Improved palmprint segmentation for robust identification and verification
- Brown, Dane L, Bradshaw, Karen L
- Authors: Brown, Dane L , Bradshaw, Karen L
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/460576 , vital:75966 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1109/SITIS.2019.00013"
- Description: This paper introduces an improved approach to palmprint segmentation. The approach enables both contact and contactless palmprints to be segmented regardless of constraining finger positions or whether fingers are even depicted within the image. It is compared with related systems, as well as more comprehensive identification tests, that show consistent results across other datasets. Experiments include contact and contactless palmprint images. The proposed system achieves highly accurate classification results, and highlights the importance of effective image segmentation. The proposed system is practical as it is effective with small or large amounts of training data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Brown, Dane L , Bradshaw, Karen L
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/460576 , vital:75966 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1109/SITIS.2019.00013"
- Description: This paper introduces an improved approach to palmprint segmentation. The approach enables both contact and contactless palmprints to be segmented regardless of constraining finger positions or whether fingers are even depicted within the image. It is compared with related systems, as well as more comprehensive identification tests, that show consistent results across other datasets. Experiments include contact and contactless palmprint images. The proposed system achieves highly accurate classification results, and highlights the importance of effective image segmentation. The proposed system is practical as it is effective with small or large amounts of training data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Improvements and optimization for a functional low-cost prosthetic hand
- Authors: Setty, Kiran
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Biomechanics , Artificial limbs -- Design , Prosthesis -- Design
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43655 , vital:36955
- Description: The following study investigates the work of the Touch Hand 4, which involves the development of a lowcost myoelectric prosthetic terminal hand device for transradial amputees. The Touch Hand 4 is an iteration of the Touch Hand project which attempts to make a functional, low-cost prosthetic hand which is capable of being accessible to more people relative to conventional myoelectric prosthetic hands as well as being used as a robotic UAV gripper. This research is motivated due to the lack of affordable myoelectric prosthetic hands in the global market. It is believed, with the current technology, it is capable of developing a prosthetic hand which can meet these needs. Research was performed through reviewing other prosthetic hands to understand the requirements for a prosthetic hand as well as understanding the market of prosthetic hands. Prosthetists were interviewed to obtain a perspective from medial professionals regarding the requirements for a prosthetic hand. Hand kinesiology was performed to understand the biomechanics of the human hand, which was emulated in the design of the Touch Hand 4. The mechanical design begun with developing and testing a concept design, which was used to design the general shape of the Touch Hand 4. SLS was chosen to print the prosthetic hand with. After performing a kinematics and static force simulation, the mechanical system was designed accordingly. Further research on EMG sensors was then performed to understand the requirements of using EMG signals to control a prosthetic hand. The electronics and control system were then designed according to the requirements of the prosthetic hand. Tests were performed, however, tests performed with an amputee using the device was affected to improper placement of the EMG sensors, leading to poor results. Tests performed without an amputee, however, showed that the prosthetic hand is capable of gripping various objects of different shapes and sizes. An investigation was also performed on the contributions the Touch Hand 4 could make as a UAV gripper, which showed that the Touch Hand 4 is more adaptable and versatile than any other UAV gripper available on the market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Setty, Kiran
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Biomechanics , Artificial limbs -- Design , Prosthesis -- Design
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43655 , vital:36955
- Description: The following study investigates the work of the Touch Hand 4, which involves the development of a lowcost myoelectric prosthetic terminal hand device for transradial amputees. The Touch Hand 4 is an iteration of the Touch Hand project which attempts to make a functional, low-cost prosthetic hand which is capable of being accessible to more people relative to conventional myoelectric prosthetic hands as well as being used as a robotic UAV gripper. This research is motivated due to the lack of affordable myoelectric prosthetic hands in the global market. It is believed, with the current technology, it is capable of developing a prosthetic hand which can meet these needs. Research was performed through reviewing other prosthetic hands to understand the requirements for a prosthetic hand as well as understanding the market of prosthetic hands. Prosthetists were interviewed to obtain a perspective from medial professionals regarding the requirements for a prosthetic hand. Hand kinesiology was performed to understand the biomechanics of the human hand, which was emulated in the design of the Touch Hand 4. The mechanical design begun with developing and testing a concept design, which was used to design the general shape of the Touch Hand 4. SLS was chosen to print the prosthetic hand with. After performing a kinematics and static force simulation, the mechanical system was designed accordingly. Further research on EMG sensors was then performed to understand the requirements of using EMG signals to control a prosthetic hand. The electronics and control system were then designed according to the requirements of the prosthetic hand. Tests were performed, however, tests performed with an amputee using the device was affected to improper placement of the EMG sensors, leading to poor results. Tests performed without an amputee, however, showed that the prosthetic hand is capable of gripping various objects of different shapes and sizes. An investigation was also performed on the contributions the Touch Hand 4 could make as a UAV gripper, which showed that the Touch Hand 4 is more adaptable and versatile than any other UAV gripper available on the market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Improving intravenous fluid prescribing in the Eastern Cape in South Africa
- Luce, Cate, Soffair,Rosie, Parrish, Andy
- Authors: Luce, Cate , Soffair,Rosie , Parrish, Andy
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South Africa Intravenous fluids Computer File
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/5120 , vital:44351 , https://doi:10.1136/bmjoq-2018-000406
- Description: Intravenous fluids are an essential component of patient care, but a 2013 National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guideline noted that inappropriate prescribing or administration may lead to actual or potential patient harm in up to 20% of patients.1 This project aimed to improve prescribing documentation and communication between nurses and doctors regarding intravenous fluid management. This was done through the introduction of a fluid chart, in combination with teaching on appropriate fluid management. It was initiated within the medical department of Cecelia Makiwane Hospital in East London, South Africa. 309 patients were included and data were analysed over a 6-month period. The outcome measures were the standards of intravenous fluid prescribing set by the NICE guidelines. The process measure was the use of the new chart. Baseline data highlighted that there was no standardised location for fluid prescriptions within the bedside notes. Following the intervention, 81% of fluid prescriptions were on a fluid chart. The percentage of fluid scripts with a 24-hour fluid prescription, a recorded indication and recorded input increased after the intervention. Seventy six per cent of patients received more than 50% of the fluids prescribed following the intervention compared with 22% at baseline. These results indicated an increase in the doctor’s awareness of appropriate fluid prescribing and an improvement in the communication between doctors and nurses regarding the patient’s fluid management. The engagement of local stakeholders and staff was fundamental to the success of the project and allowed for this change in practice. Fluid management is a vital part of care in many specialties; therefore, a toolkit has been created to allow similar quality improvement projects to be implemented across other hospitals around the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Luce, Cate , Soffair,Rosie , Parrish, Andy
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South Africa Intravenous fluids Computer File
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/5120 , vital:44351 , https://doi:10.1136/bmjoq-2018-000406
- Description: Intravenous fluids are an essential component of patient care, but a 2013 National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guideline noted that inappropriate prescribing or administration may lead to actual or potential patient harm in up to 20% of patients.1 This project aimed to improve prescribing documentation and communication between nurses and doctors regarding intravenous fluid management. This was done through the introduction of a fluid chart, in combination with teaching on appropriate fluid management. It was initiated within the medical department of Cecelia Makiwane Hospital in East London, South Africa. 309 patients were included and data were analysed over a 6-month period. The outcome measures were the standards of intravenous fluid prescribing set by the NICE guidelines. The process measure was the use of the new chart. Baseline data highlighted that there was no standardised location for fluid prescriptions within the bedside notes. Following the intervention, 81% of fluid prescriptions were on a fluid chart. The percentage of fluid scripts with a 24-hour fluid prescription, a recorded indication and recorded input increased after the intervention. Seventy six per cent of patients received more than 50% of the fluids prescribed following the intervention compared with 22% at baseline. These results indicated an increase in the doctor’s awareness of appropriate fluid prescribing and an improvement in the communication between doctors and nurses regarding the patient’s fluid management. The engagement of local stakeholders and staff was fundamental to the success of the project and allowed for this change in practice. Fluid management is a vital part of care in many specialties; therefore, a toolkit has been created to allow similar quality improvement projects to be implemented across other hospitals around the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Improving organisational effectiveness through employee engagement: a proposed framework
