The construction of 'farm killings' in the Eastern Province Herald: an ideological analysis of the Herald's farm killings' disclosure, August 1998
- Authors: Jacobs, Luzuko
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Farm killings -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Murder -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Eastern Province Herald (Newspaper)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3436 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002890
- Description: This study examines the ideological inflection of the ‘farm killings’ discourse in the Eastern Province Herald articles published in August 1998. ‘Farm killings’ is a media frame which was applied to a spate of killings of people on the country’s farms since 1994. Heightened and sustained media attention on the ‘farm killings’ has lifted the phenomenon from the other ‘run-of-the-mill’ murder crimes, and located it firmly as a matter of public concern and a subject of a broad political and economic debate. In this study I investigate the media coverage of the ‘farm killings’ within the context of these debates. The cultural studies approach to the study of the media provides a fruitful theoretical framework within which this study is located. The ideological examination of the articles is done using the critical linguistics method - a brand of reflexive, interpretative style of analysis which enables a sustained examination of media texts within their social, cultural and historical context. This study’s conclusions pose a challenge to the ‘Fourth Estate’ role often claimed for the media. In particular, it denies that the Herald objectively, fairly and truthfully reflected the experience on the farms during the period of this study. Its main finding is that the newspaper instead, constructed a particular understanding of the killings characterised by subtle racism, bias and partiality.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Jacobs, Luzuko
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Farm killings -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Murder -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Eastern Province Herald (Newspaper)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3436 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002890
- Description: This study examines the ideological inflection of the ‘farm killings’ discourse in the Eastern Province Herald articles published in August 1998. ‘Farm killings’ is a media frame which was applied to a spate of killings of people on the country’s farms since 1994. Heightened and sustained media attention on the ‘farm killings’ has lifted the phenomenon from the other ‘run-of-the-mill’ murder crimes, and located it firmly as a matter of public concern and a subject of a broad political and economic debate. In this study I investigate the media coverage of the ‘farm killings’ within the context of these debates. The cultural studies approach to the study of the media provides a fruitful theoretical framework within which this study is located. The ideological examination of the articles is done using the critical linguistics method - a brand of reflexive, interpretative style of analysis which enables a sustained examination of media texts within their social, cultural and historical context. This study’s conclusions pose a challenge to the ‘Fourth Estate’ role often claimed for the media. In particular, it denies that the Herald objectively, fairly and truthfully reflected the experience on the farms during the period of this study. Its main finding is that the newspaper instead, constructed a particular understanding of the killings characterised by subtle racism, bias and partiality.
- Full Text:
The determination of geomorphologically effective flows for selected eastern sea-Board Rivers in South Africa
- Authors: Dollar, Evan S J
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Rivers--South Africa River channels Geomorphology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4824 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005499
- Description: In South Africa the need to protect and manage the national water resource has led to the development of the Reserve as a basic right under the National Water Act (1998). The Ecological Reserve relates to the quality and quantity of water necessary to protect the sustainable functioning of aquatic ecosystems. The geomorphological contribution to setting the Reserve has focussed on three groups of information requirements: the spatial and temporal availability of habitat, the maintenance of substratum characteristics, and the maintenance of channel form. This thesis focusses on the second and third information requirements. The thesis has attempted to achieve this by adding value to the theoretical and applied understanding of the magnitude and frequency of channel forming discharge for selected southern African rivers. Many of the eastern sea-board rivers are strongly influenced by bed rock in the channel perimeter, and by a highly variable hydrological regime. This has resulted in characteristic channel forms, with an active channel incised into a larger macro-channel being a common feature of eastern seaboard rivers. Within the active channel inset channel benches commonly occur. This alluvial architecture is used to provide clues as to the types of flows necessary to meet the Reserve. Three river basins are considered : the Mkomazi, Mhlathuze and Olifants. The Mkomazi is a relatively un-impacted perennial eastern-sea board river and forms the research component of the study. The Mhlathuze and Olifants rivers are highly regulated systems and form the application component of the study. Utilising synthesised daily hydrological data, bed material data, cross-sectional surveys, hydraulic data and relevant bed material transport equations, channel form was related to dominant discharge and effective discharge in an attempt to identify the magnitude and frequency offlows that can be considered to be ' effective'. Results from the Mkomazi River indicate that no single effective discharge exists, but rather that there is a range of effective discharges in the 5-0.1% range on the 1-day daily flow duration curves that are responsible for the bulk (>80%) of the bed material transport. Only large floods (termed 'reset'discharges) with average return periods of around 20 years generate sufficient stream power and shear stress to mobilise the entire bed. The macro-channel is thus maintained by the large ' reset' flood events, and the active channel is maintained both by the range of effective discharges and the ' reset 'discharges. These are the geomorphologically 'effective' flows. Results from the Mhlathuze River have indicated that the Goedertrouw Dam has had a considerable impact on the downstream channel morphology and bed material transport capacity and consequently the effective and dominant discharges. It has been suggested that the Mhlathuze River is now adjusting its channel geometry in sympathy with the regulated flow environment. Under present-day conditions it has been demonstrated that the total bed material load has been reduced by up to three times, but there has also been a clear change in the way in which the load has been distributed around the duration curve. Under present-day conditions, over 90% of the total bed material load is transported by the top 5% of the flows, whereas under virgin flow conditions 90% of the total bed material load was transported by the top 20% of the flows. For the Olifants River there appears to be no relationship between the estimated bankfull discharge and any hydrological statistic. The effective discharge flow class is in the 5-0.01% range on the 1-day daily flow duration curve. It has also been pointed out that even the highest flows simulated for the Olifants River do not generate sufficient energy to mobilise the entire bed. It is useful to consider the Olifants River as being adapted to a highly variable flow regime. It is erroneous to think of one ' effective' discharge, but rather a range of effective discharges are of significance. It has been argued that strong bed rock control and a highly variable flow regime in many southern African rivers accounts for the channel architecture, and that there is a need to develop an ' indigenous knowledge' in the management of southern African fluvial systems
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dollar, Evan S J
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Rivers--South Africa River channels Geomorphology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4824 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005499
- Description: In South Africa the need to protect and manage the national water resource has led to the development of the Reserve as a basic right under the National Water Act (1998). The Ecological Reserve relates to the quality and quantity of water necessary to protect the sustainable functioning of aquatic ecosystems. The geomorphological contribution to setting the Reserve has focussed on three groups of information requirements: the spatial and temporal availability of habitat, the maintenance of substratum characteristics, and the maintenance of channel form. This thesis focusses on the second and third information requirements. The thesis has attempted to achieve this by adding value to the theoretical and applied understanding of the magnitude and frequency of channel forming discharge for selected southern African rivers. Many of the eastern sea-board rivers are strongly influenced by bed rock in the channel perimeter, and by a highly variable hydrological regime. This has resulted in characteristic channel forms, with an active channel incised into a larger macro-channel being a common feature of eastern seaboard rivers. Within the active channel inset channel benches commonly occur. This alluvial architecture is used to provide clues as to the types of flows necessary to meet the Reserve. Three river basins are considered : the Mkomazi, Mhlathuze and Olifants. The Mkomazi is a relatively un-impacted perennial eastern-sea board river and forms the research component of the study. The Mhlathuze and Olifants rivers are highly regulated systems and form the application component of the study. Utilising synthesised daily hydrological data, bed material data, cross-sectional surveys, hydraulic data and relevant bed material transport equations, channel form was related to dominant discharge and effective discharge in an attempt to identify the magnitude and frequency offlows that can be considered to be ' effective'. Results from the Mkomazi River indicate that no single effective discharge exists, but rather that there is a range of effective discharges in the 5-0.1% range on the 1-day daily flow duration curves that are responsible for the bulk (>80%) of the bed material transport. Only large floods (termed 'reset'discharges) with average return periods of around 20 years generate sufficient stream power and shear stress to mobilise the entire bed. The macro-channel is thus maintained by the large ' reset' flood events, and the active channel is maintained both by the range of effective discharges and the ' reset 'discharges. These are the geomorphologically 'effective' flows. Results from the Mhlathuze River have indicated that the Goedertrouw Dam has had a considerable impact on the downstream channel morphology and bed material transport capacity and consequently the effective and dominant discharges. It has been suggested that the Mhlathuze River is now adjusting its channel geometry in sympathy with the regulated flow environment. Under present-day conditions it has been demonstrated that the total bed material load has been reduced by up to three times, but there has also been a clear change in the way in which the load has been distributed around the duration curve. Under present-day conditions, over 90% of the total bed material load is transported by the top 5% of the flows, whereas under virgin flow conditions 90% of the total bed material load was transported by the top 20% of the flows. For the Olifants River there appears to be no relationship between the estimated bankfull discharge and any hydrological statistic. The effective discharge flow class is in the 5-0.01% range on the 1-day daily flow duration curve. It has also been pointed out that even the highest flows simulated for the Olifants River do not generate sufficient energy to mobilise the entire bed. It is useful to consider the Olifants River as being adapted to a highly variable flow regime. It is erroneous to think of one ' effective' discharge, but rather a range of effective discharges are of significance. It has been argued that strong bed rock control and a highly variable flow regime in many southern African rivers accounts for the channel architecture, and that there is a need to develop an ' indigenous knowledge' in the management of southern African fluvial systems
