Stalking black swans, dragon kings, and market crashes on the JSE
- Authors: Zuka, Mawethu
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Johannesburg Stock Exchange -- Research Stock exchanges -- South Africa , Stocks -- South Africa -- Johannesburg Financial crises -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18376 , vital:28631
- Description: This paper examines bubbles on the JSE All Share Index as well as the critical time of the stock market crash from 2/01/ 2004 – 27/03/2014. The underlying hypothesis define bubbles as extreme and begin as a group of small events which grow in a super exponential form explained by a log periodic power law model (LPPL model). The hypothesis is based on the assumption of investors’ herding behavior, where investors collude by making investment decision correlated with their counterparties. The paper implements a Savitzky Golary Algorithm to detect peaks and calculate the critical time of the crash from the peaks. An Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) method is used to determine both the value of stock market price index at the critical time and the increase in the stock market price index over the time before the crash. The remaining parameters of the LPPL model are estimated using a Maximum Likelihood Estimation method. On the empirical results; 68 peaks were detected, and the LPPL model at the critical crash time is estimated 34736.586. Five bubbles are detected; the 15/8/2005 bubble, 28/5/2013 bubble, 23/8/2013 bubble, 5/11/2013, and 1/20/2014.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Comparison between Endothelin, Nitric Oxide and their Association to Blood Pressure and Body Composition in HIV Patients, in Mthatha
- Authors: Zono, Sinethemba
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/2909 , vital:43105
- Description: Background: Dysfunction of the vascular endothelium is an early finding in the progression of cardiovascular disease and is closely related to clinical events in patients with obesity and hypertension. Vascular function is mediated by nitric oxide (NO) and endothelin (ET-1) which serve as natural counterparts. The aim of the study was to determine the physiological effects of HIV infection, blood pressure and body composition on the changes of ET-1 and NO and association between ET-1 and NO. Methods and results: This was a descriptive and comparative study. A Quota sample method was used. The study population consisted of 154 participants categorized into the following groups: 57 HIV negative participants (A), 40 HIV positive not on treatment participants and 57 HIV positive on treatment participants. Enzyme immunoassay kit was used for the quantitative determination of ET-1 and Nitrate/nitrite colorimetric assay kit was used for the determination of NO. Anthropometric measurements, body composition were determined. Hemodynamic measurements were also taken into account. Results: Resting metabolism, waist circumference (WC) and hip circumference had low mean levels in both HIV positives groups compared to HIV negative group. On lipid profiles visceral fat (VF), whole fat (WF) had low mean levels but skeletal muscle fat (SMF) showed the highest mean levels in both HIV positive groups. All the blood pressures between HIV groups were on a normal range scale. Mean values of endothelin and nitric oxide are increased in HIV positive not on ART and HIV (+) on ART compared with the HIV negative group. Conclusion: NO, ET-1, ART and HIV itself were associated with the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction in persons with HIV infection. Elevated endothelial markers namely ET-1 and NO can lead to improvement of endothelium dependent relaxation to some extent but not completely. Although these markers have deleterious effect on the endothelium but can also serve as up-regulator of hypertension. Key words: HIV-infection, antiretroviral therapy, endothelial dysfunction, Endothelin1 (ET-1), nitric oxide (NO), blood pressures (BPs). , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2015
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- Date Issued: 2015
Nonlinear optical properties of natural laccaic acid dye studied using Z-scan technique
- Authors: Zongo, S , Sanusi, Kayode , Britton, Jonathan , Mthunzi, P , Nyokong, Tebello , Maaza, M , Sahraoui, B
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:7261 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020270
- Description: We have investigated the nonlinear optical properties, including the optical limiting behaviour for five different concentrations of laccaic acid dye in solution and a thin film obtained through doping in poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) polymer. The experiments were performed by using single beam Z-scan technique at 532 nm with 10 ns, 10 Hz Nd:YAG laser pulses excitation. From the open-aperture Z-scan data, we derived that the laccaic dye samples exhibit strong two photon absorption (2PA). The nonlinear refractive index was determined through the closed aperture Z-scan data. The estimated absorption coefficient β2, nonlinear refractive index n2 and second order hyperpolarizability γ were found to be of the order of 10−10 m/W, 10−9 esu and 10−32 esu, respectively. The Z-scan study reveals that the natural laccaic acid dye emerges as a promising material for third order nonlinear optical devices application. , Original publication is available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.optmat.2015.04.031
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- Date Issued: 2015
Neurocognitive effects of head and body collisions on club level rugby union players
- Authors: Zoccola, Diana