- Authors: Mabasa, Jerry Mandla
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Organisational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Employee motivation Organizational behavior Work environment -- Employees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40657 , vital:36207
- Description: South African-based automotive industry firms have been largely characterised by fierce competition at the global level. In order to compete effectively, business leaders have to align business strategies and adopt the best practice approach to gain a competitive advantage among rivals. The majority of this practice requires a high level of employee buy-in to ensure effective, sustainable and successful implementation. Hence, employees become a key stakeholder for improving the organisational competitive advantage and the business leader must continuously find sustainable methods for engaging their employees in order to raise the effectiveness of the organisation. In view of these notions, this study was grounded in the social exchange theory. Against this background, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the levels of several Employee Engagement drivers, namely Positive Mood, Personal Vision, Compensation, Team and Co-worker Relationships, Organisational Support and Leadership and to investigate their influence on the levels of Employee Engagement and Organisational Effectiveness to businesses in the automotive industry in Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape. To evaluate the conceptual framework suggested by this study based on the literature review, an empirical assessment was performed amongst the employees of Nelson Mandela Bay‟s automotive sector manufacturers through the application of an electronically distributed questionnaire. The selection of the sample was performed using convenience sampling. A total of 135 usable questionnaires were returned with which to undertake the statistical analysis. The findings showed that the demographic variables investigated in this study had no influence on the way in which employees‟ perceived engagement in the workplace. In order to assess the validity of the dependent variables successfully, namely employee engagement and organisational effectiveness, inferential statistics were performed. Inferential statistics commenced by investigating the reliability of the empirical data. It was concluded that all variables returned Cronbach‟s alpha coefficients greater than 0.7, except for the Team and Co-Worker Relationships independent variable. Hence, sufficient evidence of reliability and validity for the items measuring the dependent and the independent variables was provided. The items intended to measure Team and Co-Worker Relationships did not load as expected and the variable was subsequently eliminated from further analysis, resulting in the revised conceptual framework. Correlation analysis revealed that none of the variables were strongly correlated. The subsequent multiple regression analyses revealed that only the Organisational Support variable investigated in this study had a significant positive influence on both the Employee Engagement and Organisational Effectiveness variables. On the other hand, Leadership only had a significant positive influence on Organisational Effectiveness, while positive emotions (measured by the Positive Mood and Personal Vision variables) had a significant positive influence on Employee Engagement. In addition, the results of this study showed that the Employee Engagement variable mediates the relationship between the Positive Mood, Personal Vision and Organisational Support and Organisational Effectiveness variables. However, it does not mediate the relationship between the Leadership and Organisational Effectiveness variables. Given the findings of this study, a number of recommendations are put forward to enhance the levels of Positive Mood, Personal Vision, Organisational Support and Leadership qualities among employees, and to ultimately enhance the levels of Employee engagement and Organisational Effectiveness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mabasa, Jerry Mandla
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Organisational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Employee motivation Organizational behavior Work environment -- Employees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40657 , vital:36207
- Description: South African-based automotive industry firms have been largely characterised by fierce competition at the global level. In order to compete effectively, business leaders have to align business strategies and adopt the best practice approach to gain a competitive advantage among rivals. The majority of this practice requires a high level of employee buy-in to ensure effective, sustainable and successful implementation. Hence, employees become a key stakeholder for improving the organisational competitive advantage and the business leader must continuously find sustainable methods for engaging their employees in order to raise the effectiveness of the organisation. In view of these notions, this study was grounded in the social exchange theory. Against this background, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the levels of several Employee Engagement drivers, namely Positive Mood, Personal Vision, Compensation, Team and Co-worker Relationships, Organisational Support and Leadership and to investigate their influence on the levels of Employee Engagement and Organisational Effectiveness to businesses in the automotive industry in Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape. To evaluate the conceptual framework suggested by this study based on the literature review, an empirical assessment was performed amongst the employees of Nelson Mandela Bay‟s automotive sector manufacturers through the application of an electronically distributed questionnaire. The selection of the sample was performed using convenience sampling. A total of 135 usable questionnaires were returned with which to undertake the statistical analysis. The findings showed that the demographic variables investigated in this study had no influence on the way in which employees‟ perceived engagement in the workplace. In order to assess the validity of the dependent variables successfully, namely employee engagement and organisational effectiveness, inferential statistics were performed. Inferential statistics commenced by investigating the reliability of the empirical data. It was concluded that all variables returned Cronbach‟s alpha coefficients greater than 0.7, except for the Team and Co-Worker Relationships independent variable. Hence, sufficient evidence of reliability and validity for the items measuring the dependent and the independent variables was provided. The items intended to measure Team and Co-Worker Relationships did not load as expected and the variable was subsequently eliminated from further analysis, resulting in the revised conceptual framework. Correlation analysis revealed that none of the variables were strongly correlated. The subsequent multiple regression analyses revealed that only the Organisational Support variable investigated in this study had a significant positive influence on both the Employee Engagement and Organisational Effectiveness variables. On the other hand, Leadership only had a significant positive influence on Organisational Effectiveness, while positive emotions (measured by the Positive Mood and Personal Vision variables) had a significant positive influence on Employee Engagement. In addition, the results of this study showed that the Employee Engagement variable mediates the relationship between the Positive Mood, Personal Vision and Organisational Support and Organisational Effectiveness variables. However, it does not mediate the relationship between the Leadership and Organisational Effectiveness variables. Given the findings of this study, a number of recommendations are put forward to enhance the levels of Positive Mood, Personal Vision, Organisational Support and Leadership qualities among employees, and to ultimately enhance the levels of Employee engagement and Organisational Effectiveness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Improving public participation through ward based planning in Port St Johns Local Municipality
- Authors: Koninga, Siyabonga
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public Administration -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45194 , vital:38262
