Perceived need and willingness of a sample of registered casualty unit nurses to engage in supplementary counselling skills training
- Authors: Leonard, Warren Leon
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Counseling -- Training skills , Counseling , Nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9888 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1176 , Counseling -- Training skills , Counseling , Nursing
- Description: In 2002 there were an estimated 1.5 million people admitted into casualty emergency units within the Republic of South Africa. Many of these admissions dealt with events that were traumatic for both families and practitioners and these traumatic events have effects on the biological, psychological and social wellbeing of these individuals. Coupled with this is an ever increasing demand for mental health services and a worldwide shortage of qualified individuals to provide these services. Registered nurses in casualty units deal with the majority of these issues and the effect of these traumatic events. The crisis intervention model may provide these registered nurses with the necessary skills to deal with these problems not only for patients but possibly for themselves. Furthermore the biopsychosocial model of health allows these registered nurses to assess the impact of these events on the individuals. Yet, some registered nurses feel that they lack the necessary skills to deal with and assess these problems and intervene in these crisis situations. This study was exploratory descriptive in nature and aimed to examine whether there was a perceived need for registered casualty unit nurses to engage in supplementary counselling skills training. These perceptions were obtained through purposively sampled interviews and analysed qualitatively, using Tesch’s model of content analysis. Findings indicated that the registered nurses do perceive a need for supplementary counselling training, both for use with the patients and for themselves, and are willing to engage in this training although there are problems that inhibit this willingness. Recommendations regarding the implementation of a supplementary counselling skills training course as well as future research in the field were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Leonard, Warren Leon
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Counseling -- Training skills , Counseling , Nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9888 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1176 , Counseling -- Training skills , Counseling , Nursing
- Description: In 2002 there were an estimated 1.5 million people admitted into casualty emergency units within the Republic of South Africa. Many of these admissions dealt with events that were traumatic for both families and practitioners and these traumatic events have effects on the biological, psychological and social wellbeing of these individuals. Coupled with this is an ever increasing demand for mental health services and a worldwide shortage of qualified individuals to provide these services. Registered nurses in casualty units deal with the majority of these issues and the effect of these traumatic events. The crisis intervention model may provide these registered nurses with the necessary skills to deal with these problems not only for patients but possibly for themselves. Furthermore the biopsychosocial model of health allows these registered nurses to assess the impact of these events on the individuals. Yet, some registered nurses feel that they lack the necessary skills to deal with and assess these problems and intervene in these crisis situations. This study was exploratory descriptive in nature and aimed to examine whether there was a perceived need for registered casualty unit nurses to engage in supplementary counselling skills training. These perceptions were obtained through purposively sampled interviews and analysed qualitatively, using Tesch’s model of content analysis. Findings indicated that the registered nurses do perceive a need for supplementary counselling training, both for use with the patients and for themselves, and are willing to engage in this training although there are problems that inhibit this willingness. Recommendations regarding the implementation of a supplementary counselling skills training course as well as future research in the field were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Perceptions of psychologists regarding the use of religion and spirituality in therapy
- Authors: Naicker, Samantha
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Psychology and religion , Psychiatry and religion , Counseling -- Religious aspects , Psychotherapy -- Religious aspects , Spirituality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9875 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1363 , Psychology and religion , Psychiatry and religion , Counseling -- Religious aspects , Psychotherapy -- Religious aspects , Spirituality
- Description: Religion and spirituality are acknowledged coping resources, yet for many years, the use of religion and spirituality was not practiced in therapy. Psychologists were once branded the least religious of all academicians; however there is evidence of an integration of psychology with religion and spirituality. Recently, studies have been conducted to prove the success of using religion and spirituality to cope with psychological disorders, prevent unhealthy behaviours and promote resilience. Despite this, very little research to date has explored South African psychologists’ perceptions on this matter. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of psychologists in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality area about the use of religion and spirituality in therapy. Purposive sampling was employed to obtain a sample and focus groups were used to the collect data. The data was analyzed using Tesch’s model of qualitative content analysis. Many themes emerged from the data analysis process. The participants indicated that they perceive the definitions of religion and spirituality as difficult to define and reach consensus on. Nevertheless, the participants recognized that religion and spirituality are important aspects of their clients’ lives and that they cannot be ignored in therapy. Particular emphasis was placed on the fact that religion and spirituality are coping mechanisms for both clients and psychologists. Most of the participants indicated that they were willing to discuss religion and spirituality with their clients if they brought it up. The participants highlighted specific factors that made it possible for them to engage with their clients on religious and spiritual levels, and factors that made it difficult for them to do so. The value of the research was discussed. Limitations of the study were also highlighted and based on these, recommendations for future research were outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Naicker, Samantha
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Psychology and religion , Psychiatry and religion , Counseling -- Religious aspects , Psychotherapy -- Religious aspects , Spirituality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9875 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1363 , Psychology and religion , Psychiatry and religion , Counseling -- Religious aspects , Psychotherapy -- Religious aspects , Spirituality
- Description: Religion and spirituality are acknowledged coping resources, yet for many years, the use of religion and spirituality was not practiced in therapy. Psychologists were once branded the least religious of all academicians; however there is evidence of an integration of psychology with religion and spirituality. Recently, studies have been conducted to prove the success of using religion and spirituality to cope with psychological disorders, prevent unhealthy behaviours and promote resilience. Despite this, very little research to date has explored South African psychologists’ perceptions on this matter. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of psychologists in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality area about the use of religion and spirituality in therapy. Purposive sampling was employed to obtain a sample and focus groups were used to the collect data. The data was analyzed using Tesch’s model of qualitative content analysis. Many themes emerged from the data analysis process. The participants indicated that they perceive the definitions of religion and spirituality as difficult to define and reach consensus on. Nevertheless, the participants recognized that religion and spirituality are important aspects of their clients’ lives and that they cannot be ignored in therapy. Particular emphasis was placed on the fact that religion and spirituality are coping mechanisms for both clients and psychologists. Most of the participants indicated that they were willing to discuss religion and spirituality with their clients if they brought it up. The participants highlighted specific factors that made it possible for them to engage with their clients on religious and spiritual levels, and factors that made it difficult for them to do so. The value of the research was discussed. Limitations of the study were also highlighted and based on these, recommendations for future research were outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Performance management at transnet national ports authority Port Elizabeth: the role of human resources
- Authors: Vezile, Cikizwa Aretha
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8693 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1105 , Performance -- Management , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: At Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), disagreement existed in terms of the role of human resources in performance management, which resulted in different role expectations and perceptions, often leading to conflict. An overview of existing literature reviewed that performance management was mostly presented from the view of line management, and that the role of human resources was not well defined. The purpose of this study was therefore to clarify the role of human resources in performance management, and with specific application at Transnet National Ports Authority. The purpose of performance management in Transnet is to influence each employee to perform optimally in his/her position by ensuring that each employee understands his/her role in the performance management process. A very important aspect of performance management is that it does not entail one activity only; it is part of the employee development life cycle in which the employee agrees with the manager on the expected performance of tasks, evaluation standards, tools required and important dates when performance will be formally discussed. The objectives of the study were achieved by means of a literature review. Following the literature review interviews were conducted with the Group Performance Manager, a line manager and a human resources practitioner at TNPA to get their views of performance management at TNPA and specifically of the role of human resources in performance management. The interviews, in addition to the literature study, also served as a basis for a survey questionnaire, which was used to probe the views of line iv management and human resources practitioners at TNPA on the role of human resources in performance management. The results of the interviews and the survey showed that performance management was not applied as a continuous and developmental process at TNPA, and that it was often perceived as punitive. The results also indicated that human resources at TNPA should be well versed in the use of the score card method and apply quality assurance in performance management. Recommendations were made for the role of line management and the role of human resources in performance management at TNPA, as well as for the relationship between the two parties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Vezile, Cikizwa Aretha
