An analysis of the availability of and access to credit from the formal financial sector and the performance of SMEs
- Authors: Asah, Francis Tangwo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Microfinance -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991-
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/115138 , vital:34081
- Description: As a developing nation, South Africa faces a high rate of poverty, high levels of inequality in terms of income and a high rate of unemployment. It is officially estimated that about 27.2% of the economically active population are unemployed. SMEs are expected to be an important vehicle to address the challenges of job creation, sustainable economic growth, equitable distribution of income and the overall stimulation of economic development. SMEs in South Africa constitute 99% of all businesses, contributing to employment, income inequality and poverty alleviation (Statistic South Africa, 2018). However, despite the remarkable contribution of SMEs to the economy of South Africa, the failure rate of SMEs (at 75%) is the highest of all the efficiency-driven economies sampled by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). The World Bank affirm that the availability of and access to credit from the formal financial sector is the primary cause of the high failure rate of SMEs. Contemporary literature advance that the future survival and performance of SMEs in South Africa is pegged onto the amount of financial capital available to address their capital needs. Thus, this study sought to analyse the availability of and access to credit from the formal financial sector and the performance of SMEs from the supply and demand-side. In order to achieve the objectives of the study, a sequential exploratory mixed method research design, located in the pragmatic research paradigm, was used in a two phased approach. The qualitative data collection and analysis in Phase 1 informed the quantitative data collection and analysis Phase 2. In Phase 1, in-depth face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with 8 credit and 8 business managers representing the sampling unit of selected formal financial institutions. The qualitative data collected was analysed using the five-steps process of content analysis as illustrated by Terre Blanche et al. (2006:322-326). The main findings with regard to factors that impact on the willingness of the formal financial sector to provide credit to SMEs were collateral, annual business turnover, audited financial records, relationship with the bank, credit profile, nature of the business, economic climate, ethics, nationality, government policy, management team, valid Identity Document/permit, equity contribution, entrepreneurship education, product quality, and business intelligence. Assessing credit applications from SMEs, risk assessment, inspection of financial records, proper documentation and background checks were the different tasks performed by credit and business managers. In addition, the main challenges faced by the formal financial sector in assessing and approving credit in favour of SMEs included the following: lack of investment capital; lack of collateral; lack of proper financial records; poor managerial knowledge; poor business plan; lack of industrial knowledge; and poor legal and credit laws. Lastly, contrary to the notion that formal financial institutions are not interested in investing in SMEs, on average, 70% of SMEs that applied for credit received such credit. In Phase 2, a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from formal sector owner/managers of SMEs in the city of Johannesburg. Of the 702 questionnaires distributed, 300 were returned and useable. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 24). A test for normality was performed using Shapiro–Wilks test. Reliability was tested using the Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient. Exploratory factor analysis tested the validity of factors that prevent formal financial sector from granting credit to SMEs while Binary logistic regression was used to infer on the hypotheses. Spearman’s Rho correlation analysis was used to determine whether there was any significant relationship with factors that influence access to credit and SMEs performance. The main findings revealed that access to bank finance was the only challenge that showed a significant correlation with performance. In addition, the study revealed that the South African Identity Document and collateral were the most important factors considered when applying for credit from formal financial institutions. With regard to the reasons why formal financial institutions may refuse to grant credit to SMEs, it was revealed that there was no significant positive relationship between lack of business networking and access to credit from the formal financial sector to SMEs. Conversely, the study also revealed a significant positive relationship between collateral, business information, managerial competency, business intelligence, business ethics, entrepreneurship education, legal system and macro-economy and access to credit from the formal financial sector to SMEs. Thus, it was established that there is a significant positive relationship between access to credit from the formal financial sector and the performance of SMEs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Asah, Francis Tangwo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Microfinance -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991-
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/115138 , vital:34081
- Description: As a developing nation, South Africa faces a high rate of poverty, high levels of inequality in terms of income and a high rate of unemployment. It is officially estimated that about 27.2% of the economically active population are unemployed. SMEs are expected to be an important vehicle to address the challenges of job creation, sustainable economic growth, equitable distribution of income and the overall stimulation of economic development. SMEs in South Africa constitute 99% of all businesses, contributing to employment, income inequality and poverty alleviation (Statistic South Africa, 2018). However, despite the remarkable contribution of SMEs to the economy of South Africa, the failure rate of SMEs (at 75%) is the highest of all the efficiency-driven economies sampled by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). The World Bank affirm that the availability of and access to credit from the formal financial sector is the primary cause of the high failure rate of SMEs. Contemporary literature advance that the future survival and performance of SMEs in South Africa is pegged onto the amount of financial capital available to address their capital needs. Thus, this study sought to analyse the availability of and access to credit from the formal financial sector and the performance of SMEs from the supply and demand-side. In order to achieve the objectives of the study, a sequential exploratory mixed method research design, located in the pragmatic research paradigm, was used in a two phased approach. The qualitative data collection and analysis in Phase 1 informed the quantitative data collection and analysis Phase 2. In Phase 1, in-depth face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with 8 credit and 8 business managers representing the sampling unit of selected formal financial institutions. The qualitative data collected was analysed using the five-steps process of content analysis as illustrated by Terre Blanche et al. (2006:322-326). The main findings with regard to factors that impact on the willingness of the formal financial sector to provide credit to SMEs were collateral, annual business turnover, audited financial records, relationship with the bank, credit profile, nature of the business, economic climate, ethics, nationality, government policy, management team, valid Identity Document/permit, equity contribution, entrepreneurship education, product quality, and business intelligence. Assessing credit applications from SMEs, risk assessment, inspection of financial records, proper documentation and background checks were the different tasks performed by credit and business managers. In addition, the main challenges faced by the formal financial sector in assessing and approving credit in favour of SMEs included the following: lack of investment capital; lack of collateral; lack of proper financial records; poor managerial knowledge; poor business plan; lack of industrial knowledge; and poor legal and credit laws. Lastly, contrary to the notion that formal financial institutions are not interested in investing in SMEs, on average, 70% of SMEs that applied for credit received such credit. In Phase 2, a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from formal sector owner/managers of SMEs in the city of Johannesburg. Of the 702 questionnaires distributed, 300 were returned and useable. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 24). A test for normality was performed using Shapiro–Wilks test. Reliability was tested using the Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient. Exploratory factor analysis tested the validity of factors that prevent formal financial sector from granting credit to SMEs while Binary logistic regression was used to infer on the hypotheses. Spearman’s Rho correlation analysis was used to determine whether there was any significant relationship with factors that influence access to credit and SMEs performance. The main findings revealed that access to bank finance was the only challenge that showed a significant correlation with performance. In addition, the study revealed that the South African Identity Document and collateral were the most important factors considered when applying for credit from formal financial institutions. With regard to the reasons why formal financial institutions may refuse to grant credit to SMEs, it was revealed that there was no significant positive relationship between lack of business networking and access to credit from the formal financial sector to SMEs. Conversely, the study also revealed a significant positive relationship between collateral, business information, managerial competency, business intelligence, business ethics, entrepreneurship education, legal system and macro-economy and access to credit from the formal financial sector to SMEs. Thus, it was established that there is a significant positive relationship between access to credit from the formal financial sector and the performance of SMEs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of school food and nutrition environments for strengthening the integrated school health policy in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Okeyo, Alice Phelgona
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Nutrition policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School health services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17039 , vital:40836
- Description: The 2012 Integrated School Health Policy (ISHP) offers a framework for adequate school food environment. It aims to contribute to the improvement of the general health of school-going children and to address health barriers to learning in order to improve education outcomes. This study assessed the school food and nutrition environment and critically appraised the position of nutrition within ISHP in order to make recommendations for best practice and promotion of healthy-eating in quintiles 1 – 3 secondary school learners of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Areas evaluated included the school food environment (National School Food Nutrition Programme, NSNP, tuck-shop, vendor, lunch box, and school vegetable garden); eating practice; nutrition knowledge; and nutrition status. A quantitative and qualitative cross-sectional design was applied in data collection. Data was collected from 1,357 learners at 18 secondary schools in three districts: Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Chris Hani and OR Tambo, using semi-structured questionnaires. Five major food items provided in the school food and nutrition environment included: beans, pap, sour-milk, rice, and samp (maize) (NSNP); chips, sandwich, pap, biscuits, and cake (tuck-shop); chips, sandwich, pap, cake, and pop-corn (vendor); and samp (maize), noodles, fat-cake, chips, and Russian/Viennas (lunch boxes). Only three of the 16 schools had school vegetable gardens which produced vegetables and no fruits. Five most frequently eaten foods for breakfast were porridge, rusks, stiff-pap, bread-with-spread, eggs, and polony. Learners from quintile 3 (60.8percent) significantly ate more cooked porridge than learners from quintiles 1 and 2 (51.9percent) (p = 0.015). Leaners from quintile 3 (59.4percent) significantly ate more brown bread-with-spread than learners from quintiles 1 and 2 (50.4) (p = 0.022). The majority of learners (72.7percent) ate breakfast; more male learners (24.4percent) than female learners (29.1percent) skipped breakfast. The majority (62.2percent) of learners had poor nutritional knowledge; significantly, more male (35percent) than female (27percent) learners had poor nutritional knowledge (p = 0.003). Nutritional knowledge increased with age; significantly more grade 8 learners had poor (42.6percent) nutritional knowledge than grade 12 learners (14.1percent) (p < 0.001). Leaners from quintile 3 had good (23.5percent) nutritional knowledge than learners from quintiles 1 and 2 (15.7percent) (p < 0.001). School lessons, books and television were the most important source for nutritional information to learners. The most significant source was lessons (72.0percent; p < 0.001); followed by television (69.4percent; p < 0.001) and books (67.8percent; p = 0.014), in that ranking order. The majority of learners (64percent) had normal body weight. The prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity was 13.0percent, 15.0percent and 8.0percent, respectively. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was higher in females than males (21.3percent vs 5.3percent; overweight; p < 0.001)) and (11.6percent vs 1.2percent; obesity; p < 0.001), respectively; while the prevalence in terms of underweight was significantly higher in male (21.3percent) learners than in female learners (8.1percent); p < 0.001. The study indicated that the school food environment was not supported by ISHP. The Integrated School Health Policy did not include on-site package for nutritional assessment, thus, there is need to offer nutritional interventions in schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Okeyo, Alice Phelgona
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Nutrition policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School health services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17039 , vital:40836
- Description: The 2012 Integrated School Health Policy (ISHP) offers a framework for adequate school food environment. It aims to contribute to the improvement of the general health of school-going children and to address health barriers to learning in order to improve education outcomes. This study assessed the school food and nutrition environment and critically appraised the position of nutrition within ISHP in order to make recommendations for best practice and promotion of healthy-eating in quintiles 1 – 3 secondary school learners of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Areas evaluated included the school food environment (National School Food Nutrition Programme, NSNP, tuck-shop, vendor, lunch box, and school vegetable garden); eating practice; nutrition knowledge; and nutrition status. A quantitative and qualitative cross-sectional design was applied in data collection. Data was collected from 1,357 learners at 18 secondary schools in three districts: Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Chris Hani and OR Tambo, using semi-structured questionnaires. Five major food items provided in the school food and nutrition environment included: beans, pap, sour-milk, rice, and samp (maize) (NSNP); chips, sandwich, pap, biscuits, and cake (tuck-shop); chips, sandwich, pap, cake, and pop-corn (vendor); and samp (maize), noodles, fat-cake, chips, and Russian/Viennas (lunch boxes). Only three of the 16 schools had school vegetable gardens which produced vegetables and no fruits. Five most frequently eaten foods for breakfast were porridge, rusks, stiff-pap, bread-with-spread, eggs, and polony. Learners from quintile 3 (60.8percent) significantly ate more cooked porridge than learners from quintiles 1 and 2 (51.9percent) (p = 0.015). Leaners from quintile 3 (59.4percent) significantly ate more brown bread-with-spread than learners from quintiles 1 and 2 (50.4) (p = 0.022). The majority of learners (72.7percent) ate breakfast; more male learners (24.4percent) than female learners (29.1percent) skipped breakfast. The majority (62.2percent) of learners had poor nutritional knowledge; significantly, more male (35percent) than female (27percent) learners had poor nutritional knowledge (p = 0.003). Nutritional knowledge increased with age; significantly more grade 8 learners had poor (42.6percent) nutritional knowledge than grade 12 learners (14.1percent) (p < 0.001). Leaners from quintile 3 had good (23.5percent) nutritional knowledge than learners from quintiles 1 and 2 (15.7percent) (p < 0.001). School lessons, books and television were the most important source for nutritional information to learners. The most significant source was lessons (72.0percent; p < 0.001); followed by television (69.4percent; p < 0.001) and books (67.8percent; p = 0.014), in that ranking order. The majority of learners (64percent) had normal body weight. The prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity was 13.0percent, 15.0percent and 8.0percent, respectively. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was higher in females than males (21.3percent vs 5.3percent; overweight; p < 0.001)) and (11.6percent vs 1.2percent; obesity; p < 0.001), respectively; while the prevalence in terms of underweight was significantly higher in male (21.3percent) learners than in female learners (8.1percent); p < 0.001. The study indicated that the school food environment was not supported by ISHP. The Integrated School Health Policy did not include on-site package for nutritional assessment, thus, there is need to offer nutritional interventions in schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of the social ecological system of Mabira forest and environs: implications for vulnerability to climate variability