- Description: This research study deals with ways in which to improve public participation through ward based planning in Port St Johns local municipality. Public participation in South Africa is important, as it is the backbone of the democratic state that was introduced by the 1994 democratic elections. Public participation is essentially a process that engages communities from the planning phase to the implementation and evaluation phases of a particular activity or project. Public participation has become a key aspect of South African planning and is a recurring theme in several legislative and theoretical documents. Public participation is a principle that is accepted throughout all spheres of government. It is important because it is the only method whereby government can gain a sense of the needs and aspirations of the various communities. With specific reference to municipalities, public participation is enhanced through the establishment of ward based planning. The Port St Johns ward based planning process has not only been an opportunity for households and communities to contribute to the integrated development plan (IDP), it has also provided them with access to information. This is the first step towards re-skilling our people to participate in the knowledge economy. The ward based planning process provides a link between municipal level planning and delivery and activities at ward level. Port St Johns’ ward based planning process is the vehicle for entrenching participation in the IDP in order to maximise co-ordination and synergy between priorities and municipal programs. The main objective and aim of the study was to advance recommendations that may be adopted as solutions to Port St Johns’ municipal management for improving a strategy for the public to participate in municipal activities. In conclusion, this study found that community based planning does influence the municipality’s integrated development plan but its effectiveness lies in proper planning and giving it the attention it deserves as one of the tools to be used to improve public participation in the affairs of the Port St Johns Municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Koninga, Siyabonga
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public Administration -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45194 , vital:38262
- Description: This research study deals with ways in which to improve public participation through ward based planning in Port St Johns local municipality. Public participation in South Africa is important, as it is the backbone of the democratic state that was introduced by the 1994 democratic elections. Public participation is essentially a process that engages communities from the planning phase to the implementation and evaluation phases of a particular activity or project. Public participation has become a key aspect of South African planning and is a recurring theme in several legislative and theoretical documents. Public participation is a principle that is accepted throughout all spheres of government. It is important because it is the only method whereby government can gain a sense of the needs and aspirations of the various communities. With specific reference to municipalities, public participation is enhanced through the establishment of ward based planning. The Port St Johns ward based planning process has not only been an opportunity for households and communities to contribute to the integrated development plan (IDP), it has also provided them with access to information. This is the first step towards re-skilling our people to participate in the knowledge economy. The ward based planning process provides a link between municipal level planning and delivery and activities at ward level. Port St Johns’ ward based planning process is the vehicle for entrenching participation in the IDP in order to maximise co-ordination and synergy between priorities and municipal programs. The main objective and aim of the study was to advance recommendations that may be adopted as solutions to Port St Johns’ municipal management for improving a strategy for the public to participate in municipal activities. In conclusion, this study found that community based planning does influence the municipality’s integrated development plan but its effectiveness lies in proper planning and giving it the attention it deserves as one of the tools to be used to improve public participation in the affairs of the Port St Johns Municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Improving public participation through ward based planning in Port St Johns Local Municipality
- Authors: Koninga, Siyabonga
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Public participation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44720 , vital:38158
- Description: This research study deals with ways in which to improve public participation through ward based planning in Port St Johns local municipality. Public participation in South Africa is important, as it is the backbone of the democratic state that was introduced by the 1994 democratic elections. Public participation is essentially a process that engages communities from the planning phase to the implementation and evaluation phases of a particular activity or project. Public participation has become a key aspect of South African planning and is a recurring theme in several legislative and theoretical documents. Public participation is a principle that is accepted throughout all spheres of government. It is important because it is the only method whereby government can gain a sense of the needs and aspirations of the various communities. With specific reference to municipalities, public participation is enhanced through the establishment of ward based planning. The Port St Johns ward based planning process has not only been an opportunity for households and communities to contribute to the integrated development plan (IDP), it has also provided them with access to information. This is the first step towards re-skilling our people to participate in the knowledge economy. The ward based planning process provides a link between municipal level planning and delivery and activities at ward level. Port St Johns’ ward based planning process is the vehicle for entrenching participation in the IDP in order to maximise co-ordination and synergy between priorities and municipal programs. The main objective and aim of the study was to advance recommendations that may be adopted as solutions to Port St Johns’ municipal management for improving a strategy for the public to participate in municipal activities. In conclusion, this study found that community based planning does influence the municipality’s integrated development plan but its effectiveness lies in proper planning and giving it the attention it deserves as one of the tools to be used to improve public participation in the affairs of the Port St Johns Municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Koninga, Siyabonga
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Public participation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44720 , vital:38158
- Description: This research study deals with ways in which to improve public participation through ward based planning in Port St Johns local municipality. Public participation in South Africa is important, as it is the backbone of the democratic state that was introduced by the 1994 democratic elections. Public participation is essentially a process that engages communities from the planning phase to the implementation and evaluation phases of a particular activity or project. Public participation has become a key aspect of South African planning and is a recurring theme in several legislative and theoretical documents. Public participation is a principle that is accepted throughout all spheres of government. It is important because it is the only method whereby government can gain a sense of the needs and aspirations of the various communities. With specific reference to municipalities, public participation is enhanced through the establishment of ward based planning. The Port St Johns ward based planning process has not only been an opportunity for households and communities to contribute to the integrated development plan (IDP), it has also provided them with access to information. This is the first step towards re-skilling our people to participate in the knowledge economy. The ward based planning process provides a link between municipal level planning and delivery and activities at ward level. Port St Johns’ ward based planning process is the vehicle for entrenching participation in the IDP in order to maximise co-ordination and synergy between priorities and municipal programs. The main objective and aim of the study was to advance recommendations that may be adopted as solutions to Port St Johns’ municipal management for improving a strategy for the public to participate in municipal activities. In conclusion, this study found that community based planning does influence the municipality’s integrated development plan but its effectiveness lies in proper planning and giving it the attention it deserves as one of the tools to be used to improve public participation in the affairs of the Port St Johns Municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Improving TB infection control in a regional hospital in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Haeusler, Ilsa Louisa, Knights, Felicity, George, Vishaal, Parrish, Andy
- Authors: Haeusler, Ilsa Louisa , Knights, Felicity , George, Vishaal , Parrish, Andy
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Quality circles Tuberculosis--Prevention Computer File
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/6399 , vital:45465 , https://doi.org/10.4102/hts.v77i2.6828
- Description: This quality improvement (QI) work was carried out in Cecilia Makiwane Hospital (CMH), a regional public hospital in the Eastern Cape, South Africa (SA). SA has among the highest incidence of tuberculosis (TB) in the world and this is a leading cause of death in SA. Nosocomial infection is an important source of TB transmission. Adherence to TB infection prevention control (IPC) measures in the medical inpatient department was suboptimal at CMH. The overall aim of this QI project was to make sustainable improvements in TB IPC. A multidisciplinary team was formed to undertake a root cause analysis and develop a strategy for change. The main barriers to adherence to IPC measures were limited knowledge of IPC methods and stigma associated with TB. Specifically, the project aimed to increase the number of: ‘airborne precaution’ signs placed above patients’ beds, patients correctly isolated and patients wearing surgical face masks. Four Plan Do-Study-Act cycles were used. The strategy for change involved education and awareness-raising in different formats, including formal in-service training delivered to nurses and doctors, a hospital-wide TB awareness week with engaging activities and competitions, and a World TB Day provincial solidarity march. Data on adherence to the three IPC measures were collected over an 8-month period. Pre-intervention (October 2016), a mean of 2 percent of patients wore face masks, 22 percent were correctly isolated and 12 percent had an airborne precaution sign. Postintervention (May 2017), the compliance improved to 17 percent, 50 percent and 25 percent, respectively. There was a large variation in compliance to each measure. Improvement was greatest in the number of patients correctly isolated. We learnt it is important to work with, not in parallel to, existing teams or structures during QI work. On-the-ground training of nurses and clinicians should be undertaken alongside engagement of senior staff members and managers. This improves the chance of change being adopted into hospital policy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Haeusler, Ilsa Louisa , Knights, Felicity , George, Vishaal , Parrish, Andy
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Quality circles Tuberculosis--Prevention Computer File
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/6399 , vital:45465 , https://doi.org/10.4102/hts.v77i2.6828
- Description: This quality improvement (QI) work was carried out in Cecilia Makiwane Hospital (CMH), a regional public hospital in the Eastern Cape, South Africa (SA). SA has among the highest incidence of tuberculosis (TB) in the world and this is a leading cause of death in SA. Nosocomial infection is an important source of TB transmission. Adherence to TB infection prevention control (IPC) measures in the medical inpatient department was suboptimal at CMH. The overall aim of this QI project was to make sustainable improvements in TB IPC. A multidisciplinary team was formed to undertake a root cause analysis and develop a strategy for change. The main barriers to adherence to IPC measures were limited knowledge of IPC methods and stigma associated with TB. Specifically, the project aimed to increase the number of: ‘airborne precaution’ signs placed above patients’ beds, patients correctly isolated and patients wearing surgical face masks. Four Plan Do-Study-Act cycles were used. The strategy for change involved education and awareness-raising in different formats, including formal in-service training delivered to nurses and doctors, a hospital-wide TB awareness week with engaging activities and competitions, and a World TB Day provincial solidarity march. Data on adherence to the three IPC measures were collected over an 8-month period. Pre-intervention (October 2016), a mean of 2 percent of patients wore face masks, 22 percent were correctly isolated and 12 percent had an airborne precaution sign. Postintervention (May 2017), the compliance improved to 17 percent, 50 percent and 25 percent, respectively. There was a large variation in compliance to each measure. Improvement was greatest in the number of patients correctly isolated. We learnt it is important to work with, not in parallel to, existing teams or structures during QI work. On-the-ground training of nurses and clinicians should be undertaken alongside engagement of senior staff members and managers. This improves the chance of change being adopted into hospital policy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Improving the business success of SMMEs in the South African construction industry: the case of SMMEs in the city of Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Swapi, Sibongiseni
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Success in business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Small business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Construction industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43934 , vital:37085
- Description: This research has aimed at designing a framework for effective management of different Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in the construction industry of South Africa. The research is derived from the SMMEs in Port Elizabeth. The research adopted a descriptive design and qualitative research methodology in order to achieve the research objectives. The research population of this research covered fifty (50) professional employees of SMMEs in the construction industry of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. It has been revealed in this research that there is a significant lack of management skills and training in the industry. Many construction SMMEs are also unable to access sufficient financial resources and government support for their operations. In this regard, the most important requirement has been found to be education and training for the employees working in the South African SMMEs in the construction industry. Along with this, government support and intervention is also required so that the SMMEs in the construction industry are able to access sufficient financial resources for building proper infrastructure. This research has also proposed an effective management framework that may include contract management, asset management as well as risk management of the South African SMMEs in the construction industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Swapi, Sibongiseni
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Success in business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Small business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Construction industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43934 , vital:37085
- Description: This research has aimed at designing a framework for effective management of different Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in the construction industry of South Africa. The research is derived from the SMMEs in Port Elizabeth. The research adopted a descriptive design and qualitative research methodology in order to achieve the research objectives. The research population of this research covered fifty (50) professional employees of SMMEs in the construction industry of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. It has been revealed in this research that there is a significant lack of management skills and training in the industry. Many construction SMMEs are also unable to access sufficient financial resources and government support for their operations. In this regard, the most important requirement has been found to be education and training for the employees working in the South African SMMEs in the construction industry. Along with this, government support and intervention is also required so that the SMMEs in the construction industry are able to access sufficient financial resources for building proper infrastructure. This research has also proposed an effective management framework that may include contract management, asset management as well as risk management of the South African SMMEs in the construction industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Improving the property rental market in Tshwane CBD
- Authors: Kganyago, Rapholo Joseph
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Real property -- South Africa -- Pretoria , Rental housing -- South Africa -- Pretoria Building leases -- South Africa -- Pretoria Housing -- South Africa -- Pretoria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40588 , vital:36185
- Description: The research focuses on investigating the Improvement of the property rental market in Tshwane CBD. This includes determining the factors leading to high dilapidation of the Tshwane rental properties in its CBD as well as establishing the challenges experienced by the tenants in respect to the comfort and safety of their rented properties. This includes determining challenges faced by the rental property owners in establishing safe, comfortable housing facilities that fulfill the tenants’ expectations. The research further determines to illuminate on economic opportunities that can be realised in improving the conditions of the rental property market. The research employs a mixed research approach, where 100 survey participants and 10 qualitative interviewees are used to gather empirical evidence for the study. This manages to bring congruency to the outcomes of the study. The research finds that rent seeking behaviours are prevalent in the Tshwane rental property market. The study finds that there is lack of adequate management of rental properties owing to challenges with timely maintenance costs that affect most rented properties in the CBD. The research illuminates further that rental property owners and employed agencies are not effectively upgrading or modifying security features in their commercialized units much to diminished safety of property and most importantly the tenants. The research also exposes that foreign nationals in rental property market are also part of the rent-seeking behaviours through some hidden costs and penalties that do not align with local authority regulations to unsuspecting and prospective tenants much like local rental property stakeholders. The research has recommended that regulatory agencies in the rental property market must be trained and assessed on performance metrics continuously to ensure that they effectively address and expose issues such as latent defects, health inspections of properties and a better understanding of rental property dynamics at inspection and certification of rental units as fit for commercial business. The research further recommends that urbanisation through gentrification requires sustainable partnerships between both private and public construction sector players with adequate consultation with communities affected near CBDs to encourage building of more structures that are affordable to middle-income earners residing in affected rental areas identified in the research phenomenon.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Kganyago, Rapholo Joseph
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Real property -- South Africa -- Pretoria , Rental housing -- South Africa -- Pretoria Building leases -- South Africa -- Pretoria Housing -- South Africa -- Pretoria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40588 , vital:36185
- Description: The research focuses on investigating the Improvement of the property rental market in Tshwane CBD. This includes determining the factors leading to high dilapidation of the Tshwane rental properties in its CBD as well as establishing the challenges experienced by the tenants in respect to the comfort and safety of their rented properties. This includes determining challenges faced by the rental property owners in establishing safe, comfortable housing facilities that fulfill the tenants’ expectations. The research further determines to illuminate on economic opportunities that can be realised in improving the conditions of the rental property market. The research employs a mixed research approach, where 100 survey participants and 10 qualitative interviewees are used to gather empirical evidence for the study. This manages to bring congruency to the outcomes of the study. The research finds that rent seeking behaviours are prevalent in the Tshwane rental property market. The study finds that there is lack of adequate management of rental properties owing to challenges with timely maintenance costs that affect most rented properties in the CBD. The research illuminates further that rental property owners and employed agencies are not effectively upgrading or modifying security features in their commercialized units much to diminished safety of property and most importantly the tenants. The research also exposes that foreign nationals in rental property market are also part of the rent-seeking behaviours through some hidden costs and penalties that do not align with local authority regulations to unsuspecting and prospective tenants much like local rental property stakeholders. The research has recommended that regulatory agencies in the rental property market must be trained and assessed on performance metrics continuously to ensure that they effectively address and expose issues such as latent defects, health inspections of properties and a better understanding of rental property dynamics at inspection and certification of rental units as fit for commercial business. The research further recommends that urbanisation through gentrification requires sustainable partnerships between both private and public construction sector players with adequate consultation with communities affected near CBDs to encourage building of more structures that are affordable to middle-income earners residing in affected rental areas identified in the research phenomenon.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
In conversation with South African artist Viwe Madinda: after her performance “Kwathi Kaloku Ngatsomi” during the National Arts Festival
- Authors: Muvhuti, Barnabas
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146948 , vital:38579 , https://africanah.org/viwe-madinda/
- Description: Focusing on Viwe Madinda’s Kwathi Kaloku Ngatsomi, a live art performance staged under the Arts Lounge Program, during South Africa’s 2019 National Arts Festival in Makhanda, this conversation dwells on the significance of the performance. It explores the key symbolic gestures the artist and her mother employed to convey the underlying message. In the aftermath of the performance, Barnabas Ticha Muvhuti sat down with Viwe Madinda to discuss and unpack some of the key moments in the work. What follows is an edited transcript of the conversation which took place at the Arts Lounge at the Arts of Africa and Global Souths Research Program at Rhodes University.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Muvhuti, Barnabas
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146948 , vital:38579 , https://africanah.org/viwe-madinda/
- Description: Focusing on Viwe Madinda’s Kwathi Kaloku Ngatsomi, a live art performance staged under the Arts Lounge Program, during South Africa’s 2019 National Arts Festival in Makhanda, this conversation dwells on the significance of the performance. It explores the key symbolic gestures the artist and her mother employed to convey the underlying message. In the aftermath of the performance, Barnabas Ticha Muvhuti sat down with Viwe Madinda to discuss and unpack some of the key moments in the work. What follows is an edited transcript of the conversation which took place at the Arts Lounge at the Arts of Africa and Global Souths Research Program at Rhodes University.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
In conversation with Zimbabwean artist Kresiah Mukwazhi:
- Authors: Muvhuti, Barnabas
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146959 , vital:38580 , https://africanah.org/in-conversation-with-kresiah-mukwazhi/
- Description: Kresiah Mukwazhi is a Harare-based multidisciplinary artist who is a Fellow of the “Arts of Africa and Global Souths” Residencies for Artists and Writers (RAW) programme in the Fine Art Department at Rhodes University in Makhanda, South Africa. During the 2019 National Arts Festival, she performed Summoned from Luzari as part of the Arts Lounge festival programme. Her two-months residency resulted in the Although I am Young, I am the Mother of this House open studio session in which the audience was invited to engage with the artist and the ideas she has been, is and will be working on. The persona Hes Keresiya, which came to life on that day, is one of the ideas. In this conversation, Barnabas Ticha Muvhuti asks Mukwazhi about her work during the residency and her artistic practice in general.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Muvhuti, Barnabas
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146959 , vital:38580 , https://africanah.org/in-conversation-with-kresiah-mukwazhi/
- Description: Kresiah Mukwazhi is a Harare-based multidisciplinary artist who is a Fellow of the “Arts of Africa and Global Souths” Residencies for Artists and Writers (RAW) programme in the Fine Art Department at Rhodes University in Makhanda, South Africa. During the 2019 National Arts Festival, she performed Summoned from Luzari as part of the Arts Lounge festival programme. Her two-months residency resulted in the Although I am Young, I am the Mother of this House open studio session in which the audience was invited to engage with the artist and the ideas she has been, is and will be working on. The persona Hes Keresiya, which came to life on that day, is one of the ideas. In this conversation, Barnabas Ticha Muvhuti asks Mukwazhi about her work during the residency and her artistic practice in general.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
In Parenthesis:
- Authors: de Jager, Maureen
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/147880 , vital:38681 , DOI: 10.1080/02560046.2019.1684966
- Description: IN PARENTHESIS is a practice-based essay which takes shape, parasitically, amidst the “found text” of an existing book, British author Thomas Pakenham's The Boer War (1979, Johannesburg: Jonathan Ball). The “author-reader” interjects into the found text of this authoritative history book, inserting her words amongst those of Pakenham's. What becomes apparent, however, is that the text into which she interjects is not The Boer War verbatim, but a dramatically abridged version. The book's primary content has been edited out. What remains is The Boer War whittled down to a litany of Pakenham's parentheses (the history book distilled into an essence of the seemingly non-essential). Into this stream of bracketed matter, the author-reader writes, ruminating on the parenthesis as ethos (as prison and portal, barricade and breach, enclave and embrace). In turn, her ruminations invite reflection on the conundrum of writing history, of writing this history (and, indeed, of writing per se).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: de Jager, Maureen
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/147880 , vital:38681 , DOI: 10.1080/02560046.2019.1684966
- Description: IN PARENTHESIS is a practice-based essay which takes shape, parasitically, amidst the “found text” of an existing book, British author Thomas Pakenham's The Boer War (1979, Johannesburg: Jonathan Ball). The “author-reader” interjects into the found text of this authoritative history book, inserting her words amongst those of Pakenham's. What becomes apparent, however, is that the text into which she interjects is not The Boer War verbatim, but a dramatically abridged version. The book's primary content has been edited out. What remains is The Boer War whittled down to a litany of Pakenham's parentheses (the history book distilled into an essence of the seemingly non-essential). Into this stream of bracketed matter, the author-reader writes, ruminating on the parenthesis as ethos (as prison and portal, barricade and breach, enclave and embrace). In turn, her ruminations invite reflection on the conundrum of writing history, of writing this history (and, indeed, of writing per se).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
In search of identity: an anthropological study on the experiences of Rastafarians in contemporary Malawi
- Authors: Maganga, Stewart Martin
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Malawi -- Religious life and customs , Rastafari movement Identity (Philosophical concept)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42536 , vital:36666
- Description: Prior to 1994, religious freedoms were largely restricted because the constitution at the time vested its powers in the president who was at the time was Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda. Banda, who ruled Malawi for thirty years, sought to present Malawi to the outside world as a Christian nation. This was purposefully done by ignoring the existence of other religious faiths in the country of which Rastafari was one. Although the Rastafari movement was in existence during Banda’s presidency, most Rastas found it difficult to practice their religious beliefs freely. Because of this, it was found that throughout the three decades Banda was in power, the Rastafari movement in Malawi was virtually underground. This further gave the public impression to the public at the time that Rastas were non-existent in the country. It was only after the general elections of 1994 that Malawians became aware of the existence of the Rastafari movement in the country. With that said, there remains a paucity of written information on the Rastafari movement in Malawi, that is before and after the 1994 general election. To be able to establish why the Rastafari movement continues to grow in Malawi, this thesis began by addressing the question of why a certain group of individuals would seek becoming to Rastas in Malawi including its impact on their lives including relationships with both friends and family members. For the many that embraced Rastafari, the intention was to embrace a spiritual identity that was separate to that of their parents. Most raised the concern that the religions that they were previously affiliated did not allow them the freedom to explore their spirituality. This further raises the question regarding the link between established religions and spirituality. In as much as Rastafari has provided the individuals in this study a sense of meaning and identity in their lives, they have had to contend with facing confrontation with friends and family members. This thesis also explored the experiences that come with being a Rasta in Malawi. Amongst the issues that are of concern to the Rasta community is that for the many Rasta children that attend public schools, most are denied their right to attend classes with dreadlocks. Most Rastas had hoped that with the