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8693 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1105 , Performance -- Management , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: At Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), disagreement existed in terms of the role of human resources in performance management, which resulted in different role expectations and perceptions, often leading to conflict. An overview of existing literature reviewed that performance management was mostly presented from the view of line management, and that the role of human resources was not well defined. The purpose of this study was therefore to clarify the role of human resources in performance management, and with specific application at Transnet National Ports Authority. The purpose of performance management in Transnet is to influence each employee to perform optimally in his/her position by ensuring that each employee understands his/her role in the performance management process. A very important aspect of performance management is that it does not entail one activity only; it is part of the employee development life cycle in which the employee agrees with the manager on the expected performance of tasks, evaluation standards, tools required and important dates when performance will be formally discussed. The objectives of the study were achieved by means of a literature review. Following the literature review interviews were conducted with the Group Performance Manager, a line manager and a human resources practitioner at TNPA to get their views of performance management at TNPA and specifically of the role of human resources in performance management. The interviews, in addition to the literature study, also served as a basis for a survey questionnaire, which was used to probe the views of line iv management and human resources practitioners at TNPA on the role of human resources in performance management. The results of the interviews and the survey showed that performance management was not applied as a continuous and developmental process at TNPA, and that it was often perceived as punitive. The results also indicated that human resources at TNPA should be well versed in the use of the score card method and apply quality assurance in performance management. Recommendations were made for the role of line management and the role of human resources in performance management at TNPA, as well as for the relationship between the two parties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Perspectives of managers regarding the effectiveness of programmes at Nerina one stop youth justice centre for addressing yout re-offending
- Authors: Agaba, Gary
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Recidivists -- South Africa , Juvenile delinquents -- South Africa , Programmed instruction -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9993 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1460 , Recidivists -- South Africa , Juvenile delinquents -- South Africa , Programmed instruction -- South Africa
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore and describe causes of re-offending and the management’s perspective of the effectiveness of programmes being implemented at Nerina One Stop Youth Justice Centre in dealing with re-offenders. Youth re-offending involves breaking of the law and crime. Offending if repeated then develops to be re-offending which is the breaking of the law more than once and this is a dilemma in South Africa as the increase of crime is a challenging issue. A qualitative approach was utilized following an exploratory, descriptive research design as the researcher sought to understand the perspective of the managers at Nerina regarding causes of re-offending and the effectiveness of the intervention programmes aimed at addressing this phenomenon. The researcher conducted face to face interviews with the mangers at Nerina One Stop Youth Justice Centre. For the purpose of this study the population was the total complement of the management staff at the One Stop Youth Justice Centre, this included the personnel of the departments of Justice, Social Development, and South African Police Service who are all involved in rendering services at Nerina. The method of data collection was one on one semi structured interviews and data analysis undertaken according to the steps for qualitative data analysis as proposed by Tesch in Creswell (1994). Guba’s model (Krefting, 1991) was employed for assessing the trustworthiness of the qualitative data. Some of the important findings included the causes of re-offending which included loss of parents, alcohol and drug abuse, inadequate parent role, role of peers and inadequate facilities. Further more from the study suggestions for improving programmes at the One Stop Youth Justice Center were discussed and these include involvement of community, involve more role players, training staff and increasing staff.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Agaba, Gary
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Recidivists -- South Africa , Juvenile delinquents -- South Africa , Programmed instruction -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9993 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1460 , Recidivists -- South Africa , Juvenile delinquents -- South Africa , Programmed instruction -- South Africa
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore and describe causes of re-offending and the management’s perspective of the effectiveness of programmes being implemented at Nerina One Stop Youth Justice Centre in dealing with re-offenders. Youth re-offending involves breaking of the law and crime. Offending if repeated then develops to be re-offending which is the breaking of the law more than once and this is a dilemma in South Africa as the increase of crime is a challenging issue. A qualitative approach was utilized following an exploratory, descriptive research design as the researcher sought to understand the perspective of the managers at Nerina regarding causes of re-offending and the effectiveness of the intervention programmes aimed at addressing this phenomenon. The researcher conducted face to face interviews with the mangers at Nerina One Stop Youth Justice Centre. For the purpose of this study the population was the total complement of the management staff at the One Stop Youth Justice Centre, this included the personnel of the departments of Justice, Social Development, and South African Police Service who are all involved in rendering services at Nerina. The method of data collection was one on one semi structured interviews and data analysis undertaken according to the steps for qualitative data analysis as proposed by Tesch in Creswell (1994). Guba’s model (Krefting, 1991) was employed for assessing the trustworthiness of the qualitative data. Some of the important findings included the causes of re-offending which included loss of parents, alcohol and drug abuse, inadequate parent role, role of peers and inadequate facilities. Further more from the study suggestions for improving programmes at the One Stop Youth Justice Center were discussed and these include involvement of community, involve more role players, training staff and increasing staff.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Phishing within e-commerce: reducing the risk, increasing the trust
- Authors: Megaw, Gregory M
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Phishing , Identity theft -- Prevention , Electronic commerce , Computer security , Internet -- Safety measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11131 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/376 , Phishing , Identity theft -- Prevention , Electronic commerce , Computer security , Internet -- Safety measures
- Description: E-Commerce has been plagued with problems since its inception and this study examines one of these problems: The lack of user trust in E-Commerce created by the risk of phishing. Phishing has grown exponentially together with the expansion of the Internet. This growth and the advancement of technology has not only benefited honest Internet users, but has enabled criminals to increase their effectiveness which has caused considerable damage to this budding area of commerce. Moreover, it has negatively impacted both the user and online business in breaking down the trust relationship between them. In an attempt to explore this problem, the following was considered: First, E-Commerce’s vulnerability to phishing attacks. By referring to the Common Criteria Security Model, various critical security areas within E-Commerce are identified, as well as the areas of vulnerability and weakness. Second, the methods and techniques used in phishing, such as phishing e-mails, websites and addresses, distributed attacks and redirected attacks, as well as the data that phishers seek to obtain, are examined. Furthermore, the way to reduce the risk of phishing and in turn increase the trust between users and websites is identified. Here the importance of Trust and the Uncertainty Reduction Theory plus the fine balance between trust and control is explored. Finally, the study presents Critical Success Factors that aid in phishing prevention and control, these being: User Authentication, Website Authentication, E-mail Authentication, Data Cryptography, Communication, and Active Risk Mitigation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Megaw, Gregory M
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Phishing , Identity theft -- Prevention , Electronic commerce , Computer security , Internet -- Safety measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11131 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/376 , Phishing , Identity theft -- Prevention , Electronic commerce , Computer security , Internet -- Safety measures
- Description: E-Commerce has been plagued with problems since its inception and this study examines one of these problems: The lack of user trust in E-Commerce created by the risk of phishing. Phishing has grown exponentially together with the expansion of the Internet. This growth and the advancement of technology has not only benefited honest Internet users, but has enabled criminals to increase their effectiveness which has caused considerable damage to this budding area of commerce. Moreover, it has negatively impacted both the user and online business in breaking down the trust relationship between them. In an attempt to explore this problem, the following was considered: First, E-Commerce’s vulnerability to phishing attacks. By referring to the Common Criteria Security Model, various critical security areas within E-Commerce are identified, as well as the areas of vulnerability and weakness. Second, the methods and techniques used in phishing, such as phishing e-mails, websites and addresses, distributed attacks and redirected attacks, as well as the data that phishers seek to obtain, are examined. Furthermore, the way to reduce the risk of phishing and in turn increase the trust between users and websites is identified. Here the importance of Trust and the Uncertainty Reduction Theory plus the fine balance between trust and control is explored. Finally, the study presents Critical Success Factors that aid in phishing prevention and control, these being: User Authentication, Website Authentication, E-mail Authentication, Data Cryptography, Communication, and Active Risk Mitigation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Photophysical and photoelectrochemical properties of water soluble metallophthalocyanines
- Authors: Masilela, Nkosiphile
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Electrochemistry , Photoelectrochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4330 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004991 , Phthalocyanines , Electrochemistry , Photoelectrochemistry
- Description: This work presents the synthesis, characterization, photophysicochemical and photoelectrochemical properties of anionic octa-caboxylated (MOCPcs), tetra-sulfonated (MTSPcs) and quaternized cationic (Q(T-2-Py)MPcs) water soluble aluminium, gallium, silicon, titanium and zinc phthalocynines. The peripherally tetra-substituted cationic (Q(T-2-Py)MPcs) and anionic (MTSPcs) were found to be aggregated in aqueous media, yet the octa-carboxylated (MOCPcs) counterparts were monomeric in solution. Cremophor EL (CEL) was used as a disaggregating agent, all the aggregated complexes disaggregated partially or completely in the presence of CEL. The photophysicochemical properties of aggregated complexes were investigated both in the presence of CEL and in aqueous media of pH 11 alone. Low triplet, singlet oxygen and fluorescence quantum yield were obtained in aqueous media (especially for the aggregated complexes) but a high improvement was achieved upon addition of CEL. The gallium complexes ((OH)GaOCPc and (OH)GaTSPc) showed good photophysicochemical properties with higher triplet and singlet oxygen quantum yields. For photoelectrochemistry the (MPcs) dyes were adsorbed to nanoporous ZnO, electrodeposited in the presence of eosin Y as structure directing agent (SDA) on FTO substrates by refluxing or soaking the films in a solution containing the dye of interest such that a full surface coverage was achieved. Quaternized cationic (Q(T-2-Py)MPc) and tetrasulfonated (MTSPcs) phthalocyanines formed strong aggregates when deposited on the surface of FTO/ZnO substrate leading. High external (IPCE) and internal (APCE) quantum efficiencies of up to 50.6% and 96.7% were achieved for the OTiOCPc complex. There was a lower overall cell efficiency for quaternized and tetrasulfonated metallophthalocyanines because of the strong aggregates when they were on the surface of the electrodes. Among the studied materials, OTiOCPc gave the highest overall cell efficiency of phthalocyanine electrodeposited on ZnO of so far = 0.48%.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Masilela, Nkosiphile