- Authors: Jjagwe, Aisha
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Climate hazards
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44726 , vital:38163
- Description: Tropical forests are attracting attention in climate change debates considering the fundamental role they play as carbon sinks. Mabira Central Forest Reserve (CFR) found in the Lake Victoria basin region and of significance in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It has however undergone drastic degradation since the 1970s and its social economic ecological and environmental functions are at risk. The present study assessed the Social Ecological System (SES) of Mabira CFR and environs as well as the implications for vulnerability to climate variability. It focused on; i) assessment of the spatial temporal changes of Mabira CFR; to which Landsat images of 1975, 1986, 2000 and 2015 were used in combination with ground truthing for a successful classification of land use/cover types. ii) Determine the implications of land use/cover types and forest management options for above ground biomass (AGB) and soil organic carbon (SOC); here Velle, (1995) allometric equation was adopted for the AGB while the Walkley and Black (1934) was used to determine soil organic carbon iii) Determine the implications of land use cover change for livelihood and vulnerability to climate change impacts; to this the Social Ecological systems framework by Ostrom (2009) was adopted to understand the vulnerability implications for land use cover change (LUCC) and Climate variability in a forest based community. The study reveals that heavy deforestation and degradation continue to pose threats to Mabira CFR and environs. Major drivers of LUCC are: population expansion, loss of soil fertility, poor agricultural practices, establishment of roadside markets, industrialization and unclear forestry boundary. Findings indicate that although forest comprised the biggest coverage between 1975 and 2000, it has faced massive reduction between 2000 and 2015. Major forest conversions have been to subsistence farming (5.94%). The implications of LUCC are reflected in; the exposure of soils to degradation as seen from deforestation; soil erosion; carbon sequestration and climate variability constraining livelihoods. AGB and carbon was found highest in the strict nature reserve where on average the parameters noted above were found to be bigger. The recreation buffer had less carbon compared to the strict nature reserve; however the production zone, which had scattered trees with smaller parameters, registered the lowest average total AGB and carbon. Results indicate a perfectly strong relationship between the AGB and carbon variables. Results also indicate that approximately 6,771092.344 tonnes are sunk in the strict nature reserve. SOC analyzed based on the soil carbon percentage content. In terms of soil depth, the 0-10cm and 10-20cm soil layers had relatively similar variations of least square means for carbon than at 20-30cm soil layer. The highest SOC was observed in the soil surface of 0-10 cm depth, with the highest mean of 2.78 % across all the management zones. The amount of soil organic matter also varied with land use /cover types. Study findings reveal that LUCC and land management have a direct influence on soil organic carbon accumulation. Results indicate that LUCC implications for AGB and SOC as well as climate variability lead to livelihood vulnerability. Climate hazards experienced have affected SES, temperature variation range between 1oC -2oC. These variations are likely to increase vulnerability. This study recommends mapping of LUCC to identify priority areas for intervention. Priority should be given to reducing deforestation and restore degraded areas. Future research should focus on building adaptive capacity for forest based communities to mitigate climate change, improving forest tenure as a strategy for climate change impacts, integrating climate change into forest policy reviews.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Jjagwe, Aisha
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Climate hazards
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44726 , vital:38163
- Description: Tropical forests are attracting attention in climate change debates considering the fundamental role they play as carbon sinks. Mabira Central Forest Reserve (CFR) found in the Lake Victoria basin region and of significance in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It has however undergone drastic degradation since the 1970s and its social economic ecological and environmental functions are at risk. The present study assessed the Social Ecological System (SES) of Mabira CFR and environs as well as the implications for vulnerability to climate variability. It focused on; i) assessment of the spatial temporal changes of Mabira CFR; to which Landsat images of 1975, 1986, 2000 and 2015 were used in combination with ground truthing for a successful classification of land use/cover types. ii) Determine the implications of land use/cover types and forest management options for above ground biomass (AGB) and soil organic carbon (SOC); here Velle, (1995) allometric equation was adopted for the AGB while the Walkley and Black (1934) was used to determine soil organic carbon iii) Determine the implications of land use cover change for livelihood and vulnerability to climate change impacts; to this the Social Ecological systems framework by Ostrom (2009) was adopted to understand the vulnerability implications for land use cover change (LUCC) and Climate variability in a forest based community. The study reveals that heavy deforestation and degradation continue to pose threats to Mabira CFR and environs. Major drivers of LUCC are: population expansion, loss of soil fertility, poor agricultural practices, establishment of roadside markets, industrialization and unclear forestry boundary. Findings indicate that although forest comprised the biggest coverage between 1975 and 2000, it has faced massive reduction between 2000 and 2015. Major forest conversions have been to subsistence farming (5.94%). The implications of LUCC are reflected in; the exposure of soils to degradation as seen from deforestation; soil erosion; carbon sequestration and climate variability constraining livelihoods. AGB and carbon was found highest in the strict nature reserve where on average the parameters noted above were found to be bigger. The recreation buffer had less carbon compared to the strict nature reserve; however the production zone, which had scattered trees with smaller parameters, registered the lowest average total AGB and carbon. Results indicate a perfectly strong relationship between the AGB and carbon variables. Results also indicate that approximately 6,771092.344 tonnes are sunk in the strict nature reserve. SOC analyzed based on the soil carbon percentage content. In terms of soil depth, the 0-10cm and 10-20cm soil layers had relatively similar variations of least square means for carbon than at 20-30cm soil layer. The highest SOC was observed in the soil surface of 0-10 cm depth, with the highest mean of 2.78 % across all the management zones. The amount of soil organic matter also varied with land use /cover types. Study findings reveal that LUCC and land management have a direct influence on soil organic carbon accumulation. Results indicate that LUCC implications for AGB and SOC as well as climate variability lead to livelihood vulnerability. Climate hazards experienced have affected SES, temperature variation range between 1oC -2oC. These variations are likely to increase vulnerability. This study recommends mapping of LUCC to identify priority areas for intervention. Priority should be given to reducing deforestation and restore degraded areas. Future research should focus on building adaptive capacity for forest based communities to mitigate climate change, improving forest tenure as a strategy for climate change impacts, integrating climate change into forest policy reviews.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An economic evaluation of the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) program in Uganda
- Authors: Leornard, Walusimbi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- Uganda , Agriculture -- Economic Aspects -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PHD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45624 , vital:38920
- Description: The National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) programme was formed in Uganda in 2001 as a response to previously poor performance of extension services in Uganda. NAADS was formed as a demand-driven extension programme designed to improve farmers’ incomes through increased farm output in agriculture and to solve food insecurity in the country. Given the enormous resources injected into the programme intended to improve the welfare of farmers, the main objective of this study was to determine the economic viability of NAADS throughout the period 2001-2017. The study was conducted in four districts: Mpigi, Mubende, Luwero, and Mukono. Using a non-probability random sampling technique based on convenience and snowball sampling techniques, a sample of 384 participants took part in this study. Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) was used to assess the merits of this public investment project. The study also used descriptive methods of analysis such as a 5-point Likert-type scale so as to derive means. In addition, the study practiced the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) technique, and the cronbach alpha coefficient was used to test the reliability of factors in explaining the concerned five dimensions of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Leornard, Walusimbi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- Uganda , Agriculture -- Economic Aspects -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PHD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45624 , vital:38920
- Description: The National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) programme was formed in Uganda in 2001 as a response to previously poor performance of extension services in Uganda. NAADS was formed as a demand-driven extension programme designed to improve farmers’ incomes through increased farm output in agriculture and to solve food insecurity in the country. Given the enormous resources injected into the programme intended to improve the welfare of farmers, the main objective of this study was to determine the economic viability of NAADS throughout the period 2001-2017. The study was conducted in four districts: Mpigi, Mubende, Luwero, and Mukono. Using a non-probability random sampling technique based on convenience and snowball sampling techniques, a sample of 384 participants took part in this study. Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) was used to assess the merits of this public investment project. The study also used descriptive methods of analysis such as a 5-point Likert-type scale so as to derive means. In addition, the study practiced the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) technique, and the cronbach alpha coefficient was used to test the reliability of factors in explaining the concerned five dimensions of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An evaluation and comparison of the plasticiser effects of p -Menthane-3,8-diol-citronellal acetal plasticiser with triethyl citrate and bis(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate on ethylcellulose films.
- Authors: Marx, Johannes Scheepers
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Plasticisers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44629 , vital:38164
- Description: In recent years, much attention has been focused on research to replace petroleumbased commodity plastics, in a cost-effective manner, with biodegradable materials offering competitive mechanical properties. The use of natural and/or biodegradable plasticisers, with low toxicity and good compatibility with several plastics, resins, rubber and elastomers in substitution of conventional plasticisers, such as phthalates and other synthetic plasticisers attract the market along with the increasing worldwide trend towards the use of bio-polymers. The main research objective entailed the behaviour of the novel bio-plasticiser PMDcitronellal acetal (PMD-CA) and its comparison with other commercial bio-plasticiser, triethyl citrate (TEC) and a non-phthalate plasticiser bis(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DOTP), on ethylcellulose (EC) films to evaluate whether it would be feasible to replace them with PMD-CA. The films were produced by a casting technique and were characterised by mechanical properties, thermoanalysis, Scanning Electron Microscopy, disintegration and Fourier-Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The addition of any of the three plasticisers to EC film increased the flexibility of the films. The plasticisers PMD-CA and DOTP added to EC formed tougher films as compared to EC films containing TEC shown by the high % elongation at break, strain and displacement. Statistically, it was proved that PMD-CA and DOTP had a more significant effect on % elongation of EC films than TEC, postulated to be due to their similar molecular size and structure. Thermoanalytical studies conducted revealed that the thermal degradation process of EC films proceeded in three basic stages, namely dehydration, depolymerisation and pyrolytic decomposition. Thermoanalytical analysis showed that unplasticised EC films had a higher glass transition value compared to the films containing any of the plasticisers and that PMD-CA and DOTP are more effective plasticisers compared to TEC due to their lower glass transition temperatures. The presence of plasticisers in the polymer matrix did change the surface morphology of polymer films. The addition of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) to EC PMD-CA and EC DOTP films caused more significant globule-like bubbles which were not uniform in size on the surface of these films. Observations were made that the type of plasticiser coating with or without pore former influenced the disintegration properties of films. HPMC, as pore former, played a significant role in the drug release system matrix. EC PMD-CA and EC DOTP polymeric films controlled the disintegration of the films in the acidic and weakly acidic medium. EC and EC TEC films had less significant control on the disintegration rate of the acidic and weakly acidic disintegration media. FT-IR characterisation of the films revealed comparable peaks observed in all the polymer-plasticiser combinations and therefore it was concluded that chemical interactions did not exist between the polymers and plasticisers. Added excipients (plasticisers and pore formers) were found to be compatible with EC films. It was concluded within the scope of this research that EC films plasticised with PMDCA, DOTP or TEC outperformed film properties of those compared to unplasticised EC film. The plasticising properties of the novel bio-plasticiser PMD-CA are similar compared to DOTP, and superior to triethyl citrate and could therefore be considered as an effective bioplasticiser for enteric coating formulations in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Marx, Johannes Scheepers
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Plasticisers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44629 , vital:38164
- Description: In recent years, much attention has been focused on research to replace petroleumbased commodity plastics, in a cost-effective manner, with biodegradable materials offering competitive mechanical properties. The use of natural and/or biodegradable plasticisers, with low toxicity and good compatibility with several plastics, resins, rubber and elastomers in substitution of conventional plasticisers, such as phthalates and other synthetic plasticisers attract the market along with the increasing worldwide trend towards the use of bio-polymers. The main research objective entailed the behaviour of the novel bio-plasticiser PMDcitronellal acetal (PMD-CA) and its comparison with other commercial bio-plasticiser, triethyl citrate (TEC) and a non-phthalate plasticiser bis(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DOTP), on ethylcellulose (EC) films to evaluate whether it would be feasible to replace them with PMD-CA. The films were produced by a casting technique and were characterised by mechanical properties, thermoanalysis, Scanning Electron Microscopy, disintegration and Fourier-Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The addition of any of the three plasticisers to EC film increased the flexibility of the films. The plasticisers PMD-CA and DOTP added to EC formed tougher films as compared to EC films containing TEC shown by the high % elongation at break, strain and displacement. Statistically, it was proved that PMD-CA and DOTP had a more significant effect on % elongation of EC films than TEC, postulated to be due to their similar molecular size and structure. Thermoanalytical studies conducted revealed that the thermal degradation process of EC films proceeded in three basic stages, namely dehydration, depolymerisation and pyrolytic decomposition. Thermoanalytical analysis showed that unplasticised EC films had a higher glass transition value compared to the films containing any of the plasticisers and that PMD-CA and DOTP are more effective plasticisers compared to TEC due to their lower glass transition temperatures. The presence of plasticisers in the polymer matrix did change the surface morphology of polymer films. The addition of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) to EC PMD-CA and EC DOTP films caused more significant globule-like bubbles which were not uniform in size on the surface of these films. Observations were made that the type of plasticiser coating with or without pore former influenced the disintegration properties of films. HPMC, as pore former, played a significant role in the drug release system matrix. EC PMD-CA and EC DOTP polymeric films controlled the disintegration of the films in the acidic and weakly acidic medium. EC and EC TEC films had less significant control on the disintegration rate of the acidic and weakly acidic disintegration media. FT-IR characterisation of the films revealed comparable peaks observed in all the polymer-plasticiser combinations and therefore it was concluded that chemical interactions did not exist between the polymers and plasticisers. Added excipients (plasticisers and pore formers) were found to be compatible with EC films. It was concluded within the scope of this research that EC films plasticised with PMDCA, DOTP or TEC outperformed film properties of those compared to unplasticised EC film. The plasticising properties of the novel bio-plasticiser PMD-CA are similar compared to DOTP, and superior to triethyl citrate and could therefore be considered as an effective bioplasticiser for enteric coating formulations in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An evaluation of a profiling and selection process for apprentices in the South African automotive industry