- Full Text:
The development and assessment of both a separate, once-daily modified release matrix formulation of metoprolol tartrate and a combination formulation with hydrochlorothiazide
- Authors: Arjun, Jessica
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Metoprolol -- Controlled release , Chlorothiazide -- Controlled release , Diuretics , Hypertension -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3742 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003220 , Metoprolol -- Controlled release , Chlorothiazide -- Controlled release , Diuretics , Hypertension -- Treatment
- Description: The use of controlled release dosage forms has increased significantly in recent years as they result in increased patient compliance and higher therapeutic efficiency. This research focused on the development of a once daily dosage form that could be used for the treatment of hypertension. Both a separate sustained release dosage of metoprolol tartrate and a combination dosage form that included both an immediate release hydrochlorothiazide and a sustained release metoprolol component, were developed and evaluated. A matrix tablet, consisting of an ethylcellulose ranulation of metoprolol tartrate compressed into a hydrophilic hydroxypropyl methylcellulose polymer matrix, effectively sustained metoprolol release over a 22-hour experimental period. A multiparticulate combination dosage form that consisted of six coated mini matrix tablets of metoprolol and a powder blend of hydrochlorothiazide packed into a gelatin capsule, displayed zero order release kinetics for metoprolol release over 22 hours (r2=0.9946). The release of hydrochlorothiazide was found to be comparable to that of a commercially available product tested. Differential Scanning Calorimetry was used to identify possible incompatibilities between MPTA and excipients initially, and long term stability testing was used to assess to behaviour of the dosage form. Dissolution testing of the dosage forms was performed using USP Apparatus III, which was found to be more discriminating between the batches assessed. Dissolution curves were evaluated for similarity and difference using f1 and f2 fit factors. Samples were analyzed using a high performance liquid chromatographic method that was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of the compounds of interest. Various factors influencing drug release from the developed dosage forms were assessed and recommendations for further optimization of the formulation are made. Factors evaluated included the quantity of granulating fluid, matrix polymer content, drug load and process variables, including drying time and compression force. The influence of various coating levels on drug release was assessed and none of the levels assessed were found to adequately retarded drug release over a 22-hour period. Combinations of tablets coated to different levels allowed for the successful development of a sustained release metoprolol component, which could be included into the combination dosage form.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Arjun, Jessica
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Metoprolol -- Controlled release , Chlorothiazide -- Controlled release , Diuretics , Hypertension -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3742 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003220 , Metoprolol -- Controlled release , Chlorothiazide -- Controlled release , Diuretics , Hypertension -- Treatment
- Description: The use of controlled release dosage forms has increased significantly in recent years as they result in increased patient compliance and higher therapeutic efficiency. This research focused on the development of a once daily dosage form that could be used for the treatment of hypertension. Both a separate sustained release dosage of metoprolol tartrate and a combination dosage form that included both an immediate release hydrochlorothiazide and a sustained release metoprolol component, were developed and evaluated. A matrix tablet, consisting of an ethylcellulose ranulation of metoprolol tartrate compressed into a hydrophilic hydroxypropyl methylcellulose polymer matrix, effectively sustained metoprolol release over a 22-hour experimental period. A multiparticulate combination dosage form that consisted of six coated mini matrix tablets of metoprolol and a powder blend of hydrochlorothiazide packed into a gelatin capsule, displayed zero order release kinetics for metoprolol release over 22 hours (r2=0.9946). The release of hydrochlorothiazide was found to be comparable to that of a commercially available product tested. Differential Scanning Calorimetry was used to identify possible incompatibilities between MPTA and excipients initially, and long term stability testing was used to assess to behaviour of the dosage form. Dissolution testing of the dosage forms was performed using USP Apparatus III, which was found to be more discriminating between the batches assessed. Dissolution curves were evaluated for similarity and difference using f1 and f2 fit factors. Samples were analyzed using a high performance liquid chromatographic method that was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of the compounds of interest. Various factors influencing drug release from the developed dosage forms were assessed and recommendations for further optimization of the formulation are made. Factors evaluated included the quantity of granulating fluid, matrix polymer content, drug load and process variables, including drying time and compression force. The influence of various coating levels on drug release was assessed and none of the levels assessed were found to adequately retarded drug release over a 22-hour period. Combinations of tablets coated to different levels allowed for the successful development of a sustained release metoprolol component, which could be included into the combination dosage form.
- Full Text:
The development of a scale to measure sexual orientation and an examination of its psychometric properties
- Authors: Heath, Lance Julian
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Sexual orientation , Sexual orientation -- Research -- Psychological aspects , Psychometrics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3145 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007408 , Sexual orientation , Sexual orientation -- Research -- Psychological aspects , Psychometrics
- Description: The purpose of the study was to develop a scale to measure sexual orientation and to examine its psychometric properties. Previous scales were critically examined and compared and the need for a scale which simultaneously measures same and opposite sex responsiveness independently, and accounts for dynamic changes over time, while testing a number of overt and covert dimensions of sexual orientations, was established. A 48-item scale was designed to tap self-reported intensity and frequency of Emotional Attachment, Sexual Fantasy, Sexual Attraction and Sexual Contact towards males and females in the Past, Present and Future. An initial study was conducted with 13 undergraduate university students of both genders, representing a variety of sexual orientations and nationalities, and qualitative feedback was obtained and utilized to make appropriate adjustments and refinements to the scale. The scale was then administered to 133 Rhodes University undergraduate psychology students to obtain quantitative data with regard to its internal structure. The scale was found to have a good internal consistency reliability Cronbach alpha coefficient of 0.8106. Existing sub-scales had lower alpha coefficients. Factor analysis, a form of construct validation, was performed and four factors emerged. These had very good internal consistency reliability alpha coefficients: Sexual Responsiveness to Females (0.9894), Sexual Responsiveness to Males (0.9741), Emotional Attachment to Females (0.8403) and Emotional Attachment to Males (0.8372). These factors were further statistically analysed to ascertain how they relate to one another and to the demographics of gender, age, relational status and sexual orientation identity. Future research will need to assess other forms of reliability and validity and focus on larger and more varied samples.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Heath, Lance Julian
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Sexual orientation , Sexual orientation -- Research -- Psychological aspects , Psychometrics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3145 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007408 , Sexual orientation , Sexual orientation -- Research -- Psychological aspects , Psychometrics
- Description: The purpose of the study was to develop a scale to measure sexual orientation and to examine its psychometric properties. Previous scales were critically examined and compared and the need for a scale which simultaneously measures same and opposite sex responsiveness independently, and accounts for dynamic changes over time, while testing a number of overt and covert dimensions of sexual orientations, was established. A 48-item scale was designed to tap self-reported intensity and frequency of Emotional Attachment, Sexual Fantasy, Sexual Attraction and Sexual Contact towards males and females in the Past, Present and Future. An initial study was conducted with 13 undergraduate university students of both genders, representing a variety of sexual orientations and nationalities, and qualitative feedback was obtained and utilized to make appropriate adjustments and refinements to the scale. The scale was then administered to 133 Rhodes University undergraduate psychology students to obtain quantitative data with regard to its internal structure. The scale was found to have a good internal consistency reliability Cronbach alpha coefficient of 0.8106. Existing sub-scales had lower alpha coefficients. Factor analysis, a form of construct validation, was performed and four factors emerged. These had very good internal consistency reliability alpha coefficients: Sexual Responsiveness to Females (0.9894), Sexual Responsiveness to Males (0.9741), Emotional Attachment to Females (0.8403) and Emotional Attachment to Males (0.8372). These factors were further statistically analysed to ascertain how they relate to one another and to the demographics of gender, age, relational status and sexual orientation identity. Future research will need to assess other forms of reliability and validity and focus on larger and more varied samples.