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Electrochemistry , Photoelectrochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4330 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004991 , Phthalocyanines , Electrochemistry , Photoelectrochemistry
- Description: This work presents the synthesis, characterization, photophysicochemical and photoelectrochemical properties of anionic octa-caboxylated (MOCPcs), tetra-sulfonated (MTSPcs) and quaternized cationic (Q(T-2-Py)MPcs) water soluble aluminium, gallium, silicon, titanium and zinc phthalocynines. The peripherally tetra-substituted cationic (Q(T-2-Py)MPcs) and anionic (MTSPcs) were found to be aggregated in aqueous media, yet the octa-carboxylated (MOCPcs) counterparts were monomeric in solution. Cremophor EL (CEL) was used as a disaggregating agent, all the aggregated complexes disaggregated partially or completely in the presence of CEL. The photophysicochemical properties of aggregated complexes were investigated both in the presence of CEL and in aqueous media of pH 11 alone. Low triplet, singlet oxygen and fluorescence quantum yield were obtained in aqueous media (especially for the aggregated complexes) but a high improvement was achieved upon addition of CEL. The gallium complexes ((OH)GaOCPc and (OH)GaTSPc) showed good photophysicochemical properties with higher triplet and singlet oxygen quantum yields. For photoelectrochemistry the (MPcs) dyes were adsorbed to nanoporous ZnO, electrodeposited in the presence of eosin Y as structure directing agent (SDA) on FTO substrates by refluxing or soaking the films in a solution containing the dye of interest such that a full surface coverage was achieved. Quaternized cationic (Q(T-2-Py)MPc) and tetrasulfonated (MTSPcs) phthalocyanines formed strong aggregates when deposited on the surface of FTO/ZnO substrate leading. High external (IPCE) and internal (APCE) quantum efficiencies of up to 50.6% and 96.7% were achieved for the OTiOCPc complex. There was a lower overall cell efficiency for quaternized and tetrasulfonated metallophthalocyanines because of the strong aggregates when they were on the surface of the electrodes. Among the studied materials, OTiOCPc gave the highest overall cell efficiency of phthalocyanine electrodeposited on ZnO of so far = 0.48%.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Photophysical studies of zinc and indium tetraaminophthalocyanines in the presence of CdTe quantum dots
- Authors: Britton, Jonathan
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Indium , Zinc , Quantum dots , Phthalocyanines , Photochemotherapy , Nonlinear optics , Nanocrystals
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4332 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004993 , Indium , Zinc , Quantum dots , Phthalocyanines , Photochemotherapy , Nonlinear optics , Nanocrystals
- Description: CdTe QDs capped with mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) and thioglycolic acid (TGA) were covalently linked to zinc and indium tetraaminophthalocyanines (TAPcs) using N-ethyl-N(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) and N-hydroxy succinimide (NHS) as the coupling agents. The results presented give evidence in favour of formation of an amide bond between the MTAPc and CdTe QDs. Both the linked ZnTAPc–QD complexes and the mixture of QDs and ZnTAPc (without chemical linking) showed Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), though the linked showed less FRET, whereas the QD interactions with InTAPc yielded no evidence of FRET. Both MTAPcs quenched the QDs emission, with quenching constants of the order of 103–104M−1, binding constants of the order of 108-1010M-1 and the number of binding sites for the MTAPc upon the QD being 2. High energy transfer efficiencies were obtained (in some cases as high as 93%), due to the low donor to acceptor distances. Lastly, both MTAPc were shown to be poor optical limiters because their imaginary third-order susceptibility (Im[χ(3)]) was of the order of 10-17-10-16 (optimal range is 10-9-10-11), the hyperpolarizability (γ) of the order of 10-37-10-36 (optimal range is 10-29-10-34) and the k values were above one but below ten.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Britton, Jonathan
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Indium , Zinc , Quantum dots , Phthalocyanines , Photochemotherapy , Nonlinear optics , Nanocrystals
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4332 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004993 , Indium , Zinc , Quantum dots , Phthalocyanines , Photochemotherapy , Nonlinear optics , Nanocrystals
- Description: CdTe QDs capped with mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) and thioglycolic acid (TGA) were covalently linked to zinc and indium tetraaminophthalocyanines (TAPcs) using N-ethyl-N(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) and N-hydroxy succinimide (NHS) as the coupling agents. The results presented give evidence in favour of formation of an amide bond between the MTAPc and CdTe QDs. Both the linked ZnTAPc–QD complexes and the mixture of QDs and ZnTAPc (without chemical linking) showed Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), though the linked showed less FRET, whereas the QD interactions with InTAPc yielded no evidence of FRET. Both MTAPcs quenched the QDs emission, with quenching constants of the order of 103–104M−1, binding constants of the order of 108-1010M-1 and the number of binding sites for the MTAPc upon the QD being 2. High energy transfer efficiencies were obtained (in some cases as high as 93%), due to the low donor to acceptor distances. Lastly, both MTAPc were shown to be poor optical limiters because their imaginary third-order susceptibility (Im[χ(3)]) was of the order of 10-17-10-16 (optimal range is 10-9-10-11), the hyperpolarizability (γ) of the order of 10-37-10-36 (optimal range is 10-29-10-34) and the k values were above one but below ten.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Policies, procedures and practices contributing to tensions between labour and management
- Authors: Basson, Jerome Godfrey
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Human capital -- South Africa , South Africa -- Politics and government , South Africa -- Constitution
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9427 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1267 , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Human capital -- South Africa , South Africa -- Politics and government , South Africa -- Constitution
- Description: The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa guarantees the right of education to all citizens of the country. The Eastern Cape Department of Education went a step further by adopting a vision to ensure quality public education that will result in the positive transformation of all schools. Education is therefore a very important part of the life of any society and needs to be protected at all costs. It is therefore important that all obstacles in the way of providing quality public education be removed. It is no secret that the Eastern Cape Department of Education has had a number of battles with some of its social partners. These battles have negatively impacted on the education system. This Department also received the largest slice of the taxpayers’ money. It is time to take serious steps to halt the waste of time and resources. It is against this background that this study wanted to consider policies, procedures and practices that generated tension between the management and labour in the Eastern Cape Department of Education. It is my belief that if tension between the different social partners can be reduced, we would have gone a long way in achieving the vision of the Department of Education. The research methodology that was followed for this study comprised the following: • Literature was reviewed that dealt with labour relations and human resources. • A questionnaire was designed to collect information from the different participants. • The information in the questionnaire was incorporated into the main study where findings were identified and recommendations were formulated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Basson, Jerome Godfrey
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Human capital -- South Africa , South Africa -- Politics and government , South Africa -- Constitution
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9427 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1267 , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Human capital -- South Africa , South Africa -- Politics and government , South Africa -- Constitution
- Description: The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa guarantees the right of education to all citizens of the country. The Eastern Cape Department of Education went a step further by adopting a vision to ensure quality public education that will result in the positive transformation of all schools. Education is therefore a very important part of the life of any society and needs to be protected at all costs. It is therefore important that all obstacles in the way of providing quality public education be removed. It is no secret that the Eastern Cape Department of Education has had a number of battles with some of its social partners. These battles have negatively impacted on the education system. This Department also received the largest slice of the taxpayers’ money. It is time to take serious steps to halt the waste of time and resources. It is against this background that this study wanted to consider policies, procedures and practices that generated tension between the management and labour in the Eastern Cape Department of Education. It is my belief that if tension between the different social partners can be reduced, we would have gone a long way in achieving the vision of the Department of Education. The research methodology that was followed for this study comprised the following: • Literature was reviewed that dealt with labour relations and human resources. • A questionnaire was designed to collect information from the different participants. • The information in the questionnaire was incorporated into the main study where findings were identified and recommendations were formulated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Population biology and aspects of the socio-spatial organisation of the woodland dormouse Graphiurus Murinus (Desmaret, 1822) in the Great Fish River Reserve, South Africa
- Madikiza, Zimkitha Josephine Kimberly
- Authors: Madikiza, Zimkitha Josephine Kimberly
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Dormice , Mice , Muridae , Spatial behavior , Territoriality (Zoology) , Crowding stress
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Zoology)
- Identifier: vital:11788 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/443 , Dormice , Mice , Muridae , Spatial behavior , Territoriality (Zoology) , Crowding stress