- Authors: Puchert, Juliet Ingrid
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Artisans -- South Africa , Skilled labor -- South Africa Apprenticeship programs -- South Africa Occupational training -- South Africa Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43314 , vital:36791
- Description: The South African automotive industry is the biggest manufacturing sector and the largest contributor to the domestic economy. Within the national manufacturing sector, the artisan job family has been identified as a scarce and critical skill. Artisans are a number one area of concern with regard to filling vacancies in the country. The domestic economy as well as the effectiveness and success of the automotive industry could be negatively affected if this artisanal crisis is not adequately addressed. This study aimed to evaluate a profiling and selection process for apprentices in the South African automotive industry. A multiple-stage selection method was used to screen the applicants. The selection process included the following phases: application review, rating of the application documentation, aptitude testing, skills-based teamwork assessment and interviews. The researcher obtained access to the documentation generated through an annual apprentice selection process at a large multi-national automotive firm. The final sample consisted of 3 412 individuals that had applied for two types of apprenticeship programmes, namely, automotive electrician and millwright, across three intake years. Descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution tables and medians were used. Inferential statistical analysis, using survival analysis, was used to assess whether the survival curves were statistically different across the groups. The findings of this study are relevant to the South African automotive industry, as well as the manufacturing sector. The findings are also of value to human resource practitioners, educators, social scientists and other researchers. The 13 constructs investigated in the study showed a high association with longer survival time in the selection process. The positive evaluation of this selection process provides evidence to support its confirmation as the national selection tool. Four recommendations are proposed to the HRM field and four to the automotive industry. The multiple-hurdle selection process employed in this study should be replicated by the automotive industry in their selection of apprenticeship applicants. Standardisation practices, the use of on-line technology and the marketing of the apprenticeship position are also recommended. Furthermore, it is recommended that educational providers provide job preparation workshops to assist applicants to improve their survival opportunity within the selection processes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Puchert, Juliet Ingrid
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Artisans -- South Africa , Skilled labor -- South Africa Apprenticeship programs -- South Africa Occupational training -- South Africa Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43314 , vital:36791
- Description: The South African automotive industry is the biggest manufacturing sector and the largest contributor to the domestic economy. Within the national manufacturing sector, the artisan job family has been identified as a scarce and critical skill. Artisans are a number one area of concern with regard to filling vacancies in the country. The domestic economy as well as the effectiveness and success of the automotive industry could be negatively affected if this artisanal crisis is not adequately addressed. This study aimed to evaluate a profiling and selection process for apprentices in the South African automotive industry. A multiple-stage selection method was used to screen the applicants. The selection process included the following phases: application review, rating of the application documentation, aptitude testing, skills-based teamwork assessment and interviews. The researcher obtained access to the documentation generated through an annual apprentice selection process at a large multi-national automotive firm. The final sample consisted of 3 412 individuals that had applied for two types of apprenticeship programmes, namely, automotive electrician and millwright, across three intake years. Descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution tables and medians were used. Inferential statistical analysis, using survival analysis, was used to assess whether the survival curves were statistically different across the groups. The findings of this study are relevant to the South African automotive industry, as well as the manufacturing sector. The findings are also of value to human resource practitioners, educators, social scientists and other researchers. The 13 constructs investigated in the study showed a high association with longer survival time in the selection process. The positive evaluation of this selection process provides evidence to support its confirmation as the national selection tool. Four recommendations are proposed to the HRM field and four to the automotive industry. The multiple-hurdle selection process employed in this study should be replicated by the automotive industry in their selection of apprenticeship applicants. Standardisation practices, the use of on-line technology and the marketing of the apprenticeship position are also recommended. Furthermore, it is recommended that educational providers provide job preparation workshops to assist applicants to improve their survival opportunity within the selection processes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An experimental study of self-regulated learning with mildly gifted learners in grade 3 mathematics
- Authors: Allers, Amanda Lynette
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Gifted children -- Education , Motivation in education Academic achievement Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Primary)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42074 , vital:36623
- Description: The study investigated whether self-regulated learning (SRL) strategies can be used successfully by Grade 3 mildly gifted learners (MGLs), in order to master an enriched advanced level mathematics curriculum. In accordance with internationally and nationally accepted principles, learners of diverse abilities should be given equal opportunities to achieve their full learning potential. The stark reality is that rigid application of the national curriculum currently used in South African primary schools, limits this ideal. MGLs possess skills that enable them to study at an increased level, a quicker pace and with an advanced degree of independence. The study employed the true experimental research. Sixty-four learners participated in the Mathematics Enrichment Programme. Purposive sampling was used to identify and select these learners. Subsequent to SRL pre-tests, simple random sampling was used to determine the experimental and control groups. The experimental group used problem-solving and 21st Century technology to develop SRL strategies. Direct teaching strategies were used for the control group. Learners were administered pre-tests, diagnostic problem-solving assessments, and post-tests relating to problem-solving and SRL. Chi-square tests and inferential t-tests were employed to draw comparisons within and between the groups regarding SRL and problem-solving scores. Univariate ANCOVAs were conducted to determine the post-test differences. Furthermore, Cronbach alpha was used to measure reliability of summated scores relating to SRL and problem-solving. The empirical results suggest that MGLs in Grade 3 are indeed capable of self-regulating their learning. This enhanced learners’ self-determination, self-confidence, self-motivation, self-independence, and self-empowerment in relation to their tasks. The empirical results suggest a significant constructive addition to the present standard curriculum for MGLs in the mainstream of education. The self-regulatory model for Foundation Phase MGLs which evolved from this study can be successfully employed to balance the diversity challenges in an inclusive education system. The findings of this study can have significant implications for future teacher training and education of MGLs in primary schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Allers, Amanda Lynette
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Gifted children -- Education , Motivation in education Academic achievement Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Primary)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42074 , vital:36623
- Description: The study investigated whether self-regulated learning (SRL) strategies can be used successfully by Grade 3 mildly gifted learners (MGLs), in order to master an enriched advanced level mathematics curriculum. In accordance with internationally and nationally accepted principles, learners of diverse abilities should be given equal opportunities to achieve their full learning potential. The stark reality is that rigid application of the national curriculum currently used in South African primary schools, limits this ideal. MGLs possess skills that enable them to study at an increased level, a quicker pace and with an advanced degree of independence. The study employed the true experimental research. Sixty-four learners participated in the Mathematics Enrichment Programme. Purposive sampling was used to identify and select these learners. Subsequent to SRL pre-tests, simple random sampling was used to determine the experimental and control groups. The experimental group used problem-solving and 21st Century technology to develop SRL strategies. Direct teaching strategies were used for the control group. Learners were administered pre-tests, diagnostic problem-solving assessments, and post-tests relating to problem-solving and SRL. Chi-square tests and inferential t-tests were employed to draw comparisons within and between the groups regarding SRL and problem-solving scores. Univariate ANCOVAs were conducted to determine the post-test differences. Furthermore, Cronbach alpha was used to measure reliability of summated scores relating to SRL and problem-solving. The empirical results suggest that MGLs in Grade 3 are indeed capable of self-regulating their learning. This enhanced learners’ self-determination, self-confidence, self-motivation, self-independence, and self-empowerment in relation to their tasks. The empirical results suggest a significant constructive addition to the present standard curriculum for MGLs in the mainstream of education. The self-regulatory model for Foundation Phase MGLs which evolved from this study can be successfully employed to balance the diversity challenges in an inclusive education system. The findings of this study can have significant implications for future teacher training and education of MGLs in primary schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An exploration of HIV and aids disclosure among HIV-serodiscordant married couples in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Ndlela, Joshua Bongani
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: HIV infections -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Stigma (Social psychology) , AIDS (Disease) -- Psychological aspects , HIV-positive persons -- Mental health , Disclosure of information , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Family relationships
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41774 , vital:36580
- Description: Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest prevalence and incidence of HIV infection worldwide, mostly attributed to heterosexual transmission. Transmission in HIV-serodiscordant couples who have received joint voluntary counselling and testing ranges from 3% to 7% per year and only about 20% know that they are living in a discordant relationship. Disclosure is seen as a cornerstone for the prevention of HIV transmission between in HIV-serodiscordant married partners. It is argued that numbers of HIV-serodiscordant couples are most likely increasing; however, limited or no support is given to these couples as most because counselling interventions in South Africa do not provide for married heterosexual HIV-serodiscordant couples. The aim of the study was to identify the impact of disclosure of HIV and AIDS status on partners in HIV-serodiscordant married relationships. The second aim was to synthesize the findings to guide the development of contextualized counselling guidelines for married couples in HIV-serodiscordant relationships. Five HIV-serodiscordant married couples and 6 HIV and AIDS counsellors from a variety of settings in Nelson Mandela Bay, participated in this study. In this interpretive qualitative study, non-probability criteria, purposive sampling was used. Both participant groups are isiXhosa-speaking adults between the ages of 21 and 65 years and include both males and females. Qualitative data were gathered by means of audio-recorded semi structured interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data, while Guba’s guidelines were used to enhance the trustworthiness of the research. Semi-structured interviews with HIV-serodiscordant married couples revealed 5 common themes and were: (a) confused environment of couples in HIV disclosure, (b) inconsistent delivery of healthcare information to HIV-serodiscordant couples, (c) relationship predicaments post disclosure, (d) partner support on sexual intimacy for married couples and (e) reactions of family, children and friends towards the HIV disclosure. The HIV and AIDS counsellors 3 common themes and were: (a) basic HIV and AIDS counselling skills, (b) organisational resources support of HIV counsellors and (c) suggestions to support HIV counsellors.. This study supports the view that further research be done in other related areas (gay, lesbians, bi-sexual relationships) and demystify this unknown or misunderstood notion needs to take place at a larger scale and probably incorporate quantitative surveys to supplement the current qualitative research. Implications for practise and avenues for research are considered in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ndlela, Joshua Bongani
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: HIV infections -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Stigma (Social psychology) , AIDS (Disease) -- Psychological aspects , HIV-positive persons -- Mental health , Disclosure of information , AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Family relationships
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41774 , vital:36580
- Description: Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest prevalence and incidence of HIV infection worldwide, mostly attributed to heterosexual transmission. Transmission in HIV-serodiscordant couples who have received joint voluntary counselling and testing ranges from 3% to 7% per year and only about 20% know that they are living in a discordant relationship. Disclosure is seen as a cornerstone for the prevention of HIV transmission between in HIV-serodiscordant married partners. It is argued that numbers of HIV-serodiscordant couples are most likely increasing; however, limited or no support is given to these couples as most because counselling interventions in South Africa do not provide for married heterosexual HIV-serodiscordant couples. The aim of the study was to identify the impact of disclosure of HIV and AIDS status on partners in HIV-serodiscordant married relationships. The second aim was to synthesize the findings to guide the development of contextualized counselling guidelines for married couples in HIV-serodiscordant relationships. Five HIV-serodiscordant married couples and 6 HIV and AIDS counsellors from a variety of settings in Nelson Mandela Bay, participated in this study. In this interpretive qualitative study, non-probability criteria, purposive sampling was used. Both participant groups are isiXhosa-speaking adults between the ages of 21 and 65 years and include both males and females. Qualitative data were gathered by means of audio-recorded semi structured interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data, while Guba’s guidelines were used to enhance the trustworthiness of the research. Semi-structured interviews with HIV-serodiscordant married couples revealed 5 common themes and were: (a) confused environment of couples in HIV disclosure, (b) inconsistent delivery of healthcare information to HIV-serodiscordant couples, (c) relationship predicaments post disclosure, (d) partner support on sexual intimacy for married couples and (e) reactions of family, children and friends towards the HIV disclosure. The HIV and AIDS counsellors 3 common themes and were: (a) basic HIV and AIDS counselling skills, (b) organisational resources support of HIV counsellors and (c) suggestions to support HIV counsellors.. This study supports the view that further research be done in other related areas (gay, lesbians, bi-sexual relationships) and demystify this unknown or misunderstood notion needs to take place at a larger scale and probably incorporate quantitative surveys to supplement the current qualitative research. Implications for practise and avenues for research are considered in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation into the performance of smallholder irrigation schemes in Limpopo Province, South Africa: success factors, typologies and implications for development
- Denison, Jonathan Anthony Noel
- Authors: Denison, Jonathan Anthony Noel
