources between different size classes. The diets of C. decollata and M. tuberculata were dominated by different primary resources as a function of where they occurred in the mangroves. Melanoides tuberculata consumed a wide variety of primary resources, a typical trait of an opportunistic generalist species. The ingestion rate of M. tuberculata was not dependent on the availability of microphytobenthos, and was highest when conditions were oligotrophic. The resilience of C. decollata was related to the tree-climbing behaviour of this species and its occurrence was best explained by sediment conductivity. These responses were considered in conjunction to what has previously been reported on the resilience of the mangrove trees. The results of this research project have provided new basic ecological information for all three gastropod species in this data-deficient subtropical region. This information can potentially be used in comparative studies for these species in other regions or in broader scale ecological studies. Terebralia palustris has recently experienced a range contraction along the South African coastline. This research project has shown that the diet of this species is highly variable and that food limitation and competition for resources should be considered as potential drivers of the local decline. Cerithidea decollata has in contrast expanded its distributional range in this region. This research project has shown that this species has a generalist diet and exhibits traits in relation to tolerance that are expected to have facilitated its expansion into temperate saltmarsh habitats that occur in dynamic estuaries. Melanoides tuberculata is a globally invasive species, and as South African populations are within its native range, ecological information from this region is valuable as it can be used to investigate the potential ecological effects following introduction into new habitats beyond the native range. Biological drivers have a significant impact on mangrove ecosystem functioning, particularly in relation to recycling and the retention of organic carbon generated through primary productivity. Understanding the ecological linkages that maintain ecological functioning and stability is therefore an important step towards conserving and sustainably managing threatened ecosystems such as mangrove forests.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Economic development in the Eastern Cape: a case study of agricultural projects
- Authors: Dyalo, Nolutho
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15589 , vital:28274
- Description: This study seeks to evaluate economic development in the Eastern Cape Province, with a special focus on the agricultural sector. It focuses on the role that Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) play in stimulating economic development. To achieve this, the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) was considered as a case study in assessing DFI’s support to the agricultural sector in the province. The study will also look into the corporation’s adherence to the Provincial Growth and Development Plan (PGDP) and its strategic programmes. The study examines how the agricultural initiatives financed by ECDC contribute to economic development in the province. It will also assess whether those agricultural projects may impact the local communities through poverty alleviation. In order to address the research problem and to achieve the research objectives, available literature and empirical work related to the relationship between financial system development and economic development was reviewed. The research revealed that the role played by the ECDC with regard to Agricultural Projects has not been entirely effective to add value to economic development in the province, mainly caused by the lack of non – financial support by skilled people from the corporation, after limited funding was made available. From the investigation, the findings indicate that the effective mplementation of these projects require strengthened capacity, which requires more skilled officials from the corporation to assist the agricultural enterprises in managing the projects; and more funding that will assist the projects to reach sustainability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Dyalo, Nolutho
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15589 , vital:28274
- Description: This study seeks to evaluate economic development in the Eastern Cape Province, with a special focus on the agricultural sector. It focuses on the role that Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) play in stimulating economic development. To achieve this, the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) was considered as a case study in assessing DFI’s support to the agricultural sector in the province. The study will also look into the corporation’s adherence to the Provincial Growth and Development Plan (PGDP) and its strategic programmes. The study examines how the agricultural initiatives financed by ECDC contribute to economic development in the province. It will also assess whether those agricultural projects may impact the local communities through poverty alleviation. In order to address the research problem and to achieve the research objectives, available literature and empirical work related to the relationship between financial system development and economic development was reviewed. The research revealed that the role played by the ECDC with regard to Agricultural Projects has not been entirely effective to add value to economic development in the province, mainly caused by the lack of non – financial support by skilled people from the corporation, after limited funding was made available. From the investigation, the findings indicate that the effective mplementation of these projects require strengthened capacity, which requires more skilled officials from the corporation to assist the agricultural enterprises in managing the projects; and more funding that will assist the projects to reach sustainability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Ecophysiology and nutrient uptake mechanisms facilitating the prolonged bloom persistence by Cyanothece sp. in Lake St Lucia, South Africa