- Description: The population biology and socio-spatial organisation of the woodland dormouse, Graphiurus murinus (Desmarest, 1822), was investigated in a riverine forest at the Great Fish River Reserve (GFRR), South Africa. Data were collected by means of a monthly live trapping and nestbox monitoring programme. Between February 2006 and June 2007, 75 woodland dormice were trapped and/or found in nestboxes and marked: these were 39 adults (13 males, 21 females, five undetermined) and 36 juveniles (five males, 14 females, 17 undetermined). The population showed a steady increase from June 2006–November 2006 and a peak in December 2006–January 2007 as a result of the influx of juveniles. The minimum number of dormice known to be alive (MNA) varied between 40 in December 2006– January 2007 (summer), and a low of three in June 2007 (winter). The range in population density was therefore between 1.2 and 16 dormice per ha. Winter mortality and/or spring dispersal accounted for the disappearance of 55 percent of juveniles. The overall annual adult:juvenile ratio was 1.08. The overall sex ratio was 1.94 female per one male. In females, reproductive activity was observed from September 2006 to end January 2007. The pattern observed in males was similar, as dormice with descended testes were exclusively found from October to end January. Females gave birth during the second half of October to beginning of February. Litters (n = 11) consisted of an average (± SD) 3.73 ± 0.47 young. Over the study period, 27 dormice were trapped or found in nestboxes more than eight times, thus allowing me to estimate their home range size and the spatial overlap between these individuals. On average, dormouse home range size was 2,514 m2 (range: 319 – 4,863 m2). No difference was recorded between one-year old adults and older adults, or between all adults and juveniles. However, adult male dormice (3,989 m2, n = 5) had home ranges almost twice as large as females (2,091 m2, n = 9). No similar trend was found in juveniles. Intrasexual home range overlap was on average 62 percent in adult males, and 26 percent in adult females. However, females overlapped with more neighbouring female home ranges than did males with neighbouring male home ranges, so that, as for males, only small parts of female home ranges were really exclusive. On average, males overlapped a larger Abstract Ecology of woodland dormice M.Sc. Thesis 16 proportion (48 percent) of female home ranges than did females with neighbouring male home ranges (27 percent). In addition, males overlapped with significantly more female home ranges (7.8) than did females with male home ranges (4.9). Trapping success and nestbox data agree with the socio-ecological model. Females showed increased mobility during summer, more likely to find suitable nesting sites, and food for milk production during the reproductive season. The use of nestboxes, however, was constant throughout the year. In males, both the trapping success and nestbox use were higher during the mating season (spring), when an increased mobility and occupation of nestboxes probably increased the chances to locate and mate with (a) receptive female(s). Hence, food and (artificial) nest sites may constitute an important resource for females, whereas females seem to represent the main resource for males. Although food availability was not determined, a comparison of female and male distribution patterns provided interesting information on the mating system of woodland dormice. In GFRR, the dispersion pattern of female woodland dormice was “rather” clumped, i.e. females were non-territorial. As some females showed a dyadic intrasexual overlap of up to 90 percent, and population density was very high at the study site, this may indicate that food was very abundant and/or renewed rapidly. Based on the wide range of birth dates observed during the study period, females clearly come into oestrus at different times. In such circumstances (asynchronous sexual receptivity in females), the Female in Space and Time Hypothesis (Ims 1987a) predicts that males will be non-territorial and promiscuous. Live-trapping, nestbox use and home range data indeed suggested that male woodland dormice do not defend territories, but search for and aggregate around receptive females during the mating season.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Madikiza, Zimkitha Josephine Kimberly
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Dormice , Mice , Muridae , Spatial behavior , Territoriality (Zoology) , Crowding stress
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Zoology)
- Identifier: vital:11788 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/443 , Dormice , Mice , Muridae , Spatial behavior , Territoriality (Zoology) , Crowding stress
- Description: The population biology and socio-spatial organisation of the woodland dormouse, Graphiurus murinus (Desmarest, 1822), was investigated in a riverine forest at the Great Fish River Reserve (GFRR), South Africa. Data were collected by means of a monthly live trapping and nestbox monitoring programme. Between February 2006 and June 2007, 75 woodland dormice were trapped and/or found in nestboxes and marked: these were 39 adults (13 males, 21 females, five undetermined) and 36 juveniles (five males, 14 females, 17 undetermined). The population showed a steady increase from June 2006–November 2006 and a peak in December 2006–January 2007 as a result of the influx of juveniles. The minimum number of dormice known to be alive (MNA) varied between 40 in December 2006– January 2007 (summer), and a low of three in June 2007 (winter). The range in population density was therefore between 1.2 and 16 dormice per ha. Winter mortality and/or spring dispersal accounted for the disappearance of 55 percent of juveniles. The overall annual adult:juvenile ratio was 1.08. The overall sex ratio was 1.94 female per one male. In females, reproductive activity was observed from September 2006 to end January 2007. The pattern observed in males was similar, as dormice with descended testes were exclusively found from October to end January. Females gave birth during the second half of October to beginning of February. Litters (n = 11) consisted of an average (± SD) 3.73 ± 0.47 young. Over the study period, 27 dormice were trapped or found in nestboxes more than eight times, thus allowing me to estimate their home range size and the spatial overlap between these individuals. On average, dormouse home range size was 2,514 m2 (range: 319 – 4,863 m2). No difference was recorded between one-year old adults and older adults, or between all adults and juveniles. However, adult male dormice (3,989 m2, n = 5) had home ranges almost twice as large as females (2,091 m2, n = 9). No similar trend was found in juveniles. Intrasexual home range overlap was on average 62 percent in adult males, and 26 percent in adult females. However, females overlapped with more neighbouring female home ranges than did males with neighbouring male home ranges, so that, as for males, only small parts of female home ranges were really exclusive. On average, males overlapped a larger Abstract Ecology of woodland dormice M.Sc. Thesis 16 proportion (48 percent) of female home ranges than did females with neighbouring male home ranges (27 percent). In addition, males overlapped with significantly more female home ranges (7.8) than did females with male home ranges (4.9). Trapping success and nestbox data agree with the socio-ecological model. Females showed increased mobility during summer, more likely to find suitable nesting sites, and food for milk production during the reproductive season. The use of nestboxes, however, was constant throughout the year. In males, both the trapping success and nestbox use were higher during the mating season (spring), when an increased mobility and occupation of nestboxes probably increased the chances to locate and mate with (a) receptive female(s). Hence, food and (artificial) nest sites may constitute an important resource for females, whereas females seem to represent the main resource for males. Although food availability was not determined, a comparison of female and male distribution patterns provided interesting information on the mating system of woodland dormice. In GFRR, the dispersion pattern of female woodland dormice was “rather” clumped, i.e. females were non-territorial. As some females showed a dyadic intrasexual overlap of up to 90 percent, and population density was very high at the study site, this may indicate that food was very abundant and/or renewed rapidly. Based on the wide range of birth dates observed during the study period, females clearly come into oestrus at different times. In such circumstances (asynchronous sexual receptivity in females), the Female in Space and Time Hypothesis (Ims 1987a) predicts that males will be non-territorial and promiscuous. Live-trapping, nestbox use and home range data indeed suggested that male woodland dormice do not defend territories, but search for and aggregate around receptive females during the mating season.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Prevalence and risk factors for Helicobacter pylori transmission in the Eastern Cape Province application of immunological molecular and demographic methods
- Authors: Dube, Callote
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Helicobacter pylori , Bacterial diseases , Gastritis -- Risk factors , Bacterial diseases -- Risk factors , Gram-negative bacteria , Gram-negative bacterial infections , Helicobacter , Helicobacter infections , Helicobacter pylori -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11262 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/265 , Helicobacter pylori , Bacterial diseases , Gastritis -- Risk factors , Bacterial diseases -- Risk factors , Gram-negative bacteria , Gram-negative bacterial infections , Helicobacter , Helicobacter infections , Helicobacter pylori -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a microaerophilic, Gram-negative motile curved rod that inhabits the gastric mucosa of the human stomach. The organism chronically infects billions of people worldwide and is one of the most genetically diverse of bacterial species. Infection with the organism potentially induces chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. In addition, H. pylori plays a role in the etiology of gastric cancer and gastric MALT lymphoma. The risk of infection is increased in those living in the developing world, which has been ascribed to precarious hygiene standards, crowded households, and deficient sanitation common in this part of the world. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify the risk factors in the transmission of H. pylori in our environment, i.e. in Nkonkobe Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Faecal samples were collected from 356 apparently healthy subjects, consisting of 168 males and 188 females aged from 3 months to 60 years (Mean = 31 years). A standardized questionnaire was applied, it described demographic characteristics including age, sex, household hygiene, socioeconomic status, area of residence, duration of stay in the area, sharing bath water, sharing tooth brush, habit of sucking thumb, medication currently being taken or medication taken within the past three months, source of water, type of toilet used, education and occupation. A sandwich-type enzyme immunoassay amplification technology (Amplified IDEIA TM Hp StAR TM , Oxoid, UK) was used to analyze the faecal samples for the detection of H. pylori antigens using monoclonal antibodies specific for H. pylori antigens. To assess the possibility of faecal oral route with tap water as an intermediary link, PCR targeting the ureC (glmM), a highly conserved gene in H. pylori ii was carried out to detect H. pylori DNA in faecal samples of already positive samples by HpSA test as well as in direct tap water used by the H. pylori positive subjects. QIAamp DNA stool mini kit was used to extract DNA from faecal samples. Tap water samples were then obtained using sterile bottles from areas inhabited by H. pylori positive subjects as determined by HpSA test and PCR. DNA extraction from water samples was done using UltraCleanTM Water DNA Isolation Kit (0.22μm) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. PCR with primers specific for H. pylori glmM gene was carried out with both positive and negative controls incorporated. Fisher’s exact test was used to assess the univariate association between H. pylori infection and the possible risk factors. Odds ratio (OR) and the corresponding 95 percent confidence interval (CI) were calculated to measure the strength of association using EPI INFO 3.41 package. P values of < .05 were required for significance. The precision rate of the diagnostic tests used was also determined. H. pylori antigen was detected in 316 of the 356 subjects giving an overall prevalence of 88.8 percent. Prevalence increased with age from 75.9 percent in children < 12 years age to 100 percent in the age group from 13 years to 24 years, also 100 percent prevalence of H. pylori was recorded in young adults aged 25-47 years and subjects aged 60 years (P < .05). H. pylori prevalence was higher in females than in males. Of 188 females who participated in the study, H. pylori antigen was detected in 172 (91.5 percent) versus 144 (85.7 percent) of 168 males (P > .05). Interestingly, H pylori antigen was detected more often (100 percent) in the high socioeconomic group than in those of low socioeconomic group (85.9 percent). Sixteen (66.7 percent) of twenty four faecal samples that had previously tested positive for the organism by HpSA test were confirmed positive by PCR. However none of the treated tap water samples tested positive for the organism by PCR. The present iii study revealed a high prevalence of H. pylori in faecal samples of asymptomatic individuals in the Nkonkobe Municipality, an indication of active infection. The obtained results also revealed that direct treated tap water might not be playing a crucial role in the oral transmission of H. pylori in the studied population.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Dube, Callote