- Full Text:
The development of the common fraction concept in grade three learners
- Authors: Fraser, Claire Anne
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) Mathematics Problems, exercises, etc Fractions -- Study and teaching (Elementary)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1497 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003379
- Description: Over a period of nine months in 1999, a longitudinal teaching intervention was undertaken with Grade 3 learners in the Fort Beaufort district, Eastern Cape. Working in the interpretive paradigm, the intervention focussed on: - the development of the common fraction concept, - the relevance of the hierarchy of Murray and Olivier’s Four Levels of Development in common fractions and - whether learners’ informal knowledge could be utilised in developing this concept. Using the Problem-centred approach to teaching mathematics, problems set in reallife contexts were used as vehicles for learning. Learners were required to discuss, reflect and make sense of the mathematics they were doing. Participant observation, completed worksheets and unstructured interviews with learners, formed the primary method of data collection. Learners’ work was analysed and classified according to the method used and manner in which the solution was notated. Results showed that learners were able to achieve a significant degree of success in developing a stable common fraction concept. Learners were afforded opportunities to construct their own ideas and to develop a deeper understanding of the concept. Many methods used were based on their informal knowledge of sharing. Learners made sense of realistic problems using drawings, and invented their own procedures. Apart from Level One, Phase Three, all Murray and Olivier’s Levels of Development could be identified during the research. This study will provide educators with valuable information on how learners solve mathematical problems involving fractions and how informal knowledge can be used as a foundation on which to build.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Fraser, Claire Anne
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) Mathematics Problems, exercises, etc Fractions -- Study and teaching (Elementary)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1497 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003379
- Description: Over a period of nine months in 1999, a longitudinal teaching intervention was undertaken with Grade 3 learners in the Fort Beaufort district, Eastern Cape. Working in the interpretive paradigm, the intervention focussed on: - the development of the common fraction concept, - the relevance of the hierarchy of Murray and Olivier’s Four Levels of Development in common fractions and - whether learners’ informal knowledge could be utilised in developing this concept. Using the Problem-centred approach to teaching mathematics, problems set in reallife contexts were used as vehicles for learning. Learners were required to discuss, reflect and make sense of the mathematics they were doing. Participant observation, completed worksheets and unstructured interviews with learners, formed the primary method of data collection. Learners’ work was analysed and classified according to the method used and manner in which the solution was notated. Results showed that learners were able to achieve a significant degree of success in developing a stable common fraction concept. Learners were afforded opportunities to construct their own ideas and to develop a deeper understanding of the concept. Many methods used were based on their informal knowledge of sharing. Learners made sense of realistic problems using drawings, and invented their own procedures. Apart from Level One, Phase Three, all Murray and Olivier’s Levels of Development could be identified during the research. This study will provide educators with valuable information on how learners solve mathematical problems involving fractions and how informal knowledge can be used as a foundation on which to build.
- Full Text:
The ecology and physiology of the springhare (Pedetes capensis) in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Peinke, Dean Michael
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Hares -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Hares -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Hares -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Hares -- Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5670 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005355
- Description: Springhare are large, bipedal, nocturnal, herbivorous, burrowing rodents that are found in arid and semi-arid parts of southern and eastern Africa. In this thesis I examine the general ecology, biology and physiology of these animals in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. An investigation of their distribution and activity in the study site showed that springhare exhibit a preference for flat, open, recently disturbed habitat that is dominated by the grass Cynodon dactylon and the sedge Cyperus esculentus. These two species constitute a major proportion of their diet. The impact of spring hare on chicory and grazing is also discussed. Nightly activity generally peaks soon after dark and decreases in the 2-4 hour period before sunrise. This pattern is, however, modified by moonlight. Springhare typically respond to moonlight by reducing aboveground activity, shifting their activity to dark moonless periods of the night, and by reducing their use of open space. Contrary to earlier reports, springhare utilise several different burrow systems spread over large areas. They regularly change burrow systems and seldom spend more than a few consecutive days in each. Springhare do not appear to defend territories but recently used burrows appear to be avoided by conspecifics. Males and females on average use a similar number of burrows, scattered over similar sized areas. Burrows are shown to provide a stable microclimate of moderate temperature and high humidity throughout the year. Reproduction is continuous and there is no synchronised breeding season. The ability to reproduce throughout the year is attributed primarily to their ability to utilise subterranean food stores. The overall reproductive strategy of springhare (a single young with long gestation and weaning) is unusual for a mammal of this size but may be linked to low levels of adult and juvenile mortality. Physiologically, springhare are reasonably well adapted to life in hot, arid environments. They produce a concentrated urine, exhibit a high tolerance to dehydration, are good osmoregulators capable of maintaining plasma volume, osmolality and ion balance over long periods of water deprivation, and are able to produce dry faeces. They are also good thermoregulators at low ambient temperatures, which are usually encountered at night, but are poor thermoregulators at high ambient temperatures, which they avoid behaviourally.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Peinke, Dean Michael
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Hares -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Hares -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Hares -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Hares -- Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5670 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005355
- Description: Springhare are large, bipedal, nocturnal, herbivorous, burrowing rodents that are found in arid and semi-arid parts of southern and eastern Africa. In this thesis I examine the general ecology, biology and physiology of these animals in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. An investigation of their distribution and activity in the study site showed that springhare exhibit a preference for flat, open, recently disturbed habitat that is dominated by the grass Cynodon dactylon and the sedge Cyperus esculentus. These two species constitute a major proportion of their diet. The impact of spring hare on chicory and grazing is also discussed. Nightly activity generally peaks soon after dark and decreases in the 2-4 hour period before sunrise. This pattern is, however, modified by moonlight. Springhare typically respond to moonlight by reducing aboveground activity, shifting their activity to dark moonless periods of the night, and by reducing their use of open space. Contrary to earlier reports, springhare utilise several different burrow systems spread over large areas. They regularly change burrow systems and seldom spend more than a few consecutive days in each. Springhare do not appear to defend territories but recently used burrows appear to be avoided by conspecifics. Males and females on average use a similar number of burrows, scattered over similar sized areas. Burrows are shown to provide a stable microclimate of moderate temperature and high humidity throughout the year. Reproduction is continuous and there is no synchronised breeding season. The ability to reproduce throughout the year is attributed primarily to their ability to utilise subterranean food stores. The overall reproductive strategy of springhare (a single young with long gestation and weaning) is unusual for a mammal of this size but may be linked to low levels of adult and juvenile mortality. Physiologically, springhare are reasonably well adapted to life in hot, arid environments. They produce a concentrated urine, exhibit a high tolerance to dehydration, are good osmoregulators capable of maintaining plasma volume, osmolality and ion balance over long periods of water deprivation, and are able to produce dry faeces. They are also good thermoregulators at low ambient temperatures, which are usually encountered at night, but are poor thermoregulators at high ambient temperatures, which they avoid behaviourally.
- Full Text:
The effect of photoperiod on some aspects of reproduction in a Southern African rodent : the pouched mouse (Saccostomus Campestris)
- Authors: Gray, Janine
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Mice -- Reproduction Antechinus -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5676 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005361
- Description: The pouched mouse, Saccostomus campestris is widely distributed south of the Sahara, inhabiting both subtropical and tropical latitudes and a number of different biotic zones, where it breeds seasonally. In North temperate latitudes, reproduction in small mammals is controlled by photoperiod however this cue becomes less influential as latitude decreases towards the equator. The aim of the present study is to establish the role of photoperiod in the environmental control of reproduction in a seasonally breeding small mammal at low latitudes in a highly unpredictable environment. Spermatogenesis of domesticated and Fl-generation pouched mice was not inhibited by short daylength while decreasing daylength significantly affected the oestrous cycle of adult domesticated female pouched mice. Photoperiod had little effect on the oestrous cycle of F I-generation females while a possible inherent circannual endogenous rhythm controlled inhibition of reproduction in these females. Body mass of male and female juvenile pouched mice was consistently lower in short daylength and in juvenile female pouched mice the onset of fertility may be weight-dependent. The attainment of sexual maturity of domesticated and FIlF2-generation females was retarded but not halted in short daylength and females in long daylength reached puberty 7.8 - 10.2 days earlier. Short daylength also lengthened the interval between vaginal perforation and first oestrus. Puberty in juvenile females was age-dependent as both domesticated and FIlF2-generation males attained puberty at 50 days of age, although fewer males were fertile in long daylength than short daylength. Although litter size of pouched mice was smaller in short daylength for both domesticated and wildcaught females this was not due to a reduction in the ovulation rate. Domesticated females had significantly larger litters than wild-caught females. Male and female pouched mice have evolved different reproductive strategies as males become sexually mature at the same age irrespective of photoperiod and remain fertile throughout the year. In contrast, females tend to be more complex as juveniles delay reproductive maturity and adults become nonreproductive in short daylength. However, in the presence of a fertile male and if environmental conditions are favourable, in short daylength, females can become reproductively active within approximately 3 days. Thus, although the pouched mouse has adopted a purely opportunistic reproductive strategy, vestiges of photoresponsiveness are still present in the female. The seasonality exhibited in the wild is therefore due to the female. Pouched mice live in a highly unpredictable environment so the sole use of photoperiod to regulate reproduction would be disadvantageous.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gray, Janine
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Mice -- Reproduction Antechinus -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5676 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005361
- Description: The pouched mouse, Saccostomus campestris is widely distributed south of the Sahara, inhabiting both subtropical and tropical latitudes and a number of different biotic zones, where it breeds seasonally. In North temperate latitudes, reproduction in small mammals is controlled by photoperiod however this cue becomes less influential as latitude decreases towards the equator. The aim of the present study is to establish the role of photoperiod in the environmental control of reproduction in a seasonally breeding small mammal at low latitudes in a highly unpredictable environment. Spermatogenesis of domesticated and Fl-generation pouched mice was not inhibited by short daylength while decreasing daylength significantly affected the oestrous cycle of adult domesticated female pouched mice. Photoperiod had little effect on the oestrous cycle of F I-generation females while a possible inherent circannual endogenous rhythm controlled inhibition of reproduction in these females. Body mass of male and female juvenile pouched mice was consistently lower in short daylength and in juvenile female pouched mice the onset of fertility may be weight-dependent. The attainment of sexual maturity of domesticated and FIlF2-generation females was retarded but not halted in short daylength and females in long daylength reached puberty 7.8 - 10.2 days earlier. Short daylength also lengthened the interval between vaginal perforation and first oestrus. Puberty in juvenile females was age-dependent as both domesticated and FIlF2-generation males attained puberty at 50 days of age, although fewer males were fertile in long daylength than short daylength. Although litter size of pouched mice was smaller in short daylength for both domesticated and wildcaught females this was not due to a reduction in the ovulation rate. Domesticated females had significantly larger litters than wild-caught females. Male and female pouched mice have evolved different reproductive strategies as males become sexually mature at the same age irrespective of photoperiod and remain fertile throughout the year. In contrast, females tend to be more complex as juveniles delay reproductive maturity and adults become nonreproductive in short daylength. However, in the presence of a fertile male and if environmental conditions are favourable, in short daylength, females can become reproductively active within approximately 3 days. Thus, although the pouched mouse has adopted a purely opportunistic reproductive strategy, vestiges of photoresponsiveness are still present in the female. The seasonality exhibited in the wild is therefore due to the female. Pouched mice live in a highly unpredictable environment so the sole use of photoperiod to regulate reproduction would be disadvantageous.