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Head -- Wounds and injuries -- Psychology , Neuropsychological tests , Head -- Wounds and injuries , Sports injuries -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:3257 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016397
- Description: The objective of the study was to investigate the cumulative neurocognitive effects of repetitive concussive and subconcussive events in club level Rugby Union (hereafter rugby) during the course of one rugby season, in a combined group and individualized case-based approach. Amateur adult club level rugby players (n = 20) were compared with a non-contact control group (n = 22) of equivalent age, years of education and estimated IQ (p = > .05, in all instances), although the two groups were clearly differentiated on the basis of a history of reported concussions (p = < .05). Video analyses documented the tackling maneuvers observed amongst the players during all matches across the rugby season revealing a sobering average of more than a thousand tackles per player, excluding any contact practice sessions. Five rugby players (n = 5) who were observed to have a head jarring event were also isolated for individualized postconcussive follow-up analysis of their neurocognitive profiles. Measures included the ImPACT Verbal and Visual Memory, Visual Motor Speed and Reaction Time composites and the Purdue Pegboard. Independent and dependent statistical analyses were employed to compare the rugby versus control group neurocognitive test profiles at and between the three test intervals. Correlational analyses explored the association between concussion, tackling and neurocognitive test outcomes. Descriptive comparisons of individual neurocognitive test scores with normative data were employed for the case analyses. Taken together, the results implicated vulnerability amongst club rugby players on the motor and speeded tasks, with less robust indications on the memory tasks. While limited in terms of its small sample size, it is considered that the outcome of the study was rendered more robust by virtue of being methodologically multifaceted with heuristic implications for future research studies in the area. The novel inclusion of tackling data as well as fine-tuned case analyses, were of particular relevance in that regard. The results add to a growing body of literature that implicates deleterious neurocognitive effects in participants of a sport such as rugby due to repetitive head jarring incidents that are intrinsic to the game.
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- Date Issued: 2015
An analysis of "self-determination" in international law : the case of South Sudan
- Authors: Zimuto, Prince Charles
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Self-determination, National Decolonization -- South Sudan Sudan -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5697 , vital:29364
- Description: This research intends to investigate the scope and applicability of the concept of ‘self-determination’ outside the context of decolonisation using South Sudan as a case study. Demands for the exercise of the right to self-determination are widespread. These are vehemently resisted by states who view the concept of ‘self-determination’ as a potential source of territorial disintegration. International instruments which provide for the right to self-determination also discourage the impairment of the territorial integrity of states in the name of self-determination. The problem faced in international law is therefore how to balance the right to self-determination with the principle of territorial integrity. The study reveals that the general understanding is that outside the context of decolonisation the right to self-determination may be exercised within the territorial boundaries of a state without compromising the territorial integrity of a state. The internal exercise of the right to self-determination entails human rights protection, participation in the political affairs of the state and autonomy arrangements. This general understanding is however problematic where a state systemically violates the rights of its people and denies them political participation in the affairs of the state. The people of South Sudan found themselves in such a situation from the time when Sudan gained independence from British colonial rule. Despite a number of negotiations with the government of Sudan, the people of South Sudan continued to be marginalised and their rights violated with impunity. They then demanded to exercise their right to self-determination externally and eventually they seceded from Sudan through the framework created by the Comprehensive Peace Agreement of 2005. In the light of the secession of South Sudan from Sudan this study proposes a remedial self-determination approach to the understanding of post-colonial self-determination. In terms of this approach when people are denied the right to exercise their right to self-determination internally, or their rights are deliberately and systemically violated, they may exercise their right to self-determination externally and secede.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Using the larval parasitoid, Agathis bishopi (Nixon) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), for early detection of false codling moth, Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) infested fruit
- Authors: Zimba, Kennedy Josaya
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Cryptophlebia leucotreta , Citrus -- Diseases and pests -- South Africa , Pests -- Biological control -- South Africa , Cryptophlebia leucotreta -- Detection , Parasitoids -- Hosts , Braconidae
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5919 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017186