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Irrigation projects -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Land use -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Water-supply -- South Africa -- Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/92317 , vital:30709
- Description: The research aimed to determine the factors that contribute to the success or failure of smallholder irrigation schemes in the Limpopo Province. It focussed on public-schemes where farmers share the water system Limpopo Province has more than half of the smallholder irrigation schemes in the country with an equipped area of approximately 28 000 ha. The main aims of the research were to identify key factors that explain performance and to develop a contemporary irrigation scheme typology. The research intended to provide a better perspective on how to focus investments across the multiple thematic areas that are associated with sustained and profitable irrigation farming activity. A survey of 102 irrigation schemes was conducted, comprising 82% of the population of schemes greater than 20 ha in Limpopo Province. The quantitative survey complemented prior in-depth qualitative research undertaken on Limpopo schemes. Data was consolidated into five performance indicators and 13 characteristic factors that impact performance. Schemes were viewed as technical and socio-biological systems where performance was determined by the dynamic interaction of multiple factors. The analysis was done in a complex systems framework using correlation, cluster and principle component analysis. It was postulated that over-arching concepts of productivity, profitability and manageability would explain why schemes succeed or fail. The schemes were found to be relatively very small in size with three quarters (74.8%) of them falling in the 50 to 250 ha size range, and only 11 schemes larger than 250 ha. Average plot sizes were 1.34 ha with a wide range between 0.18 and 16.25 ha. There were 65 operational schemes (equivalent to 63.7%), and 37 had failed (equivalent to 36.3%). Using a criterion for success of greater than 50% cropping intensity (to align with other studies and below which schemes can be considered to have failed), the success rate of the Limpopo schemes was 58%. The result was similar to the rest of South Africa and the same as the average rate for SADC identified in other studies using the same criterion. The schemes exhibited a mixed production purpose on average, with a significant market emphasis indicating these schemes have largely evolved from ‘food schemes’ to partly market-farming. Main crops grown were summer-maize and winter fresh-vegetables and cropping intensities on operational schemes ranged widely from 10% to 175%, with an average of 94%. Failure was associated with three dominant factors: energy type; infrastructure condition; and water resource constraints. The first two factors showed that manageability of technology was important. There is strong empirical evidence that pumped smallholder schemes are vulnerable in their physical form, prone to functional and financial failure, live much shorter lives, and perform no better than gravity-canal schemes. Out of the 37 schemes that failed, 34 (91.8%) were pumped. Pumped schemes tend to collapse suddenly while young and exhibit lower cut-off thresholds in productivity that, when crossed, trigger collapse. They also have much lower resilience to factors such as water stress or low farm-profitability. Pumped schemes need higher levels farm sophistication, market-oriented farming, and operational capability to keep the pumping pressure up. Water resource constraints were widespread, considerably more so on gravity schemes. Commercialising farmers were inhibited by lack of access to knowledge. Success was associated with numerous factors, but two findings stand out; the performance of gravity systems and the prevalence of land-exchange activity; the latter enabled by institutional flexibility and reflecting a process of ‘bricolage’ at play. Increased plot size was associated with increased commercialisation and, when larger than 1.8 ha, only commercialised farming was pursued. Market proximity seemed to play a role in increased longevity and to market access in commercialisation. These findings highlighted the importance of productivity and profitability in explaining success. Gravity schemes performed much more strongly in terms of longevity (nearly four times longer-lived) and similarly to pumped schemes in terms of cropping intensity. This was achieved under much greater water stress and with considerably worse infrastructure condition. Water efficiency was determined to be high on half of the schemes that were using short-furrow irrigation; equivalent, in a basin perspective, to drip irrigation. Two of the three top performing schemes (>150% intensity) were old gravity schemes. Farmers on approximately 75% of Limpopo smallholder schemes are currently engaging in land exchange transactions in a highly insecure and un-formalised institutional setup. Land exchange prevalence longer than two years was moderately associated with cropping intensity and strongly associated with commercialisation. This result has three important implications. First, it suggests that more land is utilised on the schemes when there is vibrant land-leasing activity. Secondly, schemes with a higher prevalence of long-term leasing seem to have a strong tendency to be more commercialised. Thirdly, the duration of the lease is significant, as neither single-season, nor annual leases yielded any positive associations, while those exchanges that were two years or longer, were associated with increased performance. These findings highlight the potential for longer-term land-exchange interventions to address the widespread low land utilisation on smallholder schemes, and to catalyse more commercially-oriented farming. An irrigation scheme typology was derived from the cluster analysis and was aligned to a contemporary irrigation farming typology. The key descriptors included technology type, purpose of farming and scheme management type. By matching scheme type to the farmer typology (or typologies), strategic decisions regarding technology choices for infrastructure, land, and water institutional interventions can be better informed. All schemes demand attention to the multiple factors required to achieve performance, not least water-tenure security, irrigation management organisational development, and infrastructure modernisation. Complexity was demonstrated by the finding that multiple factors contribute to success, and that there are many dimensions that change independently and have a cascading effect through the system in ways that are difficult to predict. Agricultural systems support to achieve productivity and profitability are essential for success. The research findings lead to the recommendation that, in addition, strategic planners must also consider the implications of the dominant factors of water-technology choices so that these are manageable, and the dynamics of farm-size change based on land exchange processes, in order to harness new opportunities to maximise irrigation scheme performance in future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Denison, Jonathan Anthony Noel
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Irrigation projects -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Land use -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Water-supply -- South Africa -- Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/92317 , vital:30709
- Description: The research aimed to determine the factors that contribute to the success or failure of smallholder irrigation schemes in the Limpopo Province. It focussed on public-schemes where farmers share the water system Limpopo Province has more than half of the smallholder irrigation schemes in the country with an equipped area of approximately 28 000 ha. The main aims of the research were to identify key factors that explain performance and to develop a contemporary irrigation scheme typology. The research intended to provide a better perspective on how to focus investments across the multiple thematic areas that are associated with sustained and profitable irrigation farming activity. A survey of 102 irrigation schemes was conducted, comprising 82% of the population of schemes greater than 20 ha in Limpopo Province. The quantitative survey complemented prior in-depth qualitative research undertaken on Limpopo schemes. Data was consolidated into five performance indicators and 13 characteristic factors that impact performance. Schemes were viewed as technical and socio-biological systems where performance was determined by the dynamic interaction of multiple factors. The analysis was done in a complex systems framework using correlation, cluster and principle component analysis. It was postulated that over-arching concepts of productivity, profitability and manageability would explain why schemes succeed or fail. The schemes were found to be relatively very small in size with three quarters (74.8%) of them falling in the 50 to 250 ha size range, and only 11 schemes larger than 250 ha. Average plot sizes were 1.34 ha with a wide range between 0.18 and 16.25 ha. There were 65 operational schemes (equivalent to 63.7%), and 37 had failed (equivalent to 36.3%). Using a criterion for success of greater than 50% cropping intensity (to align with other studies and below which schemes can be considered to have failed), the success rate of the Limpopo schemes was 58%. The result was similar to the rest of South Africa and the same as the average rate for SADC identified in other studies using the same criterion. The schemes exhibited a mixed production purpose on average, with a significant market emphasis indicating these schemes have largely evolved from ‘food schemes’ to partly market-farming. Main crops grown were summer-maize and winter fresh-vegetables and cropping intensities on operational schemes ranged widely from 10% to 175%, with an average of 94%. Failure was associated with three dominant factors: energy type; infrastructure condition; and water resource constraints. The first two factors showed that manageability of technology was important. There is strong empirical evidence that pumped smallholder schemes are vulnerable in their physical form, prone to functional and financial failure, live much shorter lives, and perform no better than gravity-canal schemes. Out of the 37 schemes that failed, 34 (91.8%) were pumped. Pumped schemes tend to collapse suddenly while young and exhibit lower cut-off thresholds in productivity that, when crossed, trigger collapse. They also have much lower resilience to factors such as water stress or low farm-profitability. Pumped schemes need higher levels farm sophistication, market-oriented farming, and operational capability to keep the pumping pressure up. Water resource constraints were widespread, considerably more so on gravity schemes. Commercialising farmers were inhibited by lack of access to knowledge. Success was associated with numerous factors, but two findings stand out; the performance of gravity systems and the prevalence of land-exchange activity; the latter enabled by institutional flexibility and reflecting a process of ‘bricolage’ at play. Increased plot size was associated with increased commercialisation and, when larger than 1.8 ha, only commercialised farming was pursued. Market proximity seemed to play a role in increased longevity and to market access in commercialisation. These findings highlighted the importance of productivity and profitability in explaining success. Gravity schemes performed much more strongly in terms of longevity (nearly four times longer-lived) and similarly to pumped schemes in terms of cropping intensity. This was achieved under much greater water stress and with considerably worse infrastructure condition. Water efficiency was determined to be high on half of the schemes that were using short-furrow irrigation; equivalent, in a basin perspective, to drip irrigation. Two of the three top performing schemes (>150% intensity) were old gravity schemes. Farmers on approximately 75% of Limpopo smallholder schemes are currently engaging in land exchange transactions in a highly insecure and un-formalised institutional setup. Land exchange prevalence longer than two years was moderately associated with cropping intensity and strongly associated with commercialisation. This result has three important implications. First, it suggests that more land is utilised on the schemes when there is vibrant land-leasing activity. Secondly, schemes with a higher prevalence of long-term leasing seem to have a strong tendency to be more commercialised. Thirdly, the duration of the lease is significant, as neither single-season, nor annual leases yielded any positive associations, while those exchanges that were two years or longer, were associated with increased performance. These findings highlight the potential for longer-term land-exchange interventions to address the widespread low land utilisation on smallholder schemes, and to catalyse more commercially-oriented farming. An irrigation scheme typology was derived from the cluster analysis and was aligned to a contemporary irrigation farming typology. The key descriptors included technology type, purpose of farming and scheme management type. By matching scheme type to the farmer typology (or typologies), strategic decisions regarding technology choices for infrastructure, land, and water institutional interventions can be better informed. All schemes demand attention to the multiple factors required to achieve performance, not least water-tenure security, irrigation management organisational development, and infrastructure modernisation. Complexity was demonstrated by the finding that multiple factors contribute to success, and that there are many dimensions that change independently and have a cascading effect through the system in ways that are difficult to predict. Agricultural systems support to achieve productivity and profitability are essential for success. The research findings lead to the recommendation that, in addition, strategic planners must also consider the implications of the dominant factors of water-technology choices so that these are manageable, and the dynamics of farm-size change based on land exchange processes, in order to harness new opportunities to maximise irrigation scheme performance in future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of plant conservation strategies employed in Makhanda, South Africa: an educational exploration
- Authors: Cimi, Pumlani Viwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Plant conservation , Rare plants Biodiversity conservation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37979 , vital:34276
- Description: The school curriculum in South Africa gives educators the freedom to design and organise learning experiences according to their local circumstances and availability of resources. In that context, this study advocates conservation education through use of plants on school grounds and visits to local herbaria and botanical gardens as part of the school curriculum. Trees growing on street verges in town suburbs are also a resource that could be using for teaching. School learners from three schools representing different areas of Makhanda (Grahamstown) participated in plant-related activities and were surveyed to determine their prior knowledge about plants and plant conservation. Learners answered a series of questions in writing using a funnel sequence and the inverted funnel sequence in questionnaire design. This motivated respondents to co-operate and fully complete a questionnaire. In addition, the non-participant observation technique was used to capture behavioural reactions to the activities in order to supplement the data generated through questionnaires and interviews. This proved to be a purposeful, systematic and a selective way of watching and listening to an interaction phenomenon as it takes place. Interviews and questionnaires revealed that most Makhanda residents (especially in rural and township areas) use traditional medicine and medicinal plants to treat many diseases. They also use plants for cultural activities. Traditional remedies are practised among the rural and township communities because of ease of availability, convenience, and also due to social, psychological and cultural reasons. Medicinal plants have been increasingly recognized for their role not only for health care, but also for improving the economic status. Community members and street vendors were also questioned using semi-structured interviews. Open-ended questions were used successfully to assess the person’s knowledge, attitudes, opinions, beliefs and feelings. This type of interview ensures that a specific question does not lose its purpose. These interviews were used to determine how community members see, interpret and relate to nature. In the interviews, I also assessed the real needs of the local communities because there is a tendency to think that our power, knowledge and resources can give us the right to predict what communities really need without actually asking them. When our imposed initiatives fail, we often accuse these communities of a lack of interest in our issue of interest. Documents on plants and their uses kept in the Selmar Schönland Herbarium were compared with the information given by community members and street vendors. Xhosa plant names and ethnobotanical information given by the community members and street vendors was used to augment existing information on plant use. A further aim of this study was to investigate the potential use of plant resources provided by the street trees and gardens for education. Makhanda streets were sampled and, of the 1 435 plants that were countered from 17 streets, only 15 indigenous species were represented, while 20 alien species were recorded. These trees can be used for lessons on both alien and indigenous plants. Notable differences in tree density and species richness were evident across suburbs with the highest density and richness found in the more affluent suburbs and poor representation of trees in the township. This will affect learner perceptions and viewpoints. The results from the analysed data revealed that use of the school grounds, botanical gardens, the local herbarium and town streets are effective in plant conservation education in schools and communities. These types of resources could be used for environmental education for future generations in South Africa and all over the world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Cimi, Pumlani Viwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Plant conservation , Rare plants Biodiversity conservation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37979 , vital:34276