- Full Text:
The effect of variations in pH and temperature on stability of melatonin in aqueous solution
- Daya, Santylal, Walker, Roderick B, Glass, Beverley D, Anoopkumar-Dukie, Shailendra
- Authors: Daya, Santylal , Walker, Roderick B , Glass, Beverley D , Anoopkumar-Dukie, Shailendra
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/184314 , vital:44207 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1034/j.1600-079x.2001.310209.x"
- Description: Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) has a diverse range of functions, including the control of neuroendocrine events. A number of studies have shown that melatonin may be of potential benefit for the treatment of insomnia, as well as neurodegenerative disorders. At present, there are numerous dosage forms of melatonin, with the oral route of administration being most popular. Presently, there is little information on the stability of melatonin over a pH range. With the changes in pH in the gastro-intestinal tract, as well as in different experimental conditions, information on the stability of melatonin would be important. We used a high-performance liquid chromatography method to determine the stability of melatonin solutions over a pH range (1.2–12) at room temperature and at 37°C over a period of 21 days. The results show that no melatonin degradation occurred in the first 2 days. From days 3 to 21, there was a gradual decline in melatonin at all pHs, with the decline not exceeding 30%. No decline in melatonin levels occurred in the first 2 days at 37°C. From days 3 to 21, melatonin levels declined gradually, with the decline not exceeding 29%.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Daya, Santylal , Walker, Roderick B , Glass, Beverley D , Anoopkumar-Dukie, Shailendra
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/184314 , vital:44207 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1034/j.1600-079x.2001.310209.x"
- Description: Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) has a diverse range of functions, including the control of neuroendocrine events. A number of studies have shown that melatonin may be of potential benefit for the treatment of insomnia, as well as neurodegenerative disorders. At present, there are numerous dosage forms of melatonin, with the oral route of administration being most popular. Presently, there is little information on the stability of melatonin over a pH range. With the changes in pH in the gastro-intestinal tract, as well as in different experimental conditions, information on the stability of melatonin would be important. We used a high-performance liquid chromatography method to determine the stability of melatonin solutions over a pH range (1.2–12) at room temperature and at 37°C over a period of 21 days. The results show that no melatonin degradation occurred in the first 2 days. From days 3 to 21, there was a gradual decline in melatonin at all pHs, with the decline not exceeding 30%. No decline in melatonin levels occurred in the first 2 days at 37°C. From days 3 to 21, melatonin levels declined gradually, with the decline not exceeding 29%.
- Full Text:
The effects of level and quality of education on a South African sample of English and African first language speakers, for WAIS-III digit symbol-incidental learning
- Donnelly, Martin Joseph Rhodes
- Authors: Donnelly, Martin Joseph Rhodes
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale , Intelligence tests -- South Africa , Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2965 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002474 , Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale , Intelligence tests -- South Africa , Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale -- South Africa
- Description: This study examined the effects of level and quality of education on WAIS-III Digit Symbol-Incidental Learning performance. The Pairing and Free Recall measures were administered to a South African sample (N = 68, age range 19-30), which was stratified for English and African language, level of education attained (Grade 12s and Graduates) and quality of education (advantaged and disadvantaged schooling). Results yielded no significant main or interaction effects between acculturation factors of level and quality of education. Normative guidelines of 13 or more pairs and 8 or more free recall symbols, appropriate to a non-clinical sample in a multicultural setting, are provided. Digit Symbol-Incidental Learning proved to be a culture-fair test, which contributes to its clinical utility as a sensitive memory screening tool.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Donnelly, Martin Joseph Rhodes
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale , Intelligence tests -- South Africa , Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2965 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002474 , Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale , Intelligence tests -- South Africa , Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale -- South Africa
- Description: This study examined the effects of level and quality of education on WAIS-III Digit Symbol-Incidental Learning performance. The Pairing and Free Recall measures were administered to a South African sample (N = 68, age range 19-30), which was stratified for English and African language, level of education attained (Grade 12s and Graduates) and quality of education (advantaged and disadvantaged schooling). Results yielded no significant main or interaction effects between acculturation factors of level and quality of education. Normative guidelines of 13 or more pairs and 8 or more free recall symbols, appropriate to a non-clinical sample in a multicultural setting, are provided. Digit Symbol-Incidental Learning proved to be a culture-fair test, which contributes to its clinical utility as a sensitive memory screening tool.
- Full Text:
The effects of melatonin on the testis, epididymis and sperm physiology of the Wistar rat
- Authors: Gwayi, Noluzuko
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Rats as laboratory animals , Rats -- physiology , Spermatozoa , Melatonin , Testis , Epididymis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5681 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005366 , Rats as laboratory animals , Rats -- physiology , Spermatozoa , Melatonin , Testis , Epididymis
- Description: Melatonin is a product of the pineal gland and is postulated to play an antigonadotropic role in the reproductive system of mammals. The reproductive system of non-seasonally breeding mammals is believed to be not as responsive to melatonin treatment as that of seasonally breeding mammals. Recently, there has been increasing support from in vivo and in vitro studies, for the hypothesis that melatonin has negative effects on sperm physiology, especially on sperm motility. High and/or low seminal concentrations of melatonin have been associated with abnormalities in human sperm motility and concentration. In this study, I examined the effects of melatonin on the testis, epididymis and sperm physiology, using in vivo and in vitro experiments, in a non-seasonally breeding mammal. Treatment, in vivo, with exogenous melatonin for six weeks did not inhibit testosterone production or spermatogenesis, nor did it affect the mass of the testes and epididymides at dissection, the concentration the morphology of speimatozoa. However, melatonin in vivo had a small, but significant negative effect on sperm motility and sperm motility index. In vitro incubation of spermatozoa Fith melatonin reduced the percentage (%) of forward progressive movement (fpm), increased the % reduction in fpm, reduced the vigor or quality of sperm motility, reduced the sperm motility index, and delayed and/or prolonged the transition of one pattern of sperm motility to the subsequent patterns. Melatonin increased the pH of the culture medium, and the increased pH, and the ethanol utilized as a solvent for melatonin, both negatively affected all the sperm motility parameters that were assessed in my study. The effects of ethanol increased with time, and the effects of pH increased with both time and increasing pH. Melatonin in vitro did not inhibit capacitation and the acrosome reaction, but it delayed the onset and the progression of capacitation and the acrosome reaction. These results suggest that while melatonin did not inhibit spermatogenesis in the Wistar rat, it may influence sperm motility. Therefore, the presence of high concentrations of melatonin in the reproductive fluids may inhibit sperm motility. With further detailed research, melatonin may have a potential use as a contraceptive drug.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gwayi, Noluzuko
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Rats as laboratory animals , Rats -- physiology , Spermatozoa , Melatonin , Testis , Epididymis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5681 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005366 , Rats as laboratory animals , Rats -- physiology , Spermatozoa , Melatonin , Testis , Epididymis
- Description: Melatonin is a product of the pineal gland and is postulated to play an antigonadotropic role in the reproductive system of mammals. The reproductive system of non-seasonally breeding mammals is believed to be not as responsive to melatonin treatment as that of seasonally breeding mammals. Recently, there has been increasing support from in vivo and in vitro studies, for the hypothesis that melatonin has negative effects on sperm physiology, especially on sperm motility. High and/or low seminal concentrations of melatonin have been associated with abnormalities in human sperm motility and concentration. In this study, I examined the effects of melatonin on the testis, epididymis and sperm physiology, using in vivo and in vitro experiments, in a non-seasonally breeding mammal. Treatment, in vivo, with exogenous melatonin for six weeks did not inhibit testosterone production or spermatogenesis, nor did it affect the mass of the testes and epididymides at dissection, the concentration the morphology of speimatozoa. However, melatonin in vivo had a small, but significant negative effect on sperm motility and sperm motility index. In vitro incubation of spermatozoa Fith melatonin reduced the percentage (%) of forward progressive movement (fpm), increased the % reduction in fpm, reduced the vigor or quality of sperm motility, reduced the sperm motility index, and delayed and/or prolonged the transition of one pattern of sperm motility to the subsequent patterns. Melatonin increased the pH of the culture medium, and the increased pH, and the ethanol utilized as a solvent for melatonin, both negatively affected all the sperm motility parameters that were assessed in my study. The effects of ethanol increased with time, and the effects of pH increased with both time and increasing pH. Melatonin in vitro did not inhibit capacitation and the acrosome reaction, but it delayed the onset and the progression of capacitation and the acrosome reaction. These results suggest that while melatonin did not inhibit spermatogenesis in the Wistar rat, it may influence sperm motility. Therefore, the presence of high concentrations of melatonin in the reproductive fluids may inhibit sperm motility. With further detailed research, melatonin may have a potential use as a contraceptive drug.