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Helicobacter pylori , Bacterial diseases , Gastritis -- Risk factors , Bacterial diseases -- Risk factors , Gram-negative bacteria , Gram-negative bacterial infections , Helicobacter , Helicobacter infections , Helicobacter pylori -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11262 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/265 , Helicobacter pylori , Bacterial diseases , Gastritis -- Risk factors , Bacterial diseases -- Risk factors , Gram-negative bacteria , Gram-negative bacterial infections , Helicobacter , Helicobacter infections , Helicobacter pylori -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a microaerophilic, Gram-negative motile curved rod that inhabits the gastric mucosa of the human stomach. The organism chronically infects billions of people worldwide and is one of the most genetically diverse of bacterial species. Infection with the organism potentially induces chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. In addition, H. pylori plays a role in the etiology of gastric cancer and gastric MALT lymphoma. The risk of infection is increased in those living in the developing world, which has been ascribed to precarious hygiene standards, crowded households, and deficient sanitation common in this part of the world. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify the risk factors in the transmission of H. pylori in our environment, i.e. in Nkonkobe Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Faecal samples were collected from 356 apparently healthy subjects, consisting of 168 males and 188 females aged from 3 months to 60 years (Mean = 31 years). A standardized questionnaire was applied, it described demographic characteristics including age, sex, household hygiene, socioeconomic status, area of residence, duration of stay in the area, sharing bath water, sharing tooth brush, habit of sucking thumb, medication currently being taken or medication taken within the past three months, source of water, type of toilet used, education and occupation. A sandwich-type enzyme immunoassay amplification technology (Amplified IDEIA TM Hp StAR TM , Oxoid, UK) was used to analyze the faecal samples for the detection of H. pylori antigens using monoclonal antibodies specific for H. pylori antigens. To assess the possibility of faecal oral route with tap water as an intermediary link, PCR targeting the ureC (glmM), a highly conserved gene in H. pylori ii was carried out to detect H. pylori DNA in faecal samples of already positive samples by HpSA test as well as in direct tap water used by the H. pylori positive subjects. QIAamp DNA stool mini kit was used to extract DNA from faecal samples. Tap water samples were then obtained using sterile bottles from areas inhabited by H. pylori positive subjects as determined by HpSA test and PCR. DNA extraction from water samples was done using UltraCleanTM Water DNA Isolation Kit (0.22μm) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. PCR with primers specific for H. pylori glmM gene was carried out with both positive and negative controls incorporated. Fisher’s exact test was used to assess the univariate association between H. pylori infection and the possible risk factors. Odds ratio (OR) and the corresponding 95 percent confidence interval (CI) were calculated to measure the strength of association using EPI INFO 3.41 package. P values of < .05 were required for significance. The precision rate of the diagnostic tests used was also determined. H. pylori antigen was detected in 316 of the 356 subjects giving an overall prevalence of 88.8 percent. Prevalence increased with age from 75.9 percent in children < 12 years age to 100 percent in the age group from 13 years to 24 years, also 100 percent prevalence of H. pylori was recorded in young adults aged 25-47 years and subjects aged 60 years (P < .05). H. pylori prevalence was higher in females than in males. Of 188 females who participated in the study, H. pylori antigen was detected in 172 (91.5 percent) versus 144 (85.7 percent) of 168 males (P > .05). Interestingly, H pylori antigen was detected more often (100 percent) in the high socioeconomic group than in those of low socioeconomic group (85.9 percent). Sixteen (66.7 percent) of twenty four faecal samples that had previously tested positive for the organism by HpSA test were confirmed positive by PCR. However none of the treated tap water samples tested positive for the organism by PCR. The present iii study revealed a high prevalence of H. pylori in faecal samples of asymptomatic individuals in the Nkonkobe Municipality, an indication of active infection. The obtained results also revealed that direct treated tap water might not be playing a crucial role in the oral transmission of H. pylori in the studied population.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Process window for friction stir welding of 3 mm titanium (Ti-6AI-4V)
- Authors: Mashinini, Peter Madindwa
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Friction stir welding , Titanium -- Welding , Welded joints
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9618 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1413 , Friction stir welding , Titanium -- Welding , Welded joints
- Description: Friction stir welding was used to join 3 mm Ti-6Al-4V alloy in a butt joint configuration. This research focused on optimization of a tool geometry and the interaction between process parameters and static performance of welded joints. The main parameters varied were tool travel speed and tool rotational speed. The results showed a relationship between heat input as a function of process parameters and static strength. Improved tensile properties correspond to high heat input. The hardness plots revealed an increase in hardness on both the stir zone and heat affected zone despite the small defects on the weld root. The weld microstructure was also evaluated, which showed a variation in microstructure on both the heat affected zone and stir zone in comparison to the parent material. It was also found that the use of MgO as a heat barrier on the backing plate was detrimental to the weld tensile properties of butt-welded plates compared to bead-on-plate welds of which MgO had no influence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Mashinini, Peter Madindwa
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Friction stir welding , Titanium -- Welding , Welded joints
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9618 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1413 , Friction stir welding , Titanium -- Welding , Welded joints
- Description: Friction stir welding was used to join 3 mm Ti-6Al-4V alloy in a butt joint configuration. This research focused on optimization of a tool geometry and the interaction between process parameters and static performance of welded joints. The main parameters varied were tool travel speed and tool rotational speed. The results showed a relationship between heat input as a function of process parameters and static strength. Improved tensile properties correspond to high heat input. The hardness plots revealed an increase in hardness on both the stir zone and heat affected zone despite the small defects on the weld root. The weld microstructure was also evaluated, which showed a variation in microstructure on both the heat affected zone and stir zone in comparison to the parent material. It was also found that the use of MgO as a heat barrier on the backing plate was detrimental to the weld tensile properties of butt-welded plates compared to bead-on-plate welds of which MgO had no influence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Prohibition & resistance: a socio-political exploration of the changing dynamics of the southern African cannabis trade, c. 1850 - the present
- Authors: Paterson, Craig
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Cannabis -- Government policy -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 19th century Cannabis -- Government policy -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 20th century Cannabis -- Law and legislation -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 20th century Drugs -- Government policy -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 19th century Drugs -- Government policy -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 20th century Drugs -- Law and legislation -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 19th century Drugs -- Law and legislation -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 20th century Drug traffic -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 19th century Drug traffic -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 20th century Substance abuse -- Social aspects -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2551 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002403
- Description: Looking primarily at the social and political trends in South Africa over the course of the last century and a half, this thesis explores how these trends have contributed to the establishment of the southern Africa cannabis complex. Through an examination of the influence which the colonial paradigm based on Social Darwinian thinking had on the understanding of the cannabis plant in southern Africa, it is argued that cannabis prohibition and apartheid laws rested on the same ideological foundation. This thesis goes on to argue that the dynamics of cannabis production and trade can be understood in terms of the interplay between the two themes of ‘prohibition’ and ‘resistance’. Prohibition is not only understood to refer to cannabis laws, but also to the proscription of inter-racial contact and segregation dictated by the apartheid regime. Resistance, then, refers to both resistance to apartheid and resistance to cannabis laws in this thesis. Including discussions on the hippie movement and development of the world trade, the anti-apartheid movement, the successful implementation of import substitution strategies in Europe and North America from the 1980’s, and South Africa’s incorporation into the global trade, this thesis illustrates how the apartheid system (and its collapse) influenced the region’s cannabis trade.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Paterson, Craig
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Cannabis -- Government policy -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 19th century Cannabis -- Government policy -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 20th century Cannabis -- Law and legislation -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 20th century Drugs -- Government policy -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 19th century Drugs -- Government policy -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 20th century Drugs -- Law and legislation -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 19th century Drugs -- Law and legislation -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 20th century Drug traffic -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 19th century Drug traffic -- Africa, Southern -- History -- 20th century Substance abuse -- Social aspects -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2551 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002403
- Description: Looking primarily at the social and political trends in South Africa over the course of the last century and a half, this thesis explores how these trends have contributed to the establishment of the southern Africa cannabis complex. Through an examination of the influence which the colonial paradigm based on Social Darwinian thinking had on the understanding of the cannabis plant in southern Africa, it is argued that cannabis prohibition and apartheid laws rested on the same ideological foundation. This thesis goes on to argue that the dynamics of cannabis production and trade can be understood in terms of the interplay between the two themes of ‘prohibition’ and ‘resistance’. Prohibition is not only understood to refer to cannabis laws, but also to the proscription of inter-racial contact and segregation dictated by the apartheid regime. Resistance, then, refers to both resistance to apartheid and resistance to cannabis laws in this thesis. Including discussions on the hippie movement and development of the world trade, the anti-apartheid movement, the successful implementation of import substitution strategies in Europe and North America from the 1980’s, and South Africa’s incorporation into the global trade, this thesis illustrates how the apartheid system (and its collapse) influenced the region’s cannabis trade.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Psychologists' perceived influences of early strategies on the psychosocial response to those affected by disasters
- Authors: Blackburn, Nerina June
