Fertility decline among Abagusii women : the application of an adapted proximate determinants model
- Authors: Onsongo, Francis Omweri
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Fertility, Human -- Kenya , Birth control -- Kenya , Women, Gusii -- Social conditions , Women's rights -- Kenya , Gusii (African people) -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:10669 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019924
- Description: The primary objective of this thesis is to account for the fertility decline among Abagusii women in South-western Kenya. The motivation behind the study was based on the fact that the fertility trends associated with this group of people had not been studied before. This is surprising because the Abagusii recorded one of the world's highest total fertility rates of 10.4 in 1979 (Omosa 1994; Osiemo 1986; Oucho 1990), but has also experienced significant fertility decline. The total fertility rate in 2004 stood at 4.7, (Anyara 2009). The analytical framework that is adopted is Stover's (1998) adaptation of the Bongaarts et. al. (1984) Proximate Determinants Model. These determinants such as contraceptive use, post-partum insusceptibility, sexual activity, abortion and sterility represent behavioural and biological variables that affect fertility directly. The manner in which they are employed involves using the index which indicates the extent to which each proximate determinant reduces the fertility of the group in question.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Onsongo, Francis Omweri
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Fertility, Human -- Kenya , Birth control -- Kenya , Women, Gusii -- Social conditions , Women's rights -- Kenya , Gusii (African people) -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:10669 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019924
- Description: The primary objective of this thesis is to account for the fertility decline among Abagusii women in South-western Kenya. The motivation behind the study was based on the fact that the fertility trends associated with this group of people had not been studied before. This is surprising because the Abagusii recorded one of the world's highest total fertility rates of 10.4 in 1979 (Omosa 1994; Osiemo 1986; Oucho 1990), but has also experienced significant fertility decline. The total fertility rate in 2004 stood at 4.7, (Anyara 2009). The analytical framework that is adopted is Stover's (1998) adaptation of the Bongaarts et. al. (1984) Proximate Determinants Model. These determinants such as contraceptive use, post-partum insusceptibility, sexual activity, abortion and sterility represent behavioural and biological variables that affect fertility directly. The manner in which they are employed involves using the index which indicates the extent to which each proximate determinant reduces the fertility of the group in question.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Fig wasps as vectors of mites and nematodes
- Jauharlina, J, Lindquist, E E, Quinnell, R J, Compton, Stephen G, Robertson, Hamish G
- Authors: Jauharlina, J , Lindquist, E E , Quinnell, R J , Compton, Stephen G , Robertson, Hamish G
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/452076 , vital:75101 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC119300
- Description: Females of the pollinator fig wasp Elisabethiella baijnathi Wiebes carry mites (Tarsonemella sp. nr. africanus) and nematodes (Parasitodiplogaster sp.) between figs of Ficus burtt-davyi in Grahamstown, South Africa. The mites are phoretic on the outside of the wasps and phytophagous, feeding on galled flowers. The nematodes are transported inside the wasps and eventually eat them. Both mites and nematodes were present throughout the year. The prevalence (fig occupancy rates) of mites and nematodes in different crops ranged between zero and 100 %. Crop size did not influence the prevalence of either mites or nematodes. Contrasting dispersion patterns and relationships with fig wasp foundress numbers indicate that the mites, but not the nematodes, disperse between figs after being carried there by the pollinators, and they may also utilize non-pollinating fig wasps as vectors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Jauharlina, J , Lindquist, E E , Quinnell, R J , Compton, Stephen G , Robertson, Hamish G
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/452076 , vital:75101 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC119300
- Description: Females of the pollinator fig wasp Elisabethiella baijnathi Wiebes carry mites (Tarsonemella sp. nr. africanus) and nematodes (Parasitodiplogaster sp.) between figs of Ficus burtt-davyi in Grahamstown, South Africa. The mites are phoretic on the outside of the wasps and phytophagous, feeding on galled flowers. The nematodes are transported inside the wasps and eventually eat them. Both mites and nematodes were present throughout the year. The prevalence (fig occupancy rates) of mites and nematodes in different crops ranged between zero and 100 %. Crop size did not influence the prevalence of either mites or nematodes. Contrasting dispersion patterns and relationships with fig wasp foundress numbers indicate that the mites, but not the nematodes, disperse between figs after being carried there by the pollinators, and they may also utilize non-pollinating fig wasps as vectors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Financial contagion and the transmission of the 2007 US financial crisis to South Africa
- Authors: Phelps, Barry Keith
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Global Financial Crisis, 2008-2009 , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Transmission mechanism (Monetary policy) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9021 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019714
- Description: The topic of financial contagion has attracted increased attention in economic literature over the past three decades; in particular after the Asian crisis of 1997. This dissertation investigates financial contagion and its effects on South Africa after the 2007 global financial crisis. In particular, it examines whether South Africa experienced contagion from the United States stock market to its own over the period 1 July 2007 to 1 April 2009 within the strict definition of contagion or otherwise: the fraction of exceedance events in the stock market that is left unexplained by its own covariates but is explained by the exceedance from another region. This is tested empirically with a binomial-nominal logistic model. In addition to this, various financial and trade transmission mechanisms are tested to empirically determine through which channels the crisis was propagated. The analysis makes use of quarterly data from January 2002 to April 2009, within an OLS framework, with a dummy variable differentiating the periods before and after the collapse of Lehman Brothers. The findings suggest that contagion was in fact not present in this crisis, which speaks to market rationality and indicates that the South African stock market did in fact react rationally to a changing macroeconomic environment over this period. The transmission mechanism analyses indicate that there was a change in the interdependence relationship between the two stock markets following the crash of Lehman Brothers in September 2008. It is apparent that both trade and financial variables played significant roles in the propagation of this crisis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Phelps, Barry Keith
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Global Financial Crisis, 2008-2009 , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Transmission mechanism (Monetary policy) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9021 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019714
- Description: The topic of financial contagion has attracted increased attention in economic literature over the past three decades; in particular after the Asian crisis of 1997. This dissertation investigates financial contagion and its effects on South Africa after the 2007 global financial crisis. In particular, it examines whether South Africa experienced contagion from the United States stock market to its own over the period 1 July 2007 to 1 April 2009 within the strict definition of contagion or otherwise: the fraction of exceedance events in the stock market that is left unexplained by its own covariates but is explained by the exceedance from another region. This is tested empirically with a binomial-nominal logistic model. In addition to this, various financial and trade transmission mechanisms are tested to empirically determine through which channels the crisis was propagated. The analysis makes use of quarterly data from January 2002 to April 2009, within an OLS framework, with a dummy variable differentiating the periods before and after the collapse of Lehman Brothers. The findings suggest that contagion was in fact not present in this crisis, which speaks to market rationality and indicates that the South African stock market did in fact react rationally to a changing macroeconomic environment over this period. The transmission mechanism analyses indicate that there was a change in the interdependence relationship between the two stock markets following the crash of Lehman Brothers in September 2008. It is apparent that both trade and financial variables played significant roles in the propagation of this crisis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Financial liberalisation and economic growth in South Africa
- Sibanda, Hlanganani Siqondile.
- Authors: Sibanda, Hlanganani Siqondile.
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Finance -- Management , Capital movements -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Expenditures, Public
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11471 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007131 , Economic development -- South Africa , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Finance -- Management , Capital movements -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Expenditures, Public
- Description: This study examined the impact of financial liberalisation on economic growth in South Africa. The study used quarterly time series data for the period 1980 to 2010. A vector error correction model was used to determine the short run and long run effects of financial liberalisation on economic growth in South Africa. The other explanatory variables considered in this study were government expenditure, investment ratio, public expenditure on education and trade openness. Results from this study revealed that financial liberalisation, government expenditure and public expenditure on education have a positive impact on economic growth while trade openness negatively affects economic growth in South Africa. Policy recommendations were made using these results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Sibanda, Hlanganani Siqondile.