- Description: The school curriculum in South Africa gives educators the freedom to design and organise learning experiences according to their local circumstances and availability of resources. In that context, this study advocates conservation education through use of plants on school grounds and visits to local herbaria and botanical gardens as part of the school curriculum. Trees growing on street verges in town suburbs are also a resource that could be using for teaching. School learners from three schools representing different areas of Makhanda (Grahamstown) participated in plant-related activities and were surveyed to determine their prior knowledge about plants and plant conservation. Learners answered a series of questions in writing using a funnel sequence and the inverted funnel sequence in questionnaire design. This motivated respondents to co-operate and fully complete a questionnaire. In addition, the non-participant observation technique was used to capture behavioural reactions to the activities in order to supplement the data generated through questionnaires and interviews. This proved to be a purposeful, systematic and a selective way of watching and listening to an interaction phenomenon as it takes place. Interviews and questionnaires revealed that most Makhanda residents (especially in rural and township areas) use traditional medicine and medicinal plants to treat many diseases. They also use plants for cultural activities. Traditional remedies are practised among the rural and township communities because of ease of availability, convenience, and also due to social, psychological and cultural reasons. Medicinal plants have been increasingly recognized for their role not only for health care, but also for improving the economic status. Community members and street vendors were also questioned using semi-structured interviews. Open-ended questions were used successfully to assess the person’s knowledge, attitudes, opinions, beliefs and feelings. This type of interview ensures that a specific question does not lose its purpose. These interviews were used to determine how community members see, interpret and relate to nature. In the interviews, I also assessed the real needs of the local communities because there is a tendency to think that our power, knowledge and resources can give us the right to predict what communities really need without actually asking them. When our imposed initiatives fail, we often accuse these communities of a lack of interest in our issue of interest. Documents on plants and their uses kept in the Selmar Schönland Herbarium were compared with the information given by community members and street vendors. Xhosa plant names and ethnobotanical information given by the community members and street vendors was used to augment existing information on plant use. A further aim of this study was to investigate the potential use of plant resources provided by the street trees and gardens for education. Makhanda streets were sampled and, of the 1 435 plants that were countered from 17 streets, only 15 indigenous species were represented, while 20 alien species were recorded. These trees can be used for lessons on both alien and indigenous plants. Notable differences in tree density and species richness were evident across suburbs with the highest density and richness found in the more affluent suburbs and poor representation of trees in the township. This will affect learner perceptions and viewpoints. The results from the analysed data revealed that use of the school grounds, botanical gardens, the local herbarium and town streets are effective in plant conservation education in schools and communities. These types of resources could be used for environmental education for future generations in South Africa and all over the world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of the long term chemical stability and physical performance of PMD-citronellal acetal compared with dibutyl phthalate and BIS(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate as plasticisers in selected cosmetic formulations
- Authors: Marx, Amor
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Plastics -- Additives , Chemistry, Technical , Cosmetics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42574 , vital:36669
- Description: Plasticisers are used by cosmetic manufacturers to improve the film forming abilities of a product and increase flexibility of the film formed on the skin or hair surface, as is desired, for example, in nail lacquers and lip coats. In recent years authorities have banned several plasticisers in cosmetic products (mainly phthalates) since these substances may pose a wide range of health risks and can be harmful to the environment. It is, therefore, necessary to find alternative, safe plasticisers, preferably of natural origin e.g. bio-plasticisers which can replace the toxic phthalates and still impart the same desirable properties to the cosmetic products in which they are used. In this study, the novel bio-plasticiser para-menthane-3,8-diol-citronellal acetal (PMD-citronellal acetal) was selected to compare its stability properties and plasticising behaviour with well-known non-phthalate bis(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DEHT) and the problematic dibutyl phthalate (DBP). The objectives were to determine if the novel bio-plasticiser PMD-citronellal acetal plasticising properties and chemical stability are similar or better than DEHT and DBP within two cosmetic formulations, viz. a nail lacquer and a lip coat formulation, after being incubated at elevated temperature (40 ˚C) over a three month period. The results showed that flexibility for all plasticised formulations remained stable at room temperature (21 ˚C) and elevated temperature (40 ˚C). Adhesion performance of DEHT and PMD-citronellal acetal nail lacquer formulations outperformed DBP nail lacquer formulations. Elevated temperature and storage time had no influence on the organoleptic properties of any plasticised formulation. PMD-citronellal acetal plasticised lip coat and nail lacquer formulations outperformed both DEHT and DBP nail formulations with regard to hardness. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR) studies revealed that neat DPB, DEHT and Acetal were chemically stable at room temperature and elevated temperature over a three month incubation period. Furthermore, the three plasticised nail lacquer and lip coat formulations remained chemical stable over the three month incubation period at elevated temperature. Chemical stability of the nail lacquer formulations was further evaluated by means of leaching tests using Solid Phase Extraction [1] and Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) at two temperatures (31 and 50 °C) and three time intervals (24, 48 and 72 hours). No leaching out of the nail lacquer formulation for Acetal and DEHT could be detected. It was observed that trace amounts of DBP leached from the nail lacquer formulation at 50 °C. DBP leaching decreased over time and was found to be statistically significant over the studied period. It can be concluded that PMD-citronellal acetal can be selected as bio-plasticiser which exhibits similar properties to DEHT based on the performance stability and non-leaching criteria, and can be used as an alternative plasticiser to the toxic DBP in cosmetic formulations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Marx, Amor
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Plastics -- Additives , Chemistry, Technical , Cosmetics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42574 , vital:36669
- Description: Plasticisers are used by cosmetic manufacturers to improve the film forming abilities of a product and increase flexibility of the film formed on the skin or hair surface, as is desired, for example, in nail lacquers and lip coats. In recent years authorities have banned several plasticisers in cosmetic products (mainly phthalates) since these substances may pose a wide range of health risks and can be harmful to the environment. It is, therefore, necessary to find alternative, safe plasticisers, preferably of natural origin e.g. bio-plasticisers which can replace the toxic phthalates and still impart the same desirable properties to the cosmetic products in which they are used. In this study, the novel bio-plasticiser para-menthane-3,8-diol-citronellal acetal (PMD-citronellal acetal) was selected to compare its stability properties and plasticising behaviour with well-known non-phthalate bis(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DEHT) and the problematic dibutyl phthalate (DBP). The objectives were to determine if the novel bio-plasticiser PMD-citronellal acetal plasticising properties and chemical stability are similar or better than DEHT and DBP within two cosmetic formulations, viz. a nail lacquer and a lip coat formulation, after being incubated at elevated temperature (40 ˚C) over a three month period. The results showed that flexibility for all plasticised formulations remained stable at room temperature (21 ˚C) and elevated temperature (40 ˚C). Adhesion performance of DEHT and PMD-citronellal acetal nail lacquer formulations outperformed DBP nail lacquer formulations. Elevated temperature and storage time had no influence on the organoleptic properties of any plasticised formulation. PMD-citronellal acetal plasticised lip coat and nail lacquer formulations outperformed both DEHT and DBP nail formulations with regard to hardness. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR) studies revealed that neat DPB, DEHT and Acetal were chemically stable at room temperature and elevated temperature over a three month incubation period. Furthermore, the three plasticised nail lacquer and lip coat formulations remained chemical stable over the three month incubation period at elevated temperature. Chemical stability of the nail lacquer formulations was further evaluated by means of leaching tests using Solid Phase Extraction [1] and Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) at two temperatures (31 and 50 °C) and three time intervals (24, 48 and 72 hours). No leaching out of the nail lacquer formulation for Acetal and DEHT could be detected. It was observed that trace amounts of DBP leached from the nail lacquer formulation at 50 °C. DBP leaching decreased over time and was found to be statistically significant over the studied period. It can be concluded that PMD-citronellal acetal can be selected as bio-plasticiser which exhibits similar properties to DEHT based on the performance stability and non-leaching criteria, and can be used as an alternative plasticiser to the toxic DBP in cosmetic formulations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Analyses of Retail and Transport Geography of Liquefied Petroleum Products in Ibadan metropolis, Nigeria
- Authors: Ajayi, Adeyinka Peter
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Petroleum products
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19065 , vital:40090
- Description: This study analyzed the effects that spatial arrangement of petroleum products retail outlets and the supply chain management techniques employed for products distribution (for both intra city and intercity shipments) have on the retailing dynamism of petroleum products within built environment and peripherals of Ibadan metropolis over the years. Specifically, the study investigated the differentials in the spatial configurations of petroleum products retail outlets between the core and periurban zones of the metropolis. An attempt was made to determine the explanatory variables that influence the spatial distributional decisions of petroleum products retail outlets in the metropolis. The study equally examined how the supply chain management (SCM) techniques by the different categories of the retail outlet owners influence the efficient and cost effective distribution of petroleum products. Lastly an attempt was made to analyze the relationship between the socio-economic attributes of the haulers and the achievement of compliance to the HSE stipulations guiding the conveyance of petroleum products. The theoretical underpinnings for the research were a derivative of the amalgamation of normative and psychological theories from geography, psychology, SCM and retailing science. Specifically, Expectation Disconfirmation Theory (EDT), Distributive Justice, Central Place Theory (CPT) Theories of Urban Impact (TUI) and Theory of Constraint (ToC) were the theories utilized in the study. For the achievement of the first objective which was to investigate the possible differential in the compliance rate between spatial pattern of fuel retail outlets in the core and peripheral zones of Ibadan metropolis, the first hypothesis of the study (which examined if there was no significant difference in the rate of compliance to the planning authority stipulations guiding the location pattern of petroleum product retail outlets between those located in the built up and xxiv peripheral zones of the city), was tested through the use of buffering and proximity analyses in the ArcMap environment of ArcGIS 10.1, while inferential statistical tool of an independent-samples t-test was conducted to compare the rate of compliance to the stipulations guiding the locations of these outlets in both the core and the peripheral zones. The result from the GIS analysis indicated that 33 (15.56%) out of the 220 outlets in the core zone of the metropolis complied with the planning stipulations guiding the location of fuel retail outlets. For the peripheral zone, out of the 220 fuel retail outlets 24 (10.90%) complied with the stipulations. The result from the t- test which was employed to test the hypothesis indicated that no significant difference existed in the rate of compliance t (263) =-2.66, p = 0.08 between fuel retail outlets in the core zone (M=3.9, SD=1.4) and peripheral zone (M=4.5, SD=1.79). The alternate hypothesis which stated that ―no significant difference existed in the compliance rate between fuel retail outlets located in the two zones‖ is accepted. For the achievement of the second objective of the study which was to analyze the factors which determine the location of fuel retail outlets both in the core and peripheral zones of Ibadan metropolis. All the managers/owners of the 432 fuel retail outlets in the metropolis were sampled out of which 256 questionnaires were retrieved for the purpose of this analysis. The breakdown of the socio-economic characteristics of the sampled respondents showed that the gender distribution showed that 194 (75.78%) of the respondents were males, while 64 (24.22 %) were females. The average age of the sampled population was 33.70 years. The mixed method was employed for the achievement of the second objective of this study. Logistic Regression Model (LRM) was employed to test the hypothesis and the result revealed that the inclusion of the independent variables in the model increased the overall level of it accuracy. The overall significance revealed that the Model Chi- xxv Square, derived from the likelihood fitted is also accurate (X2 = 43.47, df=5, p>.05). The model chi-square value of 43.47 (approximately 44% ) was significant. Thus, the indication is that the model has a good fit in predicting the possibility of a fuel retail outlet being located in the core or peripheral zone of the metropolis as determined by the explanatory variables (the independent variables accounted for about 44% of possible factors which determined whether a fuel retail outlets is located either within the core or peripheral zones of the metropolis. The remaining 56% are factors not considered in the study). The result gotten from the in depth interview sessions corroborated the findings from the tested hypothesis. The third objective was to examine the effects which the supply chain technique employed (either vertically integrated model or third-party arrangement) has on the achievement of efficient and effective distribution of the products. In order to achieve this objective, all the 389 registered members of Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) association who are members of the PTD in the metropolis were sampled, 265 (around 70%) of the distributed questionnaires were retrieved and used for the analysis. In depth interview sessions were also conducted with three different managers of the three major conglomerates in the downstream sector of the Nigerian petroleum sector. The result of one-way between subjects (ANOVA) which was conducted to compare differences in the management and performances of haulage services outsourced to the 3PLS and those run under VIM showed that there was a significant effect of ownership type on management performance (F (2,262) = 60.26, p<.05). The null hypothesis was therefore rejected while the alternate hypothesis was accepted. The findings from the interview sessions posted similar results. The fourth and final objective was to analyze the effect that the socio-economic attributes of the participants (haulers and managers of retail outlets) involved in the distribution of xxvi petroleum products has on the safe, efficient and cost-effective distribution of product and this was done through the use of descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and incisive analysis of the interview sessions. A total number of 265 (70%) out of the 389 registered members of Petroleum Tanker Driver Association (PTDA) participated in the study. Multiple regression analysis (MRA) was used to test this hypothesis. The result from the statistical analysis show that the use of stimulant, work condition, marital status and educational attainment/literacy level have joint influence on compliance (R2 = 0.31, F (4,260) = 29.72, p<.05). On the basis of the foregoing, the hypothesis is thus accepted. The result from the interview sessions confirmed the existence of strong relationship between the explanatory variables and the hypothetical dependant variable. The study recommended a review of the planning processes guiding the establishment of fuel retail outlets. The study also advocated that retailers should endeavour to have stronger control over the supply chain of their products this could done by investing more in VIM rather than outsourcing such functions to 3PLs. This will help in better business performances. Government agencies in charge of monitoring drug abuse among haulers are advised to be more proactive by the duo of prevention and punishment strategies. This should include advocacy campaign against drug abuse. Different ranges of punishments should also be meted out for individual haulers found culpable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ajayi, Adeyinka Peter