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Disasters -- Psychological aspects , Post-traumatic stress disorder , Disaster victims -- Mental health , Disasters
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9872 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1416 , Disasters -- Psychological aspects , Post-traumatic stress disorder , Disaster victims -- Mental health , Disasters
- Description: Currently some confusion exists as to how health professionals should best respond to the psychological needs of those affected by disasters. Some have argued that early psychological intervention is essential and others have argued that early formal psychological interventions have no useful role in post trauma response. This study highlights the importance of considering both counselling and non-counselling factors as potentially influencing the psychosocial response of disaster victims. Although posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is not the only mental disorder that can develop as a result of exposure to disasters, it is probably the most frequent and debilitating psychological disorder associated with traumatic stress. In this exploratorydescriptive study the researcher aimed to explore and describe psychologists’ perceived influences of early strategies on the psychosocial response to those affected by disaster. The researcher used non-probability snowball sampling to access participants. The sample consisted of 5 participants. Semi structured interviews were conducted. Content analysis was used to analyse the data obtained from interviews. Results that emerged from the data suggest that there are many factors that influence the psychosocial response to those affected by disasters. These factors include the screening process, needs of survivors, the method of choice for treatment, the timing of intervention, pharmacology, the South African context, training and planning. The study makes a contribution to the growing knowledge of early strategies in response to those affected by disasters.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Blackburn, Nerina June
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Disasters -- Psychological aspects , Post-traumatic stress disorder , Disaster victims -- Mental health , Disasters
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9872 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1416 , Disasters -- Psychological aspects , Post-traumatic stress disorder , Disaster victims -- Mental health , Disasters
- Description: Currently some confusion exists as to how health professionals should best respond to the psychological needs of those affected by disasters. Some have argued that early psychological intervention is essential and others have argued that early formal psychological interventions have no useful role in post trauma response. This study highlights the importance of considering both counselling and non-counselling factors as potentially influencing the psychosocial response of disaster victims. Although posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is not the only mental disorder that can develop as a result of exposure to disasters, it is probably the most frequent and debilitating psychological disorder associated with traumatic stress. In this exploratorydescriptive study the researcher aimed to explore and describe psychologists’ perceived influences of early strategies on the psychosocial response to those affected by disaster. The researcher used non-probability snowball sampling to access participants. The sample consisted of 5 participants. Semi structured interviews were conducted. Content analysis was used to analyse the data obtained from interviews. Results that emerged from the data suggest that there are many factors that influence the psychosocial response to those affected by disasters. These factors include the screening process, needs of survivors, the method of choice for treatment, the timing of intervention, pharmacology, the South African context, training and planning. The study makes a contribution to the growing knowledge of early strategies in response to those affected by disasters.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Quality assessment of information systems in SMEs: a study of Eldoret Town in Kenya
- Authors: Ndiege, Joshua Rumo Arongo
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Small business -- Kenya , Financial institutions -- Kenya , Small business -- Kenya -- Data processing , Information technology -- Kenya -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11132 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1000973 , Small business -- Kenya , Financial institutions -- Kenya , Small business -- Kenya -- Data processing , Information technology -- Kenya -- Evaluation
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Ndiege, Joshua Rumo Arongo
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Small business -- Kenya , Financial institutions -- Kenya , Small business -- Kenya -- Data processing , Information technology -- Kenya -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11132 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1000973 , Small business -- Kenya , Financial institutions -- Kenya , Small business -- Kenya -- Data processing , Information technology -- Kenya -- Evaluation
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2010
Racial exploitation and double oppression in selected Bessie Head and Doris Lessing texts
- Authors: Kirton, Teneille
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Authors, South African -- 20th century Biography , Apartheid in literature , Exploitation , Women authors, South African -- 20th century Biography , Racism in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA (English)
- Identifier: vital:11502 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/232 , Authors, South African -- 20th century Biography , Apartheid in literature , Exploitation , Women authors, South African -- 20th century Biography , Racism in literature
- Description: During the era of discrimination and disparity in Southern Africa, racial inequality silenced many black writers. It was the white authors that dominated the literary environment presenting their biased views on social and political concerns; the black authors standpoints were seen as unimportant and they were deemed inferior to the white authors. Consequently, it was particularly difficult for black writers to voice their experiences of living in a society riddled with oppression, prejudice and unequal opportunities. The purpose of this study is to critically compare selected texts by African authors Doris Lessing and Bessie Head, which depict the political and social struggles within Southern African society during the era of unequal opportunities. Lessing and Head’s works present incidents of life experiences in Southern Africa from two contrasting viewpoints. The selected texts explored are: The Grass is Singing and “The Old Chief Mshlanga” by Doris Lessing, a white author, in contrast and comparison to the texts: A Question of Power and “The Collector of Treasures” by Bessie Head, a coloured author. The research for this thesis is conducted from an ethnic literary perspective with careful consideration to critical race theory and cultural studies. From this perspective, the focus of the study is on the struggles that affected both the victim and perpetrator during the apartheid era as well as on the idea that those in power determined what was deemed acceptable and unacceptable, behaviourally and ideologically. Specifically, the plight experienced by the female characters living in a patriarchal society, and the segregation and racial inequality faced by the characters of colour is explored by analysing these characters’ influences, pressures and societal manipulations and constraints in the texts. Thus, this study will provide a more in-depth understanding of Southern African society during the apartheid era and the strategic use of literature to spotlight the subjugation and disparity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Kirton, Teneille
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Authors, South African -- 20th century Biography , Apartheid in literature , Exploitation , Women authors, South African -- 20th century Biography , Racism in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA (English)
- Identifier: vital:11502 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/232 , Authors, South African -- 20th century Biography , Apartheid in literature , Exploitation , Women authors, South African -- 20th century Biography , Racism in literature
- Description: During the era of discrimination and disparity in Southern Africa, racial inequality silenced many black writers. It was the white authors that dominated the literary environment presenting their biased views on social and political concerns; the black authors standpoints were seen as unimportant and they were deemed inferior to the white authors. Consequently, it was particularly difficult for black writers to voice their experiences of living in a society riddled with oppression, prejudice and unequal opportunities. The purpose of this study is to critically compare selected texts by African authors Doris Lessing and Bessie Head, which depict the political and social struggles within Southern African society during the era of unequal opportunities. Lessing and Head’s works present incidents of life experiences in Southern Africa from two contrasting viewpoints. The selected texts explored are: The Grass is Singing and “The Old Chief Mshlanga” by Doris Lessing, a white author, in contrast and comparison to the texts: A Question of Power and “The Collector of Treasures” by Bessie Head, a coloured author. The research for this thesis is conducted from an ethnic literary perspective with careful consideration to critical race theory and cultural studies. From this perspective, the focus of the study is on the struggles that affected both the victim and perpetrator during the apartheid era as well as on the idea that those in power determined what was deemed acceptable and unacceptable, behaviourally and ideologically. Specifically, the plight experienced by the female characters living in a patriarchal society, and the segregation and racial inequality faced by the characters of colour is explored by analysing these characters’ influences, pressures and societal manipulations and constraints in the texts. Thus, this study will provide a more in-depth understanding of Southern African society during the apartheid era and the strategic use of literature to spotlight the subjugation and disparity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Reactivity of Rhenium (iii) and Rhenium (V) with multidentate NN-and no-donor ligands
- Yumata, Nonzaliseko Christine
- Authors: Yumata, Nonzaliseko Christine
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Rhenium , Ligands
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10373 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1085 , Rhenium , Ligands
- Description: The reaction of the potentially tridentate Schiff-base chelate Hhaep [Haep = N’-(1- (2-hydroxyphenyl)ethylidene)benzohydrazide] with [ReCl3(benzil)(PPh3)] and trans-[ReOCl3(PPh3)2] produced the neutral oxorhenium(V) complexes cis- [ReOCl2(mep)] [Hmep = 2-(1-iminoethyl)phenol] and cis-[ReOCI2(meb)(PPh3)] [Hmeb = N’-(propan-2-ylidene)benzohydrazide] in ethanol and acetone respectively. In both reactions the Hhaep molecule cleaves to give different coordinated bidentate NO-donor chelates coordinated to the rhenium(V) centers. The X-ray studies reveal that mep is present as a bidentate, monoanionic Schiffbase coordinating through the neutral imino nitrogen and the deprotonated phenolate oxygen in cis-[ReOCl2(mep)]. The bond distances and angles in cis- [ReOCI2(meb)(PPh3)] confirm that meb coordinates to the metal in the enolate form. The distorted octahedral complex fac-[ReCl3(dpa)(PPh3)] was prepared by the reaction of trans-[ReCl3(MeCN)(PPh3)2] with a twofold molar excess of dpa in acetonitrile under a nitrogen atmosphere. The compound dpa.HCl.2H2O was obtained as a by-product in the reaction of dpa with trans-[ReCI3(MeCN)(PPh3)2] in acetonitrile. The reaction of trans-[ReCl3(MeCN)(PPh3)2] with a twofold molar excess of 6- amino-3-methyl-1-phenyl-4-azahept-2-ene-1-one (Hamp) in acetonitrile led to the isolation of cis-[ReCl2(bat)(PPh3)2]. On complexation to the metal center Hamp decomposed to give the coordinated benzoylacetone (bat). Bat is present as a monoanionic bidentate chelate. The complexes [ReVOCI(had)] and [ReIVCl(had)(PPh3)](ReO4) were prepared from the reaction of trans-[ReCl3(MeCN)(PPh3)2] with N,N-bis((2-hydroxybenzyl)-2- aminoethyl)dimethylamine (H2had) in ethanol under various reaction conditions. The treatment of [ReCl3(benzil)(PPh3)] with 2-[((2- pyridinylmethyl)amino)methyl]phenol (Hham) in a 2:1 molar ratio in acetonitrile led to the isolation of the hydrogen-bonded dimer [ReOCl2(ham)]2. The distorted octahedral complex [ReOCl(hap)] [H2hap = N,N-bis(2- hydroxybenzyl)aminomethylpyridine] was prepared from the reaction of trans- [ReCl3(MeCN)(PPh3)2] with a twofold molar excess of H2hap in acetonitrile. The X-ray crystal structure analysis shows that the chloride is coordinated trans to the tripodal tertiary amino nitrogen, with a phenolate oxygen trans to the oxo oxygen.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Yumata, Nonzaliseko Christine