- Authors: Du Plooy, Schalk Jacobus
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Cyanobacterial blooms , Cyanobacteria -- Physiology , Cyanobacteria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7344 , vital:21324
- Description: Cyanobacterial blooms are becoming more frequent worldwide, with possible negative effects on human health. The effects of climate change and eutrophication have been associated with persistent cyanobacterial blooms becoming more frequent. Altered water characteristics, salinity in particular, influence ecosystem dynamics that may lead to conditions conducive to cyanobacterial blooms. The occurrence of an 18-month long Cyanothece sp. bloom (the longest for any cyanobacterium recorded so far worldwide and the first of the genus) from June 2009 to December 2010 in Africa’s largest estuarine lake, St Lucia, highlighted the susceptibility of ecosystems to anthropogenic alterations. This study investigated the long-term survival and physiological adaptations of Cyanothece sp. to various and dynamic environmental conditions that contributed towards its bloom persistence. The main findings are the high salinities at which Cyanothece sp. could perform important physiological processes such as N uptake, N2 fixation and photosynthesis. Nutrient uptake (both nitrogen and phosphorus) was observed over the full experimental salinity range (0-300) while N2 fixation was only observed up to a salinity of 120. Nutrient uptake rates significantly decreased at this threshold salinity of 120. Interestingly, photosystem II activity was not observed in Cyanothece sp. during this study, but photosystem I activity was robust. Salinity had a minor influence on electron transport rates by photosystem I, high temperature (> 30°C) did however increase electron transport rates. Rapid responses to hypo-osmotic shock (i.e. osmotic downshift during freshening events) by Cyanothece sp. cells also helped minimize cell rupture due to high turgor pressure. Zooplankton abundance within the St Lucia system was negatively correlated with salinity, while grazing experiments indicated that the typical estuarine zooplankton species are able to graze on Cyanothece sp. cells. Therefore, the disappearance of zooplankton at salinities above 60 must have been an important factor in the bloom persistence. Apart from the ecological factors that were at play in St Lucia during the bloom period, the persistence of the Cyanothece sp. bloom can be attributed to the robust nature of their nutrient uptake, nitrogen fixation and photosynthetic systems to maintain activity despite extreme hypersalinity levels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Du Plooy, Schalk Jacobus
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Cyanobacterial blooms , Cyanobacteria -- Physiology , Cyanobacteria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7344 , vital:21324
- Description: Cyanobacterial blooms are becoming more frequent worldwide, with possible negative effects on human health. The effects of climate change and eutrophication have been associated with persistent cyanobacterial blooms becoming more frequent. Altered water characteristics, salinity in particular, influence ecosystem dynamics that may lead to conditions conducive to cyanobacterial blooms. The occurrence of an 18-month long Cyanothece sp. bloom (the longest for any cyanobacterium recorded so far worldwide and the first of the genus) from June 2009 to December 2010 in Africa’s largest estuarine lake, St Lucia, highlighted the susceptibility of ecosystems to anthropogenic alterations. This study investigated the long-term survival and physiological adaptations of Cyanothece sp. to various and dynamic environmental conditions that contributed towards its bloom persistence. The main findings are the high salinities at which Cyanothece sp. could perform important physiological processes such as N uptake, N2 fixation and photosynthesis. Nutrient uptake (both nitrogen and phosphorus) was observed over the full experimental salinity range (0-300) while N2 fixation was only observed up to a salinity of 120. Nutrient uptake rates significantly decreased at this threshold salinity of 120. Interestingly, photosystem II activity was not observed in Cyanothece sp. during this study, but photosystem I activity was robust. Salinity had a minor influence on electron transport rates by photosystem I, high temperature (> 30°C) did however increase electron transport rates. Rapid responses to hypo-osmotic shock (i.e. osmotic downshift during freshening events) by Cyanothece sp. cells also helped minimize cell rupture due to high turgor pressure. Zooplankton abundance within the St Lucia system was negatively correlated with salinity, while grazing experiments indicated that the typical estuarine zooplankton species are able to graze on Cyanothece sp. cells. Therefore, the disappearance of zooplankton at salinities above 60 must have been an important factor in the bloom persistence. Apart from the ecological factors that were at play in St Lucia during the bloom period, the persistence of the Cyanothece sp. bloom can be attributed to the robust nature of their nutrient uptake, nitrogen fixation and photosynthetic systems to maintain activity despite extreme hypersalinity levels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Effect of graphitization on the static mechanical properties of service exposed ASTM A516 Gr. 65 steam pipe metal
- Authors: Du Preez, Christiaan
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Graphitization Steam-pipes -- Mechanical properties
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22277 , vital:29933