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Petroleum products
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19065 , vital:40090
- Description: This study analyzed the effects that spatial arrangement of petroleum products retail outlets and the supply chain management techniques employed for products distribution (for both intra city and intercity shipments) have on the retailing dynamism of petroleum products within built environment and peripherals of Ibadan metropolis over the years. Specifically, the study investigated the differentials in the spatial configurations of petroleum products retail outlets between the core and periurban zones of the metropolis. An attempt was made to determine the explanatory variables that influence the spatial distributional decisions of petroleum products retail outlets in the metropolis. The study equally examined how the supply chain management (SCM) techniques by the different categories of the retail outlet owners influence the efficient and cost effective distribution of petroleum products. Lastly an attempt was made to analyze the relationship between the socio-economic attributes of the haulers and the achievement of compliance to the HSE stipulations guiding the conveyance of petroleum products. The theoretical underpinnings for the research were a derivative of the amalgamation of normative and psychological theories from geography, psychology, SCM and retailing science. Specifically, Expectation Disconfirmation Theory (EDT), Distributive Justice, Central Place Theory (CPT) Theories of Urban Impact (TUI) and Theory of Constraint (ToC) were the theories utilized in the study. For the achievement of the first objective which was to investigate the possible differential in the compliance rate between spatial pattern of fuel retail outlets in the core and peripheral zones of Ibadan metropolis, the first hypothesis of the study (which examined if there was no significant difference in the rate of compliance to the planning authority stipulations guiding the location pattern of petroleum product retail outlets between those located in the built up and xxiv peripheral zones of the city), was tested through the use of buffering and proximity analyses in the ArcMap environment of ArcGIS 10.1, while inferential statistical tool of an independent-samples t-test was conducted to compare the rate of compliance to the stipulations guiding the locations of these outlets in both the core and the peripheral zones. The result from the GIS analysis indicated that 33 (15.56%) out of the 220 outlets in the core zone of the metropolis complied with the planning stipulations guiding the location of fuel retail outlets. For the peripheral zone, out of the 220 fuel retail outlets 24 (10.90%) complied with the stipulations. The result from the t- test which was employed to test the hypothesis indicated that no significant difference existed in the rate of compliance t (263) =-2.66, p = 0.08 between fuel retail outlets in the core zone (M=3.9, SD=1.4) and peripheral zone (M=4.5, SD=1.79). The alternate hypothesis which stated that ―no significant difference existed in the compliance rate between fuel retail outlets located in the two zones‖ is accepted. For the achievement of the second objective of the study which was to analyze the factors which determine the location of fuel retail outlets both in the core and peripheral zones of Ibadan metropolis. All the managers/owners of the 432 fuel retail outlets in the metropolis were sampled out of which 256 questionnaires were retrieved for the purpose of this analysis. The breakdown of the socio-economic characteristics of the sampled respondents showed that the gender distribution showed that 194 (75.78%) of the respondents were males, while 64 (24.22 %) were females. The average age of the sampled population was 33.70 years. The mixed method was employed for the achievement of the second objective of this study. Logistic Regression Model (LRM) was employed to test the hypothesis and the result revealed that the inclusion of the independent variables in the model increased the overall level of it accuracy. The overall significance revealed that the Model Chi- xxv Square, derived from the likelihood fitted is also accurate (X2 = 43.47, df=5, p>.05). The model chi-square value of 43.47 (approximately 44% ) was significant. Thus, the indication is that the model has a good fit in predicting the possibility of a fuel retail outlet being located in the core or peripheral zone of the metropolis as determined by the explanatory variables (the independent variables accounted for about 44% of possible factors which determined whether a fuel retail outlets is located either within the core or peripheral zones of the metropolis. The remaining 56% are factors not considered in the study). The result gotten from the in depth interview sessions corroborated the findings from the tested hypothesis. The third objective was to examine the effects which the supply chain technique employed (either vertically integrated model or third-party arrangement) has on the achievement of efficient and effective distribution of the products. In order to achieve this objective, all the 389 registered members of Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) association who are members of the PTD in the metropolis were sampled, 265 (around 70%) of the distributed questionnaires were retrieved and used for the analysis. In depth interview sessions were also conducted with three different managers of the three major conglomerates in the downstream sector of the Nigerian petroleum sector. The result of one-way between subjects (ANOVA) which was conducted to compare differences in the management and performances of haulage services outsourced to the 3PLS and those run under VIM showed that there was a significant effect of ownership type on management performance (F (2,262) = 60.26, p<.05). The null hypothesis was therefore rejected while the alternate hypothesis was accepted. The findings from the interview sessions posted similar results. The fourth and final objective was to analyze the effect that the socio-economic attributes of the participants (haulers and managers of retail outlets) involved in the distribution of xxvi petroleum products has on the safe, efficient and cost-effective distribution of product and this was done through the use of descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and incisive analysis of the interview sessions. A total number of 265 (70%) out of the 389 registered members of Petroleum Tanker Driver Association (PTDA) participated in the study. Multiple regression analysis (MRA) was used to test this hypothesis. The result from the statistical analysis show that the use of stimulant, work condition, marital status and educational attainment/literacy level have joint influence on compliance (R2 = 0.31, F (4,260) = 29.72, p<.05). On the basis of the foregoing, the hypothesis is thus accepted. The result from the interview sessions confirmed the existence of strong relationship between the explanatory variables and the hypothetical dependant variable. The study recommended a review of the planning processes guiding the establishment of fuel retail outlets. The study also advocated that retailers should endeavour to have stronger control over the supply chain of their products this could done by investing more in VIM rather than outsourcing such functions to 3PLs. This will help in better business performances. Government agencies in charge of monitoring drug abuse among haulers are advised to be more proactive by the duo of prevention and punishment strategies. This should include advocacy campaign against drug abuse. Different ranges of punishments should also be meted out for individual haulers found culpable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Antecedents and influence of the union-management relationship on employee relationships in the automotive, component and metal industries in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole
- Authors: Bowler, Jennifer
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial relations, South Africa , Psychology, Industrial Work environment Industrial relations Labor unions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37150 , vital:34126
- Description: South Africa is consistently portrayed as having uncooperative union-management relationships which negatively impact competitiveness. However, the post-1994 labour legislation was specifically crafted with the intention of positioning the adversarial wealth distribution phase of the union-management relationship within centralised bargaining forums and promoting cooperative relationships within workplaces. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether within the South Africa context of global competitiveness, the employment relations institutions of centralised and decentralised collective bargaining, employee participation and involvement, in the context of organisational justice, have contributed to management, shop stewards and production employees developing effective1 collective and individual employment relationships positively associated with competitive individual and company performance. The targeted population were companies within the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area that were registered with one of the four bargaining councils, Automotive (NBF), Automotive component (MIBCO), New Tyre (NTMIBC) and Metal and Engineering (MEIBC). In addition, since the National Union of Metal Workers was the dominant union in all four of these councils, an additional criterion for potential participation was at least one NUMSA shop steward. Fourteen companies agreed to participate. In total 63 shop stewards, 82 managers and 660 production employees were surveyed using self-administered questionnaires. The results of the study identified that the three major stakeholders hold significantly different perceptions regarding the quality of the management-shop steward relationship, with management the most positive and production employees the least. Further, investigating the factors that influence the perceptions that management and shop stewards have of their relationship, it was identified that for management the most influential factor was their beliefs regarding the interdependent nature of the relationship. For the shop stewards the situation was more nuanced with beliefs regarding interdependence, the perceptions of shop steward-management climate within the bargaining council, satisfaction 1 Definition of an effective employment relationship: An effective employment relationship is one in which the parties successfully resolve issues arising from their conflicting interests and successfully pursue joint gains where they share common interests (Kochan & Katz, 1988) with bargaining council agreements and workplace human resource practices and procedural fairness all contributing factors to the quality of the shop steward-management relationship. The model tested for production employees investigated the relationship between the factors human resource practices, procedural fairness, the standardisation of work, the employees’ perception of the shop steward-management relationship and the relationship of the employees with both their supervisor and the organisation. The primary finding was that the perception that the production employees held regarding the shop steward-management relationship fully mediated the employees’ relationship with the organisation and partially mediated that with the supervisor. These findings confirm the mediating position occupied by shop stewards within unionised companies and without derogating the importance of supervisory-employee relationships, indicated the central importance of the management-shop steward relations in forging strong employee-manager and employee-organisational bonds. While the original purpose of the study included investigating the link between the key employment relationships, namely, shop steward-management, employee-supervisor and employee-organisation relationships, and company competitiveness, unfortunately due to the limited number of companies that participated, it was not possible to test a company level model that included company performance. However, tentative support was found for relationships between the shop steward-management relationship and company performance. This remains an area for further study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Bowler, Jennifer
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial relations, South Africa , Psychology, Industrial Work environment Industrial relations Labor unions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37150 , vital:34126
- Description: South Africa is consistently portrayed as having uncooperative union-management relationships which negatively impact competitiveness. However, the post-1994 labour legislation was specifically crafted with the intention of positioning the adversarial wealth distribution phase of the union-management relationship within centralised bargaining forums and promoting cooperative relationships within workplaces. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether within the South Africa context of global competitiveness, the employment relations institutions of centralised and decentralised collective bargaining, employee participation and involvement, in the context of organisational justice, have contributed to management, shop stewards and production employees developing effective1 collective and individual employment relationships positively associated with competitive individual and company performance. The targeted population were companies within the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area that were registered with one of the four bargaining councils, Automotive (NBF), Automotive component (MIBCO), New Tyre (NTMIBC) and Metal and Engineering (MEIBC). In addition, since the National Union of Metal Workers was the dominant union in all four of these councils, an additional criterion for potential participation was at least one NUMSA shop steward. Fourteen companies agreed to participate. In total 63 shop stewards, 82 managers and 660 production employees were surveyed using self-administered questionnaires. The results of the study identified that the three major stakeholders hold significantly different perceptions regarding the quality of the management-shop steward relationship, with management the most positive and production employees the least. Further, investigating the factors that influence the perceptions that management and shop stewards have of their relationship, it was identified that for management the most influential factor was their beliefs regarding the interdependent nature of the relationship. For the shop stewards the situation was more nuanced with beliefs regarding interdependence, the perceptions of shop steward-management climate within the bargaining council, satisfaction 1 Definition of an effective employment relationship: An effective employment relationship is one in which the parties successfully resolve issues arising from their conflicting interests and successfully pursue joint gains where they share common interests (Kochan & Katz, 1988) with bargaining council agreements and workplace human resource practices and procedural fairness all contributing factors to the quality of the shop steward-management relationship. The model tested for production employees investigated the relationship between the factors human resource practices, procedural fairness, the standardisation of work, the employees’ perception of the shop steward-management relationship and the relationship of the employees with both their supervisor and the organisation. The primary finding was that the perception that the production employees held regarding the shop steward-management relationship fully mediated the employees’ relationship with the organisation and partially mediated that with the supervisor. These findings confirm the mediating position occupied by shop stewards within unionised companies and without derogating the importance of supervisory-employee relationships, indicated the central importance of the management-shop steward relations in forging strong employee-manager and employee-organisational bonds. While the original purpose of the study included investigating the link between the key employment relationships, namely, shop steward-management, employee-supervisor and employee-organisation relationships, and company competitiveness, unfortunately due to the limited number of companies that participated, it was not possible to test a company level model that included company performance. However, tentative support was found for relationships between the shop steward-management relationship and company performance. This remains an area for further study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Anthropological study on perceptions of gender inequality in soccer: the case of selected Tsakane township schools
- Bogopa, David Legodi, Kwatsha, Linda
- Authors: Bogopa, David Legodi , Kwatsha, Linda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Gender mainstreaming -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Sex discrimination Sex discrimination against women
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45172 , vital:38260