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Finance -- Management , Capital movements -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Expenditures, Public
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11471 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007131 , Economic development -- South Africa , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Finance -- Management , Capital movements -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Expenditures, Public
- Description: This study examined the impact of financial liberalisation on economic growth in South Africa. The study used quarterly time series data for the period 1980 to 2010. A vector error correction model was used to determine the short run and long run effects of financial liberalisation on economic growth in South Africa. The other explanatory variables considered in this study were government expenditure, investment ratio, public expenditure on education and trade openness. Results from this study revealed that financial liberalisation, government expenditure and public expenditure on education have a positive impact on economic growth while trade openness negatively affects economic growth in South Africa. Policy recommendations were made using these results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Financial liberalization, financial development and economic growth: the case for South Africa
- Authors: Savanhu, Tatenda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic development -- Case studies -- South Africa Principal components analysis Econometric models Vector analysis Finance -- Management -- South Africa Economic policy -- South Africa Banks and banking -- South Africa Investments -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1048 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006197
- Description: Financial liberalization in South Africa was a process that took the form of various legal reforms very a long period of time. This study uses quarterly financial data from 1969 quarter one to 2009 quarter four to analyse this process. The data used was pertinent to the financial liberalization theorem by McKinnon (1973) and Shaw (1973). The examination of the relationships between the various macro economic variables has important implications for effective policy formulation. The empirical analysis is carried out in four phases: the preliminary analysis, the principal component analysis (PCA), the cointegration analysis and pair wise Granger causality tests. The preliminary analysis examines trends over the sample period and reports the on the correlation between the selected variables. The PCA analysis was used to create indexes for financial liberalization, taking into account the phase wise nature of legal reforms. The generated index was representative of the process of financial liberalization from 1969 to 2009. A financial development index was also created using the various traditional measures of financial development and through PCA which investigated interrelationships among the variables according to their common sources of movement. Cointegration analysis is carried out using the Johansen cointegration procedure which investigates whether there is long-run comovement between South African economic growth and the selected macroeconomic variables. Where cointegration is found, Vector Error-Correction Models (VECMs) are estimated in order to examine the short-run adjustments. For robustness, many control variables were added into the model. The results showed that there are positive long run relationships between economic growth and financial liberalization, financial development and a negative relationship with interest rates. The Granger results suggested that the MS hypothesis does not manifest accurately in the South African data. The implications of the results were that financial liberalization has had positive effects on economic growth and thus any impediments to full financial liberalization must be removed albeit with considerations towards employment and local productivity. Financial development also possessed positive long run relationships with economic growth, although results differed based on the financial development proxy used. Thus, financial development must be improved primarily through liberalizing the banking sector and spurring savings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Savanhu, Tatenda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic development -- Case studies -- South Africa Principal components analysis Econometric models Vector analysis Finance -- Management -- South Africa Economic policy -- South Africa Banks and banking -- South Africa Investments -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1048 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006197
- Description: Financial liberalization in South Africa was a process that took the form of various legal reforms very a long period of time. This study uses quarterly financial data from 1969 quarter one to 2009 quarter four to analyse this process. The data used was pertinent to the financial liberalization theorem by McKinnon (1973) and Shaw (1973). The examination of the relationships between the various macro economic variables has important implications for effective policy formulation. The empirical analysis is carried out in four phases: the preliminary analysis, the principal component analysis (PCA), the cointegration analysis and pair wise Granger causality tests. The preliminary analysis examines trends over the sample period and reports the on the correlation between the selected variables. The PCA analysis was used to create indexes for financial liberalization, taking into account the phase wise nature of legal reforms. The generated index was representative of the process of financial liberalization from 1969 to 2009. A financial development index was also created using the various traditional measures of financial development and through PCA which investigated interrelationships among the variables according to their common sources of movement. Cointegration analysis is carried out using the Johansen cointegration procedure which investigates whether there is long-run comovement between South African economic growth and the selected macroeconomic variables. Where cointegration is found, Vector Error-Correction Models (VECMs) are estimated in order to examine the short-run adjustments. For robustness, many control variables were added into the model. The results showed that there are positive long run relationships between economic growth and financial liberalization, financial development and a negative relationship with interest rates. The Granger results suggested that the MS hypothesis does not manifest accurately in the South African data. The implications of the results were that financial liberalization has had positive effects on economic growth and thus any impediments to full financial liberalization must be removed albeit with considerations towards employment and local productivity. Financial development also possessed positive long run relationships with economic growth, although results differed based on the financial development proxy used. Thus, financial development must be improved primarily through liberalizing the banking sector and spurring savings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Financial sector development and sectoral output growth evidence from South Africa
- Authors: Tongo, Yanga
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa Mineral industries -- Economic aspects -- South Africa Manufacturing industries -- Economic aspects -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions Autoregression (Statistics) Econometric models Stock exchanges -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1004 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002739
- Description: The goal of the study is to examine the relationship between financial sector development and output growth in the agricultural, mining and manufacturing sectors in South Africa. The analysis is based on the hypothesis that financial development is essential for promoting production growth in an economy. To test the hypothesis, in the South African context, the vector autoregressive model (VAR) framework and Granger causality test are applied to a quarterly data set starting from 1970 quarter one to 2009 quarter four. The results suggest that financial intermediary development (bank based measure) and stock market development (market based measure) have a positive impact on output growth in the agriculture, mining and manufacturing sectors in South Africa. There is evidence of a one way causal relationship between financial sector development and sectoral output growth. Particularly, there is evidence that financial intermediary development and stock market development causes output growth in the agriculture, mining and manufacturing sectors in South Africa. However, there is no evidence showing causality running from sectoral output growth to financial sector development. The results provide evidence supporting the theory which states that financial development is essential to promote output growth in a country i.e. in our case South Africa. Thus an efficient financial system which promotes efficient channeling of resources towards the agricultural, mining and manufacturing sectors should be built.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Tongo, Yanga
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa Mineral industries -- Economic aspects -- South Africa Manufacturing industries -- Economic aspects -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions Autoregression (Statistics) Econometric models Stock exchanges -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1004 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002739
- Description: The goal of the study is to examine the relationship between financial sector development and output growth in the agricultural, mining and manufacturing sectors in South Africa. The analysis is based on the hypothesis that financial development is essential for promoting production growth in an economy. To test the hypothesis, in the South African context, the vector autoregressive model (VAR) framework and Granger causality test are applied to a quarterly data set starting from 1970 quarter one to 2009 quarter four. The results suggest that financial intermediary development (bank based measure) and stock market development (market based measure) have a positive impact on output growth in the agriculture, mining and manufacturing sectors in South Africa. There is evidence of a one way causal relationship between financial sector development and sectoral output growth. Particularly, there is evidence that financial intermediary development and stock market development causes output growth in the agriculture, mining and manufacturing sectors in South Africa. However, there is no evidence showing causality running from sectoral output growth to financial sector development. The results provide evidence supporting the theory which states that financial development is essential to promote output growth in a country i.e. in our case South Africa. Thus an efficient financial system which promotes efficient channeling of resources towards the agricultural, mining and manufacturing sectors should be built.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Finite element analysis of the heat transfer in friction stir welding with experimental validation