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The evaluation of pharmaceutical pictograms in a low-literate South African population
- Dowse, Roslind, Ehlers, Martina S
- Authors: Dowse, Roslind , Ehlers, Martina S
- Date: 2001
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6362 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006058
- Description: An inability to read and understand written medication instructions may be a major contributory factor to non-compliance in certain patient populations, particularly in countries with a high illiteracy rate such as South Africa. Twenty three pictograms from the USP-DI and a corresponding set of 23 locally developed, culturally sensitive pictograms for conveying medication instructions were evaluated in 46 Xhosa respondents who had attended school for a maximum of 7 years. Respondents were tested for their interpretation of all 46 pictograms at the first interview and again 3 weeks later. The correct meaning of each pictogram was explained at the end of the first interview. Preference for either the Local or USP pictograms was determined. At the follow-up interview, 20 of the Local pictograms complied with the ANSI criterion of ≥85% comprehension, compared with 11 of the USP pictograms. Respondents indicated an overwhelming preference for the Local pictograms.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dowse, Roslind , Ehlers, Martina S
- Date: 2001
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6362 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006058
- Description: An inability to read and understand written medication instructions may be a major contributory factor to non-compliance in certain patient populations, particularly in countries with a high illiteracy rate such as South Africa. Twenty three pictograms from the USP-DI and a corresponding set of 23 locally developed, culturally sensitive pictograms for conveying medication instructions were evaluated in 46 Xhosa respondents who had attended school for a maximum of 7 years. Respondents were tested for their interpretation of all 46 pictograms at the first interview and again 3 weeks later. The correct meaning of each pictogram was explained at the end of the first interview. Preference for either the Local or USP pictograms was determined. At the follow-up interview, 20 of the Local pictograms complied with the ANSI criterion of ≥85% comprehension, compared with 11 of the USP pictograms. Respondents indicated an overwhelming preference for the Local pictograms.
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The experiences of couples in relationships characterized by alcohol dependency
- Authors: Mgilane, Nomgcobo Eunice
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Alcoholism -- South Africa Alcoholics -- Family relationships Alcoholics' spouses -- South Africa Alcoholics -- South Africa -- Conduct of life
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:702 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006461
- Description: The study focused on the expenences of Xhosa-speaking couples in relationships characterized by alcohol dependency. The goal was to generate greater understanding of the descriptions of relationship issues faced by alcohol dependent respondents and their partners. Specifically, the study focused on exploring how the alcohol dependent respondents relate to their partners, their behaviour at home when drinking prior to their admission for rehabilitation, the experiences of their partners in living with alcohol dependent partners and how they coped with the situation. In order to meet this goal, literature and empirical studies were conducted. The literature study focuses on the alcohol dependent individual's behaviour, his emotions, relapse, the family's coping strategies, alcohol and marital problems and the role of the social worker as part of the rehabilitation team. During the empirical research phase, a non-probability purposive sampling procedure was adopted. Fifteen alcohol dependent clients who were admitted for treatment and rehabilitation at Thembelitsha Rehabilitation Centre (TRC) were selected. These clients were admitted to TRC during the period starting from January 1997 to June 1999 and were discharged to their homes during the research study. To collect data, interviews were conducted separately to a total of thirty respondents. Two interview schedules were used, one for the alcohol dependent respondents (Appendix A) and the other for their partners (Appendix B). This study revealed a remarkable consistency in the descriptions of relationship issues faced by alcohol dependent respondents and their partners. These are abusive behaviours by alcohol dependent respondents. The partners were reluctant and feared challenging the behaviour. The way in which partners responded to drinking and the reactions of alcohol dependent respondents are indicative of the difficult issues faced by the couples. The study also revealed that couples experience communication, financial and sexual relationship problems. The study concludes with recommendations based on the research findings
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mgilane, Nomgcobo Eunice
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Alcoholism -- South Africa Alcoholics -- Family relationships Alcoholics' spouses -- South Africa Alcoholics -- South Africa -- Conduct of life
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:702 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006461
- Description: The study focused on the expenences of Xhosa-speaking couples in relationships characterized by alcohol dependency. The goal was to generate greater understanding of the descriptions of relationship issues faced by alcohol dependent respondents and their partners. Specifically, the study focused on exploring how the alcohol dependent respondents relate to their partners, their behaviour at home when drinking prior to their admission for rehabilitation, the experiences of their partners in living with alcohol dependent partners and how they coped with the situation. In order to meet this goal, literature and empirical studies were conducted. The literature study focuses on the alcohol dependent individual's behaviour, his emotions, relapse, the family's coping strategies, alcohol and marital problems and the role of the social worker as part of the rehabilitation team. During the empirical research phase, a non-probability purposive sampling procedure was adopted. Fifteen alcohol dependent clients who were admitted for treatment and rehabilitation at Thembelitsha Rehabilitation Centre (TRC) were selected. These clients were admitted to TRC during the period starting from January 1997 to June 1999 and were discharged to their homes during the research study. To collect data, interviews were conducted separately to a total of thirty respondents. Two interview schedules were used, one for the alcohol dependent respondents (Appendix A) and the other for their partners (Appendix B). This study revealed a remarkable consistency in the descriptions of relationship issues faced by alcohol dependent respondents and their partners. These are abusive behaviours by alcohol dependent respondents. The partners were reluctant and feared challenging the behaviour. The way in which partners responded to drinking and the reactions of alcohol dependent respondents are indicative of the difficult issues faced by the couples. The study also revealed that couples experience communication, financial and sexual relationship problems. The study concludes with recommendations based on the research findings
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The garden as a metaphor for paradise
- Authors: Adlard, Michelle Catherine
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Paradise in art , Garden of paradise , Gardens -- Design -- Early works to 1800
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2391 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002187 , Paradise in art , Garden of paradise , Gardens -- Design -- Early works to 1800
- Description: In this half thesis the use of the garden as a metaphor for paradise has been explored. The English word “ paradise“ was derived from the Greek word “ paradeisos” which in turn was derived from the Old Avestana “ pairi-daeza,” meaning an enclosure. In Ancient Persia the concept applied to an enclosed garden in the modern sense of the word. For this reason the thesis begins with an examination of the development of the garden in this desert region. A more-or-less continuous chain of development in both the physical and allegorical nature of the garden is traced through history from these Ancient Persian beginnings to the height of Mughal architecture (epitomised by the Taj Mahal), by way of the Muslim expansion through Central Asia and Europe. While the core elements of garden design were set in Ancient Persian times, and recur throughout the period studied, the impact of Islam on the local Persian culture brought about a new development of allegorical meaning associated with the garden. This allegorical development reached its apex, too, in the Taj Mahal in which, it is argued, the metaphorical representation of paradise in the garden tomb was made astonishingly explicit. The research for this mini thesis was gathered from secondary sources, including many published books and academic papers, photographic and diagrammatic evidence of extant ancient gardens, and reproductions of carpet designs.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Adlard, Michelle Catherine
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Paradise in art , Garden of paradise , Gardens -- Design -- Early works to 1800
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2391 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002187 , Paradise in art , Garden of paradise , Gardens -- Design -- Early works to 1800
- Description: In this half thesis the use of the garden as a metaphor for paradise has been explored. The English word “ paradise“ was derived from the Greek word “ paradeisos” which in turn was derived from the Old Avestana “ pairi-daeza,” meaning an enclosure. In Ancient Persia the concept applied to an enclosed garden in the modern sense of the word. For this reason the thesis begins with an examination of the development of the garden in this desert region. A more-or-less continuous chain of development in both the physical and allegorical nature of the garden is traced through history from these Ancient Persian beginnings to the height of Mughal architecture (epitomised by the Taj Mahal), by way of the Muslim expansion through Central Asia and Europe. While the core elements of garden design were set in Ancient Persian times, and recur throughout the period studied, the impact of Islam on the local Persian culture brought about a new development of allegorical meaning associated with the garden. This allegorical development reached its apex, too, in the Taj Mahal in which, it is argued, the metaphorical representation of paradise in the garden tomb was made astonishingly explicit. The research for this mini thesis was gathered from secondary sources, including many published books and academic papers, photographic and diagrammatic evidence of extant ancient gardens, and reproductions of carpet designs.