- Description: The focus of this research project is to establish what effect graphitization has on the static mechanical properties of service exposed ASTM A516 Grade 65 steam pipe material, which operated for prolonged periods above 425 ̊C. The research study was conducted on three graphitized service exposed steam pipe weldment samples and on a newly welded and post weld heat treated sample with graphitized service exposed steam pipe material. Macro samples were removed from each of the samples at two positions and these were evaluated with regard to graphite nodule size, nearest neighbour spacing and % planar graphitization in the parent pipe and HAZ regions on either side of the welds. It was found on all of the service exposed samples that the graphite nodules of the HAZ regions have a smaller median nodule size, smaller median nearest neighbour spacing and increased % planar graphitization in comparison to the parent pipe material. The service expose parent pipe material on either side of the weldments of the respective samples was chemically analyzed. This was done with the focus being on the deoxidizing element content (Si and Al) of the respective parent pipe regions and to what extent these elements influenced the development of planar graphitization in these regions. No correlation could be identified between the level of deoxidizing elements and the levels of % planar graphitization in the parent pipe material. Tensile and Charpy impact samples were removed from the respective service exposed samples parent material on either side of the weld and from the HAZ regions on the side with the highest levels of planar graphitization. These samples were tested and the yield and ultimate tensile strength and Charpy impact toughness of the respective samples were then evaluated to establish how these static mechanical properties were influenced by the % planar graphitization. The yield and ultimate tensile strength of the service exposed material did not show a statistically significant correlation with the % planar graphitization. The Charpy impact toughness results did however show a statistically significant negative correlation towards the % planar graphitization. This was clearly evident from the results of the HAZ regions of the service exposed weldments (Samples A-C) which had the highest levels of % planar graphitization and the lowest impact toughness, while the newly welded and post weld heat treated Sample D had no planar graphitization outside the HAZ and the highest impact toughness. This research project not only investigated how planar graphitization affects the static mechanical properties of service exposed pipe material, it also investigated on a microstructural basis, how planar graphitization nucleates and grows. The microstructural investigation showed that the free carbon required for the development of planar graphitization originated from the regions outside the HAZ, which were formed when the pearlite bands were dissolved during the welding of the steam pipe. The heat input from the welding sensitized this region for the development of planar graphitization, probably due to the formation of a “carbon-rich” matrix due to the partial dissolution of the cementite precipitates. All the carbide precipitates in this region consisted of M3C. aluminium-rich precipitates were found inside newly nucleated graphite nodules, indicating its role as a possible heterogeneous nucleation site. Growth of newly formed graphite nodules showed a preference towards high-angle grain boundaries and regions with dislocations for the initial growth stages of the graphite nodules. The microstructure of the region outside the HAZ of the newly introduced seam weld on the service exposed steam pipe material (with graphitization), was also investigated using advanced electron microscopy methods and it yielded no evidence of the development of planar graphitization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Du Preez, Christiaan
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Graphitization Steam-pipes -- Mechanical properties
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22277 , vital:29933
- Description: The focus of this research project is to establish what effect graphitization has on the static mechanical properties of service exposed ASTM A516 Grade 65 steam pipe material, which operated for prolonged periods above 425 ̊C. The research study was conducted on three graphitized service exposed steam pipe weldment samples and on a newly welded and post weld heat treated sample with graphitized service exposed steam pipe material. Macro samples were removed from each of the samples at two positions and these were evaluated with regard to graphite nodule size, nearest neighbour spacing and % planar graphitization in the parent pipe and HAZ regions on either side of the welds. It was found on all of the service exposed samples that the graphite nodules of the HAZ regions have a smaller median nodule size, smaller median nearest neighbour spacing and increased % planar graphitization in comparison to the parent pipe material. The service expose parent pipe material on either side of the weldments of the respective samples was chemically analyzed. This was done with the focus being on the deoxidizing element content (Si and Al) of the respective parent pipe regions and to what extent these elements influenced the development of planar graphitization in these regions. No correlation could be identified between the level of deoxidizing elements and the levels of % planar graphitization in the parent pipe material. Tensile and Charpy impact samples were removed from the respective service exposed samples parent material on either side of the weld and from the HAZ regions on the side with the highest levels of planar graphitization. These samples were tested and the yield and ultimate tensile strength and Charpy impact toughness of the respective samples were then evaluated to establish how these static mechanical properties were influenced by the % planar graphitization. The yield and ultimate tensile strength of the service exposed material did not show a statistically significant correlation with the % planar graphitization. The Charpy impact toughness results did however show a statistically significant negative correlation towards the % planar graphitization. This was clearly evident from the results of the HAZ regions of the service exposed weldments (Samples A-C) which had the highest