- Authors: Vosloo, Natalie
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Finite element method , Heat -- Transmission , Friction welding
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10511 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019981
- Description: Friction stir welding is a relatively new joining process. The heat transfer involved is crucial in determining the quality of the weld. Experimenrtal data, though important, does not provide enough information about the heat transfer process and experiments can be costly and time consuming. A numerical model, using the finite element method, was developed to stimulate the heat transfer in the workpiece in which the heat generation due to friction and plastic deformation was modelled as a surface heat flux boundary condition. This model was applied to Aluminium AL6082-T6 and Titanium Ti6A1-4V for different welding condiitions. Results were validated with experimental results. The model was shown to give better predictions of the maximum temperatures at locations in the workpiece than the overall temperature trend. A parametric study was also performed on the Aluminium model in order o predict temperature fields of the workpiece for welding conditions that were additional to those undertaken experimentally. It was found that rotational speed had a larger effect on the change in temperature than the feed rate. From the parametric study it was also clear that lower rotational speeds (300 to 660 rpm) had a greater effect on the change in temperature than the higher rotational speeds (840 to 1200 rpm). It was concluded that the model was well suited for the estimation of temperatures involved in the FSw of Aluminium Al6082-T6 but was not as accurate when applied to the FSW of Titanium.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Vosloo, Natalie
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Finite element method , Heat -- Transmission , Friction welding
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10511 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019981
- Description: Friction stir welding is a relatively new joining process. The heat transfer involved is crucial in determining the quality of the weld. Experimenrtal data, though important, does not provide enough information about the heat transfer process and experiments can be costly and time consuming. A numerical model, using the finite element method, was developed to stimulate the heat transfer in the workpiece in which the heat generation due to friction and plastic deformation was modelled as a surface heat flux boundary condition. This model was applied to Aluminium AL6082-T6 and Titanium Ti6A1-4V for different welding condiitions. Results were validated with experimental results. The model was shown to give better predictions of the maximum temperatures at locations in the workpiece than the overall temperature trend. A parametric study was also performed on the Aluminium model in order o predict temperature fields of the workpiece for welding conditions that were additional to those undertaken experimentally. It was found that rotational speed had a larger effect on the change in temperature than the feed rate. From the parametric study it was also clear that lower rotational speeds (300 to 660 rpm) had a greater effect on the change in temperature than the higher rotational speeds (840 to 1200 rpm). It was concluded that the model was well suited for the estimation of temperatures involved in the FSw of Aluminium Al6082-T6 but was not as accurate when applied to the FSW of Titanium.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Fire regimes in eastern coastal fynbos: drivers, ecology and management
- Authors: Kraaij, Tineke
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Forest fires -- South Africa , Climatic changes , Prescribed burning , Fire ecology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10607 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008047 , Forest fires -- South Africa , Climatic changes , Prescribed burning , Fire ecology -- South Africa
- Description: Conventional knowledge of fynbos fire ecology is based on the summer-autumn fire regimes of the western Cape Floral Kingdom (CFK) where the climate is Mediterranean. However, the climate in the eastern coastal-CFK is milder and rainfall occurs year-round, with presumed effects on fire regimes. The Garden Route National Park (GRNP) has recently been established in the region, in a landscape where indigenous forests, fire-prone fynbos shrublands and fire-sensitive plantations of invasive alien trees are interspersed. The park faces considerable challenges related to the management of fire, including significant pressure from the adjacent plantation industry to reduce wildfire hazard by burning fynbos at short intervals, and high levels of invasion by alien trees (largely Pinus species originating from plantations). This study sought to improve understanding of fire regimes in eastern coastal fynbos shrublands, and to provide guidelines for ecologically sound management of fire in the area. My approach entailed (i) an assessment of the context within which fire management was practiced during the past century; (ii) characterisation of the recent fire history and fire regime (1900–2010); (iii) characterisation of the seasonality of fire weather and lightning; (iv) estimation of minimum fire return intervals (FRIs) from juvenile periods and post-fire recruitment success of overstorey proteoids (non-sprouting, slow-maturing, serotinous Proteaceae); and (v) determination of the ecologically appropriate fire season from post-fire recruitment seasonality of proteoids. I established that historically, plantation protection enjoyed priority over fynbos conservation in the area that is now the GRNP. Fynbos close to plantations has most likely been compromised by frequent and low-intensity burning in the past, as well as by invasion by alien trees. In terms of area burnt (1900–2010), natural (lightning-ignited) fires dominated the fire regime, particularly in the east, whereas prescribed burning was relatively unimportant. Typical fire return intervals (FRIs; 8–26 years; 1980–2010) were comparable to those in other fynbos protected areas and appeared to be shorter in the eastern Tsitsikamma than in the western Outeniqua halves of the study area. Proteaceae juvenile periods (4–9 years) and post-fire recruitment success (following fires in ≥7 year-old vegetation) suggested that for biodiversity conservation purposes, FRIs should be no less than nine years in moist, productive fynbos. Increases in the total area burnt annually (since 1980) were correlated with long-term increases in average fire danger weather, suggesting that fire regime changes may be related to global change. Collectively, findings on the seasonality of actual fires and the seasonality of fire danger weather, lightning, and post-fire proteoid recruitment suggested that fires in eastern coastal fynbos are not limited to any particular season, and for this reason managers do not need to be concerned if fires occur in any season. The ecological requirements for higher fire intensity may nonetheless be constrained by a need for safety. I articulated these findings into ecological thresholds pertaining to the different elements of the fire regime in eastern coastal fynbos, to guide adaptive management of fire in the Garden Route National Park. I also recommended a fire management strategy for the park to address the aforementioned operational considerations within the constraints posed by ecological thresholds. Finally, I highlighted further research and monitoring needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Kraaij, Tineke
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Forest fires -- South Africa , Climatic changes , Prescribed burning , Fire ecology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10607 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008047 , Forest fires -- South Africa , Climatic changes , Prescribed burning , Fire ecology -- South Africa
- Description: Conventional knowledge of fynbos fire ecology is based on the summer-autumn fire regimes of the western Cape Floral Kingdom (CFK) where the climate is Mediterranean. However, the climate in the eastern coastal-CFK is milder and rainfall occurs year-round, with presumed effects on fire regimes. The Garden Route National Park (GRNP) has recently been established in the region, in a landscape where indigenous forests, fire-prone fynbos shrublands and fire-sensitive plantations of invasive alien trees are interspersed. The park faces considerable challenges related to the management of fire, including significant pressure from the adjacent plantation industry to reduce wildfire hazard by burning fynbos at short intervals, and high levels of invasion by alien trees (largely Pinus species originating from plantations). This study sought to improve understanding of fire regimes in eastern coastal fynbos shrublands, and to provide guidelines for ecologically sound management of fire in the area. My approach entailed (i) an assessment of the context within which fire management was practiced during the past century; (ii) characterisation of the recent fire history and fire regime (1900–2010); (iii) characterisation of the seasonality of fire weather and lightning; (iv) estimation of minimum fire return intervals (FRIs) from juvenile periods and post-fire recruitment success of overstorey proteoids (non-sprouting, slow-maturing, serotinous Proteaceae); and (v) determination of the ecologically appropriate fire season from post-fire recruitment seasonality of proteoids. I established that historically, plantation protection enjoyed priority over fynbos conservation in the area that is now the GRNP. Fynbos close to plantations has most likely been compromised by frequent and low-intensity burning in the past, as well as by invasion by alien trees. In terms of area burnt (1900–2010), natural (lightning-ignited) fires dominated the fire regime, particularly in the east, whereas prescribed burning was relatively unimportant. Typical fire return intervals (FRIs; 8–26 years; 1980–2010) were comparable to those in other fynbos protected areas and appeared to be shorter in the eastern Tsitsikamma than in the western Outeniqua halves of the study area. Proteaceae juvenile periods (4–9 years) and post-fire recruitment success (following fires in ≥7 year-old vegetation) suggested that for biodiversity conservation purposes, FRIs should be no less than nine years in moist, productive fynbos. Increases in the total area burnt annually (since 1980) were correlated with long-term increases in average fire danger weather, suggesting that fire regime changes may be related to global change. Collectively, findings on the seasonality of actual fires and the seasonality of fire danger weather, lightning, and post-fire proteoid recruitment suggested that fires in eastern coastal fynbos are not limited to any particular season, and for this reason managers do not need to be concerned if fires occur in any season. The ecological requirements for higher fire intensity may nonetheless be constrained by a need for safety. I articulated these findings into ecological thresholds pertaining to the different elements of the fire regime in eastern coastal fynbos, to guide adaptive management of fire in the Garden Route National Park. I also recommended a fire management strategy for the park to address the aforementioned operational considerations within the constraints posed by ecological thresholds. Finally, I highlighted further research and monitoring needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Firm age, collateral value, and access to debt financing in an emerging economy: evidence from South Africa