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The influence of a methylated-β-Cyclodextrin on the solubility and photostability of midazolam in aqueous solution
- Authors: Lebete, Mosimotsana Leah
- Date: 2001 , 2013-04-26
- Subjects: Midazolam -- Solubility
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3823 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005923 , Midazolam -- Solubility
- Description: Midazolam, used clinically as an anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, muscle relaxant and sedative is a photolabile imidazo-benzodiazepine which is marketed under the trade names Dormicum® and Hypnovel® as tablets and injectables. Because of an aqueous solubility of < 0.1 mg/ml above pH 4, the preparation of aqueous dosage formulations near physiological pH, requires a solubilizer. The aim of this study was thus to prepare a 10 mg/ml midazolam aqueous solution for topical application using randomly-methylated-pcyclodextrin (RAMEB), considered to be a suitable candidate as a solubilizer because of its absorption enhancing properties, and to investigate its effect on both the solubility and the photostability of midazolam. Solubility studies of midazolam (excess of 15 mg/ml) in the presence of 0, 5,10,20, 30% m/v of RAMEB at pH 5.0 and pH 5.8 (phosphate buffer) were undertaken and the results analyzed using a UV method validated for linearity, accuracy, precision and specificity. A stability-indicating HPLC method was developed and validated (precision and accuracy, linearity, range, limit of quantitation, specificity, robustness and ruggedness) for application to kinetic photostability studies and the identification of photodegradants by LC-MS. Forced degradation studies were carried out at concentrations of 0.5 mg/ml of midazolam instead of the target concentration of 10 mg/ml because of the acceleratory effect of the decreased concentration on the rate of photodegradation. The solutions of midazolam with and without RAMEB were irradiated at 550 W/m² for 12 hrs in order to degrade the drug to ± 10% of the original concentration. The UV method proved to be valid in terms of linearity with a correlation coefficient of 0.9998, precise and accurate, and specific for the determination of midazolam in the presence of RAMEB. The results of the phase solubility studies indicated that desired solubility of 10 mg/ml was achieved with 30% m/v RAMEB at pH 5.0. RAMEB slightly decreased the photostability of midazolam, the rate constants being 0.137 and 0.154 hr⁻¹ in the absence and presence of RAMEB, respectively. LC-MS analysis revealed that one of the major photoproducts in the presence and absence of RAMEB was N-desalkylflurazepam, a starting material in the synthesis of midazolam. RAMEB inhibited formation of some photoproducts and introduced two new photoproducts, a dimer and an addition product. The difference in the nature of these photoproducts formed may be attributed to the ability of RAMEB to provide conformational control and to stabilize free radicals. Although RAMEB improved the solubility of midazolam to the target concentration, photostability is decreased with the presence of different photoproducts. These studies have however provided information on the overall photostability of midazolam, the identity of its photodegradants and the photodegradation pathway in the presence and absence of RAMEB, and may be used for further method development and validation for the analysis of aqueous dosage forms containing RAMEB as a solubilizer. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.53 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lebete, Mosimotsana Leah
- Date: 2001 , 2013-04-26
- Subjects: Midazolam -- Solubility
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3823 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005923 , Midazolam -- Solubility
- Description: Midazolam, used clinically as an anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, muscle relaxant and sedative is a photolabile imidazo-benzodiazepine which is marketed under the trade names Dormicum® and Hypnovel® as tablets and injectables. Because of an aqueous solubility of < 0.1 mg/ml above pH 4, the preparation of aqueous dosage formulations near physiological pH, requires a solubilizer. The aim of this study was thus to prepare a 10 mg/ml midazolam aqueous solution for topical application using randomly-methylated-pcyclodextrin (RAMEB), considered to be a suitable candidate as a solubilizer because of its absorption enhancing properties, and to investigate its effect on both the solubility and the photostability of midazolam. Solubility studies of midazolam (excess of 15 mg/ml) in the presence of 0, 5,10,20, 30% m/v of RAMEB at pH 5.0 and pH 5.8 (phosphate buffer) were undertaken and the results analyzed using a UV method validated for linearity, accuracy, precision and specificity. A stability-indicating HPLC method was developed and validated (precision and accuracy, linearity, range, limit of quantitation, specificity, robustness and ruggedness) for application to kinetic photostability studies and the identification of photodegradants by LC-MS. Forced degradation studies were carried out at concentrations of 0.5 mg/ml of midazolam instead of the target concentration of 10 mg/ml because of the acceleratory effect of the decreased concentration on the rate of photodegradation. The solutions of midazolam with and without RAMEB were irradiated at 550 W/m² for 12 hrs in order to degrade the drug to ± 10% of the original concentration. The UV method proved to be valid in terms of linearity with a correlation coefficient of 0.9998, precise and accurate, and specific for the determination of midazolam in the presence of RAMEB. The results of the phase solubility studies indicated that desired solubility of 10 mg/ml was achieved with 30% m/v RAMEB at pH 5.0. RAMEB slightly decreased the photostability of midazolam, the rate constants being 0.137 and 0.154 hr⁻¹ in the absence and presence of RAMEB, respectively. LC-MS analysis revealed that one of the major photoproducts in the presence and absence of RAMEB was N-desalkylflurazepam, a starting material in the synthesis of midazolam. RAMEB inhibited formation of some photoproducts and introduced two new photoproducts, a dimer and an addition product. The difference in the nature of these photoproducts formed may be attributed to the ability of RAMEB to provide conformational control and to stabilize free radicals. Although RAMEB improved the solubility of midazolam to the target concentration, photostability is decreased with the presence of different photoproducts. These studies have however provided information on the overall photostability of midazolam, the identity of its photodegradants and the photodegradation pathway in the presence and absence of RAMEB, and may be used for further method development and validation for the analysis of aqueous dosage forms containing RAMEB as a solubilizer. , KMBT_363 , Adobe Acrobat 9.53 Paper Capture Plug-in
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The legal protection afforded to the consumer under current South African law with emphasis on the legal position in specific credit agreements contained in standard-form contracts
- Authors: Ndou, Fulufhelo Clyde
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Consumer protection , Consumer protection -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:3688 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003203 , Consumer protection , Consumer protection -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: The thesis covers the field of the contract law known as the consumer credit law. It deals with the legal protection afforded to the consumer under current South African law with emphasis on the legal position in specific credit agreements contained in standard-form contracts. The thesis focuses on those credit contracts in which the legal relationship between the consumer and the dominant party is contained in the standard-form contracts, specifically credit agreements relating to money lending transactions in which the credit grantor’s rights are secured either by means of mortgage agreement, a suretyship contract, or a deed of cession. In South Africa the right to equality and human dignity, as opposed to the classical theories of contract: pacta sunt servanda and the principle of freedom of contract, are supported by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act 108 of 1996 which entrenched democratic values permeating all areas of the law including contract law. In this thesis the harmonisation of these classical theories of contract law and the constitutional values of human dignity and equality have been considered. As has been shown in a number of cases, notably those relating to the contracts of suretyship, cession in securitatem debiti, and mortgage, the current law regulating the relationship between the credit grantors and the credit receivers is in need of law reform to fall in line with the constitutional values of equality and human dignity. The greatest difficulty inherent in this area of the law is the reluctance of the courts to intervene at the instance of consumers. The courts would only intervene in the clearest of the cases, and would only do so in the public interest. In this thesis the current South African Law is considered in the light of the developments elsewhere. The tendency of credit providers to alter the terms of the contracts unilaterally and the growing number of conflicting decisions of the Provincial Divisions of High Court has also been considered. The writer also considers the role of the newly created Consumer Affairs Court.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ndou, Fulufhelo Clyde
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Consumer protection , Consumer protection -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:3688 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003203 , Consumer protection , Consumer protection -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: The thesis covers the field of the contract law known as the consumer credit law. It deals with the legal protection afforded to the consumer under current South African law with emphasis on the legal position in specific credit agreements contained in standard-form contracts. The thesis focuses on those credit contracts in which the legal relationship between the consumer and the dominant party is contained in the standard-form contracts, specifically credit agreements relating to money lending transactions in which the credit grantor’s rights are secured either by means of mortgage agreement, a suretyship contract, or a deed of cession. In South Africa the right to equality and human dignity, as opposed to the classical theories of contract: pacta sunt servanda and the principle of freedom of contract, are supported by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act 108 of 1996 which entrenched democratic values permeating all areas of the law including contract law. In this thesis the harmonisation of these classical theories of contract law and the constitutional values of human dignity and equality have been considered. As has been shown in a number of cases, notably those relating to the contracts of suretyship, cession in securitatem debiti, and mortgage, the current law regulating the relationship between the credit grantors and the credit receivers is in need of law reform to fall in line with the constitutional values of equality and human dignity. The greatest difficulty inherent in this area of the law is the reluctance of the courts to intervene at the instance of consumers. The courts would only intervene in the clearest of the cases, and would only do so in the public interest. In this thesis the current South African Law is considered in the light of the developments elsewhere. The tendency of credit providers to alter the terms of the contracts unilaterally and the growing number of conflicting decisions of the Provincial Divisions of High Court has also been considered. The writer also considers the role of the newly created Consumer Affairs Court.