- Description: Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is one of the major citrus pests of economic importance for South Africa’s citrus industry. It is endemic to Africa, and therefore a phytosanitary pest with zero tolerance by most export markets. The cryptic nature of T. leucotreta makes visual inspection an inefficient method for detecting neonate larvae in fruit in the packhouse. Therefore, a more accurate method for sorting infested fruit at the packhouse, particularly for newly infested fruit could ensure market access. A recent study showed that fruit infested by T. leucotreta emit a chemical profile different from that of a healthy fruit. Several studies provide evidence that parasitoids locate their hosts feeding on fruit by exploiting the novel chemical profiles produced due to host herbivory. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of using the naturally occurring behaviour of a larval parasitoid Agathis bishopi (Nixon) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) for detection of T. leucotreta infested fruit, by determining which compound in infested fruit is attractive to parasitoids. Ytube olfactometer and flight-tunnel bioassays with healthy and T. leucotreta infested fruit showed a significantly stronger response of A. bishopi female parasitoids to infested fruit. Among the volatile compounds associated with T. leucotreta infested fruit, D-limonene elicited the strongest attraction to A. bishopi female parasitoids. Attraction of mated A. bishopi female parasitoids to T. leucotreta infested fruit and D-limonene significantly increased after oviposition experience. Behavioural responses of A. bishopi female parasitoids that were associated with T. leucotreta infested fruit were investigated to determine which behaviours are distinct and interpretable. Probing and oviposition behaviours were the most noticeable and were only elicited on infested fruit when parasitoids contacted T. leucotreta frass, indicating that chemical compounds in frass are short-range cues used for final host location. Since production of D-limonene by fruit is elevated due to herbivory by different pests including mechanical injury on fruit, response of A. bishopi female parasitoids to compounds in frass offers a more specific and potentially useful mechanism for development of a detection system for T. leucotreta infested fruit. Chemical analysis of T. leucotreta frass and conditioning A. bishopi parasitoids to respond behaviourally to compounds in frass is proposed.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Agathis bishopi, a larval parasitoid of false codling moth Thaumatotibia leucotreta: laboratory rearing and effect of adult food on parasitism and longevity
- Authors: Zimba, Kennedy J , Moore, Sean D , Heshula, LU , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/406985 , vital:70328 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC185849"
- Description: Agathis bishopi (Nixon) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is a koinobiont larval endoparasitoid of false codling moth (FCM), Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), a pest of economic importance on citrus in South Africa. In the field Agathis bishopi was found to parasitise up to 34 % of FCM larvae in fruit, reflecting reasonable biocontrol potential. Improving the rearing of A. bishopi would therefore complement the existing biocontrol strategies for FCM. In several parasitic wasps, sugar concentration and feeding duration has been shown to influence parasitism and longevity. However, their effect on parasitism and longevity of A. bishopi is unknown. In the present study a rearing protocol for A. bishopi is described, including evaluation of the effects of honey concentration on parasitoid longevity. On average, 18.2%of FCM larvae in rearing containers were parasitised under the rearing protocol described. Cotton wool, instead of paper towelling, as honey carrier for feeding parasitoids in rearing containers significantly increased parasitism and yield of offspring. Furthermore, longevity significantly increased with higher concentrations of honey. Maximum lifespan duration for male and female parasitoids was achieved when parasitoids were fed on 36 % (w/v) honey. Results from this study indicate that A. bishopi requires a sufficient concentration of sugar, coupled with frequent and prolonged feeding on a cotton wool substrate, in order to achieve maximum parasitism and longevity. Such information provides a basis for optimising mass-rearing and longevity of A. bishopi and parasitism of FCM in orchards.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Host searching and oviposition behaviour of Agathis bishopi (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a larval parasitoid of false codling moth, Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae): a potential proxy indicator for fruit infestation
- Authors: Zimba, Kennedy J , Heshula, LU , Moore, Sean D , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/407019 , vital:70330 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC195073"
- Description: Agathis bishopi (Nixon) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)is an arrhenotokous larval endoparasitoid of Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) (Gendall 2007; Hofmeyr et al. 2015) commonly known as false codling moth (FCM), a major pest of citrus in South Africa (Moore et al. 2004; Malan et al. 2011). Under field conditions, A. bishopi was identified attacking more than 34% of FCM larvae in fruit, showing good biocontrol potential (Gendall 2007). Preference by A. bishopi for parasitising the early instars of its concealed host suggests that the parasitoid has strong natural host location ability (Sishuba 2003; Gendall 2007).
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- Date Issued: 2015
Agathis bishopi (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) as a potential tool for detecting oranges infested with Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)
- Authors: Zimba, Kennedy J , Hill, Martin P , Moore, Sean D , Heshula, Unathi
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/423955 , vital:72108 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10905-015-9526-0"
- Description: In South Africa, Thaumatotibia leucotreta is a key pest of citrus impacting its production and trade. Detection of newly infested fruit by visual inspection is challenging and poses a risk of packing infested with healthy fruit for export. Agathis bishopi is a larval endoparasitoid of T. leucotreta, attacking early larval instars. Understanding how A. bishopi parasitoids locate fruit infested with their host is of interest for developing an efficient detector for T. leucotreta infested fruit. The response of female adult A. bishopi parasitoids to olfactory and visual cues associated with T. leucotreta infested fruit were evaluated using a Y-tube olfactometer and flight tunnel. Agathis bishopi parasitoids were strongly attracted to infested fruit over healthy fruit, either when only olfactory or combinations of visual and olfactory cues were offered. Among the four synthetic compounds tested, D-limonene and ocimene elicited a strong attraction to parasitoids with response rates of 92 % and 72 % respectively. A blend of four synthetic compounds simulating T. leucotreta infested fruit odour equally elicited strong attraction to parasitoids (84 % response rate). Attraction of parasitoids to infested fruit cues was heightened by prior experience, suggesting the occurrence of associative learning. Results from this study indicate that A. bishopi parasitoids mainly rely on olfactory cues in host habitat location and that D-limonene and ocimene are the major attractants in infested fruit volatiles. These findings and the potential for manipulating A. bishopi for detection of infested fruit in the packhouse are discussed.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Meso-and axially-modified IrIIItriarylcorroles with tunable electrocatalytic properties
- Authors: Zhang, Xifeng , Wang, Yu , Zhu, Weihua , Mack, John , Soy, Rodah C , Nyokong, Tebello , Liang, Xu
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190851 , vital:45034 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molstruc.2015.02.040"
- Description: The synthesis of three A2B type Ir(III)triarylcorroles with meso-aryl substituents that provide electron donating (push) and withdrawing (pull) properties and three A3 type IrIIItriphenylcorroles with differing pyridine axial ligands is reported, along with their structural characterization. An analysis of the structure-property relationships in the optical and redox properties has been carried out by comparing their optical spectroscopy and electrochemistry to trends predicted in DFT and TD-DFT calculations. The results demonstrate that A2B type IrIIItriarylcorroles are highly efficient electrocatalyzed oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) and that their reactivity can be modulated by modulating the electronic structure by changing the nature of the meso-substituent at the B-positions, and even axial pyridine ligands.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Investigating the radical democratic potential of social media use by new social movements in South Africa
- Authors: Zdanow, Carla
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Social media -- South Africa , Social movements -- South Africa , Neoliberalism -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4310 , vital:20583
- Description: Since its inception, the internet ‒ and in particular Web 2.0 ‒ have been valorized as potentially revolutionary democratic spaces. Despite the emergence of concerns over the progressively neoliberal orientation and narcissistic effects of the internet, evidence of the radical democratic potential of this media has received considerable attention. This thesis is orientated around both an exploration of such evidence, and a consideration of its relevance for South Africa. In this regard, the thesis commences with an exploration of the neoliberal underpinnings of the internet and the growing translation of dominant neoliberal discourses into the online practices of mainstream liberal democratic politics. Focus then shifts toward the mounting influence of alternative radical democratic positions online, through an investigation of the virtual manifestations of deliberative, autonomous, and agonistic approaches to radical democracy. And following an examination of the online political practices of selected recent global social movements, the primacy of agonism in online expressions of radical democracy is advanced. In turn, resonances and dissonances between the online activity and practices of such global social movements, and the use of the internet and social media by well-known South African new social movements, are explored. Finally, this thesis concludes by recommending a fourfold new media approach through which the agonistic radical democratic potential of the internet can be realized more fully by the new social movements of South Africa.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Factors affecting participation rates in farming in the rural areas of South Africa: case of Amathole District Municipality
- Authors: Zamxaka, Xolisa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Agricultural systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11233 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021291 , Agricultural systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: South Africa and the rest of developing countries are faced with poverty and poor rural development. Rural participation in agricultural activities is one of the components that can be used to address the poverty challenge facing the people residing in rural areas. The broad objective of this research is to determine factors affecting participation rate in farming in the rural areas of Amathole District Municipality of Eastern Cape. In this study stratified random sampling method was applied in order to choose a sample out of 30 households that were interviewed 13 people belonged to Participants and 17 people belonged to non-Participants. The results from this study show that women participate a lot in farming activities. The multiple regression model was used to test the participation rates of the people in Amathole region specifically Phumlani area. A number of variables were considered in this study to assess the impact of different variables on participation in farming activities. The results showed that about 57% of the respondents are not participating in farming while 43% of the respondents participate. The farming participants that were interviewed all claim that there is a lack in farming support in the area. When there is no support of any kind, rural people would not be motivated to start development projects on their own. Consequently, this lack of farming support in the Phumlani area may have an influence on the number of farming participants. Therefore, the lack of support in the area may serve as a motivation for non-participants not to be influenced to farm. Rural farming needs to be promoted amongst the youth so as to protect and sustain agricultural growth in rural areas. The study has discovered that the youth of Phumlani is not actively involved in farming activities. Government can provide community members with farming resources so as to promote farming in the area. It would be wiser for the government to provide physical farming resources and implements rather than cash grants.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Incorporating socio-economic development initiatives for community development as part of wind farm management in Cookhouse
- Authors: Zambonini, Scott John
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Economic development Wind power -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Wind power plants -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50044 , vital:41995
- Description: The purpose of this case study research was to develop a model for management of the Cookhouse Wind Farm incorporating relevant socio-economic development initiatives for community development in the Cookhouse area. As a result of the REIPPPP’s socio-economic development requirements and the multiple project overlaps of the 50km radius for the beneficiaries of wind farms, management of the Cookhouse Wind Farm face the problem of using the funding to benefit the communities in a sustainable manner. The research started with a structured literature review, followed by a qualitative case study research design using embedded units of analysis and provided a useful insight into socio-economic development in the South African wind power industry. The outcome of the study was in the form of a sustainable socio-economic development model for Cookhouse wind farm management, which highlighted the following four key focus areas: Education, Welfare, Infrastructure and Health. The study concluded with practical recommendations for relevant and sustainable socioeconomic development projects under the four key focus areas. Since the completion of the study two additional renewable energy projects have been approved (Nxuba and Golden Valley) in the same area as Cookhouse which serve to further strengthen the studies purpose.
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- Date Issued: 2015
IsiXhosa storytelling (iintsomi) as an alternative medium for maternal health education in primary healthcare in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Zakaza, Nompucuko
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Communication in community health services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communication in reproductive health -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Storytelling in education , Applied folklore
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3648 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017188
- Description: The aim of this study is to explore the introduction of IsiXhosa (iintsomi) as an alternative method in the maternal health education in rural Primary Health Care in the Eastern Cape. An informal preliminary observation of a maternal health lesson by the researcher indicated a further need for maternal health educators to introduce storytelling into the health content themes. To re-inforce the maternal health educator lesson on the causes of teenage pregnancy, lifestyles for pregnant women, causes of miscarriage and termination of pregnancy, the Community Health Workers can undoubtedly use isiXhosa iintsomi in selected clinics and maternal waiting homes. As a readily available resource that cuts across all literacy barriers, iintsomi (isiXhosa) fosters a cross-cultural consultation which enables the healthcare worker to convey messages that make sense to the rural women. While the conventional methods of teaching have a tendency to create tension and lack of participation, use of folktale (iintsomi) have huge potential to bring lesson enjoyment; a meaningful interaction and story sharing by the maternal health educator, the pregnant women and greater community; access to important health messages; and strengthened utilisation of Primary Health Care. The study therefore suggests that there is a place for isiXhosa iintsomi: From the Fireplace into the Workplace.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Exploring patterns of Facebook usage, social capital, loneliness and well-being among a diverse South African student sample:
- Authors: Young, Charles , Strelitz, Larry N
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/143705 , vital:38275 , https://ischp.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/ischp_2015_abstract_booklet.pdf
- Description: There has been much debate over whether the use of social network sites isolate people and truncate their relationships or alternatively, provide beneficial connections with others. This debate has been framed by a growing international literature which explores the triadic relationship between the intensity of use of Facebook to the maintenance of social capital and in turn the relationship between social capital and wellbeing and loneliness. A random list of 1168 Rhodes University students was drawn from the total student body and invited to participate in an online survey. In total, 491 students completed the survey (42% response rate). Hierarchical regression analyses demonstrate that intensity of Facebook usage adds a very small contribution to social capital, is very weakly associated with loneliness, and is not associated with wellbeing. Results contrast with international studies that fail to recognise the extent to which race and class cleavages impact on access to and use of social media.
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- Date Issued: 2015
The health and injury risks faced by emergency medical workers in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Yeki, Zandisile Rupert
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Emergency medical personnel -- Safety measures , Industrial safety -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4561 , vital:20617
- Description: This study investigated the health and injury risks faced by emergency medical workers in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality. The aim of the study was to establish the emergency worker`s awareness, level of knowledge and attitude to practices of health and safety issues. The study sample consisted of eighty (80) emergency medical workers stationed in Port Elizabeth and Uitenhage. A self- administered questionnaire was developed and used in an empirical survey to collect data from the respondents on information such as health and safety knowledge, behavior, experiences, attitudes, beliefs and opinions in their workplace. The results of the study indicated that 90% of the workers experienced all occupational hazards identified in the questionnaire. Percutaneous injuries were found to be at 48%, PTSD was rated at 40% due to horrific accidents and incidents complicated by violent threats and armed robberies with emergency workers being victims. Musculoskeletal injuries were found to be very common. Ordinary stress was caused by dissatisfaction over human resources issues and structural changes by the management internally. The findings revealed that some workers took incapacity leave for long periods, sometimes more than three years at a time. The emergency workers are at high risk of being infected by ordinary TB or the more complex type, the DR-TB in their line of duty. The study revealed that there were no health and safety structures in the institution; as a result there was no formal documenting and identification of hazards in order to implement measures to protect the workers from future incidences. Health related absenteeism was high when employees were exposed to such hazards and replacement of skill was not implemented. The main recommendations included wearing of personal protective equipment, safe disposal of sharps objects, guidelines for lifting objects, introduction of organizational safety culture and safe transportation of PTB patients.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Enhancing public participation in the integrated development planning process: a case of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Yekani, Babalo
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Public administration -- Planning , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8989 , vital:26453
- Description: The aim of the study is to investigate effective strategies and processes for public participation in the IDP process in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. A qualitative study was undertaken and literature review on public participation in terms of the Integrated Development Planning was conducted. Relevant secondary data was sourced and structured interviews were conducted with three (3) ward councillors in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipal. Focus group interviews were also conducted with ward committee members from three (3) wards in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The findings of this research indicate that ward councilors have limited information on administrative processes. This could lead to ward councillors not be able to provide feedback on various service delivery issues and the progress of the municipal projects. Also ward councillors may not be able to influence public participation if they do not understand their role in administrative processes such as monitoring implementation of council decisions and policies. Ward councillors have no influence on the Integrated Development Planning especially the cost and budget estimates for municipal projects which are intended to benefit the members of the community. On the basis of the key findings, recommendations were made that ward committees should be empowered to deal with the complex developments in the Integrated Development Planning process and ward councillors should play a leading role in the Integrated Development Planning process.
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- Date Issued: 2015
The role of child support grants in poverty alleviation in rural communities
- Authors: Yapi, Kanyisa
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Child welfare -- South Africa , Child support -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7710 , vital:23396
- Description: This study seeks to investigate the challenges faced by the recipients of the child support grant, with special reference to Morgan Bay, a rural area under the aegis of the Amathole District Municipality in East London. The child support grant is a strategy that was introduced to alleviate poverty in previously disadvantaged communities. The child support grant replaced the state maintenance grant. South Africa has high levels of unemployment; and this situation is considered to be a major contributing factor to poverty. After the apartheid era, the African National Congress (ANC) led government introduced a litany of redistributive policy frameworks aimed at reversing the imbalances of the past created by the apartheid government. The child support grant, which was established during the year 1998, is viewed as one of the strategies introduced by the South African government aimed at alleviating poverty caused by the lack of jobs. The aim of the study is to assess the implementation of the child support grant impact as a developmental strategy in rural communities, such as Morgan Bay. The study seeks to determine how the child support grant redistribution has affected rural communities. In other words, the research seeks to determine whether the child support grant redistribution has affected rural communities positively or negatively, and to ascertain whether it has mitigated the impact of socio-economic challenges in rural communities. The study also seeks to explore other strategies, which could be implemented to supplement the child support grant, and possibly decrease the level of dependence on the child support grant – by having a back-up strategy for alleviating poverty.
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- Date Issued: 2015
Synthesis and characterization of Ru(II) phenyl-3-indenylidene olefin metathesis type complexes
- Authors: Yalezo, Ntsikelelo
- Date: 2015
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11351 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021128
- Description: In this study, a series of Ru(II) phenyl-3-indenylidene complexes with general formula of [RuCl2(NHC)(Ind)(L)] (where L= triphenylphosphine, pyridine and NHC = five different types of N-heterocyclic carbene ligands), have been synthesized and characterized using FT-IR, UV-Vis, elementally analysis and melting/decomposition point. The N,N’-diarylimidazolinium chlorides have been used as N-heterocyclic carbene precursors and were synthesized from their corresponding N,N’-diarylformamidines and further characterized using 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, FTIR and melting point determination. The infrared spectra of the N,N’-diarylimidazolinium chlorides show a quaternary nature (R2N=C+) with broad vibration band in region 3300-3400 cm-1. The disappearance of this vibration band in the infrared spectra of the ruthenium(II) complexes was used to confirm the coordination of the ligand to the ruthenium ions. The percentage analysis of carbon, hydrogen and nitrogen obtained corresponded with the calculated percentages of these atoms in the complexes with the slight difference of less than 1%. The electronic spectra of the complexes show three distinct absorption bands. The two bands are due to intraligand charge transfers transition assigned to π→π*, n→π* and third band is due to d-d transition, signifying the presence of the metal ion. The synthesized Ru(II) complexes did not show any of melting, however a change in colour was observed signifying the decomposition of the complexes.
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- Date Issued: 2015
An assessment of the municipal infrastructure and systems and their implications on the small town revitalisation strategy at Engcobo Local Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Xuba, Zibele
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2888 , vital:28121
- Description: This study was conducted at Engcobo Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province to assess the role of municipal structures and systems in the implementation of small town revitalisation strategy. From onset, it highlights that numerous attempts to implement small town revitalisation have failed because of lack of institutional capacity. In addressing this problem, the study outlined the following objectives. To assess role played by municipal structures and systems on implementation of small town revitalisation. To identify institutional challenges experienced during implementation of small town revitalisation strategy. To propose alternative institutional measures that can lead to effective implementation of small town revitalisation. In achieving the study’s objectives; literature from both developed and developing countries was reviewed and it was learnt that institutional capacity is important for efficient implementation of the strategy. Systems theory was also reviewed so as to provide conceptual basis that underpins this study. Data was collected through primary methods and secondary sources. Research participants were chosen by random sampling from councillors, managers, business and traditional leaders. Research findings revealed that there were institutional problems which hinder implementation of the strategy such as lack of competent human resources, insufficient budget and shortages of machinery. Through analysis of findings, the research proposed that small town revitalisation strategy should be reformulated and role of municipal structures be clearly defined. Both councillors and officials should be capacitated. The study further recommended that local people and stakeholders should be involved in the conception and implementation of small town revitalisation strategy. Areas for further research were proposed at the end.
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- Date Issued: 2015