- Description: This study sought to investigate the perception of gender inequality within sport policies in Gauteng province at the two schools, namely, Khombindlela Primary School and Reshogofaditswe Secondary School. The aim of this research was to determine the meaning of gender inequality from an anthropological perspective within the context of soccer in Gauteng Province at the two schools, namely, Khombindlela Primary School and Reshogofaditswe Secondary School and also to understand the issue of gender inequality in soccer in the post-apartheid period. The research objectives were as follows, firstly, to determine the impact of gender inequality in soccer at the two schools, namely, Khombindlela Primary School and Reshogofaditswe Secondary School. Secondly, the research sought to provide the recommendations for policy improvement within soccer in Gauteng Province and possibly at the nation level. Thirdly, the research also sought to add to the existing anthropological knowledge base on the impact of gender inequality on policy development relating to soccer. This research has followed the qualitative approach which includes, person to person interviews using an interview schedule. The researcher has also used observation as a research tool during the interviews. The data collection techniques employed in this study included interviews and observation (primary sources) and information gathered from relevant scholarly journals, books, newspapers, magazines, internet articles and sport policy documents (secondary sources). Ethics considerations were also covered from the proposal stage up to the final stage. The Marxist Feminist theoretical framework was used to understand issues of gender inequality in soccer particularly within the context of two Tsakane township schools, namely, Khombindlela Primary School and Reshogofaditswe Secondary School. Finally, a summary of each chapter was highlighted followed by the research findings and recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Bogopa, David Legodi , Kwatsha, Linda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Gender mainstreaming -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Sex discrimination Sex discrimination against women
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45172 , vital:38260
- Description: This study sought to investigate the perception of gender inequality within sport policies in Gauteng province at the two schools, namely, Khombindlela Primary School and Reshogofaditswe Secondary School. The aim of this research was to determine the meaning of gender inequality from an anthropological perspective within the context of soccer in Gauteng Province at the two schools, namely, Khombindlela Primary School and Reshogofaditswe Secondary School and also to understand the issue of gender inequality in soccer in the post-apartheid period. The research objectives were as follows, firstly, to determine the impact of gender inequality in soccer at the two schools, namely, Khombindlela Primary School and Reshogofaditswe Secondary School. Secondly, the research sought to provide the recommendations for policy improvement within soccer in Gauteng Province and possibly at the nation level. Thirdly, the research also sought to add to the existing anthropological knowledge base on the impact of gender inequality on policy development relating to soccer. This research has followed the qualitative approach which includes, person to person interviews using an interview schedule. The researcher has also used observation as a research tool during the interviews. The data collection techniques employed in this study included interviews and observation (primary sources) and information gathered from relevant scholarly journals, books, newspapers, magazines, internet articles and sport policy documents (secondary sources). Ethics considerations were also covered from the proposal stage up to the final stage. The Marxist Feminist theoretical framework was used to understand issues of gender inequality in soccer particularly within the context of two Tsakane township schools, namely, Khombindlela Primary School and Reshogofaditswe Secondary School. Finally, a summary of each chapter was highlighted followed by the research findings and recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Application of computational methods in elucidating the isomerization step in the biosynthesis of coumarins
- Authors: Tshiwawa, Tendamudzimu
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Coumarins , Isomerization , Biosynthesis , Organic compounds -- Synthesis , Cinnamic acid
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/67646 , vital:29124
- Description: The identity of the enzyme(s) responsible for the biosynthetic transformation of cinnamic acid derivatives to important, naturally occurring coumarins has yet to be established. This study constitutes a high-level theoretical analysis of the possibility that a recently reported molecular mechanism of the synthesis of coumarins from Baylis-Hillman adducts, may provide a viable model for three critical phases in the biosynthetic pathway Particular attention has been given to the first of these phases: i) E→Z isomerisation of the cinnamic acid precursor; ii) Cyclisation (lactonisation) to the hemi-acetal intermediate; and ii) Dehydration to afford the coumarin derivative. In order to accomplish this analysis, an enzyme capable, theoretically, of effecting this E→Z isomerisation required identification, and its potential involvement in the transformation mechanism explored. Combined Molecular Mechanics and high-level Quantum Mechanical/DFT calculations were used to access complementary models of appropriate complexes and relevant processes within the enzyme active sites of a range of eleven Chalcone Isomerase (CHI) enzyme candidates, the structures of which were downloaded from the Protein Data Bank. Detailed B3LYP/6-31+G(d,p) calculations have provided pictures of the relative populations of conformations within the ensemble of conformations available at normal temperatures. Conformations of several protonation states of cinnamic acid derivatives have been studied in this way, and the results obtained showed that coupled protonation and deprotonation of (E)-o-coumaric acid provides a viable approach to achieve the E→Z isomerization. In silico docking of the B3LYP/6-31+G(d,p) optimized (E)-o-coumaric acid derivatives in the active sites of each of the candidate CHI enzymes (CHI) revealed that (E)-o-coumaric acid fits well within the active sites of Medicago Sativa CHI crystallographic structures with 1FM8 showing best potential for not only accommodating (E)-o-coumaric acid , but also providing appropriate protein active site residues to effect the simultaneous protonation and deprotonation of the substrate , two residues being optimally placed to facilitate these critical processes. Further exploration of the chemical properties and qualities of selected CHI enzymes, undertaken using High Throughput Virtual Screening (HTVS), confirmed 1FM8 as a viable choice for further studies of the enzyme-catalysed E→Z isomerization of (E)-o-coumaric acid. A molecular dynamics study, performed to further evaluate the evolution of (E)-o-coumaric acid in the CHI active site over time, showed that the ligand in the 1FM8 active site is not only stable, but also that the desired protein-ligand interactions persist throughout the simulation period to facilitate the E→Z isomerization. An integrated molecular orbital and molecular mechanics (ONIOM) study of the 1FM8-(E)-o-coumaric acid complex, involving the direct protonation and deprotonation of the ligand by protein residues; has provided a plausible mechanism for the E → Z isomerization of (E)-o-coumaric acid within the 1FM8 active site; a transition state complex (with an activation energy of ca. 50 kCal.mol-1) has been located and its connection with both the (E)- and (Z)-o-coumaric acid isomer has been confirmed by Intrinsic Reaction Coordinate (IRC) calculations. More realistic models of the 1FM8-(E)-o-coumaric acid complex, with the inclusion of water solvent molecules, have been obtained at both the QM/MM and adaptive QM/MM levels which simulate the dynamic active site at the QM level. The results indicate that the simultaneous protonation and deprotonation of (E)-o-coumaric acid within the CHI enzyme is a water-mediated process – a conclusion consistent with similar reported processes. Visual inspection of the 1FM8-(Z)-o-coumaric acid complex reveals both the necessary orientation of the phenolic and carboxylic acid moieties of the (Z)-o-coumaric acid and the presence of appropriate, proximal active site residues with the potential to permit catalysis of the subsequent lactonisation and dehydration steps required to generate coumarin.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Tshiwawa, Tendamudzimu
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Coumarins , Isomerization , Biosynthesis , Organic compounds -- Synthesis , Cinnamic acid
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/67646 , vital:29124
- Description: The identity of the enzyme(s) responsible for the biosynthetic transformation of cinnamic acid derivatives to important, naturally occurring coumarins has yet to be established. This study constitutes a high-level theoretical analysis of the possibility that a recently reported molecular mechanism of the synthesis of coumarins from Baylis-Hillman adducts, may provide a viable model for three critical phases in the biosynthetic pathway Particular attention has been given to the first of these phases: i) E→Z isomerisation of the cinnamic acid precursor; ii) Cyclisation (lactonisation) to the hemi-acetal intermediate; and ii) Dehydration to afford the coumarin derivative. In order to accomplish this analysis, an enzyme capable, theoretically, of effecting this E→Z isomerisation required identification, and its potential involvement in the transformation mechanism explored. Combined Molecular Mechanics and high-level Quantum Mechanical/DFT calculations were used to access complementary models of appropriate complexes and relevant processes within the enzyme active sites of a range of eleven Chalcone Isomerase (CHI) enzyme candidates, the structures of which were downloaded from the Protein Data Bank. Detailed B3LYP/6-31+G(d,p) calculations have provided pictures of the relative populations of conformations within the ensemble of conformations available at normal temperatures. Conformations of several protonation states of cinnamic acid derivatives have been studied in this way, and the results obtained showed that coupled protonation and deprotonation of (E)-o-coumaric acid provides a viable approach to achieve the E→Z isomerization. In silico docking of the B3LYP/6-31+G(d,p) optimized (E)-o-coumaric acid derivatives in the active sites of each of the candidate CHI enzymes (CHI) revealed that (E)-o-coumaric acid fits well within the active sites of Medicago Sativa CHI crystallographic structures with 1FM8 showing best potential for not only accommodating (E)-o-coumaric acid , but also providing appropriate protein active site residues to effect the simultaneous protonation and deprotonation of the substrate , two residues being optimally placed to facilitate these critical processes. Further exploration of the chemical properties and qualities of selected CHI enzymes, undertaken using High Throughput Virtual Screening (HTVS), confirmed 1FM8 as a viable choice for further studies of the enzyme-catalysed E→Z isomerization of (E)-o-coumaric acid. A molecular dynamics study, performed to further evaluate the evolution of (E)-o-coumaric acid in the CHI active site over time, showed that the ligand in the 1FM8 active site is not only stable, but also that the desired protein-ligand interactions persist throughout the simulation period to facilitate the E→Z isomerization. An integrated molecular orbital and molecular mechanics (ONIOM) study of the 1FM8-(E)-o-coumaric acid complex, involving the direct protonation and deprotonation of the ligand by protein residues; has provided a plausible mechanism for the E → Z isomerization of (E)-o-coumaric acid within the 1FM8 active site; a transition state complex (with an activation energy of ca. 50 kCal.mol-1) has been located and its connection with both the (E)- and (Z)-o-coumaric acid isomer has been confirmed by Intrinsic Reaction Coordinate (IRC) calculations. More realistic models of the 1FM8-(E)-o-coumaric acid complex, with the inclusion of water solvent molecules, have been obtained at both the QM/MM and adaptive QM/MM levels which simulate the dynamic active site at the QM level. The results indicate that the simultaneous protonation and deprotonation of (E)-o-coumaric acid within the CHI enzyme is a water-mediated process – a conclusion consistent with similar reported processes. Visual inspection of the 1FM8-(Z)-o-coumaric acid complex reveals both the necessary orientation of the phenolic and carboxylic acid moieties of the (Z)-o-coumaric acid and the presence of appropriate, proximal active site residues with the potential to permit catalysis of the subsequent lactonisation and dehydration steps required to generate coumarin.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Application of some missing data techniques in estimating missing data in high blood pressure covariates
- Authors: Odeyemi, A. S
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Missing observations (Statistics) Hypertension
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15189 , vital:40195
- Description: Cases recorded with high blood pressure are a major concern in both public and private hospitals. Adequate provision of health information of patients relating to high blood pressure in Eastern Cape Hospitals hinges so much on the outcome of statistical analysis results. The usual statistical methodologies become inadequate in handling statistical analysis of data collected due to incomplete patients’ information stored in the hospital database. From time to time, new methods are developed to address the problem of missing data. High blood pressure is linked to a lot of diseases such hypertension, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease and stroke. In this study, we developed a new method for addressing the problem of missing data in assessing model used for estimating missing values in terms of minimum errors(using RMSE, MAE, and SE) and goodness-of-fits(using 2 R and adjusted 2 R ) of this model and P-value. . The study compared six different methods: Original data (OD), Listwise deletion (LD), Mean imputations (MEI), Mean above (MA), and Mean above below(MAB) and two steps nearest neighbour (2-NN).The comparison was performed using original data set, and missing values at 5%, 10%, 20%, 30% were simulated on Framingham risk scores under MCAR and MAR simulation on BMI values given some assumptions. Five performance indicators were used to describe the model minimum errors and goodness of fit for all the methods. The results showed that the 2-NN is the best replacement method at lower levels (5% and10%) of missing values while MA and MEI performed best at higher levels(15% and 20%) of missing values. All comparison was based on estimates closest to those of the original data where no value was missing. MAR results showed that 2-NN performed better than LD,MA,MAB, and MEI at 5%,10%, and 20% levels of missing data in terms of absolute difference in p-value to original data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Odeyemi, A. S
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Missing observations (Statistics) Hypertension
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15189 , vital:40195
- Description: Cases recorded with high blood pressure are a major concern in both public and private hospitals. Adequate provision of health information of patients relating to high blood pressure in Eastern Cape Hospitals hinges so much on the outcome of statistical analysis results. The usual statistical methodologies become inadequate in handling statistical analysis of data collected due to incomplete patients’ information stored in the hospital database. From time to time, new methods are developed to address the problem of missing data. High blood pressure is linked to a lot of diseases such hypertension, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease and stroke. In this study, we developed a new method for addressing the problem of missing data in assessing model used for estimating missing values in terms of minimum errors(using RMSE, MAE, and SE) and goodness-of-fits(using 2 R and adjusted 2 R ) of this model and P-value. . The study compared six different methods: Original data (OD), Listwise deletion (LD), Mean imputations (MEI), Mean above (MA), and Mean above below(MAB) and two steps nearest neighbour (2-NN).The comparison was performed using original data set, and missing values at 5%, 10%, 20%, 30% were simulated on Framingham risk scores under MCAR and MAR simulation on BMI values given some assumptions. Five performance indicators were used to describe the model minimum errors and goodness of fit for all the methods. The results showed that the 2-NN is the best replacement method at lower levels (5% and10%) of missing values while MA and MEI performed best at higher levels(15% and 20%) of missing values. All comparison was based on estimates closest to those of the original data where no value was missing. MAR results showed that 2-NN performed better than LD,MA,MAB, and MEI at 5%,10%, and 20% levels of missing data in terms of absolute difference in p-value to original data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Applying anthropological perspectives in criminal procedures involving murder in Port Elizabeth, 2000-2016
- Authors: Thornton, Jessica Leigh
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Criminal procedures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44688 , vital:38161