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The mandibular gland secretions and ovarial development of worker honeybees (Apis Mellifera) in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Reece, Sacha Louise
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Honeybee -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Honeybee -- Behavior , Honeybee -- Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5729 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005415 , Honeybee -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Honeybee -- Behavior , Honeybee -- Physiology
- Description: The Eastern Cape is an area in which Apis mellifera capensis, A. m. scutellata and their hybrid are known to naturally occur. I investigated the mandibular gland profiles and ovarial development of queenright workers from 4 localities. Their queens were then removed to determine how these aspects changed upon queen loss. In addition, drifted bees were analysed in the same way to determine how these factors changed once they had gained entry to a foreign hive. The queenright bees, form all 4 localities were found to have 9HDA as the most abundant of the 5 fatty acids measured and all localities had small percentages of 9ODA in their mandibular gland secretions. This resulted in relatively high queenright 9ODA:10HDA and 9HDA:10HDAA ratios. Despite this the percentage of bees with undeveloped ovaries was consistent with their queenright status. The mean values of these 2 ratios were significantly higher in the bees from East London and Cradock than those from Port Elizabeth. Steynsburg's bees were intermediate in this regard. Upon queen loss, the bees from all 4 localities had an increase in the percentage of 9ODA but the other compound changes in varying ways. East London's bees were the only ones not to become significantly more queen-like after queen loss. After 14 days without a queen, the mean values of these 2 ratios were much higher in the bees from Port Elizabeth than those from the other localities. Certain individuals from Port Elizabeth had values of these ratios that exceeded those found in A. m. capensis queens. Port Elizabeth was the only locality to display any surrogate queens and exhibited the highest increase in the number of bees with partially or fully developed ovaries. While certain individuals from the other localities had values of these ratios that exceeded these values reported in A. m. scutellata queens, Steynsburg's bees were the only ones that did increase in in terms of the number of bees with developed ovaries subsequent. The bees from Steynsburg were shown to suppress the mandibular gland and ovarial development of drifters from Port Elizabeth while bees from East London did not.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Reece, Sacha Louise
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Honeybee -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Honeybee -- Behavior , Honeybee -- Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5729 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005415 , Honeybee -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Honeybee -- Behavior , Honeybee -- Physiology
- Description: The Eastern Cape is an area in which Apis mellifera capensis, A. m. scutellata and their hybrid are known to naturally occur. I investigated the mandibular gland profiles and ovarial development of queenright workers from 4 localities. Their queens were then removed to determine how these aspects changed upon queen loss. In addition, drifted bees were analysed in the same way to determine how these factors changed once they had gained entry to a foreign hive. The queenright bees, form all 4 localities were found to have 9HDA as the most abundant of the 5 fatty acids measured and all localities had small percentages of 9ODA in their mandibular gland secretions. This resulted in relatively high queenright 9ODA:10HDA and 9HDA:10HDAA ratios. Despite this the percentage of bees with undeveloped ovaries was consistent with their queenright status. The mean values of these 2 ratios were significantly higher in the bees from East London and Cradock than those from Port Elizabeth. Steynsburg's bees were intermediate in this regard. Upon queen loss, the bees from all 4 localities had an increase in the percentage of 9ODA but the other compound changes in varying ways. East London's bees were the only ones not to become significantly more queen-like after queen loss. After 14 days without a queen, the mean values of these 2 ratios were much higher in the bees from Port Elizabeth than those from the other localities. Certain individuals from Port Elizabeth had values of these ratios that exceeded those found in A. m. capensis queens. Port Elizabeth was the only locality to display any surrogate queens and exhibited the highest increase in the number of bees with partially or fully developed ovaries. While certain individuals from the other localities had values of these ratios that exceeded these values reported in A. m. scutellata queens, Steynsburg's bees were the only ones that did increase in in terms of the number of bees with developed ovaries subsequent. The bees from Steynsburg were shown to suppress the mandibular gland and ovarial development of drifters from Port Elizabeth while bees from East London did not.
- Full Text:
The mandibular gland secretions of the Cape honeybee (Apis mellifera capensis ESCH.) : factors affecting the production of the chemical signal and implications for further development of beekeeping in South Africa
- Authors: Jones, Georgina Elizabeth
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Honeybee Honeybee -- Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5730 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005416
- Description: The chemical composition of the mandibular gland extracts of Apis mellifera capensis virgin queens was analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. Thirty-seven compounds from various chemical groups including aliphatic and aromatic acids and diacids, phenols, alkanes, amino acids and sugars were identified. Among the identified compounds were the queen mandibular pheromone components 9ODA, 9HDA, HVA and HOB and the other aliphatic acids and phenols considered to be the major components of A.m. capensis mandibular glands. Ontogenetic changes in the concentration of the mandibular gland secretions of virgin queens were largely quantitative in nature with the total volume and that of most of the compounds increasing with queen age. The final level of 9ODA is reached at the premating stage, approximately three days after emergence, when it comprises approximately 87% of the major constituents of the mandibular gland signal. Hostile reactions by workers towards introduced virgin queens can be correlated to the relative proportion of 9ODA present in the mandibular gland secretions. This seems to indicate that it is the complete spectrum of the signal and not individual compounds that determine worker reaction towards introduced queens. Keeping queens singly, with or without workers, in an incubator and in small mating nucleus hives proved to be the most successful methods of queen rearing in respect to survival rate in A.m. capensis. The presence of workers during the ageing of virgin queens was found to significantly affect the chemical composition of the mandibular gland secretions of queens. The reaction of workers towards introduced virgin queens reared under different holding conditions varied, with queens reared with workers eliciting significantly less hostile reactions from workers than those reared without workers. Mated queens from five localities in the Eastern Cape were characterised on the basis of the chemical composition of their mandibular gland secretions and the ratio of 9ODA:10HDA. No significant differences were detected and none of the queens sampled could be considered to be A.m. capensis based on their mandibular gland signal. The findings of this study provide baseline data for the development of a queen-rearing program tailored to the specific requirements of A.m. capensis.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Jones, Georgina Elizabeth
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Honeybee Honeybee -- Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5730 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005416
- Description: The chemical composition of the mandibular gland extracts of Apis mellifera capensis virgin queens was analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. Thirty-seven compounds from various chemical groups including aliphatic and aromatic acids and diacids, phenols, alkanes, amino acids and sugars were identified. Among the identified compounds were the queen mandibular pheromone components 9ODA, 9HDA, HVA and HOB and the other aliphatic acids and phenols considered to be the major components of A.m. capensis mandibular glands. Ontogenetic changes in the concentration of the mandibular gland secretions of virgin queens were largely quantitative in nature with the total volume and that of most of the compounds increasing with queen age. The final level of 9ODA is reached at the premating stage, approximately three days after emergence, when it comprises approximately 87% of the major constituents of the mandibular gland signal. Hostile reactions by workers towards introduced virgin queens can be correlated to the relative proportion of 9ODA present in the mandibular gland secretions. This seems to indicate that it is the complete spectrum of the signal and not individual compounds that determine worker reaction towards introduced queens. Keeping queens singly, with or without workers, in an incubator and in small mating nucleus hives proved to be the most successful methods of queen rearing in respect to survival rate in A.m. capensis. The presence of workers during the ageing of virgin queens was found to significantly affect the chemical composition of the mandibular gland secretions of queens. The reaction of workers towards introduced virgin queens reared under different holding conditions varied, with queens reared with workers eliciting significantly less hostile reactions from workers than those reared without workers. Mated queens from five localities in the Eastern Cape were characterised on the basis of the chemical composition of their mandibular gland secretions and the ratio of 9ODA:10HDA. No significant differences were detected and none of the queens sampled could be considered to be A.m. capensis based on their mandibular gland signal. The findings of this study provide baseline data for the development of a queen-rearing program tailored to the specific requirements of A.m. capensis.
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The many faces of racism:
- Garman, Anthea, Baumann, Melissa
- Authors: Garman, Anthea , Baumann, Melissa
- Date: 2001
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/158729 , vital:40223 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC144727
- Description: Last year South African journalists reluctantly agreed to examine themselves under the public spotlight when the Human Rights Commission decided to hold hearings into racism in the media.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Garman, Anthea , Baumann, Melissa
- Date: 2001
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/158729 , vital:40223 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC144727
- Description: Last year South African journalists reluctantly agreed to examine themselves under the public spotlight when the Human Rights Commission decided to hold hearings into racism in the media.
- Full Text:
The myth of authenticity : folktales and nationalism in the 'new South Africa'
- Authors: Naidu, Samantha
- Date: 2001
- Language: English
- Type: Article , text
- Identifier: vital:26378 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/54047 , https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9456-8657
- Description: Folktales texts are published in glorious, polychromatic, innovative forms that promote the texts as both culturally educational and entertaining.
- Full Text: false
- Authors: Naidu, Samantha
- Date: 2001
- Language: English
- Type: Article , text
- Identifier: vital:26378 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/54047 , https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9456-8657
- Description: Folktales texts are published in glorious, polychromatic, innovative forms that promote the texts as both culturally educational and entertaining.