advent of democracy in Malawi, their fundamental rights would be recognised and protected under the constitution. What this thesis has demonstrated that despite the existence of democracy in Malawi, it did ultimately result in a society that would be open to diversity. What this study has demonstrated is that Malawi continues to remain a highly conservative society. This is further illustrated in the way Malawian Rastas have had to contend with being denied employment opportunities including their fundamental right to smoke chamba (marijuana) freely. This thesis set out to argue that the democracy brought about by the elections of 1994 did not necessarily result in the improved conditions of minority religious groups like Rastafarians. This is despite the current constitution allowing for religious freedom. Despite this, the thesis further set out to show that the Rastafari movement does have vital role in the current dispensation. The issues that make the Rastafari movement pertinent in present-day Malawi include issues of corruption and neo-colonialism. This thesis concluded that more must be done to improve the conditions of Rastas in Malawi. Some of recommendations that were raised in this study included reviewing the current policy regarding the length of hair that one wears to school as it relates to one’s religious beliefs. The other recommendation that was raised in this study includes amending the Religious and Moral Education (RME) school curriculum in order that it becomes inclusive of other religious faiths that are existing in the country. In addition, the current legislation regarding the possession of chamba must be amended to accommodate for religious groups such as Rastas who use it for religious purposes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Maganga, Stewart Martin
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Malawi -- Religious life and customs , Rastafari movement Identity (Philosophical concept)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42536 , vital:36666
- Description: Prior to 1994, religious freedoms were largely restricted because the constitution at the time vested its powers in the president who was at the time was Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda. Banda, who ruled Malawi for thirty years, sought to present Malawi to the outside world as a Christian nation. This was purposefully done by ignoring the existence of other religious faiths in the country of which Rastafari was one. Although the Rastafari movement was in existence during Banda’s presidency, most Rastas found it difficult to practice their religious beliefs freely. Because of this, it was found that throughout the three decades Banda was in power, the Rastafari movement in Malawi was virtually underground. This further gave the public impression to the public at the time that Rastas were non-existent in the country. It was only after the general elections of 1994 that Malawians became aware of the existence of the Rastafari movement in the country. With that said, there remains a paucity of written information on the Rastafari movement in Malawi, that is before and after the 1994 general election. To be able to establish why the Rastafari movement continues to grow in Malawi, this thesis began by addressing the question of why a certain group of individuals would seek becoming to Rastas in Malawi including its impact on their lives including relationships with both friends and family members. For the many that embraced Rastafari, the intention was to embrace a spiritual identity that was separate to that of their parents. Most raised the concern that the religions that they were previously affiliated did not allow them the freedom to explore their spirituality. This further raises the question regarding the link between established religions and spirituality. In as much as Rastafari has provided the individuals in this study a sense of meaning and identity in their lives, they have had to contend with facing confrontation with friends and family members. This thesis also explored the experiences that come with being a Rasta in Malawi. Amongst the issues that are of concern to the Rasta community is that for the many Rasta children that attend public schools, most are denied their right to attend classes with dreadlocks. Most Rastas had hoped that with the advent of democracy in Malawi, their fundamental rights would be recognised and protected under the constitution. What this thesis has demonstrated that despite the existence of democracy in Malawi, it did ultimately result in a society that would be open to diversity. What this study has demonstrated is that Malawi continues to remain a highly conservative society. This is further illustrated in the way Malawian Rastas have had to contend with being denied employment opportunities including their fundamental right to smoke chamba (marijuana) freely. This thesis set out to argue that the democracy brought about by the elections of 1994 did not necessarily result in the improved conditions of minority religious groups like Rastafarians. This is despite the current constitution allowing for religious freedom. Despite this, the thesis further set out to show that the Rastafari movement does have vital role in the current dispensation. The issues that make the Rastafari movement pertinent in present-day Malawi include issues of corruption and neo-colonialism. This thesis concluded that more must be done to improve the conditions of Rastas in Malawi. Some of recommendations that were raised in this study included reviewing the current policy regarding the length of hair that one wears to school as it relates to one’s religious beliefs. The other recommendation that was raised in this study includes amending the Religious and Moral Education (RME) school curriculum in order that it becomes inclusive of other religious faiths that are existing in the country. In addition, the current legislation regarding the possession of chamba must be amended to accommodate for religious groups such as Rastas who use it for religious purposes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
In Search of the “Goodlife": Border Crossing and Agency in Luis Alberto Urrea's Into the Beautiful North and Graciela Limón's The River Flows North
- Authors: Naidu, Samantha
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/158046 , vital:40142 , https://doi.org/10.1080/18125441.2019.16474490
- Description: This article explores representations of complex diasporic subjectivities that resist, or attempt to resist, obsolete nationalist notions of citizenship and identity by crossing the US– Mexico border (and, in so doing, crossing other intangible borders) in search of a better life. Two examples of border literature, Luis Alberto Urrea's Into the Beautiful North (2009) and Graciela Limón's The River Flows North (2009), have been selected for analysis. These texts, in describing various diaspora spaces—to enlist Avtar Brah's term (Cartographies of Diaspora. London: Routledge, 1996)—also examine how those who do not migrate are affected by migration. In Writing the Goodlife: Mexican American Literature and the Environment (Tucson: University of Arizona Press, 2016), Priscilla Solis Ybarra reveals how the past century and a half's Mexican-American literature contains valuable new approaches to creating and sustaining new forms of transnational relations between humans, and ecologically sound relationships between humans and nature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Naidu, Samantha
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/158046 , vital:40142 , https://doi.org/10.1080/18125441.2019.16474490
- Description: This article explores representations of complex diasporic subjectivities that resist, or attempt to resist, obsolete nationalist notions of citizenship and identity by crossing the US– Mexico border (and, in so doing, crossing other intangible borders) in search of a better life. Two examples of border literature, Luis Alberto Urrea's Into the Beautiful North (2009) and Graciela Limón's The River Flows North (2009), have been selected for analysis. These texts, in describing various diaspora spaces—to enlist Avtar Brah's term (Cartographies of Diaspora. London: Routledge, 1996)—also examine how those who do not migrate are affected by migration. In Writing the Goodlife: Mexican American Literature and the Environment (Tucson: University of Arizona Press, 2016), Priscilla Solis Ybarra reveals how the past century and a half's Mexican-American literature contains valuable new approaches to creating and sustaining new forms of transnational relations between humans, and ecologically sound relationships between humans and nature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
In silico study of Plasmodium 1-deoxy-d-xylulose 5-phosphate reductoisomerase (DXR) for identification of novel inhibitors from SANCDB:
- Diallo, Bakary N, Lobb, Kevin A, Tastan Bishop, Özlem
- Authors: Diallo, Bakary N , Lobb, Kevin A , Tastan Bishop, Özlem
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/162687 , vital:40973 , https://doi.org/10.21955/aasopenres.1114960.1
- Description: In this study, we intended to find potential 1-deoxy-D-xylulose 5-phosphate reductoisomerase (DXR) inhibitors as antimalarial drugs from the South African National Compound Database (SANCDB; https://sancdb.rubi.ru.ac.za) using computational tools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Diallo, Bakary N , Lobb, Kevin A , Tastan Bishop, Özlem
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/162687 , vital:40973 , https://doi.org/10.21955/aasopenres.1114960.1
- Description: In this study, we intended to find potential 1-deoxy-D-xylulose 5-phosphate reductoisomerase (DXR) inhibitors as antimalarial drugs from the South African National Compound Database (SANCDB; https://sancdb.rubi.ru.ac.za) using computational tools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
In vitro and in vivo toxicity assessment of biologically synthesized silver nanoparticles from Elaeodendron croceum:
- Odeyemi, S W, de la Mare, Jo-Anne, Edkins, Adrienne L, Afolayan, A J
- Authors: Odeyemi, S W , de la Mare, Jo-Anne , Edkins, Adrienne L , Afolayan, A J
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/163488 , vital:41042 , DOI: 10.1515/jcim-2018-0184
- Description: The cytotoxic properties of nanoparticles have attracted a great deal of attention in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology due to their small size and ability to penetrate cellular membranes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Odeyemi, S W , de la Mare, Jo-Anne , Edkins, Adrienne L , Afolayan, A J