- Authors: Ezeoha,Abel , Botha, Ferdi
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/396060 , vital:69147 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC31367"
- Description: This paper applies the Blundell and Bond system generalised method of moments (GMM) two-step estimator to examine the impact of age and collateral value on debt financing, using a panel of 177 non-financial companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange over the period 1999 to 2009. The results show that South African firms have target leverage ratios and adjust their capital structures from time to time to achieve their respective targets, that the relationship between firm age and debt financing is non-monotonic, and that firms with higher collateral value are likely to face fewer constraints on borrowing and therefore have greater access to medium-term and long-term debts. Robustness tests also reveal that during start-up and maturity stages, a firm's access to debt markets is significantly influenced by investments in assets that are acceptable to external creditors as collateral. These findings suggest that debt financing policies could be more critical for firms in the start-up and maturity stages.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Ezeoha,Abel , Botha, Ferdi
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/396060 , vital:69147 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC31367"
- Description: This paper applies the Blundell and Bond system generalised method of moments (GMM) two-step estimator to examine the impact of age and collateral value on debt financing, using a panel of 177 non-financial companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange over the period 1999 to 2009. The results show that South African firms have target leverage ratios and adjust their capital structures from time to time to achieve their respective targets, that the relationship between firm age and debt financing is non-monotonic, and that firms with higher collateral value are likely to face fewer constraints on borrowing and therefore have greater access to medium-term and long-term debts. Robustness tests also reveal that during start-up and maturity stages, a firm's access to debt markets is significantly influenced by investments in assets that are acceptable to external creditors as collateral. These findings suggest that debt financing policies could be more critical for firms in the start-up and maturity stages.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Five unpublished coins of Alexander the Great and his successors in the Rhodes University Collection
- Snowball, Jeanette D, Snowball, Warren D
- Authors: Snowball, Jeanette D , Snowball, Warren D
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68489 , vital:29267 , http://dx.doi.org/10.7445/50-0-73
- Description: Publisher version , The article briefly discusses the economic and political significance of the Alexander III (“the Great”) type silver tetradrachm and publishes three of his coins currently held by the Rhodes University Classics Museum. Based on stylistic elements, they are classified as from the Amphipolis and Arados mints and were probably minted during his lifetime. Two further tetradrachms from the empires of Alexander’s successors, Ptolemy II and Seleucus IV, are also published.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Five unpublished coins of Alexander the Great and his successors in the Rhodes University Collection
- Authors: Snowball, Jeanette D , Snowball, Warren D
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68489 , vital:29267 , http://dx.doi.org/10.7445/50-0-73
- Description: Publisher version , The article briefly discusses the economic and political significance of the Alexander III (“the Great”) type silver tetradrachm and publishes three of his coins currently held by the Rhodes University Classics Museum. Based on stylistic elements, they are classified as from the Amphipolis and Arados mints and were probably minted during his lifetime. Two further tetradrachms from the empires of Alexander’s successors, Ptolemy II and Seleucus IV, are also published.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Force of habit the mystical foundations of the narcotic
- Authors: Howell, Simon Peter
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Drug addiction -- Philosophy -- Research Drug addiction -- Political aspects -- Research Cocaine abuse -- Legal status, laws, etc. -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2784 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002994
- Description: This thesis aims to investigate and deconstruct the relationship between the narcotic, its narrative, and western modernity. To reveal the relationship, this thesis argues that it is possible to understand the philosophical, political, cultural and ethical dimensions of western modernity through the ulterior lens of the narcotic. As such, this thesis investigates western modernity's relationship to (a) cocaine as a specific narcotic, and (b) the concept of the narcotic with all its attendant connotations of addictions, illegitimacy, transgression, illegality, and so on. Accordingly, the thesis is both interpretive of the historical narrative of the narcotic of cocaine, and generative in its deconstruction of the relationship between western modernity and the concept of the narcotic. The deconstruction of this relationship ultimately reveals both prior narratives not as oppositional, but as supplementary. This has radical consequences for the manner in which we engage with narcotic use and the user - if the narcotic is supplement to the logic of western modernity, at each attempt to expel the use and user of the narcotic, rather then create difference, we self implicate ourselves in that expulsion and distance. To seek a new and more just means of dealing with the concept of the narcotic, and its use, therefore requires a new epistemological framework which can at once contemplate both narratives at the same time. To this end, the thesis suggests the use of critical complexity theory as one such methodological tool, if supplemented by the thoughts and strategies of Derridian deconstruction and Foucauldian discourse analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Howell, Simon Peter
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Drug addiction -- Philosophy -- Research Drug addiction -- Political aspects -- Research Cocaine abuse -- Legal status, laws, etc. -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2784 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002994
- Description: This thesis aims to investigate and deconstruct the relationship between the narcotic, its narrative, and western modernity. To reveal the relationship, this thesis argues that it is possible to understand the philosophical, political, cultural and ethical dimensions of western modernity through the ulterior lens of the narcotic. As such, this thesis investigates western modernity's relationship to (a) cocaine as a specific narcotic, and (b) the concept of the narcotic with all its attendant connotations of addictions, illegitimacy, transgression, illegality, and so on. Accordingly, the thesis is both interpretive of the historical narrative of the narcotic of cocaine, and generative in its deconstruction of the relationship between western modernity and the concept of the narcotic. The deconstruction of this relationship ultimately reveals both prior narratives not as oppositional, but as supplementary. This has radical consequences for the manner in which we engage with narcotic use and the user - if the narcotic is supplement to the logic of western modernity, at each attempt to expel the use and user of the narcotic, rather then create difference, we self implicate ourselves in that expulsion and distance. To seek a new and more just means of dealing with the concept of the narcotic, and its use, therefore requires a new epistemological framework which can at once contemplate both narratives at the same time. To this end, the thesis suggests the use of critical complexity theory as one such methodological tool, if supplemented by the thoughts and strategies of Derridian deconstruction and Foucauldian discourse analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Foreign direct investment in South Africa: the case of the East London industrial development zone
- Authors: Marawu, Sithembele
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa -- East London , Job creation -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Rural Development)
- Identifier: vital:11942 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/559 , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa -- East London , Job creation -- South Africa -- East London
- Description: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has been perceived by most developing countries, emerging economies and countries in transition as a major vehicle for development that would not only boost a host country’s economic development but also enhance its integration into the global economy. The common assumption is that presence of foreign companies in a host country, particularly a developing country, would lead to economic benefits; among them, transfer of technology, and skills and human capacity development. The establishment of special “development zones” and the roll-out of incentives to attract FDI are often predicated on the expectation by host countries that these benefits would be achieved. It is against this background that this study sought to find out the character of FDI in the East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ), located in the Eastern Cape. The study focused on the institutional preconditions and incentives used by the ELIDZ to attract FDI into the zone, and on whether these had any bearing on labour and environmental standards as well as on local skills development. Empirical data for the study were collected using in-depth interview with senior management staff of both the ELIDZ as an organisation, and one of the foreign companies located in the zone (a “tenant” of ELIDZ). In addition, a mini survey was conducted with a random sample of employees of the selected ELIDZ company. Among the key findings of the study was that the ELIDZ had in place a range of incentives and preconditions for the attraction of FDI, and that there were concerted efforts on the part of ELIDZ management to compel companies operating in the zone to adhere to specific iv standards – especially on the environmental front. From the mini survey results, however, the study established that achievements on the labour front were mixed. While most of the responses indicated that ELIDZ was playing a positive role in terms of employment creation, a high number of responses (from surveyed employees in the selected ELIDZ company) pointed out that employment standards were in question. For example, 41% of respondents reported “unhappiness” with their conditions of employment, while 50% deplored the fact that they were not allowed to belong to unions. Furthermore, responses were nearly evenly split (53%/47%) between those who reported that their employment had resulted in the acquisition of new skills and those who reported that it had not. From these and other findings, the study concluded that ELIDZ was facing a “balancing act” by expecting foreign companies to create jobs, transfer technology and contribute to local skills development while at the same time adhering to strict environmental and labour standards. The study thus confirmed a major consensus in the FDI literature, while FDI could bring about important socio-economic achievements in a host country, foreign companies and host governments are not necessarily motivated by the same set of factors. Indeed, at least a small facet of the study’s findings seemed to confirm the well-documented anti-FDI sentiment that the faith placed in FDI by host governments (especially in developing countries) does not always have a sound basis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Marawu, Sithembele
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa -- East London , Job creation -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Rural Development)
- Identifier: vital:11942 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/559 , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa -- East London , Job creation -- South Africa -- East London
- Description: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has been perceived by most developing countries, emerging economies and countries in transition as a major vehicle for development that would not only boost a host country’s economic development but also enhance its integration into the global economy. The common assumption is that presence of foreign companies in a host country, particularly a developing country, would lead to economic benefits; among them, transfer of technology, and skills and human capacity development. The establishment of special “development zones” and the roll-out of incentives to attract FDI are often predicated on the expectation by host countries that these benefits would be achieved. It is against this background that this study sought to find out the character of FDI in the East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ), located in the Eastern Cape. The study focused on the institutional preconditions and incentives used by the ELIDZ to attract FDI into the zone, and on whether these had any bearing on labour and environmental standards as well as on local skills development. Empirical data for the study were collected using in-depth interview with senior management staff of both the ELIDZ as an organisation, and one of the foreign companies located in the zone (a “tenant” of ELIDZ). In addition, a mini survey was conducted with a random sample of employees of the selected ELIDZ company. Among the key findings of the study was that the ELIDZ had in place a range of incentives and preconditions for the attraction of FDI, and that there were concerted efforts on the part of ELIDZ management to compel companies operating in the zone to adhere to specific iv standards – especially on the environmental front. From the mini survey results, however, the study established that achievements on the labour front were mixed. While most of the responses indicated that ELIDZ was playing a positive role in terms of employment creation, a high number of responses (from surveyed employees in the selected ELIDZ company) pointed out that employment standards were in question. For example, 41% of respondents reported “unhappiness” with their conditions of employment, while 50% deplored the fact that they were not allowed to belong to unions. Furthermore, responses were nearly evenly split (53%/47%) between those who reported that their employment had resulted in the acquisition of new skills and those who reported that it had not. From these and other findings, the study concluded that ELIDZ was facing a “balancing act” by expecting foreign companies to create jobs, transfer technology and contribute to local skills development while at the same time adhering to strict environmental and labour standards. The study thus confirmed a major consensus in the FDI literature, while FDI could bring about important socio-economic achievements in a host country, foreign companies and host governments are not necessarily motivated by the same set of factors. Indeed, at least a small facet of the study’s findings seemed to confirm the well-documented anti-FDI sentiment that the faith placed in FDI by host governments (especially in developing countries) does not always have a sound basis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Foreign reference products in the registration of generic medicines in South Africa a case study
- Authors: Hwengwere, Eldinah
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Generic drugs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Case studies Generic drugs -- South Africa Case studies Drugs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Case studies Pharmacy -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:3762 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003240
- Description: Introduction: Due to the increase in healthcare costs, generic medicines have been adopted for used in both developed and developing countries. When a generic or ‘multisource interchangeable medicine’ is to be registered, studies that prove that the generic is equivalent to the Innovator Product (IP) are used. The generic medicine is required to prove that it will mirror the IP in terms of safety, quality and efficacy and, in South Africa, the Medicines Control Council (MCC) ensures that generic medicines meet these requirements. Generic medicines may be registered using bioequivalence data obtained from comparison with a domestic reference product (usually the local innovator product) or in certain cases, a foreign reference product (FRP). The bioequivalence data can either be from in vivo or in vitro studies. The MCC guidelines require that for modified release preparations, in vivo bioequivalence studies are done for approval of registration; the exception being if a proportionally higher dose has already been registered. No information is currently given to prescribers and dispensers or to the public about whether a generic product was registered against a foreign or domestic reference product. Aims and Objectives: 1.) To determine the number of generic medicines in a predetermined sample registered using a FRP as comparator and to document the transparency of pharmaceutical companies when approached to disclose information regarding the registration of these products. 2.) To describe and document the use of the Promotion of Access to Information Act (Act 2 of 2000) [PAIA] from the perspective of a ‘layperson’ in the context of medicines’ regulation, in both private and public bodies. Methods: 20 modified release and Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) class IV products were selected from the ‘generics dictionary’ – a commercial publication – and letters were sent to the manufacturers of the products requesting information about the tests done to prove equivalence and whether they were performed against a domestic or foreign reference product. The same information was also requested from the MCC. The requests were all made using the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA). Results: Nine companies were represented by the 20 products chosen. Information was obtained about thirteen products. Ten of these products were registered using FRPs. Four products were registered based only on comparative dissolution studies. Four companies provided the requested information, two companies responded by refusing the requests and three did not respond at all. The MCC refused the request for information even after an internal appeal was lodged. Conclusions: The Promotion of Access to information Act was unsuccessful in obtaining information from the public body, and partly successful in obtaining it from the private bodies. While the title of the Act seems to indicate that the Act can be used to obtain information as such, it only provides for access to specified records. The MCC and the pharmaceutical companies involved in the study were under no obligation to provide the information as the request had not complied with PAIA requirements. The use of FRPs for registration is a reality in the pharmaceutical industry in South Africa. Neither the public nor healthcare professionals who prescribe medicines or who are involved in dispensing generic medicines as substitutes are aware of whether or not a FRP has been used to register a generic. Interchangeability cannot necessarily be guaranteed if the reference product was not proven equivalent to the local innovator product. It is debatable as to whether or not this information would be of any particular benefit to members of the public. Prescribers may choose to write ‘no substitution’ on their prescriptions if they were unconvinced that an FRP is acceptable. This could have consequences for healthcare costs. Dispensers are the most vulnerable in South Africa as they are obliged by law to substitute generic medicines when innovator medicines have been prescribed. Dispensers’ views on the acceptability of the use of FRPs can be seen as irrelevant. In the end, as this study demonstrates, the only option in the present situation is to rely entirely on the MCC’s rigour in assessing applications for registration of generic medicines.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Hwengwere, Eldinah
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Generic drugs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Case studies Generic drugs -- South Africa Case studies Drugs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Case studies Pharmacy -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: vital:3762 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003240
- Description: Introduction: Due to the increase in healthcare costs, generic medicines have been adopted for used in both developed and developing countries. When a generic or ‘multisource interchangeable medicine’ is to be registered, studies that prove that the generic is equivalent to the Innovator Product (IP) are used. The generic medicine is required to prove that it will mirror the IP in terms of safety, quality and efficacy and, in South Africa, the Medicines Control Council (MCC) ensures that generic medicines meet these requirements. Generic medicines may be registered using bioequivalence data obtained from comparison with a domestic reference product (usually the local innovator product) or in certain cases, a foreign reference product (FRP). The bioequivalence data can either be from in vivo or in vitro studies. The MCC guidelines require that for modified release preparations, in vivo bioequivalence studies are done for approval of registration; the exception being if a proportionally higher dose has already been registered. No information is currently given to prescribers and dispensers or to the public about whether a generic product was registered against a foreign or domestic reference product. Aims and Objectives: 1.) To determine the number of generic medicines in a predetermined sample registered using a FRP as comparator and to document the transparency of pharmaceutical companies when approached to disclose information regarding the registration of these products. 2.) To describe and document the use of the Promotion of Access to Information Act (Act 2 of 2000) [PAIA] from the perspective of a ‘layperson’ in the context of medicines’ regulation, in both private and public bodies. Methods: 20 modified release and Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) class IV products were selected from the ‘generics dictionary’ – a commercial publication – and letters were sent to the manufacturers of the products requesting information about the tests done to prove equivalence and whether they were performed against a domestic or foreign reference product. The same information was also requested from the MCC. The requests were all made using the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA). Results: Nine companies were represented by the 20 products chosen. Information was obtained about thirteen products. Ten of these products were registered using FRPs. Four products were registered based only on comparative dissolution studies. Four companies provided the requested information, two companies responded by refusing the requests and three did not respond at all. The MCC refused the request for information even after an internal appeal was lodged. Conclusions: The Promotion of Access to information Act was unsuccessful in obtaining information from the public body, and partly successful in obtaining it from the private bodies. While the title of the Act seems to indicate that the Act can be used to obtain information as such, it only provides for access to specified records. The MCC and the pharmaceutical companies involved in the study were under no obligation to provide the information as the request had not complied with PAIA requirements. The use of FRPs for registration is a reality in the pharmaceutical industry in South Africa. Neither the public nor healthcare professionals who prescribe medicines or who are involved in dispensing generic medicines as substitutes are aware of whether or not a FRP has been used to register a generic. Interchangeability cannot necessarily be guaranteed if the reference product was not proven equivalent to the local innovator product. It is debatable as to whether or not this information would be of any particular benefit to members of the public. Prescribers may choose to write ‘no substitution’ on their prescriptions if they were unconvinced that an FRP is acceptable. This could have consequences for healthcare costs. Dispensers are the most vulnerable in South Africa as they are obliged by law to substitute generic medicines when innovator medicines have been prescribed. Dispensers’ views on the acceptability of the use of FRPs can be seen as irrelevant. In the end, as this study demonstrates, the only option in the present situation is to rely entirely on the MCC’s rigour in assessing applications for registration of generic medicines.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Formulation and stability testing of eye drop preparations containing phenylephrine hydrochloride
- Authors: Okafor, Chinedum Oluchukwu
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Phenylpropanolamine , Viscosity , Glycerin
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10164 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020985
- Description: Phenylephrine hydrochloride is a potent adrenergic agent and β-receptor sympathomimetic drug, used in its optically active form (Pandey et al., 2003; Pandey et al., 2006). As an α1-adrenergic receptor agonist, phenylephrine hydrochloride is used ocularly as a decongestant for uveitis and as an agent to dilate the pupil (Lang, 1995). High intraocular doses have been reported to cause tachycardia, hypertension, and headache. These side effects are caused by large amounts of the drop draining into the nasal cavity. Eye drops that contain phenylephrine hydrochloride have proven to have low intra-ocular bioavailability because of a short contact time with the eyes which reduces the amount of drug reaching the site of action. Formulations of phenylephrine hydrochloride eye drops have varying shelf-lives of approximately two to four years. The aim of this study was to formulate and manufacture an eye drop product containing phenylephrine hydrochloride. Important characteristics that were targeted were increased ocular absorption by increasing the viscosity of the product and reduced degradation of phenylephrine hydrochloride. A variety of phenylephrine hydrochloride formulations were manufactured on a laboratory scale using hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), glycerol, and sodium carboxy methylcellulose as viscosity modifying agents (VMA). The concentration of phenylephrine hydrochloride was ten percent. Ten millimeters of each formulation was made in triplicate. The quantity in each was evaluated using a previously validated high performance (pressure) liquid chromatography method. Physicochemical properties including pH and colour were also evaluated. Stability was assessed using real time and accelerated stability conditions in accordance with the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. Formulations containing hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) as the viscosity modifying agents proved to be stable under all storage conditions when compared with formulations containing other viscosity modifying agents (VMA). However, sodium citrate dihydrate; sodium metabisulphite and EDTA also stabilized the formulations to a certain extent Changes in the appearance and colour of products containing glycerol under accelerated storage conditions were observed. The sodium carboxy methylcellulose (SCMC) containing formulation was found to be physically and chemically stable in two conditions, namely 30 °C/65 percent RH and 25 °C/60 percent RH. The formulations containing hydroxypropyl methylcellulose along with an antioxidant showed to be most stable as it remained aesthetically pleasing did not change colour and did not have a reduction in phenylephrine hydrochloride concentrations. This meant that phenylephrine hydrochloride did not degrade while the viscosity modifying agents remained stable. Rheological tests showed differences in the viscosities of the formulations as glycerol had increased in viscosity over time while HMPC and SCMC displayed relative similarities. The formulations were compared to a marketed eye drop containing polyvinyl alcohol as a VMA. After rheological analysis the formulation containing HPMC displayed better viscosity than the product with polyvinyl alcohol. The preservatives in the formulations were active against the microbial organisms use to challenged them.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Okafor, Chinedum Oluchukwu
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Phenylpropanolamine , Viscosity , Glycerin
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10164 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020985
- Description: Phenylephrine hydrochloride is a potent adrenergic agent and β-receptor sympathomimetic drug, used in its optically active form (Pandey et al., 2003; Pandey et al., 2006). As an α1-adrenergic receptor agonist, phenylephrine hydrochloride is used ocularly as a decongestant for uveitis and as an agent to dilate the pupil (Lang, 1995). High intraocular doses have been reported to cause tachycardia, hypertension, and headache. These side effects are caused by large amounts of the drop draining into the nasal cavity. Eye drops that contain phenylephrine hydrochloride have proven to have low intra-ocular bioavailability because of a short contact time with the eyes which reduces the amount of drug reaching the site of action. Formulations of phenylephrine hydrochloride eye drops have varying shelf-lives of approximately two to four years. The aim of this study was to formulate and manufacture an eye drop product containing phenylephrine hydrochloride. Important characteristics that were targeted were increased ocular absorption by increasing the viscosity of the product and reduced degradation of phenylephrine hydrochloride. A variety of phenylephrine hydrochloride formulations were manufactured on a laboratory scale using hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), glycerol, and sodium carboxy methylcellulose as viscosity modifying agents (VMA). The concentration of phenylephrine hydrochloride was ten percent. Ten millimeters of each formulation was made in triplicate. The quantity in each was evaluated using a previously validated high performance (pressure) liquid chromatography method. Physicochemical properties including pH and colour were also evaluated. Stability was assessed using real time and accelerated stability conditions in accordance with the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. Formulations containing hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) as the viscosity modifying agents proved to be stable under all storage conditions when compared with formulations containing other viscosity modifying agents (VMA). However, sodium citrate dihydrate; sodium metabisulphite and EDTA also stabilized the formulations to a certain extent Changes in the appearance and colour of products containing glycerol under accelerated storage conditions were observed. The sodium carboxy methylcellulose (SCMC) containing formulation was found to be physically and chemically stable in two conditions, namely 30 °C/65 percent RH and 25 °C/60 percent RH. The formulations containing hydroxypropyl methylcellulose along with an antioxidant showed to be most stable as it remained aesthetically pleasing did not change colour and did not have a reduction in phenylephrine hydrochloride concentrations. This meant that phenylephrine hydrochloride did not degrade while the viscosity modifying agents remained stable. Rheological tests showed differences in the viscosities of the formulations as glycerol had increased in viscosity over time while HMPC and SCMC displayed relative similarities. The formulations were compared to a marketed eye drop containing polyvinyl alcohol as a VMA. After rheological analysis the formulation containing HPMC displayed better viscosity than the product with polyvinyl alcohol. The preservatives in the formulations were active against the microbial organisms use to challenged them.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Forty years of historical research in South Africa: some general trends and personal recollections