- Full Text: false
The nature of economic integration and co-operation within the South African region and a survey of economic benefits to member states
- Authors: Mutambara, Tsitsi Effie
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Africa, Southern -- Economic integration , Southern African Development Community
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:938 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002671 , Africa, Southern -- Economic integration , Southern African Development Community
- Description: The transformation of SADCC into the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has paved the way towards closer regional economic integration in southern Africa. The regional grouping no longer only focuses on sectoral cooperation, but is steadily moving towards increased cooperation in trade development and promotion, industrial development and the diversification of national economies, with the aim of increasing regional economic integration. A free trade area ranks second lowest in the steps towards the highest levels of economic integration. Thus, the signing of the SADC Trade Protocol, which serves to pave way for a SADC Free Trade Area, has initiated steps to facilitate and promote the formal economic integration of all countries in the southern African region. It has been noted that at various periods, the region has adopted a variety of approaches to integration. As such, the present study reviews the different approaches to integration, namely the market integration model, the neo-functional integration model, the development integration model and the theory of common markets. Since the essential question with which this thesis is concerned is whether, and to what extent, the benefits expected from SADC and SACU in terms of their aims and objectives have accrued to member states, an insight into the expected benefits arising from the application of each theoretical framework can help to facilitate an evaluation of the benefits which the countries have enjoyed from these two regional groupings. The thesis highlights that throughout the ten years during which the original SADCC was in place, it based its approach to regional integration on the neo-functional and development integration models, although the former tended to be more dominant. With the regional grouping transforming into SADC, the market integration model was adopted, even though the grouping still had features of the aforementioned approaches. The relevance of the three approaches can be seen in: (i) the continued importance of SADC's sectoral projects, particularly in the field of transport and communication: (ii) continued attempts to put in place a suitable regional) industrial development strategy and implement policies to attract foreign investment; and (iii) the signing of the SADCC Trade Protocol to facilitate the implementation of a free trade area. The thesis argues that member states have enjoyed considerable economic benefits from the SADC sectoral projects. However, in some cases, members have lost out on potential benefits as a result of projects failing to be implemented or completed, mainly due to inadequate funding. Further, delays and inefficiencies at some border posts constitute significant non-tariff barriers which could be a hindrance to intra-regional trade. Progress towards diversification of exports has been limited as the region still relies mostly on the export of the traditional agricultural and mineral raw materials. While all countries have made efforts to diversify their industrial bases, attempts at implementing a meaningful regional industrial development strategy have met with limited success. Intra-regional trade has been increasing over the years. Since the SADC Trade Protocol only came into effect in September 2000, the increased levels of trade integration in the region appear to have been a result of the bilateral trade agreements between countries, and the customs union between South Africa and Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia and Swaziland (BLNS), as well as the structural adjustment programmes and the significant growth experienced in some countries. Outstanding intra-regional trade volumes have been experienced within SACU. In trade terms, benefits have varied between member states, with the more powerful countries like South Africa, Zimbabwe and Mauritius experiencing substantial trade surpluses vis-a.-vis their trade, partners. Countries with bilateral preferential trade agreements have also benefited more due to increased access into each other's markets compared to those without or with bilateral trade agreements of an MFN nature. However, it is important to note that, despite the increase in trade integration in the region, southern Africa is still heavily dependent on the rest of the world for its export markets and as its source of imports. The study finds that intra-industry trade (IIT) exists within the region and, in a number of sectors, high IIT indices are recorded;--although some such sectors do not display significant trade - voIumes. The opening of the region through the implementation of the SADC FTA could promote the expansion of IIT .as-the free trade area )'Till create an enlarged regional market. As such, SADC could benefit from dynamic effects such as scale economies in production and marketing, with member states working on having complementary production structures so as to facilitate specialisation. The thesis argues that the potential for intra-regional trade expansion in the SADC FT A also exists bearing in mind trade complementarity between countries as well as revealed comparative advantages in different sectors. One of the benefits which have accrued to the region as a result of facilitating and promoting greater cooperation and deepening the integration process has been an expansion in cross border investment. The study finds that the 1990s witnessed a gradual increase in cross border investment to take advantage of investment opportunities in member states. South Africa has become the primary source of foreign direct investment flows to a number of SADC countries, with mergers and acquisitions being the dominant mode of its foreign direct investment. Cross border investment helps in supplementing low domestic savings, thus providing substantial parts of the shortfall in capital needed to finance economic growth and development. It can thus promote development in the industrial sector, transfer of capital, skills and technology, and development of infrastructure. Many SADC countries are unable to compete effectively due to lack of export supply capacity. The thesis suggests that capitalising on investment by South African firms could enhance local supply capabilities and raise export competitiveness. The study concludes that for market integration to succeed in the SADC region, the neofunctional and development integration approaches need to be actively pursued simultaneously, particularly with respect to infrastructural and industrial development.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mutambara, Tsitsi Effie
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Africa, Southern -- Economic integration , Southern African Development Community
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:938 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002671 , Africa, Southern -- Economic integration , Southern African Development Community
- Description: The transformation of SADCC into the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has paved the way towards closer regional economic integration in southern Africa. The regional grouping no longer only focuses on sectoral cooperation, but is steadily moving towards increased cooperation in trade development and promotion, industrial development and the diversification of national economies, with the aim of increasing regional economic integration. A free trade area ranks second lowest in the steps towards the highest levels of economic integration. Thus, the signing of the SADC Trade Protocol, which serves to pave way for a SADC Free Trade Area, has initiated steps to facilitate and promote the formal economic integration of all countries in the southern African region. It has been noted that at various periods, the region has adopted a variety of approaches to integration. As such, the present study reviews the different approaches to integration, namely the market integration model, the neo-functional integration model, the development integration model and the theory of common markets. Since the essential question with which this thesis is concerned is whether, and to what extent, the benefits expected from SADC and SACU in terms of their aims and objectives have accrued to member states, an insight into the expected benefits arising from the application of each theoretical framework can help to facilitate an evaluation of the benefits which the countries have enjoyed from these two regional groupings. The thesis highlights that throughout the ten years during which the original SADCC was in place, it based its approach to regional integration on the neo-functional and development integration models, although the former tended to be more dominant. With the regional grouping transforming into SADC, the market integration model was adopted, even though the grouping still had features of the aforementioned approaches. The relevance of the three approaches can be seen in: (i) the continued importance of SADC's sectoral projects, particularly in the field of transport and communication: (ii) continued attempts to put in place a suitable regional) industrial development strategy and implement policies to attract foreign investment; and (iii) the signing of the SADCC Trade Protocol to facilitate the implementation of a free trade area. The thesis argues that member states have enjoyed considerable economic benefits from the SADC sectoral projects. However, in some cases, members have lost out on potential benefits as a result of projects failing to be implemented or completed, mainly due to inadequate funding. Further, delays and inefficiencies at some border posts constitute significant non-tariff barriers which could be a hindrance to intra-regional trade. Progress towards diversification of exports has been limited as the region still relies mostly on the export of the traditional agricultural and mineral raw materials. While all countries have made efforts to diversify their industrial bases, attempts at implementing a meaningful regional industrial development strategy have met with limited success. Intra-regional trade has been increasing over the years. Since the SADC Trade Protocol only came into effect in September 2000, the increased levels of trade integration in the region appear to have been a result of the bilateral trade agreements between countries, and the customs union between South Africa and Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia and Swaziland (BLNS), as well as the structural adjustment programmes and the significant growth experienced in some countries. Outstanding intra-regional trade volumes have been experienced within SACU. In trade terms, benefits have varied between member states, with the more powerful countries like South Africa, Zimbabwe and Mauritius experiencing substantial trade surpluses vis-a.-vis their trade, partners. Countries with bilateral preferential trade agreements have also benefited more due to increased access into each other's markets compared to those without or with bilateral trade agreements of an MFN nature. However, it is important to note that, despite the increase in trade integration in the region, southern Africa is still heavily dependent on the rest of the world for its export markets and as its source of imports. The study finds that intra-industry trade (IIT) exists within the region and, in a number of sectors, high IIT indices are recorded;--although some such sectors do not display significant trade - voIumes. The opening of the region through the implementation of the SADC FTA could promote the expansion of IIT .as-the free trade area )'Till create an enlarged regional market. As such, SADC could benefit from dynamic effects such as scale economies in production and marketing, with member states working on having complementary production structures so as to facilitate specialisation. The thesis argues that the potential for intra-regional trade expansion in the SADC FT A also exists bearing in mind trade complementarity between countries as well as revealed comparative advantages in different sectors. One of the benefits which have accrued to the region as a result of facilitating and promoting greater cooperation and deepening the integration process has been an expansion in cross border investment. The study finds that the 1990s witnessed a gradual increase in cross border investment to take advantage of investment opportunities in member states. South Africa has become the primary source of foreign direct investment flows to a number of SADC countries, with mergers and acquisitions being the dominant mode of its foreign direct investment. Cross border investment helps in supplementing low domestic savings, thus providing substantial parts of the shortfall in capital needed to finance economic growth and development. It can thus promote development in the industrial sector, transfer of capital, skills and technology, and development of infrastructure. Many SADC countries are unable to compete effectively due to lack of export supply capacity. The thesis suggests that capitalising on investment by South African firms could enhance local supply capabilities and raise export competitiveness. The study concludes that for market integration to succeed in the SADC region, the neofunctional and development integration approaches need to be actively pursued simultaneously, particularly with respect to infrastructural and industrial development.
- Full Text: