A framework for the integration of mobile technology into adventure sport for the purpose of increasing participant safety
- Authors: Mills, Craig John
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems , Health promotion -- Technological innovations Sports -- Technological innovations Cell phones -- Health aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32099 , vital:31958
- Description: The sporting industry has seen incredible advancements with the use of information technology. Technology is used in the sporting industry for training, coaching and even as a deciding factor of a game result. There are certain sports which require individuals to venture into isolated environments, these sports have been termed adventure or extreme sports. Due to the extreme environmental factors that can occur with adventure sport, it is possible for an individual to experience an emergency situation. Emergency situations can occur at any time, and this is especially true in adventure sport. Adventure sport such as ocean and river kayaking require individuals to venture into isolated environments, where if an emergency situation occurs could result in an individual left stranded waiting for emergency rescue. Adventure sport participants and Event Organizers are aware of the dangers associated with this type of adventure sport, but there is currently no requirement to have a mobile technology device present during kayaking events. The main purpose of this dissertation was to evaluate the current use of mobile technology in adventure sport in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. To accomplish this two literature reviews were conducted which identi_ed information on the two main themes which are adventure sport and mobile technology. To produce information from the ocean and river kayaking community an online questionnaire was distributed to several kayaking clubs in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. This dissertation also presents a framework that proposes the use of mobile technology hardware and software by participants and event organisers in an attempt to increase the safety of events in this form of adventure sport. It is hoped that the framework for using mobile technology to increase the safety of adventure sport proposed in this research, may provide clear guidance for the achievement of a safer sporting experience for the participants of ocean and river kayaking.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mills, Craig John
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems , Health promotion -- Technological innovations Sports -- Technological innovations Cell phones -- Health aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32099 , vital:31958
- Description: The sporting industry has seen incredible advancements with the use of information technology. Technology is used in the sporting industry for training, coaching and even as a deciding factor of a game result. There are certain sports which require individuals to venture into isolated environments, these sports have been termed adventure or extreme sports. Due to the extreme environmental factors that can occur with adventure sport, it is possible for an individual to experience an emergency situation. Emergency situations can occur at any time, and this is especially true in adventure sport. Adventure sport such as ocean and river kayaking require individuals to venture into isolated environments, where if an emergency situation occurs could result in an individual left stranded waiting for emergency rescue. Adventure sport participants and Event Organizers are aware of the dangers associated with this type of adventure sport, but there is currently no requirement to have a mobile technology device present during kayaking events. The main purpose of this dissertation was to evaluate the current use of mobile technology in adventure sport in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. To accomplish this two literature reviews were conducted which identi_ed information on the two main themes which are adventure sport and mobile technology. To produce information from the ocean and river kayaking community an online questionnaire was distributed to several kayaking clubs in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. This dissertation also presents a framework that proposes the use of mobile technology hardware and software by participants and event organisers in an attempt to increase the safety of events in this form of adventure sport. It is hoped that the framework for using mobile technology to increase the safety of adventure sport proposed in this research, may provide clear guidance for the achievement of a safer sporting experience for the participants of ocean and river kayaking.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A framework to address the shortage of registered nurses in South Africa in alignment with the national health insurance requirement
- Authors: Venturini, Ronwyn
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Nursing -- South Africa , Nursing -- Manpower -- South Africa Nursing services -- South Africa -- Administration Skilled labor -- South Africa Labor supply -- South Africa Manpower planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36782 , vital:34054
- Description: In South Africa, there is a dire need for good quality healthcare in the public and private sectors. To achieve the aforementioned, the shortage of medical personnel is of utmost concern and the ability to retain these qualified individuals an even greater dilemma. The Department of Health in South Africa has embarked on a National Health Insurance model they want to introduce similar to the first world countries such as the British and American systems whereby medical insurance is free for all and not a single citizen is left unattended in their time of need. The primary purpose of this study was to identify a framework that will enable the South African government to implement a successful National Health Insurance system. Key theoretical factors (remuneration and rewards, work climate, stress, job satisfaction, recognition and bedside nursing) were investigated to ascertain what the key contributors are regarding the shortage of registered nurses. The identification of pertinent factors will promote the retention of nurses, which represent the population of this study. A questionnaire was designed by the researcher to collect the data from the sample, which consisted of 99 registered nurses in both public and the private sectors in South Africa across the provinces namely Gauteng, Eastern Cape, Western Cape Kwa-Zulu Natal, Free State, Limpopo and North West. The data collection process included electronic and hard copies of the questionnaires that were administered using the self-selected sampling and snowball non-probability sampling strategies. Descriptive statistics were conducted on the empirical data collected; and inferential statistics in the form of multiple regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses formulated. The study found that recognition is the only contributor that is directly related to the shortage of registered nurses. The framework established should assist policy makers and government to understand the contributing factors exacerbating the shortage of registered nurses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Venturini, Ronwyn
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Nursing -- South Africa , Nursing -- Manpower -- South Africa Nursing services -- South Africa -- Administration Skilled labor -- South Africa Labor supply -- South Africa Manpower planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36782 , vital:34054
- Description: In South Africa, there is a dire need for good quality healthcare in the public and private sectors. To achieve the aforementioned, the shortage of medical personnel is of utmost concern and the ability to retain these qualified individuals an even greater dilemma. The Department of Health in South Africa has embarked on a National Health Insurance model they want to introduce similar to the first world countries such as the British and American systems whereby medical insurance is free for all and not a single citizen is left unattended in their time of need. The primary purpose of this study was to identify a framework that will enable the South African government to implement a successful National Health Insurance system. Key theoretical factors (remuneration and rewards, work climate, stress, job satisfaction, recognition and bedside nursing) were investigated to ascertain what the key contributors are regarding the shortage of registered nurses. The identification of pertinent factors will promote the retention of nurses, which represent the population of this study. A questionnaire was designed by the researcher to collect the data from the sample, which consisted of 99 registered nurses in both public and the private sectors in South Africa across the provinces namely Gauteng, Eastern Cape, Western Cape Kwa-Zulu Natal, Free State, Limpopo and North West. The data collection process included electronic and hard copies of the questionnaires that were administered using the self-selected sampling and snowball non-probability sampling strategies. Descriptive statistics were conducted on the empirical data collected; and inferential statistics in the form of multiple regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses formulated. The study found that recognition is the only contributor that is directly related to the shortage of registered nurses. The framework established should assist policy makers and government to understand the contributing factors exacerbating the shortage of registered nurses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A framework to enhance the appreciation and motivation of employees in an automotive factory
- Authors: Parsons, Paul Benjamin
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employee motivation , Work ethic Incentive awards Employees|xRating of Motor vehicle industry -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23059 , vital:30402
- Description: Manufacturing in South Africa is constantly under pressure to produce more for less, and the automotive industry is no exception. Well known initiatives like “just-in-time” (JIT) manufacturing; “flexible manufacturing systems” (FMS); and “lean manufacturing”, are some of the strategies that manufacturing adopted to increase productivity. Due to the comparative extremely high capital investments that need to be spent before a single unit is built, manufacturing can only be competitive by exploring economics of scale; in doing this, manufacturers recoup capital outflow and start showing profit. Should this require that an employee be treated in the same way: used as an input into the production process? Human capital theory has been around for many decades, proclaiming that employees are more than just labourers. Gone are the days when work was an exchange between labour and money. Both parties demand more from each other. Employers want more commitment, efficiency and flexibility; employees, on the other hand, want more autonomy, purpose and appreciation. Employees are a company‟s biggest assets if treated and motivated correctly. Employee motivation is not a new concept – theorists and likeminded people have tried to dissect and understand the topic over millennia. It seems, however, that whenever a theory is formulated people‟s perception changes (almost like trying to hit a moving target). Some theorists claim that a totally new rule set is required to motivate employees in the information age. The bottom line seems to be that in order for companies to gain advantage from human capital, the area-specific motivational environment needs to be understood. Only when this is accomplished, can policies and incentives be aligned, resulting in a more committed, efficient and flexible employee. It is therefore imperative for an employer to understand both what motivates his or her employees, and what these employees recognise as appreciation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Parsons, Paul Benjamin
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employee motivation , Work ethic Incentive awards Employees|xRating of Motor vehicle industry -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23059 , vital:30402
- Description: Manufacturing in South Africa is constantly under pressure to produce more for less, and the automotive industry is no exception. Well known initiatives like “just-in-time” (JIT) manufacturing; “flexible manufacturing systems” (FMS); and “lean manufacturing”, are some of the strategies that manufacturing adopted to increase productivity. Due to the comparative extremely high capital investments that need to be spent before a single unit is built, manufacturing can only be competitive by exploring economics of scale; in doing this, manufacturers recoup capital outflow and start showing profit. Should this require that an employee be treated in the same way: used as an input into the production process? Human capital theory has been around for many decades, proclaiming that employees are more than just labourers. Gone are the days when work was an exchange between labour and money. Both parties demand more from each other. Employers want more commitment, efficiency and flexibility; employees, on the other hand, want more autonomy, purpose and appreciation. Employees are a company‟s biggest assets if treated and motivated correctly. Employee motivation is not a new concept – theorists and likeminded people have tried to dissect and understand the topic over millennia. It seems, however, that whenever a theory is formulated people‟s perception changes (almost like trying to hit a moving target). Some theorists claim that a totally new rule set is required to motivate employees in the information age. The bottom line seems to be that in order for companies to gain advantage from human capital, the area-specific motivational environment needs to be understood. Only when this is accomplished, can policies and incentives be aligned, resulting in a more committed, efficient and flexible employee. It is therefore imperative for an employer to understand both what motivates his or her employees, and what these employees recognise as appreciation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A gender based analysis of the Amalima Programme in empowering married women within households in rural Gwanda, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Sibanda, Patience
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations Zimbabwe Matabeleland South Province , Power (Social sciences) Zimbabwe Matabeleland South Province , Women Zimbabwe Social conditions , Women's rights Zimbabwe , Patriarchy Zimbabwe Matabeleland South Province
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63682 , vital:28470
- Description: Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) have occupied a prominent role in the socio-economic development of rural areas of Zimbabwe since the time of the country’s independence in 1980, including a focus on improving the conditions and status of women in communal areas. These NGOs adopt a participatory methodology in their development programmes and projects, as they try to ensure that the active participation of women in rural development facilitates women’s access to resources and the realisation of their rights. These initiatives are important given the pronounced system of patriarchy which exists in communal areas. In the context of local patriarchies, NGOs also often claim that they empower women. This thesis focuses on the work of one particular NGO programme, namely the Amalima programme, with a particular focus on three wards in the communal areas in Gwanda, Zimbabwe. From a gendered perspective concerned with questions of women’s empowerment, the main objective of the thesis is to provide a critical analysis of the Amalima programme with particular reference to married women in Gwanda. Based on original fieldwork (including interviews with men, women and NGO practitioners), the thesis concludes that the outcomes of the Amalima programme in empowering married women in Gwanda are uneven and that, overall, the local system of patriarchy (including at household level) remains largely intact.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sibanda, Patience
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations Zimbabwe Matabeleland South Province , Power (Social sciences) Zimbabwe Matabeleland South Province , Women Zimbabwe Social conditions , Women's rights Zimbabwe , Patriarchy Zimbabwe Matabeleland South Province
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63682 , vital:28470
- Description: Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) have occupied a prominent role in the socio-economic development of rural areas of Zimbabwe since the time of the country’s independence in 1980, including a focus on improving the conditions and status of women in communal areas. These NGOs adopt a participatory methodology in their development programmes and projects, as they try to ensure that the active participation of women in rural development facilitates women’s access to resources and the realisation of their rights. These initiatives are important given the pronounced system of patriarchy which exists in communal areas. In the context of local patriarchies, NGOs also often claim that they empower women. This thesis focuses on the work of one particular NGO programme, namely the Amalima programme, with a particular focus on three wards in the communal areas in Gwanda, Zimbabwe. From a gendered perspective concerned with questions of women’s empowerment, the main objective of the thesis is to provide a critical analysis of the Amalima programme with particular reference to married women in Gwanda. Based on original fieldwork (including interviews with men, women and NGO practitioners), the thesis concludes that the outcomes of the Amalima programme in empowering married women in Gwanda are uneven and that, overall, the local system of patriarchy (including at household level) remains largely intact.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A gold–chitosan composite with low symmetry zinc phthalocyanine for enhanced singlet oxygen generation and improved photodynamic therapy activity
- Dube, Edith, Oluwole, David O, Prinsloo, Earl, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Dube, Edith , Oluwole, David O , Prinsloo, Earl , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/233397 , vital:50087 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1039/C8NJ00801A"
- Description: Novel zinc(II) 3-(4-((3,17,23-tris(4-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)phenoxy)phthalocyanine-9-yl)oxy)phenyl)propanoic acid (complex 3) was synthesised. Complex 3 was subsequently reacted with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), chitosan (CT) and a gold–chitosan (AuCT) hybrid to form 3-AuNPs, 3-CT and 3-AuCT, respectively. The conjugates afforded a decrease in fluorescence quantum yield with a corresponding increase in the triplet and singlet quantum yields compared to complex 3. The in vitro dark cytotoxicity and photodynamic therapy activity (PDT) of complex 3 and 3-AuCT composites were investigated against epithelial breast cancer cells (MCF-7) with both the samples showing minimum dark cytotoxicity. They both accounted for a cell viability of ≥90% at a concentration of ≤59.2 μg mL−1. 3-AuCT showed better PDT activity (compared to 3 alone) with less than 50% viable cells at a concentration of ≥29.6 μg mL−1 making it potentially applicable for PDT. On the other hand, AuCT displayed some activity against cancer cells, probably due to photothermal activity since gold is a light absorber, however it had more than 50% viable cells at a concentration of ≤59.2 μg mL−1.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Dube, Edith , Oluwole, David O , Prinsloo, Earl , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/233397 , vital:50087 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1039/C8NJ00801A"
- Description: Novel zinc(II) 3-(4-((3,17,23-tris(4-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)phenoxy)phthalocyanine-9-yl)oxy)phenyl)propanoic acid (complex 3) was synthesised. Complex 3 was subsequently reacted with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), chitosan (CT) and a gold–chitosan (AuCT) hybrid to form 3-AuNPs, 3-CT and 3-AuCT, respectively. The conjugates afforded a decrease in fluorescence quantum yield with a corresponding increase in the triplet and singlet quantum yields compared to complex 3. The in vitro dark cytotoxicity and photodynamic therapy activity (PDT) of complex 3 and 3-AuCT composites were investigated against epithelial breast cancer cells (MCF-7) with both the samples showing minimum dark cytotoxicity. They both accounted for a cell viability of ≥90% at a concentration of ≤59.2 μg mL−1. 3-AuCT showed better PDT activity (compared to 3 alone) with less than 50% viable cells at a concentration of ≥29.6 μg mL−1 making it potentially applicable for PDT. On the other hand, AuCT displayed some activity against cancer cells, probably due to photothermal activity since gold is a light absorber, however it had more than 50% viable cells at a concentration of ≤59.2 μg mL−1.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A longitudinal investigation into employability : student transition and experiences from tertiary education into the labour market
- Authors: Harry, Tinashe Timothy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employability Graduate students Labor market
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11053 , vital:37015
- Description: Orientation: Several policies have been formulated by the government to redress the inequalities of apartheid. However, the policies have not yielded any positive results as many graduates from Historically Disadvantaged Institutes (HDIs) continue to struggle in the open labour market as compared to graduates from Historically Advantaged Institutes (HAIs). This has been mainly attributed to the legacy of apartheid in several previous studies. As a result, most of these previously disadvantaged individuals (mostly Black Africans) struggle to make the transition from higher education into the world of work. Research Purpose: This study thus explores the journeys of these Black African students from HDIs to understand the transition and experiences from tertiary education into the labour market. Further, the research sought to understand how these transitions and experiences manifest in a context of high unemployment. Finally, the resolution tactics used by students in such a context are given attention. Research approach, design and method: A longitudinal qualitative approach was deemed appropriate for the study as the aim was to understand the changes that occurred over time. The data was collected over a two-year period. A narrative inquiry was utilized as it allowed the participants to share their perceptions without limitations. A total of 30 participants partook in the study. The participants were selected using a purposive sampling to ensure the right participants were involved in the study. The main criteria for selection to participate was that the participants had to be enrolled with a HDI. Main findings: The narratives of the participants led to the formulation of six main themes that were regarded as affecting the transitions and experiences of the Black graduates from HDIs; namely, (1) socio-economic background, (2) education system, (3) labour market experiences, (4) geographical location, (5) social capital and (6) student resolutions to the challenges of employability. A previously disadvantaged background resulted in the participants being recipients of poor education quality, no social networks or information to navigate the labour market and limited access to the labour market due to secluded residential areas. Subsequently, most participants were unable to take responsibility of enhancing their own employability. Contribution: It is not the sole responsibility of the higher education institutes to produce employable graduates, but it's a process that should also involve government, students and employers. As long as the social inequality remains an issue in the country all the efforts to improve employability and transition into the open labour market will be in vain. Furthermore, employers must work together with higher education institutes by offering programs such as internships and career expos to enhance the employability of the graduates. A Graduate Transition Model (GTM) is suggested based on the findings of this research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Harry, Tinashe Timothy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employability Graduate students Labor market
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11053 , vital:37015
- Description: Orientation: Several policies have been formulated by the government to redress the inequalities of apartheid. However, the policies have not yielded any positive results as many graduates from Historically Disadvantaged Institutes (HDIs) continue to struggle in the open labour market as compared to graduates from Historically Advantaged Institutes (HAIs). This has been mainly attributed to the legacy of apartheid in several previous studies. As a result, most of these previously disadvantaged individuals (mostly Black Africans) struggle to make the transition from higher education into the world of work. Research Purpose: This study thus explores the journeys of these Black African students from HDIs to understand the transition and experiences from tertiary education into the labour market. Further, the research sought to understand how these transitions and experiences manifest in a context of high unemployment. Finally, the resolution tactics used by students in such a context are given attention. Research approach, design and method: A longitudinal qualitative approach was deemed appropriate for the study as the aim was to understand the changes that occurred over time. The data was collected over a two-year period. A narrative inquiry was utilized as it allowed the participants to share their perceptions without limitations. A total of 30 participants partook in the study. The participants were selected using a purposive sampling to ensure the right participants were involved in the study. The main criteria for selection to participate was that the participants had to be enrolled with a HDI. Main findings: The narratives of the participants led to the formulation of six main themes that were regarded as affecting the transitions and experiences of the Black graduates from HDIs; namely, (1) socio-economic background, (2) education system, (3) labour market experiences, (4) geographical location, (5) social capital and (6) student resolutions to the challenges of employability. A previously disadvantaged background resulted in the participants being recipients of poor education quality, no social networks or information to navigate the labour market and limited access to the labour market due to secluded residential areas. Subsequently, most participants were unable to take responsibility of enhancing their own employability. Contribution: It is not the sole responsibility of the higher education institutes to produce employable graduates, but it's a process that should also involve government, students and employers. As long as the social inequality remains an issue in the country all the efforts to improve employability and transition into the open labour market will be in vain. Furthermore, employers must work together with higher education institutes by offering programs such as internships and career expos to enhance the employability of the graduates. A Graduate Transition Model (GTM) is suggested based on the findings of this research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A medicinal chemistry study in nitrogen containing heterocycles
- Authors: Lunga, Mayibongwe Junior
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Indole , Tetrazoles , Antimalarials , Heat shock proteins , Plasmodium falciparum
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63521 , vital:28430
- Description: Heterocyclic structures have found extensive utility in the field of medicinal chemistry, as prominent regions of pharmacophores resulting in numerous drug treatments for many diseases. Accordingly, in this project we explored the respective antimalarial and anticancer activity exhibited by compounds featuring nitrogen containing indole and tetrazole heterocycles respectively. This thesis therefore comprises of two distinct parts. Part 1. Following the development of resistance towards traditional antimalarial therapy such as chloroquine and emerging resistance towards artemisinin combination therapies, the WHO reported the urgent need for new, effective drugs and identification of new drug targets to combat the Plasmodium falciparum parasite. In 2015 the parasite was the cause of 429 000 deaths, the majority occurring in the sub-Saharan region of Africa. This highlights the failing effectiveness of vector control strategies, reiterating the need to develop alternative control and treatment strategies. In response to this need we wanted to expand and further describe the SAR of the indole based series, indolyl-3-ethanone-α- thioethers, previously synthesized in our laboratory. These compounds were found to exhibit antimalarial activity with compounds 2.26 and 2.27 exhibiting activity against P. falciparum 3D7 in the nanomolar range. Based on these compounds we synthesized compounds 3.21 and 3.24 – 3.32 following a three step reaction pathway. Our results in this study, indicate that compound 3.28, a pnitrothiophenol analogue of 2.27 was the most active of the compounds we synthesized and furthermore was superior in activity against Plasmodium compared to 2.27. This result indicated that the presence of p-NO2 is important in enhancing anti-plasmodial activity. Comparing compounds 3.25 and 3.26 with an oxygen on the ether bridge to compounds 3.29 and 3.30 with a sulfur, we observed an increase in hydrophilicity coupled to a decrease in anti-plasmodial activity in the compounds, thus, highlighting the importance of sulfur for enhanced activity. Furthermore, we investigated bioisosteric replacement of the 5-chloro substituent present in hit compounds 2.27 and 3.28, with an electron withdrawing nitrile (3.27) and electron donating methyl (3.29) and methoxy (3.31) substituents. These substituents decreased anti-plasmodial activity, confirming that a chlorine substituent is optimal for biological activity. This study furthered our understanding of the SAR of indolyl-3-ethanone-α- thioethers for the development of potent anti-plasmodial lead compounds. Part 2. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), which disproportionately affects women of sub-Saharan Africa, is unresponsive to hormone-based therapies. This emergence presents a population of patients devoid of effective drug treatment, signaling the urgent need to develop new effective therapies with novel drug targets. Therefore, we identified our target in TNBC cells as the protein-protein interaction between the co-chaperones HOP and HSP90. We reasoned that a disruption of this interaction would ultimately result in cancer cell death via the degradation of essential oncogenic client proteins. Following a fragment screening campaign, which identified several acid and tetrazole containing hits (4.56 – 4.58) which bound to HOP, with low anticancer activity, we sought to develop synthetic methodology to elaborate our fragment hits synthesizing tetrazole containing fragments to target TNBC cell lines. We therefore proceeded to synthesize a range of multi substituted fragments (4.59 – 4.63), utilizing a nitrile (4.66) to access tetrazoles via 1,3-cycloaddition and an acid by nitrile hydrolysis. We successfully synthesized the tetrazole and acid fragments which are currently undergoing characterization for activity against TNBC. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2018
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Lunga, Mayibongwe Junior
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Indole , Tetrazoles , Antimalarials , Heat shock proteins , Plasmodium falciparum
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63521 , vital:28430
- Description: Heterocyclic structures have found extensive utility in the field of medicinal chemistry, as prominent regions of pharmacophores resulting in numerous drug treatments for many diseases. Accordingly, in this project we explored the respective antimalarial and anticancer activity exhibited by compounds featuring nitrogen containing indole and tetrazole heterocycles respectively. This thesis therefore comprises of two distinct parts. Part 1. Following the development of resistance towards traditional antimalarial therapy such as chloroquine and emerging resistance towards artemisinin combination therapies, the WHO reported the urgent need for new, effective drugs and identification of new drug targets to combat the Plasmodium falciparum parasite. In 2015 the parasite was the cause of 429 000 deaths, the majority occurring in the sub-Saharan region of Africa. This highlights the failing effectiveness of vector control strategies, reiterating the need to develop alternative control and treatment strategies. In response to this need we wanted to expand and further describe the SAR of the indole based series, indolyl-3-ethanone-α- thioethers, previously synthesized in our laboratory. These compounds were found to exhibit antimalarial activity with compounds 2.26 and 2.27 exhibiting activity against P. falciparum 3D7 in the nanomolar range. Based on these compounds we synthesized compounds 3.21 and 3.24 – 3.32 following a three step reaction pathway. Our results in this study, indicate that compound 3.28, a pnitrothiophenol analogue of 2.27 was the most active of the compounds we synthesized and furthermore was superior in activity against Plasmodium compared to 2.27. This result indicated that the presence of p-NO2 is important in enhancing anti-plasmodial activity. Comparing compounds 3.25 and 3.26 with an oxygen on the ether bridge to compounds 3.29 and 3.30 with a sulfur, we observed an increase in hydrophilicity coupled to a decrease in anti-plasmodial activity in the compounds, thus, highlighting the importance of sulfur for enhanced activity. Furthermore, we investigated bioisosteric replacement of the 5-chloro substituent present in hit compounds 2.27 and 3.28, with an electron withdrawing nitrile (3.27) and electron donating methyl (3.29) and methoxy (3.31) substituents. These substituents decreased anti-plasmodial activity, confirming that a chlorine substituent is optimal for biological activity. This study furthered our understanding of the SAR of indolyl-3-ethanone-α- thioethers for the development of potent anti-plasmodial lead compounds. Part 2. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), which disproportionately affects women of sub-Saharan Africa, is unresponsive to hormone-based therapies. This emergence presents a population of patients devoid of effective drug treatment, signaling the urgent need to develop new effective therapies with novel drug targets. Therefore, we identified our target in TNBC cells as the protein-protein interaction between the co-chaperones HOP and HSP90. We reasoned that a disruption of this interaction would ultimately result in cancer cell death via the degradation of essential oncogenic client proteins. Following a fragment screening campaign, which identified several acid and tetrazole containing hits (4.56 – 4.58) which bound to HOP, with low anticancer activity, we sought to develop synthetic methodology to elaborate our fragment hits synthesizing tetrazole containing fragments to target TNBC cell lines. We therefore proceeded to synthesize a range of multi substituted fragments (4.59 – 4.63), utilizing a nitrile (4.66) to access tetrazoles via 1,3-cycloaddition and an acid by nitrile hydrolysis. We successfully synthesized the tetrazole and acid fragments which are currently undergoing characterization for activity against TNBC. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2018
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A micro-ethnography: exploring relations between Somali and South African traders in Clarehill, Cape Town
- Authors: Solomon, Kelly Michelle
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Immigrants South Africa , Immigrants Social conditions , Xenophobia South Africa , Social capital (Sociology) South Africa , Somalis Migrations , Identity (Philosophical concept) , South Africa Race relations
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61277 , vital:27999 , https://doi.org/10.21504/10962/61277
- Description: Xenophobia has become a dominant narrative in contemporary South Africa. In this thesis, I hone in on a micro, informal economic market that functions cohesively and convivially with both South African and Somali transmigrant traders in it. Religion is one of the key ways through which migrants are able to access social networks and social capital. Islam, the dominant practised religion in the market, thus forms a foundation for strong, emotionally supportive, caring relationships between Somali transmigrants and South Africans The relationships between South African traders and Somali transmigrants are mutually constitutive, as they lean on one another for stability during a time that is unstable for both groups. The closeness of their relationships is evident through the way in which they tease and joke with one another, and the many ways in which they offer intangible support to each other. This thesis illustrates that despite the dominant xenophobic narrative, a close social kinship is formed in the Roelof Street market between South Africans and Somali transmigrants.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Solomon, Kelly Michelle
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Immigrants South Africa , Immigrants Social conditions , Xenophobia South Africa , Social capital (Sociology) South Africa , Somalis Migrations , Identity (Philosophical concept) , South Africa Race relations
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61277 , vital:27999 , https://doi.org/10.21504/10962/61277
- Description: Xenophobia has become a dominant narrative in contemporary South Africa. In this thesis, I hone in on a micro, informal economic market that functions cohesively and convivially with both South African and Somali transmigrant traders in it. Religion is one of the key ways through which migrants are able to access social networks and social capital. Islam, the dominant practised religion in the market, thus forms a foundation for strong, emotionally supportive, caring relationships between Somali transmigrants and South Africans The relationships between South African traders and Somali transmigrants are mutually constitutive, as they lean on one another for stability during a time that is unstable for both groups. The closeness of their relationships is evident through the way in which they tease and joke with one another, and the many ways in which they offer intangible support to each other. This thesis illustrates that despite the dominant xenophobic narrative, a close social kinship is formed in the Roelof Street market between South Africans and Somali transmigrants.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A mineral systems approach to the development of structural targeting criteria for orogenic gold deposits in the Asankrangwa gold belt of the Kumasi Basin, South-west Ghana
- Authors: Gelber, Benjamin D J
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Gold ores -- Geology -- Ghana -- Kumasi , Gold mines and mining -- Ghana -- Kumasi , Asankrangwa (Ghana) , Geodynamics -- Ghana -- Kumasi , Prospecting -- Geophysical methods , Orogenic belts -- Ghana -- Kumasi
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63143 , vital:28367
- Description: The Kumasi Basin in South-west Ghana lies at the centre of the best-endowed Paleoproterozoic gold province in the world. The Kumasi Basin and margins of the adjacent volcanic belts are host to six world class gold camps: (1) 62 Moz Obuasi camp, (2) 22 Moz Prestea-Bogoso camp, (3) 11 Moz Asanko Gold Mine camp, (4) 9 Moz Edikan camp, (5) 7 Moz Bibiani camp, (6) 5 Moz Chirano camp, as well as several additional minor gold camps and many more prospects. Cumulatively these camps account for>116 Moz of endowment and contribute to making south-west Ghana the greatest Paleoproterozoic gold province in the world. Gold deposits in the Kumasi Basin are shear zone hosted and mineralisation ranges from disseminated to massive sulphide refractory deposits, to free milling quartz vein style deposits. Structural relationships and age dating indicate that most deposits are genetically related and were formed during a single episode of gold mineralisation during the D4 NNW-SSE crustal shortening deformation event of the Eburnean Orogeny (2125 – 1980 Ma). The understanding of structural controls on mineralisation is critical for exploration success as it allows exploration to focus on areas where these structural controls exist. This study uses a mineral systems approach to understand the relationship between the geodynamic history and structural controls on gold mineralisation in the Kumasi Basin at various scales, and define targeting criteria which can be applied for the purpose of developing predictive exploration models for making new discoveries in the Asanko Gold Mine camp located in the Asankrangwa Belt. The study used a quantitative analysis to establish residual endowment potential in the Asankrangwa Belt, providing the basis for a business model and resulting exploration strategy. Once established, a Fry autocorrelation analysis was applied to identify trends in deposit and camp spatial distribution to which critical geological processes were ascribed. Observed trends were mapped from multi-scale geophysical data sets and through interpretation of existing geophysical structure models, and structural criteria for targeting orogenic gold deposits at the regional and camp scales were developed. Results show that different structural controls on mineralisation act at the regional and camp scale. At the regional scale the distribution of gold camps was found to be controlled by fundamental N-S and NW-SE basement structures with gold camps forming where they intersect NE-SW first and second order structural corridors. At the Asanko Gold Mine camp scale, deposit distribution was found to be related to the intersection between major second order D3 NE-SW shear zones, minor third order D4 NNE-SSW brittle faults, and cryptic NW-SE upward propagating basement structures. In addition to these structural criteria, deposits in the Asanko Gold Mine camp were found to be aligned along a NNE-SSW lineament caused by the interaction between the N-S basement structure and the NE-SW trending Asankrangwa Belt shear corridor.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Gelber, Benjamin D J
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Gold ores -- Geology -- Ghana -- Kumasi , Gold mines and mining -- Ghana -- Kumasi , Asankrangwa (Ghana) , Geodynamics -- Ghana -- Kumasi , Prospecting -- Geophysical methods , Orogenic belts -- Ghana -- Kumasi
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63143 , vital:28367