levels of % planar graphitization and the lowest impact toughness, while the newly welded and post weld heat treated Sample D had no planar graphitization outside the HAZ and the highest impact toughness. This research project not only investigated how planar graphitization affects the static mechanical properties of service exposed pipe material, it also investigated on a microstructural basis, how planar graphitization nucleates and grows. The microstructural investigation showed that the free carbon required for the development of planar graphitization originated from the regions outside the HAZ, which were formed when the pearlite bands were dissolved during the welding of the steam pipe. The heat input from the welding sensitized this region for the development of planar graphitization, probably due to the formation of a “carbon-rich” matrix due to the partial dissolution of the cementite precipitates. All the carbide precipitates in this region consisted of M3C. aluminium-rich precipitates were found inside newly nucleated graphite nodules, indicating its role as a possible heterogeneous nucleation site. Growth of newly formed graphite nodules showed a preference towards high-angle grain boundaries and regions with dislocations for the initial growth stages of the graphite nodules. The microstructure of the region outside the HAZ of the newly introduced seam weld on the service exposed steam pipe material (with graphitization), was also investigated using advanced electron microscopy methods and it yielded no evidence of the development of planar graphitization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Effecting social justice during conciliation and CON-ARB processes conducted at the CCMA and bargaining councils
- Authors: Mtumtum, Lungisa Shadrack
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South Africa -- Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration Mediation and conciliation, Industrial -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa Labor disputes -- South Africa Collective bargaining -- South Africa Social justice -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19245 , vital:28807
- Description: The primary purpose of this treatise is to reexamine the South African labour dispute resolution bodies to see if they live up to the legislation’s promise of promoting social justice in conciliation, arbitration and con-arb processes concluded by them. The study defines social justice and examines this term in relation to employment law. The promotion of social justice was reaffirmed by the International Labour Organisation in its 1944 Conference which was later incorporated into its Constitution. The study briefly reviews the importance of this conference of the 10 May 1944 in relation to promoting social justice. The study also examines the social justice in the context of South African employment laws by briefly analyzing each South African labour legislation and the Constitution. This analysis is based on the provisions of legislation and considers if the respective provisions promote social justice as required by the International Labour Organisation’s Constitution and later by the South African Constitution. In analyzing the Constitution, and other legislation like the; Employment Equity Act (EEA), and Labour Relations Act (LRA), the treatise examines certain cases that were determined under the legislation from social justice perspective. The Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 represents one of the major reforms of the labour relations system in South Africa. It is guided by the Constitution in terms of promoting social justice. The LRA established the dispute resolution bodies that are mandated by the legislation to resolve labour disputes. The study examines the systems and the processes employed by these bodies mainly the Commission for Conciliation; Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) and the Bargaining Councils to determine if these systems are promoting social justice as required by the legislation. In conducting this analysis the study considers not only the processes adopted but also the manner in which the relevant dispute resolution bodies market their services; their strategies and operational plans; and accessibility and more. The study further investigates the challenges that these bodies are faced with that have a negative impact on their responsibility to promote social justice. These challenges faced by society range from unemployment, the level of literacy and the growing inequality within South African society. They constantly pose a challenge and require these bodies to consistently devise means and strategies to overcome them. A limited comparative study is undertaken in order to determine whether South Africa can learn anything from another country. There are several countries that may have been chosen to conduct this study but the study considered the fact that it needs to look at the country without the sub-Saharan Africa. The country that shares a history similar to South Africa due to the fact that the social challenges faced by the South African society might be similar to those faced by the country chosen. In this research Namibia was chosen as a suitable country to determine whether there is something to learn from it or not. In conclusion it is submitted that South African legislation pertaining to labour dispute resolution needs to constantly evolve in order to promote social justice challenges of the time.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mtumtum, Lungisa Shadrack
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South Africa -- Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration Mediation and conciliation, Industrial -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa Labor disputes -- South Africa Collective bargaining -- South Africa Social justice -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19245 , vital:28807
- Description: The primary purpose of this treatise is to reexamine the South African labour dispute resolution bodies to see if they live up to the legislation’s promise of promoting social justice in conciliation, arbitration and con-arb processes concluded by them. The study defines social justice and examines this term in relation to employment law. The promotion of social justice was reaffirmed by the International Labour Organisation in its 1944 Conference which was later incorporated into its Constitution. The study briefly reviews the importance of this conference of the 10 May 1944 in relation to promoting social justice. The study also examines the social justice in the context of South African employment laws by briefly analyzing each South African labour legislation and the Constitution. This analysis is based on the provisions of legislation and considers if the respective provisions promote social justice as required by the International Labour Organisation’s Constitution and later by the South African Constitution. In analyzing the Constitution, and other legislation like the; Employment Equity Act (EEA), and Labour Relations Act (LRA), the treatise examines certain cases that were determined under the legislation from social justice perspective. The Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 represents one of the major reforms of the labour relations system in South Africa. It is guided by the Constitution in terms of promoting social justice. The LRA established the dispute resolution bodies that are mandated by the legislation to resolve labour disputes. The study examines the systems and the processes employed by these bodies mainly the Commission for Conciliation; Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) and the Bargaining Councils to determine if these systems are promoting social justice as required by the legislation. In conducting this analysis the study considers not only the processes adopted but also the manner in which the relevant dispute resolution bodies market their services; their strategies and operational plans; and accessibility and more. The study further investigates the challenges that these bodies are faced with that have a negative impact on their responsibility to promote social justice. These challenges faced by society range from unemployment, the level of literacy and the growing inequality within South African society. They constantly pose a challenge and require these bodies to consistently devise means and strategies to overcome them. A limited comparative study is undertaken in order to determine whether South Africa can learn anything from another country. There are several countries that may have been chosen to conduct this study but the study considered the fact that it needs to look at the country without the sub-Saharan Africa. The country that shares a history similar to South Africa due to the fact that the social challenges faced by the South African society might be similar to those faced by the country chosen. In this research Namibia was chosen as a suitable country to determine whether there is something to learn from it or not. In conclusion it is submitted that South African legislation pertaining to labour dispute resolution needs to constantly evolve in order to promote social justice challenges of the time.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Effective communication planning for high-performance civil engineering project teams
- Authors: Rossouw, Jeanne Jacques
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Communication in engineering -- South Africa Communication of technical information , Communication in management Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19993 , vital:29020
- Description: In the area of project management, it is well understood that effective communication processes impact positively on project performance. Despite this, project teams still struggle to develop effective communication plans that address their project communication needs. The evidence of this is that many project problems are attributed to poor communication. The literature addresses the needs and shortcomings of group communication and communication planning in general; but there is however, a scarcity of literature describing how to plan for the internal communication needs of high-performance civil engineering teams. With the limited literature available on the topic, this study seeks to validate how effective the current communication planning methods are at Aurecon in meeting the communication needs of its project teams. This qualitative research project is a case study of communication planning within the project teams at Aurecon in Port Elizabeth. A semi-structured interview process was followed, addressing specific questions, without limiting the direction of the interviews. Project team members, working on high performance projects, were asked for their thoughts, feelings and suggestions about existing communication practices and project communication planning. Overall, it was found that the existing communication-planning practices at Aurecon did not have any beneficial effect on how team members communicate. It was concluded that project teams would benefit from improved communication-planning processes that are more inclusive of their specific communication needs. Organisations working on high-performance projects will benefit directly from the research, which challenges these organisations to think more broadly about how they plan for communication at a project level. The research provides practical suggestions for improving the way that teams plan their communication processes; and it does so by focusing on the communication needs of the team members. Recommendations are made to professional bodies, tertiary institutions, project organisations – and most importantly – to project team members themselves. The recommendations to project team members include taking ownership of communication practices, asserting their views, as well as making their needs known.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Rossouw, Jeanne Jacques
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Communication in engineering -- South Africa Communication of technical information , Communication in management Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19993 , vital:29020
- Description: In the area of project management, it is well understood that effective communication processes impact positively on project performance. Despite this, project teams still struggle to develop effective communication plans that address their project communication needs. The evidence of this is that many project problems are attributed to poor communication. The literature addresses the needs and shortcomings of group communication and communication planning in general; but there is however, a scarcity of literature describing how to plan for the internal communication needs of high-performance civil engineering teams. With the limited literature available on the topic, this study seeks to validate how effective the current communication planning methods are at Aurecon in meeting the communication needs of its project teams. This qualitative research project is a case study of communication planning within the project teams at Aurecon in Port Elizabeth. A semi-structured interview process was followed, addressing specific questions, without limiting the direction of the interviews. Project team members, working on high performance projects, were asked for their thoughts, feelings and suggestions about existing communication practices and project communication planning. Overall, it was found that the existing communication-planning practices at Aurecon did not have any beneficial effect on how team members communicate. It was concluded that project teams would benefit from improved communication-planning processes that are more inclusive of their specific communication needs. Organisations working on high-performance projects will benefit directly from the research, which challenges these organisations to think more broadly about how they plan for communication at a project level. The research provides practical suggestions for improving the way that teams plan their communication processes; and it does so by focusing on the communication needs of the team members. Recommendations are made to professional bodies, tertiary institutions, project organisations – and most importantly – to project team members themselves. The recommendations to project team members include taking ownership of communication practices, asserting their views, as well as making their needs known.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Effectiveness of school governing bodies in rural schools of Ngcobo district
- Authors: Lugalo, Simo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: School boards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18222 , vital:28590
- Description: This study focused on school governing bodies in the rural schools in Ngcobo. In this study, the researcher established that in rural schools, parent members of school governing bodies are still reluctant, or ill equipped to do their duty as governors of the schools. They rely on what the principals ask them to do. They need more training and empowerment to fulfill their duties as members of the school governing bodies. Most of the parents who are members of school governing bodies are older and their level of education is generally low. The principals are complaining that not enough training was being given to parent members to fulfill their task as school governors. However, it remains the principals’ responsibility to coach SGB parent-members in order for the school functionality to go on. The findings of this study show that much more need to be done to empower parental-members of SGBs in the rural areas of the Eastern Cape and most probably in most, if not all, rural areas of South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Lugalo, Simo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: School boards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18222 , vital:28590
- Description: This study focused on school governing bodies in the rural schools in Ngcobo. In this study, the researcher established that in rural schools, parent members of school governing bodies are still reluctant, or ill equipped to do their duty as governors of the schools. They rely on what the principals ask them to do. They need more training and empowerment to fulfill their duties as members of the school governing bodies. Most of the parents who are members of school governing bodies are older and their level of education is generally low. The principals are complaining that not enough training was being given to parent members to fulfill their task as school governors. However, it remains the principals’ responsibility to coach SGB parent-members in order for the school functionality to go on. The findings of this study show that much more need to be done to empower parental-members of SGBs in the rural areas of the Eastern Cape and most probably in most, if not all, rural areas of South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Efficiency evaluation of South African water service provision
- Authors: Brettenny, Warren James
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Water-supply -- South Africa Municipal water supply -- South Africa , Municipal water supply -- South Africa -- Management Benchmarking (Management) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14741 , vital:27835