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/163488 , vital:41042 , DOI: 10.1515/jcim-2018-0184
- Description: The cytotoxic properties of nanoparticles have attracted a great deal of attention in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology due to their small size and ability to penetrate cellular membranes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
In vitro Anti-trypanosomal activities of indanone-based chalcones:
- Beteck, Richard M, Legoabe, Lesetje J, Isaacs, Michelle, Hoppe, Heinrich C
- Authors: Beteck, Richard M , Legoabe, Lesetje J , Isaacs, Michelle , Hoppe, Heinrich C
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/158280 , vital:40169 , https://doi.org/10.3354/meps12953
- Description: Human African trypanosomiasis is a neglected infectious disease that affects mostly people living in the rural areas of Africa. Current treatment options are limited to just four drugs that have been in use of four to nine decades. The life-threatening toxic side-effects associated with the use of these drugs are disconcerting. Poor efficacy, low oral bioavailability, and high cost are other shortcomings of current HAT treatments. Evaluating the potentials of known hits for other therapeutic areas may be a fast and convenient method to discover new hit compounds against alternative targets. A library of 34 known indanone based chalcones was screened against T.b. brucei and nine potent hits, having IC50 values between 0.5–8.9 µM, were found. The SAR studies of this series could provide useful information in guiding future exploration of this class of compounds in search of more potent, safe, and low cost anti-trypanosomal agents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Beteck, Richard M , Legoabe, Lesetje J , Isaacs, Michelle , Hoppe, Heinrich C
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/158280 , vital:40169 , https://doi.org/10.3354/meps12953
- Description: Human African trypanosomiasis is a neglected infectious disease that affects mostly people living in the rural areas of Africa. Current treatment options are limited to just four drugs that have been in use of four to nine decades. The life-threatening toxic side-effects associated with the use of these drugs are disconcerting. Poor efficacy, low oral bioavailability, and high cost are other shortcomings of current HAT treatments. Evaluating the potentials of known hits for other therapeutic areas may be a fast and convenient method to discover new hit compounds against alternative targets. A library of 34 known indanone based chalcones was screened against T.b. brucei and nine potent hits, having IC50 values between 0.5–8.9 µM, were found. The SAR studies of this series could provide useful information in guiding future exploration of this class of compounds in search of more potent, safe, and low cost anti-trypanosomal agents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
In vitro antimalarial, antitrypanosomal and HIV-1 integrase inhibitory activities of two Cameroonian medicinal plants
- Fouokeng, Yannick, Feumo Feusso, H M, Mbosso Teinkela, Jean E, Siwe-Noundou, Xavier, Wintjens, René T, Isaacs, Michelle, Hoppe, Heinrich C, Krause, Rui W M, Azébazé, Anatole G B, Vardamides, Juliette C
- Authors: Fouokeng, Yannick , Feumo Feusso, H M , Mbosso Teinkela, Jean E , Siwe-Noundou, Xavier , Wintjens, René T , Isaacs, Michelle , Hoppe, Heinrich C , Krause, Rui W M , Azébazé, Anatole G B , Vardamides, Juliette C
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/195014 , vital:45519 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2018.10.008"
- Description: Antiplasmodial, antitrypanosomal and anti-HIV-1 activities of crude extracts, fractions and some isolated compounds from two Cameroonian medicinal plants: Antrocaryon klaineanum Pierre (Anacardiaceae) and Diospyros conocarpa Gürke ex K. Schum. (Ebenaceae) were assessed. The phytochemical studies led to the isolation of eight compounds (1–8) from Diospyros conocarpa and six compounds (6, 9–13) from Antrocaryon klaineanum. These compounds were identified as mangiferolic acid (1), 3β, 22(S)-dihydroxycycloart-24E-en-26-oic acid (2), lupeol (3), aridanin (4), betulin (5), betulinic acid (6), bergenin (7), D-quercitol(8), entilin C(9), entilin A(10), antrocarine A(11), 7R,20(S)-dihydroxy-4,24(28)-ergostadien-3-one(12) and stigmasterol glucoside (13). The criteria for activity were set as follows: an IC50 value more than 10 μg/mL for crude extracts and more than 1 μg/mL for pure compounds. The hexane/ethyl acetate (1:1) fraction of A.klaineanum root bark (AKERF1) and the hexane/ethyl acetate (1:1) fraction of A.klaineanum trunk bark (AKETF1) presented the strongest antiplasmodial activities with IC50 values of 0.4 and 4.4 μg/mL, respectively. Aridanin (4) and antrocarine A(11), as well as the crude extract of D.conocarpa roots (EDCR), AKERF1 and AKETF1 showed moderate trypanocidal effects. The crude extract of A.klaineanum root bark (AKER) and AKETF1 exhibited attractive activities on HIV-1 integrase with IC50 values of 1.96 and 24.04 μg/mL, respectively. The results provide baseline information on the use of A.klaineanum and D.conocarpa extracts, as well as certain components, as sources of new antiplasmodial, antitrypanosomal and anti-HIV drugs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Fouokeng, Yannick , Feumo Feusso, H M , Mbosso Teinkela, Jean E , Siwe-Noundou, Xavier , Wintjens, René T , Isaacs, Michelle , Hoppe, Heinrich C , Krause, Rui W M , Azébazé, Anatole G B , Vardamides, Juliette C
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/195014 , vital:45519 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2018.10.008"
- Description: Antiplasmodial, antitrypanosomal and anti-HIV-1 activities of crude extracts, fractions and some isolated compounds from two Cameroonian medicinal plants: Antrocaryon klaineanum Pierre (Anacardiaceae) and Diospyros conocarpa Gürke ex K. Schum. (Ebenaceae) were assessed. The phytochemical studies led to the isolation of eight compounds (1–8) from Diospyros conocarpa and six compounds (6, 9–13) from Antrocaryon klaineanum. These compounds were identified as mangiferolic acid (1), 3β, 22(S)-dihydroxycycloart-24E-en-26-oic acid (2), lupeol (3), aridanin (4), betulin (5), betulinic acid (6), bergenin (7), D-quercitol(8), entilin C(9), entilin A(10), antrocarine A(11), 7R,20(S)-dihydroxy-4,24(28)-ergostadien-3-one(12) and stigmasterol glucoside (13). The criteria for activity were set as follows: an IC50 value more than 10 μg/mL for crude extracts and more than 1 μg/mL for pure compounds. The hexane/ethyl acetate (1:1) fraction of A.klaineanum root bark (AKERF1) and the hexane/ethyl acetate (1:1) fraction of A.klaineanum trunk bark (AKETF1) presented the strongest antiplasmodial activities with IC50 values of 0.4 and 4.4 μg/mL, respectively. Aridanin (4) and antrocarine A(11), as well as the crude extract of D.conocarpa roots (EDCR), AKERF1 and AKETF1 showed moderate trypanocidal effects. The crude extract of A.klaineanum root bark (AKER) and AKETF1 exhibited attractive activities on HIV-1 integrase with IC50 values of 1.96 and 24.04 μg/mL, respectively. The results provide baseline information on the use of A.klaineanum and D.conocarpa extracts, as well as certain components, as sources of new antiplasmodial, antitrypanosomal and anti-HIV drugs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
In-betweenness: a postcolonial exploration of sociocultural intergenerational learning through cattle as a medium of cultural expression in Mpembeni, KwaZulu-Natal
- Authors: Masuku, Lynette Sibongile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Postcolonialism , Environmental education -- South Africa , Community education -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal , Non-formal education -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal , Agricultural education -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal , Livestock -- Handling -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal , Cattle -- Handling -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal , Cattle herding -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal , Life skills -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68181 , vital:29213
- Description: This case study was conducted in a small rural community called Mpembeni, in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province. It was motivated by my observation of high levels of competence in ‘cattle knowledge’ amongst children coupled with a simultaneous failure at school. I view schools as integral parts of the community and consider them as being influenced by the community, which they in turn influence. This study set out to understand that which embodied informal learning in home/pasture-based contexts as well as formalised learning processes in schools. I used Sociocultural theory as the most congruent of educational theories to surface and illuminate the intergenerational learning processes that were taking place in the area. This warranted my use of research investigation methods that could, in non-intrusive ways, expose the everyday community practices that related to cattle as a particular medium of cultural expression. Ethnography, sourced from anthropology, aided by ethnomethods, was not only compatible with my study and the way in which I wanted to write out the research report, but also with my educational theory and its counterhegemonic intents. To understand the colonialities that framed the discord that embodied home and school as learning contexts, I used postcolonial theory, not only as a lens but as a counterhegemonic response. This theory also informed my research methodology as well as afforded me the reflexivity tools for an examination of my own intergenerational learning and the relational identities of myself as ‘Other’ in the lives of the research participants. It further facilitated the exploration of the potential for potential hybrid third spaces within the bubbling meeting nodes of the socio-cultural context of school and home/pasture based settings of learning. I observed cattle herding related practices, interviewed children, their parents and/or carers, dipping tank managers, livestock inspectors, community elders and members. I also analysed some of the written and unwritten content that made up the formal and informal based learning processes and reviewed some of the most recent South African Curriculum Statements and related texts on the representations of cattle. I sought views from teachers on their interactions with the people of Mpembeni, whose children they taught. I also explored axes of tension, silences and presences on anything related to cattle in schools. I argue and make a case for the development of thought by African scholars to advance Africa’s education rather than aid mimicry and the importation of theories of little congruence and relevance to the African context and Africa’s future. The study has made some contributions to new knowledge. This is in its exploration of sociocultural intergenerational methods and techniques that are employed for learning in community contexts, highlighting the importance of surfacing and understanding of children’s knowledge and experiences. The study has gone further to deliberate the in-betweenness of school and home learning environments, highlighting and unsilencing silenced, peripherised, new, old, considered irrelevant in the past, context and time congruent and liberatory knowledges. I propose that the knowledges located in these cleavages of difference be utilised to transform and create learning bridges between home and school environments. I propose that those ways of knowing that see others as nothings, be exposed and unlearned. Methods of learning that naturally unfold at home could be replicated at school with a recognition of the intergenerational methods, techniques, practices and the learning values in a critically constructive manner that narrows difference and othering.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Masuku, Lynette Sibongile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Postcolonialism , Environmental education -- South Africa , Community education -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal , Non-formal education -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal , Agricultural education -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal , Livestock -- Handling -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal , Cattle -- Handling -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal , Cattle herding -- South Africa -- KwaZulu Natal , Life skills -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68181 , vital:29213
- Description: This case study was conducted in a small rural community called Mpembeni, in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province. It was motivated by my observation of high levels of competence in ‘cattle knowledge’ amongst children coupled with a simultaneous failure at school. I view schools as integral parts of the community and consider them as being influenced by the community, which they in turn influence. This study set out to understand that which embodied informal learning in home/pasture-based contexts as well as formalised learning processes in schools. I used Sociocultural theory as the most congruent of educational theories to surface and illuminate the intergenerational learning processes that were taking place in the area. This warranted my use of research investigation methods that could, in non-intrusive ways, expose the everyday community practices that related to cattle as a particular medium of cultural expression. Ethnography, sourced from anthropology, aided by ethnomethods, was not only compatible with my study and the way in which I wanted to write out the research report, but also with my educational theory and its counterhegemonic intents. To understand the colonialities that framed the discord that embodied home and school as learning contexts, I used postcolonial theory, not only as a lens but as a counterhegemonic response. This theory also informed my research methodology as well as afforded me the reflexivity tools for an examination of my own intergenerational learning and the relational identities of myself as ‘Other’ in the lives of the research participants. It further facilitated the exploration of the potential for potential hybrid third spaces within the bubbling meeting nodes of the socio-cultural context of school and home/pasture based settings of learning. I observed cattle herding related practices, interviewed children, their parents and/or carers, dipping tank managers, livestock inspectors, community elders and members. I also analysed some of the written and unwritten content that made up the formal and informal based learning processes and reviewed some of the most recent South African Curriculum Statements and related texts on the representations of cattle. I sought views from teachers on their interactions with the people of Mpembeni, whose children they taught. I also explored axes of tension, silences and presences on anything related to cattle in schools. I argue and make a case for the development of thought by African scholars to advance Africa’s education rather than aid mimicry and the importation of theories of little congruence and relevance to the African context and Africa’s future. The study has made some contributions to new knowledge. This is in its exploration of sociocultural intergenerational methods and techniques that are employed for learning in community contexts, highlighting the importance of surfacing and understanding of children’s knowledge and experiences. The study has gone further to deliberate the in-betweenness of school and home learning environments, highlighting and unsilencing silenced, peripherised, new, old, considered irrelevant in the past, context and time congruent and liberatory knowledges. I propose that the knowledges located in these cleavages of difference be utilised to transform and create learning bridges between home and school environments. I propose that those ways of knowing that see others as nothings, be exposed and unlearned. Methods of learning that naturally unfold at home could be replicated at school with a recognition of the intergenerational methods, techniques, practices and the learning values in a critically constructive manner that narrows difference and othering.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Incentive effects: assessing effort and heterogeneity in professional tennis
- Authors: Chadwick, Byron James Rhett
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Professional sports -- Economic aspects , Tennis players -- Wages , Tennis -- Tournaments , Achievement motivation , Incentive awards
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/69467 , vital:29541
- Description: This study explores the impact incentive effects have on the level of effort exerted by professional men and women tennis players. Understanding what impact incentives have on tennis players can allow for greater understanding of the impact incentives have in the workplace and how employees react to different incentive schemes. The study makes use of data from both the ATP and WTA tour of every tournament played during the 2016 season. This includes player statistics, tournament statistics and in-game statistics from the quarter-finals, semi-finals and finals of each tournament in an attempt to account for initial seeding effects. This provides a total of 440 ATP matches and 389 WTA matches for an overall sample size of 829 professional tennis matches. The findings from this study illustrate in the last three rounds of all the tournaments played, for both male and females, money is not considered to be a key motivator for players. The ATP and WTA results suggest that competitors do not alter their effort levels depending on the level of the tournament. This illustrates that players exert similar effort levels regardless of the amount of money or ranking points available. The outcome of the findings supports that of the capability effect of heterogeneity on players’ performance. This means that the outcome of a match is linked more to the abilities of the competitors involved as opposed to the incentives available. Thus, players will adjust their effort levels according to their opponent and not because there are more money or ranking points available. This suggests that both the ATP and WTA should aim to reduce the differences in abilities amongst the players in an attempt to raise the attractiveness of the sport. Overall, the findings from this study illustrate that the capability effect outweighs that of the incentive effect.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Chadwick, Byron James Rhett
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Professional sports -- Economic aspects , Tennis players -- Wages , Tennis -- Tournaments , Achievement motivation , Incentive awards
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/69467 , vital:29541
- Description: This study explores the impact incentive effects have on the level of effort exerted by professional men and women tennis players. Understanding what impact incentives have on tennis players can allow for greater understanding of the impact incentives have in the workplace and how employees react to different incentive schemes. The study makes use of data from both the ATP and WTA tour of every tournament played during the 2016 season. This includes player statistics, tournament statistics and in-game statistics from the quarter-finals, semi-finals and finals of each tournament in an attempt to account for initial seeding effects. This provides a total of 440 ATP matches and 389 WTA matches for an overall sample size of 829 professional tennis matches. The findings from this study illustrate in the last three rounds of all the tournaments played, for both male and females, money is not considered to be a key motivator for players. The ATP and WTA results suggest that competitors do not alter their effort levels depending on the level of the tournament. This illustrates that players exert similar effort levels regardless of the amount of money or ranking points available. The outcome of the findings supports that of the capability effect of heterogeneity on players’ performance. This means that the outcome of a match is linked more to the abilities of the competitors involved as opposed to the incentives available. Thus, players will adjust their effort levels according to their opponent and not because there are more money or ranking points available. This suggests that both the ATP and WTA should aim to reduce the differences in abilities amongst the players in an attempt to raise the attractiveness of the sport. Overall, the findings from this study illustrate that the capability effect outweighs that of the incentive effect.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019