- Authors: Maylam, Paul
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Text
- Identifier: vital:590 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1019739
- Description: Vice Chancellor's Distinguished Research Award Lecture, Rhodes University, 15 October 2012
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Maylam, Paul
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Text
- Identifier: vital:590 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1019739
- Description: Vice Chancellor's Distinguished Research Award Lecture, Rhodes University, 15 October 2012
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Foundation phase teachers' continuous professional development
- Authors: Gallant, Reinhold Justin
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Foundation phase , Education, Higher , Identity (Philosophical concept) , Career development , Teachers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9448 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007898 , Foundation phase , Education, Higher , Identity (Philosophical concept) , Career development , Teachers
- Description: This research was based on the question of how Foundation Phase teachers perceived and experienced their professional development. This study was done at a school in the Northern Areas of Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa. The school is situated in a developing community that has a low socio-economic status characterised by infrastructural challenges. The school is newly established and started the year 2012 with mostly newly qualified teachers. In this study, the researcher wanted to know how the participants’ perceptions and experiences as teachers impact on their professional development. The review of relevant literature provided a conceptual framework for the study. This study explored the fact that a social constructivist theory is relevant for the professional development of foundation phase teachers. This theory is based on the fact that teachers construct their own knowledge and that more emphasis should be placed on theory within teachers’ practice. A qualitative research approach was suitable for this study. The data for the study was obtained by using photovoice and focus group interviews. The most important theme that emerged from the data collection was that the physical environment of the school and the surrounding area played a major role in how the teachers experienced their development. Other themes that emerged from the study were the need for educational resources, teacher collaboration and leadership. The findings show that more emphasis should be placed on the professional development of Foundation Phase teachers. Schools in poverty stricken areas of South Africa have an impact on how teachers experience their professional development. It has become clear that places of higher education need to consider the contexts in which schools are situated, especially in poverty stricken areas. Foundation Phase teachers are a vital part of education and as such the training of teachers in this phase should develop around whole-person learning within a life-long learning framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Gallant, Reinhold Justin
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Foundation phase , Education, Higher , Identity (Philosophical concept) , Career development , Teachers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9448 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1007898 , Foundation phase , Education, Higher , Identity (Philosophical concept) , Career development , Teachers
- Description: This research was based on the question of how Foundation Phase teachers perceived and experienced their professional development. This study was done at a school in the Northern Areas of Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa. The school is situated in a developing community that has a low socio-economic status characterised by infrastructural challenges. The school is newly established and started the year 2012 with mostly newly qualified teachers. In this study, the researcher wanted to know how the participants’ perceptions and experiences as teachers impact on their professional development. The review of relevant literature provided a conceptual framework for the study. This study explored the fact that a social constructivist theory is relevant for the professional development of foundation phase teachers. This theory is based on the fact that teachers construct their own knowledge and that more emphasis should be placed on theory within teachers’ practice. A qualitative research approach was suitable for this study. The data for the study was obtained by using photovoice and focus group interviews. The most important theme that emerged from the data collection was that the physical environment of the school and the surrounding area played a major role in how the teachers experienced their development. Other themes that emerged from the study were the need for educational resources, teacher collaboration and leadership. The findings show that more emphasis should be placed on the professional development of Foundation Phase teachers. Schools in poverty stricken areas of South Africa have an impact on how teachers experience their professional development. It has become clear that places of higher education need to consider the contexts in which schools are situated, especially in poverty stricken areas. Foundation Phase teachers are a vital part of education and as such the training of teachers in this phase should develop around whole-person learning within a life-long learning framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Foundation phase teachers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices towards inclusive classroom management: a case study of Mthatha district, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Bello, Aishatu Haruna
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Classroom management -- Teachers -- Inclusive education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:18439 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007198
- Description: This study was carried out in the Mthatha district of the Eastern Cape with the aim of assessing the respondents’ knowledge, attitudes and practices in successful inclusive classroom management at the Foundation Phase in their respective schools. The study adopted a mixed-method approach in which data was collected from secondary and primary sources. Secondary data were collected from literature sources and existing schools’ documents while primary data were collected from the respondents drawn from nine schools in Mthatha area (coded A to I for anonymity) using questionnaire, interview guides and focus group discussions checklists. The nine schools were purposively sampled based on schools with Foundation Phase Programme, while 15 respondents were randomly sampled from among the Foundation Phase teachers in the nine schools for this study. The data collected were subjected to various analytical techniques such as descriptive statistics, frequencies and cross tabulations as well as graphical representations using SPSS to be able to identify and list the main findings from the study. Results from the study based on 75% questionnaire response rate revealed that the respondents had high (79%) self-rating of inclusive education content knowledge despite the fact that they actually had low (over 80%) with poor or fair content knowledge on the knowledge scale. The respondents demonstrated a high degree (over 80%) of positive attitudes and good practices and management approach toward inclusive education despite the fact that they had low inclusive education content knowledge. Over 80% of the respondents revealed that their schools are not ready for inclusive classroom teaching and management due to lack of infrastructure, equipment, training, teacher support and teacher-special assistant. The results from the quantitative data were triangulated and validated by the findings from the qualitative in-depth interviews and focus group discussions which reinforced each other. The findings presented were limited to the respondents in the nine schools used in the study area. This study thus concludes that, a huge gap still exists between the desired level of the state of inclusive education and outcomes as expected from the White Paper 6 2001 in 2012. The study thus recommends the ample need for the departments of education as a matter of urgency, to emphasise the inclusion of inclusive education contents in the training and re-training of educators at the basic education phase. Furthermore, all schools should be provided with adequate infrastructural support in terms of equipment and classroom-friendly environment for learners with special needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Bello, Aishatu Haruna
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Classroom management -- Teachers -- Inclusive education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:18439 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007198
- Description: This study was carried out in the Mthatha district of the Eastern Cape with the aim of assessing the respondents’ knowledge, attitudes and practices in successful inclusive classroom management at the Foundation Phase in their respective schools. The study adopted a mixed-method approach in which data was collected from secondary and primary sources. Secondary data were collected from literature sources and existing schools’ documents while primary data were collected from the respondents drawn from nine schools in Mthatha area (coded A to I for anonymity) using questionnaire, interview guides and focus group discussions checklists. The nine schools were purposively sampled based on schools with Foundation Phase Programme, while 15 respondents were randomly sampled from among the Foundation Phase teachers in the nine schools for this study. The data collected were subjected to various analytical techniques such as descriptive statistics, frequencies and cross tabulations as well as graphical representations using SPSS to be able to identify and list the main findings from the study. Results from the study based on 75% questionnaire response rate revealed that the respondents had high (79%) self-rating of inclusive education content knowledge despite the fact that they actually had low (over 80%) with poor or fair content knowledge on the knowledge scale. The respondents demonstrated a high degree (over 80%) of positive attitudes and good practices and management approach toward inclusive education despite the fact that they had low inclusive education content knowledge. Over 80% of the respondents revealed that their schools are not ready for inclusive classroom teaching and management due to lack of infrastructure, equipment, training, teacher support and teacher-special assistant. The results from the quantitative data were triangulated and validated by the findings from the qualitative in-depth interviews and focus group discussions which reinforced each other. The findings presented were limited to the respondents in the nine schools used in the study area. This study thus concludes that, a huge gap still exists between the desired level of the state of inclusive education and outcomes as expected from the White Paper 6 2001 in 2012. The study thus recommends the ample need for the departments of education as a matter of urgency, to emphasise the inclusion of inclusive education contents in the training and re-training of educators at the basic education phase. Furthermore, all schools should be provided with adequate infrastructural support in terms of equipment and classroom-friendly environment for learners with special needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Francis Bacon: a psychobiographical study