- Description: In recent years South Africa has experienced numerous service delivery protests. These protests are a result of the lack of delivery of basic services such as water and sanitation (amongst others). To address this, local governments have taken part in benchmarking initiatives (National Benchmarking Initiative, Municipal Benchmarking Initiative) and regulation programmes (BlueDrop,GreenDrop) in an effort to improve the quality of potable water and sanitation services. The latter of these focuses on the quality of the water services delivered and neither focus on the efficiency with which this delivery is achieved. This study uses both nonparametric (data envelopment analysis) aswell as parametric (stochastic frontier) methods to assess the efficiency of water service provision in South Africa over a six year period from 2005 to 2010. Subsequently, the method which is most suited for use in the South African context is proposed. In addition, this study demonstrates how these methods can be used to determine the effectiveness of benchmarking initiatives, namely the National Benchmarking Initiative, in improving the efficiency of water service provision. Furthermore, additional insight into the selection ofm in them out of n bootstrap procedure for efficiency evaluations is established through a simulation study. The inclusion of efficiency evaluations into South African benchmarking initiatives provides new and important insight into the standard of water service delivery. As such, the techniques used in this study illustrate how efficiency analysis can enhance benchmarking initiatives in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Brettenny, Warren James
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Water-supply -- South Africa Municipal water supply -- South Africa , Municipal water supply -- South Africa -- Management Benchmarking (Management) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14741 , vital:27835
- Description: In recent years South Africa has experienced numerous service delivery protests. These protests are a result of the lack of delivery of basic services such as water and sanitation (amongst others). To address this, local governments have taken part in benchmarking initiatives (National Benchmarking Initiative, Municipal Benchmarking Initiative) and regulation programmes (BlueDrop,GreenDrop) in an effort to improve the quality of potable water and sanitation services. The latter of these focuses on the quality of the water services delivered and neither focus on the efficiency with which this delivery is achieved. This study uses both nonparametric (data envelopment analysis) aswell as parametric (stochastic frontier) methods to assess the efficiency of water service provision in South Africa over a six year period from 2005 to 2010. Subsequently, the method which is most suited for use in the South African context is proposed. In addition, this study demonstrates how these methods can be used to determine the effectiveness of benchmarking initiatives, namely the National Benchmarking Initiative, in improving the efficiency of water service provision. Furthermore, additional insight into the selection ofm in them out of n bootstrap procedure for efficiency evaluations is established through a simulation study. The inclusion of efficiency evaluations into South African benchmarking initiatives provides new and important insight into the standard of water service delivery. As such, the techniques used in this study illustrate how efficiency analysis can enhance benchmarking initiatives in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Electrostatic discharge and roughness modelling in diamond turning of contact lenses
- Authors: Kopi, Fundiswa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Diamond turning Contact lenses
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18783 , vital:28723
- Description: With the increased application of ultra-high precision machining of polymers and the limited research in single point diamond turning (SPDT) of contact lens polymers, it became imperative to gather understanding on the production of contact lenses using the above-mentioned technology. A limiting factor in SPDT of polymers is wear of the diamond tool, resulting into poor surface finish due to unintended charges generated as a result of the contact/rubbing action between the cutting tool and the cut material. Central Composite Design (CCD) Face Centred experimental design was developed and applied to the SPDT of ONSI-56 and Polymethly methacrylate (PMMA) contact lens buttons. An electrostatic sensor coupled to a computer monitored the electrostatic discharge generated and a profilometer measured the surface roughness. The Response Surface Method (RSM) was utilised during the development of predictive models for both the surface roughness and the electrostatic discharge generated, to deduce the effects of cutting parameters during machining. The cutting speed and the feed rate deemed as the influential parameters on the surface roughness and electrostatic discharge, for both materials. The depth of cut induced more charge generation for PMMA. Predictive models were successfully developed and they were aimed at creating a database a guide to the SPDT of contact lens polymers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Kopi, Fundiswa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Diamond turning Contact lenses
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18783 , vital:28723
- Description: With the increased application of ultra-high precision machining of polymers and the limited research in single point diamond turning (SPDT) of contact lens polymers, it became imperative to gather understanding on the production of contact lenses using the above-mentioned technology. A limiting factor in SPDT of polymers is wear of the diamond tool, resulting into poor surface finish due to unintended charges generated as a result of the contact/rubbing action between the cutting tool and the cut material. Central Composite Design (CCD) Face Centred experimental design was developed and applied to the SPDT of ONSI-56 and Polymethly methacrylate (PMMA) contact lens buttons. An electrostatic sensor coupled to a computer monitored the electrostatic discharge generated and a profilometer measured the surface roughness. The Response Surface Method (RSM) was utilised during the development of predictive models for both the surface roughness and the electrostatic discharge generated, to deduce the effects of cutting parameters during machining. The cutting speed and the feed rate deemed as the influential parameters on the surface roughness and electrostatic discharge, for both materials. The depth of cut induced more charge generation for PMMA. Predictive models were successfully developed and they were aimed at creating a database a guide to the SPDT of contact lens polymers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017