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Rhenium , Ligands
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10373 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1085 , Rhenium , Ligands
- Description: The reaction of the potentially tridentate Schiff-base chelate Hhaep [Haep = N’-(1- (2-hydroxyphenyl)ethylidene)benzohydrazide] with [ReCl3(benzil)(PPh3)] and trans-[ReOCl3(PPh3)2] produced the neutral oxorhenium(V) complexes cis- [ReOCl2(mep)] [Hmep = 2-(1-iminoethyl)phenol] and cis-[ReOCI2(meb)(PPh3)] [Hmeb = N’-(propan-2-ylidene)benzohydrazide] in ethanol and acetone respectively. In both reactions the Hhaep molecule cleaves to give different coordinated bidentate NO-donor chelates coordinated to the rhenium(V) centers. The X-ray studies reveal that mep is present as a bidentate, monoanionic Schiffbase coordinating through the neutral imino nitrogen and the deprotonated phenolate oxygen in cis-[ReOCl2(mep)]. The bond distances and angles in cis- [ReOCI2(meb)(PPh3)] confirm that meb coordinates to the metal in the enolate form. The distorted octahedral complex fac-[ReCl3(dpa)(PPh3)] was prepared by the reaction of trans-[ReCl3(MeCN)(PPh3)2] with a twofold molar excess of dpa in acetonitrile under a nitrogen atmosphere. The compound dpa.HCl.2H2O was obtained as a by-product in the reaction of dpa with trans-[ReCI3(MeCN)(PPh3)2] in acetonitrile. The reaction of trans-[ReCl3(MeCN)(PPh3)2] with a twofold molar excess of 6- amino-3-methyl-1-phenyl-4-azahept-2-ene-1-one (Hamp) in acetonitrile led to the isolation of cis-[ReCl2(bat)(PPh3)2]. On complexation to the metal center Hamp decomposed to give the coordinated benzoylacetone (bat). Bat is present as a monoanionic bidentate chelate. The complexes [ReVOCI(had)] and [ReIVCl(had)(PPh3)](ReO4) were prepared from the reaction of trans-[ReCl3(MeCN)(PPh3)2] with N,N-bis((2-hydroxybenzyl)-2- aminoethyl)dimethylamine (H2had) in ethanol under various reaction conditions. The treatment of [ReCl3(benzil)(PPh3)] with 2-[((2- pyridinylmethyl)amino)methyl]phenol (Hham) in a 2:1 molar ratio in acetonitrile led to the isolation of the hydrogen-bonded dimer [ReOCl2(ham)]2. The distorted octahedral complex [ReOCl(hap)] [H2hap = N,N-bis(2- hydroxybenzyl)aminomethylpyridine] was prepared from the reaction of trans- [ReCl3(MeCN)(PPh3)2] with a twofold molar excess of H2hap in acetonitrile. The X-ray crystal structure analysis shows that the chloride is coordinated trans to the tripodal tertiary amino nitrogen, with a phenolate oxygen trans to the oxo oxygen.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Relationship between employee knowledge, personal contact and attitudes towards chronically ill co-workers: case of selected organisations within the banking sector
- Authors: Kanengoni, Herbert
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Attitude (Psychology) , Chronically ill -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Banks and banking -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial safety -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11544 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/494 , Attitude (Psychology) , Chronically ill -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Banks and banking -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial safety -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: As chronic illnesses continue to be a burden in today’s organisations, it remains a very crucial call for management to find ways to eradicate the associated organisational problems. While people of all ages are affected by chronic illnesses, there is a higher risk of the elderly developing chronic diseases. However, as much as chronic illnesses are inevitable among employees, there should be ways at least to curb negative social and goal achievement impact which they bring in organisations. In this regard, a survey of 80 employees was conducted to examine the relationship between employees' knowledge about, contact with, and attitudes towards their co-employees with chronic illnesses (CI). Results indicated that employees' knowledge about and contact with individuals diagnosed with chronic illnesses were significantly related to better attitudes toward this population. The findings also revealed that knowledge was related to positive attitudes among employees who had more personal contact with individuals with Chronic illnesses (CI) and such findings indicate the importance of exposing employees to information about chronic illnesses and direct practice experience with individuals who have these illnesses. To be noted also is that 39% of the respondents preferred to be exposed to health bulletins and magazines; 18% of the respondents preferred the help of health workers and about a third (30%) favoured brochures, posters and printed materials such as flyers. Managerial implications for employees with chronic illness are discussed
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Kanengoni, Herbert
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Attitude (Psychology) , Chronically ill -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Banks and banking -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial safety -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11544 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/494 , Attitude (Psychology) , Chronically ill -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Banks and banking -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial safety -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: As chronic illnesses continue to be a burden in today’s organisations, it remains a very crucial call for management to find ways to eradicate the associated organisational problems. While people of all ages are affected by chronic illnesses, there is a higher risk of the elderly developing chronic diseases. However, as much as chronic illnesses are inevitable among employees, there should be ways at least to curb negative social and goal achievement impact which they bring in organisations. In this regard, a survey of 80 employees was conducted to examine the relationship between employees' knowledge about, contact with, and attitudes towards their co-employees with chronic illnesses (CI). Results indicated that employees' knowledge about and contact with individuals diagnosed with chronic illnesses were significantly related to better attitudes toward this population. The findings also revealed that knowledge was related to positive attitudes among employees who had more personal contact with individuals with Chronic illnesses (CI) and such findings indicate the importance of exposing employees to information about chronic illnesses and direct practice experience with individuals who have these illnesses. To be noted also is that 39% of the respondents preferred to be exposed to health bulletins and magazines; 18% of the respondents preferred the help of health workers and about a third (30%) favoured brochures, posters and printed materials such as flyers. Managerial implications for employees with chronic illness are discussed
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Relief or development? An analysis of the outcome of NGO community development interventions in Marange communal area of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Pemberai, Zambezi
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Community development -- Developing countries , Community development -- Zimbabwe , Communities -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe , Social welfare -- Zimbabwe , Non-governmental organizations -- Development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11430 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1004360 , Community development -- Developing countries , Community development -- Zimbabwe , Communities -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe , Social welfare -- Zimbabwe , Non-governmental organizations -- Development -- Zimbabwe
- Description: Development is a critical aspect of individuals, groups, communities or nations. Community development is even more critical aspect of development as it purportedly leads to self reliance. Huge amounts of funds, time, and resources, just but to mention a few have been continuously channeled towards communities over time in a bid to facilitate community development. Unfortunately, results of such actions and interventions by NGOs, governments and a host of development agencies have so far largely proved elusive. Contrary to NGO expectations and popular opinion, target communities continuously demand, request and expect increased direct support from development agencies. Solving acute community problems and challenges, the focus of most NGO development interventions has been less successful. Target problems have largely graduated and turned to chronic levels. All this is unfortunately worsening against the background of increased donor and NGO support. Deteriorating and widening community challenges are also taking place against general claims by NGOs to the application of community development ideals in communities as a successful development alternative. Contrastingly, rather than being self reliant, communities have become more dependent on donors. In addition, NGO target communities continue to grapple with short-lived changes, limited participation by the majority, reversal of past successes and dwindling self representation and reliance. Inequalities have widened. This is to the detriment of ongoing NGO claims and efforts at promoting community development. Development is a critical aspect of individuals, groups, communities or nations. Community development is even more critical aspect of development as it purportedlyleads to self reliance. Huge amounts of funds, time, and resources, just but to mention a few have been continuously channeled towards communities over time in a bid to facilitate community development. Unfortunately, results of such actions and interventions by NGOs, governments and a host of development agencies have so far largely proved elusive. Contrary to NGO expectations and popular opinion, target communities continuously demand, request and expect increased direct support from development agencies. Solving acute community problems and challenges, the focus of most NGO development interventions has been less successful. Target problems have largely graduated and turned to chronic levels. All this is unfortunately worsening against the background of increased donor and NGO support. Deteriorating and widening community challenges are also taking place against general claims by NGOs to the application of community development ideals in communities as a successful development alternative. Contrastingly, rather than being self reliant, communities have become more dependent on donors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Pemberai, Zambezi
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Community development -- Developing countries , Community development -- Zimbabwe , Communities -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe , Social welfare -- Zimbabwe , Non-governmental organizations -- Development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: vital:11430 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1004360 , Community development -- Developing countries , Community development -- Zimbabwe , Communities -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe , Social welfare -- Zimbabwe , Non-governmental organizations -- Development -- Zimbabwe
- Description: Development is a critical aspect of individuals, groups, communities or nations. Community development is even more critical aspect of development as it purportedly leads to self reliance. Huge amounts of funds, time, and resources, just but to mention a few have been continuously channeled towards communities over time in a bid to facilitate community development. Unfortunately, results of such actions and interventions by NGOs, governments and a host of development agencies have so far largely proved elusive. Contrary to NGO expectations and popular opinion, target communities continuously demand, request and expect increased direct support from development agencies. Solving acute community problems and challenges, the focus of most NGO development interventions has been less successful. Target problems have largely graduated and turned to chronic levels. All this is unfortunately worsening against the background of increased donor and NGO support. Deteriorating and widening community challenges are also taking place against general claims by NGOs to the application of community development ideals in communities as a successful development alternative. Contrastingly, rather than being self reliant, communities have become more dependent on donors. In addition, NGO target communities continue to grapple with short-lived changes, limited participation by the majority, reversal of past successes and dwindling self representation and reliance. Inequalities have widened. This is to the detriment of ongoing NGO claims and efforts at promoting community development. Development is a critical aspect of individuals, groups, communities or nations. Community development is even more critical aspect of development as it purportedlyleads to self reliance. Huge amounts of funds, time, and resources, just but to mention a few have been continuously channeled towards communities over time in a bid to facilitate community development. Unfortunately, results of such actions and interventions by NGOs, governments and a host of development agencies have so far largely proved elusive. Contrary to NGO expectations and popular opinion, target communities continuously demand, request and expect increased direct support from development agencies. Solving acute community problems and challenges, the focus of most NGO development interventions has been less successful. Target problems have largely graduated and turned to chronic levels. All this is unfortunately worsening against the background of increased donor and NGO support. Deteriorating and widening community challenges are also taking place against general claims by NGOs to the application of community development ideals in communities as a successful development alternative. Contrastingly, rather than being self reliant, communities have become more dependent on donors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Resilience in families living with child diagnosed with cerebral palsy
- Authors: Small, Renée Frances
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Resilience (Personality trait) , Cerebral palsy , Adjustment (Psychology) , Adaptability (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9876 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1362 , Resilience (Personality trait) , Cerebral palsy , Adjustment (Psychology) , Adaptability (Psychology)
- Description: Cerebral Palsy is a complex, non-progressive condition that manifests in various forms of motor impairments. This life-long condition holds numerous challenges for the entire family throughout the family life-cycle. While the challenges that these families have to face are many, families seem to have the ability to "bounce back" and to be resilient. Research on the construct of resilience and more specifically family resilience has increased in recent times. South African family resilience research is relatively limited. This study aimed to identify, explore and describe the resiliency factors that facilitate adjustment and adaptation in families that include a child living with Cerebral Palsy. The Resiliency Model of Family Stress, Adjustment and Adaptation was used to conceptualise the level of family adaptation. The study was triangular in nature, with an exploratory, descriptive approach. Non-probability purposive and snowball sampling techniques were employed. The sample consisted of 30 female caregivers. Biographical questionnaires with two open-ended questions, in conjunction with seven structured questionnaires were used to gather the data. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the biographical information. Correlation and regression analysis was used to analyse the quantitative data, while content analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data. The results of the quantitative component of the study indicated five significant positive correlations with the FACI8. These variables were family hardiness (measured by the FHI), family time together and routines (measured by the FTRI), social support (measured by the SSI), relative and friends support (measure by the RFS), and spiritual support (measured by the F-COPES). The results of the qualitative analysis revealed that social support, the caregivers' acceptance of the condition, and spirituality and religion were the most important strength factors that contributed to the families' adjustment and adaptation. Although the sample was small and the study has limitations, it could be used as a stepping-stone for future research on resilience in families living with a child with a physical disability and will contribute to the broader context of family resilience research in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Small, Renée Frances
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Resilience (Personality trait) , Cerebral palsy , Adjustment (Psychology) , Adaptability (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9876 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1362 , Resilience (Personality trait) , Cerebral palsy , Adjustment (Psychology) , Adaptability (Psychology)
- Description: Cerebral Palsy is a complex, non-progressive condition that manifests in various forms of motor impairments. This life-long condition holds numerous challenges for the entire family throughout the family life-cycle. While the challenges that these families have to face are many, families seem to have the ability to "bounce back" and to be resilient. Research on the construct of resilience and more specifically family resilience has increased in recent times. South African family resilience research is relatively limited. This study aimed to identify, explore and describe the resiliency factors that facilitate adjustment and adaptation in families that include a child living with Cerebral Palsy. The Resiliency Model of Family Stress, Adjustment and Adaptation was used to conceptualise the level of family adaptation. The study was triangular in nature, with an exploratory, descriptive approach. Non-probability purposive and snowball sampling techniques were employed. The sample consisted of 30 female caregivers. Biographical questionnaires with two open-ended questions, in conjunction with seven structured questionnaires were used to gather the data. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the biographical information. Correlation and regression analysis was used to analyse the quantitative data, while content analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data. The results of the quantitative component of the study indicated five significant positive correlations with the FACI8. These variables were family hardiness (measured by the FHI), family time together and routines (measured by the FTRI), social support (measured by the SSI), relative and friends support (measure by the RFS), and spiritual support (measured by the F-COPES). The results of the qualitative analysis revealed that social support, the caregivers' acceptance of the condition, and spirituality and religion were the most important strength factors that contributed to the families' adjustment and adaptation. Although the sample was small and the study has limitations, it could be used as a stepping-stone for future research on resilience in families living with a child with a physical disability and will contribute to the broader context of family resilience research in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Revolt as a strategy of de-reification in contemporary performance practice
- Authors: Smit, Sonja
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Mantero, Vera Bouwer, Jaco, 1973- Performance art -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2147 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002379
- Description: This thesis investigates the concepts of revolt and de-reification and how these can be perceived and implemented within the context of performance. The argument focuses on the ability of revolt to question and unsettle processes of reification which in turn manifest a strategy of de-reification. I investigate the potential in contemporary performance practice to challenge prevailing modes of perception and restore the production of desire to the spectator through strategies of de-reification. This research is approached through a qualitative process which entails a reading and application of critical texts to the analysis. This reading/application is engaged in a dialogue with the interpretative and experiential aspects of the two works selected for analysis. Chapter One functions as an introduction to the concept of reification and the necessity of a process geared towards de-reification through revolt. I argue that revolt is already embedded in avant-garde artistic practices through an experimental and questioning approach to artistic practice and the production of meaning. Chapter Two is an analysis of Vera Mantero’s solo work, one mysterious Thing said e.e cummings* (1996). This is structured around two identifiable elements, one being the resistance to signification (designification), which is argued as a strategy of revolt within the piece. The second is the notion of abjection, which works doubly to aid the resistance to signification as well as working as a strategy of revolt by its implication in the work. Chapter Three analyses Jaco Bouwer’s Untitled (2008), specifically dealing with the notion of absence as a strategy of revolt and de-reification. The discussion is focused on the potential complication of desire through absence as enacting a larger project of revolt. As in Chapter Two, this is similarly related to the fragmentation of signs through designification which emphasises the strategy of absence. This thesis concludes with the idea that meaning-making in performance can be considered a process. Instead, the lack or failure of meaning within these selected performance practices enables a return to the individual (performer and spectator) as the agent of desire.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Smit, Sonja
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Mantero, Vera Bouwer, Jaco, 1973- Performance art -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2147 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002379
- Description: This thesis investigates the concepts of revolt and de-reification and how these can be perceived and implemented within the context of performance. The argument focuses on the ability of revolt to question and unsettle processes of reification which in turn manifest a strategy of de-reification. I investigate the potential in contemporary performance practice to challenge prevailing modes of perception and restore the production of desire to the spectator through strategies of de-reification. This research is approached through a qualitative process which entails a reading and application of critical texts to the analysis. This reading/application is engaged in a dialogue with the interpretative and experiential aspects of the two works selected for analysis. Chapter One functions as an introduction to the concept of reification and the necessity of a process geared towards de-reification through revolt. I argue that revolt is already embedded in avant-garde artistic practices through an experimental and questioning approach to artistic practice and the production of meaning. Chapter Two is an analysis of Vera Mantero’s solo work, one mysterious Thing said e.e cummings* (1996). This is structured around two identifiable elements, one being the resistance to signification (designification), which is argued as a strategy of revolt within the piece. The second is the notion of abjection, which works doubly to aid the resistance to signification as well as working as a strategy of revolt by its implication in the work. Chapter Three analyses Jaco Bouwer’s Untitled (2008), specifically dealing with the notion of absence as a strategy of revolt and de-reification. The discussion is focused on the potential complication of desire through absence as enacting a larger project of revolt. As in Chapter Two, this is similarly related to the fragmentation of signs through designification which emphasises the strategy of absence. This thesis concludes with the idea that meaning-making in performance can be considered a process. Instead, the lack or failure of meaning within these selected performance practices enables a return to the individual (performer and spectator) as the agent of desire.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010