- Authors: Kerr, Natalie
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Bacon, Francis, 1909-1992 , Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9871 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1774 , Bacon, Francis, 1909-1992 , Psychology
- Description: The study consists of a psychobiography of the British artist, Francis Bacon (1909-1992). Psychobiography employs a qualitative approach to understanding the life story of an individual through the lens of psychological theory. It is typically dedicated to the lives of well-known or enigmatic people and covers the person’s entire lifespan. For this study the analytical theory of Carl Gustav Jung (1875-1961) is used to explore and describe Bacon’s life and personality through concepts relating to personality functioning, history, mythology, anthropology, symbology and religion. Francis Bacon has captured the imagination of the art world for many years - especially where it is felt that the figure-subject is still the highest form of art - and his reputation among the foremost of English painters is assured. Coupled with his artistic output is a life full of curiosity, eccentricity and controversy. This alone would qualify him as a suitable subject for a study such as this, but his extraordinary oeuvre of painting hugely adds to his attractiveness to the psychological researcher. To ensure an accurate description of Bacon’s life, extensive data is examined using Alexander’s (1988) model of identifying salient themes. The study considers the nature and methodology of psychobiography, the theories of Jung, the life of Francis Bacon and then sythesises relevant material in a psychological profile. The findings of this study indicate that Bacon’s intense, creative and unorthodox life of genius fully justifies the research and provides an example of how a theory that is flexible can be an appropriate means of understanding complicated personalities. Jung’s description of the evolution of the personality allows for applicability and coherence, while at the same time accomodating even the most maverick of non-conventional lives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Kerr, Natalie
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Bacon, Francis, 1909-1992 , Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9871 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1774 , Bacon, Francis, 1909-1992 , Psychology
- Description: The study consists of a psychobiography of the British artist, Francis Bacon (1909-1992). Psychobiography employs a qualitative approach to understanding the life story of an individual through the lens of psychological theory. It is typically dedicated to the lives of well-known or enigmatic people and covers the person’s entire lifespan. For this study the analytical theory of Carl Gustav Jung (1875-1961) is used to explore and describe Bacon’s life and personality through concepts relating to personality functioning, history, mythology, anthropology, symbology and religion. Francis Bacon has captured the imagination of the art world for many years - especially where it is felt that the figure-subject is still the highest form of art - and his reputation among the foremost of English painters is assured. Coupled with his artistic output is a life full of curiosity, eccentricity and controversy. This alone would qualify him as a suitable subject for a study such as this, but his extraordinary oeuvre of painting hugely adds to his attractiveness to the psychological researcher. To ensure an accurate description of Bacon’s life, extensive data is examined using Alexander’s (1988) model of identifying salient themes. The study considers the nature and methodology of psychobiography, the theories of Jung, the life of Francis Bacon and then sythesises relevant material in a psychological profile. The findings of this study indicate that Bacon’s intense, creative and unorthodox life of genius fully justifies the research and provides an example of how a theory that is flexible can be an appropriate means of understanding complicated personalities. Jung’s description of the evolution of the personality allows for applicability and coherence, while at the same time accomodating even the most maverick of non-conventional lives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Freedom of the press, or the infringement of the right to privacy?: media coverage of President Kgalema Motlanthe from October 2008 to April 2009 in three newspapers
- Authors: Gamlashe, Thembinkosi
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Freedom of the press , Privacy, Right of , Press law , Data protection -- Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8402 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1010118 , Freedom of the press , Privacy, Right of , Press law , Data protection -- Law and legislation
- Description: The researcher attempts to assess in which respect the privacy of former President Kgalema Motlanthe may have been invaded during his presidency, in view of journalistic ethics and press codes currently in effect. The study will explore media practices based on media freedom at the time of publication, and assess whether this freedom is understood to suggest the infringement of the right to privacy in the coverage of the private lives of politicians in the media. This study will therefore examine a sample of articles from the Sunday Times, City Press and Mail and Guardian, covering former President Kgalema Motlanthe’s public behaviour that related to his private life, assess which aspects of his demeanour became the subject of media coverage, and correlate such reporting trends with fluctuations in his political career. The researcher will focus on the period when Kgalema Motlanthe was at the helm as the Head of State – from October 2008 to April 2009, and consider particularly the trends in the sampled press reports regarding his private life. The study furthermore examines some of the legislative and normative changes that affected the media in South Africa after democratisation, to correlate the trends observed in the press coverage with legislation. This further serves to identify possible gray areas that arise from reporting on the freedom of the press and may lead to the invasion of privacy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Gamlashe, Thembinkosi
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Freedom of the press , Privacy, Right of , Press law , Data protection -- Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8402 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1010118 , Freedom of the press , Privacy, Right of , Press law , Data protection -- Law and legislation
- Description: The researcher attempts to assess in which respect the privacy of former President Kgalema Motlanthe may have been invaded during his presidency, in view of journalistic ethics and press codes currently in effect. The study will explore media practices based on media freedom at the time of publication, and assess whether this freedom is understood to suggest the infringement of the right to privacy in the coverage of the private lives of politicians in the media. This study will therefore examine a sample of articles from the Sunday Times, City Press and Mail and Guardian, covering former President Kgalema Motlanthe’s public behaviour that related to his private life, assess which aspects of his demeanour became the subject of media coverage, and correlate such reporting trends with fluctuations in his political career. The researcher will focus on the period when Kgalema Motlanthe was at the helm as the Head of State – from October 2008 to April 2009, and consider particularly the trends in the sampled press reports regarding his private life. The study furthermore examines some of the legislative and normative changes that affected the media in South Africa after democratisation, to correlate the trends observed in the press coverage with legislation. This further serves to identify possible gray areas that arise from reporting on the freedom of the press and may lead to the invasion of privacy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
From the grave to the cradle : the possibility of post-mortem gamete retrieval and reproduction in South Africa
- Authors: Kruuse, Helen
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:24533 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/36254 , http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/19962126.2012.11865059
- Description: The development of reproductive technologies in the last century, such as effective contraceptive methods, artificial insemination, pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, amongst others, has fundamentally reshaped traditional concepts of reproduction parenthood and has raised practical and ethical concerns. This article describes one such development, namely, post-mortem gamete retrieval (PMGR) for the purposes of posthumous reproduction. In exploring the particular concerns arising from this technology, I argue that South Africa lacks a coherent, considered approach to the issue. In considering models adopted in overseas jurisdictions, and the various bases for the legalisation of such a procedure, I adopt an interest theory of rights to argue for restricted access to such a technology in suitable circumstances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Kruuse, Helen
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:24533 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/36254 , http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/19962126.2012.11865059
- Description: The development of reproductive technologies in the last century, such as effective contraceptive methods, artificial insemination, pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, amongst others, has fundamentally reshaped traditional concepts of reproduction parenthood and has raised practical and ethical concerns. This article describes one such development, namely, post-mortem gamete retrieval (PMGR) for the purposes of posthumous reproduction. In exploring the particular concerns arising from this technology, I argue that South Africa lacks a coherent, considered approach to the issue. In considering models adopted in overseas jurisdictions, and the various bases for the legalisation of such a procedure, I adopt an interest theory of rights to argue for restricted access to such a technology in suitable circumstances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012