- Description: With the spike of annual reported murders in South Africa, the country is continuing to climb the global rank of the world’s most violent countries. In 2016 alone, there were over nineteen thousand reported murders, equalling over fifty murders per day, with the Eastern Cape holding position as the province with the highest murder rate. Studies indicate that Port Elizabeth is the hardest hit by crime, adding up to 60% of all reported crimes in the province and despite the use of a ‘catch and convict’ only approach in criminal proceedings, violence and crime are still highly prevalent. Thus, overall the situation suggests that it may be beyond law enforcement control and even though the South African Police Service have taken some progressive steps in reforming procedures, generally, these have been too little and too late, as the reforms introduced are piecemeal and crisis driven. This thesis, therefore, proposes that additional approaches may be needed to improve investigations of the most pernicious crimes. Here, the focus is on the role of culture and social life in ‘murder-scapes’ with a critical contribution of the ‘habitus’ of murder allowing for the meaningful engagement with criminal acts, policing, sentencing, imprisonment and probation. In this regard, perspectives drawn from anthropology can possibly assist law enforcement officials in their steps of investigating a murder by providing a more ethnographic, holistic and integrated narrative in all areas of a criminal proceeding. An efficacious and constructive interpretation of the different subcultures crime scene processing, profiles development, testimony documentation and participation production with the police force and task teams can assist in redirecting and reappraising current practises that prove incompetent. That is, in attempting to review the current procedures conducted by law enforcers to identify how and where anthropological and ethnographical knowledge can be applied and successfully utilised, an assessment may aid officials in better investigative practises which could have implications for wider lenses making use of action, investigation, containment, prevention and rehabilitation. By advancing a deep understanding of the issue of murder in the South African context, implications for a wider, equally modernising and equally troubled society in the global South can be inferred.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Thornton, Jessica Leigh
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Criminal procedures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44688 , vital:38161
- Description: With the spike of annual reported murders in South Africa, the country is continuing to climb the global rank of the world’s most violent countries. In 2016 alone, there were over nineteen thousand reported murders, equalling over fifty murders per day, with the Eastern Cape holding position as the province with the highest murder rate. Studies indicate that Port Elizabeth is the hardest hit by crime, adding up to 60% of all reported crimes in the province and despite the use of a ‘catch and convict’ only approach in criminal proceedings, violence and crime are still highly prevalent. Thus, overall the situation suggests that it may be beyond law enforcement control and even though the South African Police Service have taken some progressive steps in reforming procedures, generally, these have been too little and too late, as the reforms introduced are piecemeal and crisis driven. This thesis, therefore, proposes that additional approaches may be needed to improve investigations of the most pernicious crimes. Here, the focus is on the role of culture and social life in ‘murder-scapes’ with a critical contribution of the ‘habitus’ of murder allowing for the meaningful engagement with criminal acts, policing, sentencing, imprisonment and probation. In this regard, perspectives drawn from anthropology can possibly assist law enforcement officials in their steps of investigating a murder by providing a more ethnographic, holistic and integrated narrative in all areas of a criminal proceeding. An efficacious and constructive interpretation of the different subcultures crime scene processing, profiles development, testimony documentation and participation production with the police force and task teams can assist in redirecting and reappraising current practises that prove incompetent. That is, in attempting to review the current procedures conducted by law enforcers to identify how and where anthropological and ethnographical knowledge can be applied and successfully utilised, an assessment may aid officials in better investigative practises which could have implications for wider lenses making use of action, investigation, containment, prevention and rehabilitation. By advancing a deep understanding of the issue of murder in the South African context, implications for a wider, equally modernising and equally troubled society in the global South can be inferred.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Applying anthropological perspectives in criminal procedures involving murder in Port Elizabeth, 2000-2016
- Authors: Thornton, Jessica Leigh
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Murder -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Crime -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Law enforcement -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Criminology -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45238 , vital:38335
- Description: With the spike of annual reported murders in South Africa, the country is continuing to climb the global rank of the world’s most violent countries. In 2016 alone, there were over nineteen thousand reported murders, equalling over fifty murders per day, with the Eastern Cape holding position as the province with the highest murder rate. Studies indicate that Port Elizabeth is the hardest hit by crime, adding up to 60% of all reported crimes in the province and despite the use of a ‘catch and convict’ only approach in criminal proceedings, violence and crime are still highly prevalent. Thus, overall the situation suggests that it may be beyond law enforcement control and even though the South African Police Service have taken some progressive steps in reforming procedures, generally, these have been too little and too late, as the reforms introduced are piecemeal and crisis driven. This thesis, therefore, proposes that additional approaches may be needed to improve investigations of the most pernicious crimes. Here, the focus is on the role of culture and social life in ‘murder-scapes’ with a critical contribution of the ‘habitus’ of murder allowing for the meaningful engagement with criminal acts, policing, sentencing, imprisonment and probation. In this regard, perspectives drawn from anthropology can possibly assist law enforcement officials in their steps of investigating a murder by providing a more ethnographic, holistic and integrated narrative in all areas of a criminal proceeding. An efficacious and constructive interpretation of the different subcultures, crime scene processing, profiles development, testimony documentation and participation production with the police force and task teams can assist in redirecting and reappraising current practises that prove incompetent. That is, in attempting to review the current procedures conducted by law enforcers to identify how and where anthropological and ethnographical knowledge can be applied and successfully utilised, an assessment may aid officials in better investigative practises which could have implications for wider lenses making use of action, investigation, containment, prevention and rehabilitation. By advancing a deep understanding of the issue of murder in the South African context, implications for a wider, equally modernising and equally troubled society in the global South can be inferred.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Thornton, Jessica Leigh
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Murder -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Crime -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Law enforcement -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Criminology -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45238 , vital:38335
- Description: With the spike of annual reported murders in South Africa, the country is continuing to climb the global rank of the world’s most violent countries. In 2016 alone, there were over nineteen thousand reported murders, equalling over fifty murders per day, with the Eastern Cape holding position as the province with the highest murder rate. Studies indicate that Port Elizabeth is the hardest hit by crime, adding up to 60% of all reported crimes in the province and despite the use of a ‘catch and convict’ only approach in criminal proceedings, violence and crime are still highly prevalent. Thus, overall the situation suggests that it may be beyond law enforcement control and even though the South African Police Service have taken some progressive steps in reforming procedures, generally, these have been too little and too late, as the reforms introduced are piecemeal and crisis driven. This thesis, therefore, proposes that additional approaches may be needed to improve investigations of the most pernicious crimes. Here, the focus is on the role of culture and social life in ‘murder-scapes’ with a critical contribution of the ‘habitus’ of murder allowing for the meaningful engagement with criminal acts, policing, sentencing, imprisonment and probation. In this regard, perspectives drawn from anthropology can possibly assist law enforcement officials in their steps of investigating a murder by providing a more ethnographic, holistic and integrated narrative in all areas of a criminal proceeding. An efficacious and constructive interpretation of the different subcultures, crime scene processing, profiles development, testimony documentation and participation production with the police force and task teams can assist in redirecting and reappraising current practises that prove incompetent. That is, in attempting to review the current procedures conducted by law enforcers to identify how and where anthropological and ethnographical knowledge can be applied and successfully utilised, an assessment may aid officials in better investigative practises which could have implications for wider lenses making use of action, investigation, containment, prevention and rehabilitation. By advancing a deep understanding of the issue of murder in the South African context, implications for a wider, equally modernising and equally troubled society in the global South can be inferred.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Assessment of Supply Chain Corruption in the three Metropolitan Municipalities in the Gauteng Province of South Africa
- Authors: Sisi, Molebedi Gordon
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Government purchasing -- South Africa Political corruption Municipal services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , D.Admin
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14104 , vital:39844
- Description: The aim of the current study was to assess the supply chain corruption in the three metropolitan municipalities in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. Core to the assessment was to establish the causes and ramifications of supply chain corruption as well as the nature and extent of supply chain corruption in the three metropolitan municipalities. In order to meet the objectives of the current the study, a qualitative research approach underpinned by ethics and accountability theories was used. The study employed interviews and observation as a primary source of data collection as well as document review in a form of government documents, legislation and court case decisions as secondary source of data, which were then thematically analysed. The study pointed out that while supply chain corruption certainly negatively affects the day-to-day running of public affairs, it is actually the collapse of ethical behaviour together with the failure to uphold accountability and consequence management that has created fertile ground for supply chain corruption. It further, purported that in order to combat the scourge of supply chain corruption in all its manifestations, there is a need to install a Central Supplier Database application, which has been sufficiently tested to determine its effectiveness as blacklisted companies and their directors have a way of masquerading in another form, to do business with the state. South Africa needs the embodiment of ethical behaviour from its citizenry, along with anti-corruption policy enforcement and consequence management. The Kanyane Ethics Architecture should be launched in municipalities across the board as a comprehensive and all-encompassing mix model to prevent supply chain corruption, in its various manifestations, from taking place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sisi, Molebedi Gordon
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Government purchasing -- South Africa Political corruption Municipal services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , D.Admin
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14104 , vital:39844
- Description: The aim of the current study was to assess the supply chain corruption in the three metropolitan municipalities in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. Core to the assessment was to establish the causes and ramifications of supply chain corruption as well as the nature and extent of supply chain corruption in the three metropolitan municipalities. In order to meet the objectives of the current the study, a qualitative research approach underpinned by ethics and accountability theories was used. The study employed interviews and observation as a primary source of data collection as well as document review in a form of government documents, legislation and court case decisions as secondary source of data, which were then thematically analysed. The study pointed out that while supply chain corruption certainly negatively affects the day-to-day running of public affairs, it is actually the collapse of ethical behaviour together with the failure to uphold accountability and consequence management that has created fertile ground for supply chain corruption. It further, purported that in order to combat the scourge of supply chain corruption in all its manifestations, there is a need to install a Central Supplier Database application, which has been sufficiently tested to determine its effectiveness as blacklisted companies and their directors have a way of masquerading in another form, to do business with the state. South Africa needs the embodiment of ethical behaviour from its citizenry, along with anti-corruption policy enforcement and consequence management. The Kanyane Ethics Architecture should be launched in municipalities across the board as a comprehensive and all-encompassing mix model to prevent supply chain corruption, in its various manifestations, from taking place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Assessment Of Supply Chain Corruption In The Three Metropolitan Municipalities, Gauteng Province Of South Africa
- Authors: Sisi, Molebedi Gordon
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Government purchasing Political corruption| Municipal government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD(Public Administration)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8343 , vital:32300
- Description: The aim of the current study was to assess the supply chain corruption in the three metropolitan municipalities in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. Core to the assessment was to establish the causes and ramifications of supply chain corruption as well as the nature and extent of supply chain corruption in the three metropolitan municipalities. In order to meet the objectives of the current the study, a qualitative research approach underpinned by ethics and accountability theories was used. The study employed interviews and observation as a primary source of data collection as well as document review in a form of government documents, legislation and court case decisions as secondary source of data, which were then thematically analysed. The study pointed out that while supply chain corruption certainly negatively affects the day-to-day running of public affairs, it is actually the collapse of ethical behaviour together with the failure to uphold accountability and consequence management that has created fertile ground for supply chain corruption. It further, purported that in order to combat the scourge of supply chain corruption in all its manifestations, there is a need to install a Central Supplier Database application, which has been sufficiently tested to determine its effectiveness as blacklisted companies and their directors have a way of masquerading in another form, to do business with the state. South Africa needs the embodiment of ethical behaviour from its citizenry, along with anti-corruption policy enforcement and consequence management. The Kanyane Ethics Architecture should be launched in municipalities across the board as a comprehensive and all-encompassing mix model to prevent supply chain corruption, in its various manifestations, from taking place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sisi, Molebedi Gordon
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Government purchasing Political corruption| Municipal government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD(Public Administration)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8343 , vital:32300
- Description: The aim of the current study was to assess the supply chain corruption in the three metropolitan municipalities in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. Core to the assessment was to establish the causes and ramifications of supply chain corruption as well as the nature and extent of supply chain corruption in the three metropolitan municipalities. In order to meet the objectives of the current the study, a qualitative research approach underpinned by ethics and accountability theories was used. The study employed interviews and observation as a primary source of data collection as well as document review in a form of government documents, legislation and court case decisions as secondary source of data, which were then thematically analysed. The study pointed out that while supply chain corruption certainly negatively affects the day-to-day running of public affairs, it is actually the collapse of ethical behaviour together with the failure to uphold accountability and consequence management that has created fertile ground for supply chain corruption. It further, purported that in order to combat the scourge of supply chain corruption in all its manifestations, there is a need to install a Central Supplier Database application, which has been sufficiently tested to determine its effectiveness as blacklisted companies and their directors have a way of masquerading in another form, to do business with the state. South Africa needs the embodiment of ethical behaviour from its citizenry, along with anti-corruption policy enforcement and consequence management. The Kanyane Ethics Architecture should be launched in municipalities across the board as a comprehensive and all-encompassing mix model to prevent supply chain corruption, in its various manifestations, from taking place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019