- Description: The Kumasi Basin in South-west Ghana lies at the centre of the best-endowed Paleoproterozoic gold province in the world. The Kumasi Basin and margins of the adjacent volcanic belts are host to six world class gold camps: (1) 62 Moz Obuasi camp, (2) 22 Moz Prestea-Bogoso camp, (3) 11 Moz Asanko Gold Mine camp, (4) 9 Moz Edikan camp, (5) 7 Moz Bibiani camp, (6) 5 Moz Chirano camp, as well as several additional minor gold camps and many more prospects. Cumulatively these camps account for>116 Moz of endowment and contribute to making south-west Ghana the greatest Paleoproterozoic gold province in the world. Gold deposits in the Kumasi Basin are shear zone hosted and mineralisation ranges from disseminated to massive sulphide refractory deposits, to free milling quartz vein style deposits. Structural relationships and age dating indicate that most deposits are genetically related and were formed during a single episode of gold mineralisation during the D4 NNW-SSE crustal shortening deformation event of the Eburnean Orogeny (2125 – 1980 Ma). The understanding of structural controls on mineralisation is critical for exploration success as it allows exploration to focus on areas where these structural controls exist. This study uses a mineral systems approach to understand the relationship between the geodynamic history and structural controls on gold mineralisation in the Kumasi Basin at various scales, and define targeting criteria which can be applied for the purpose of developing predictive exploration models for making new discoveries in the Asanko Gold Mine camp located in the Asankrangwa Belt. The study used a quantitative analysis to establish residual endowment potential in the Asankrangwa Belt, providing the basis for a business model and resulting exploration strategy. Once established, a Fry autocorrelation analysis was applied to identify trends in deposit and camp spatial distribution to which critical geological processes were ascribed. Observed trends were mapped from multi-scale geophysical data sets and through interpretation of existing geophysical structure models, and structural criteria for targeting orogenic gold deposits at the regional and camp scales were developed. Results show that different structural controls on mineralisation act at the regional and camp scale. At the regional scale the distribution of gold camps was found to be controlled by fundamental N-S and NW-SE basement structures with gold camps forming where they intersect NE-SW first and second order structural corridors. At the Asanko Gold Mine camp scale, deposit distribution was found to be related to the intersection between major second order D3 NE-SW shear zones, minor third order D4 NNE-SSW brittle faults, and cryptic NW-SE upward propagating basement structures. In addition to these structural criteria, deposits in the Asanko Gold Mine camp were found to be aligned along a NNE-SSW lineament caused by the interaction between the N-S basement structure and the NE-SW trending Asankrangwa Belt shear corridor.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A mineralogical, geochemical and metallogenic study of unusual Mn/Na/Ba assemblages at the footwall of conglomeratic iron-ore at farm Langverwacht, Northern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Bursey, James Rodney
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Iron ores -- Geology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Conglomerate -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Petrology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Manganese -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Sodium -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Barium -- South Africa -- Northern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62516 , vital:28201
- Description: The Postmasburg Manganese Field (PMF), located in the Northern Cape province of South Africa, plays host to significant deposits of iron and manganese that have been utilized since their discovery in 1922 by Captain L.T. Shone. Further afield, lies the massive high-grade manganese deposit of the Kalahari Manganese Field (KMF), which drew attention away from the PMF after its discovery. These deposits are not limited to iron and manganese ore, but contain significant assemblages of alkali-rich rocks - which is the focus of this study. The existence of alkali-rich assemblages beneath conglomeratic iron-ore on farm Langwervacht, has come under investigation in this study, and in particular, the enrichment of these rocks in Ba, Na and Mn. Petrographic analysis of the clast-supported conglomerate unit (ore-zone), has uncovered the presence of vugs (up to 8mm across) which contain barite, K-feldspar and fluorapatite. In addition to this, the ore-zone of one of the three boreholes contains late carbonate veins (kutnohorite), which travel along Fe-clast boundaries, and exploit clast-fractures and areas of weakness. Further down, within the ‘enriched-zone’ of alkalis, the mineralogy is more diverse - containing elevated concentrations of Ba, Na and Mn. Seventeen distinct minerals containing these three key elements have been identified - along with one solid-solution series in the form of hollandite-coronadite. The existence of minerals such as natrolite, aegirine, albite, banalsite, barite, serandite, celsian and hollandite-coronadite are indicative of hydrothermal activity having influenced these rocks. Bulk-geochemistry was used to compare the major and trace elements of each borehole and the associated units. Both the trace elements and the REE’s from the ore-zone are enriched by an average of 5-10x relative to the BIF standard used - which immediately suggests an influx of elements. Compared to PAAS (Post Archaean Australian Shales), the ore-zone REE’s are slightly depleted, but more importantly the profiles are very similar to that of the Mapedi shales achieved in previous studies. This result points towards a strong shale influence in the ore-zone protolith. Expectedly, many of the enriched-zone trace elements and REE’s show far greater enrichment than what is observed in the ore-zone. Trace and Rare Earth Element profiles between the ore-zone and the enriched-zone are, however, generally correlative, with profiles reflecting similar enrichments and depletions for a given element - even within different rock units. This suggests that the hydrothermal fluid has moved in a general upward direction, reacting with host-rock units, and relinquishing elements carried in solution - wherever conditions have been favourable for the accommodation of these elements. This study has shed light on the relationship between the ore-zone and the enriched-zone, and results suggest that the process of alkali enrichment is not directly related to the process of upgrading of the iron ores. This is due to the extent of the alkali-enrichment below the ore-zone, as well as enrichment factors in some trace elements being superior to that of Fe2O3 in the ore- zone. Hence, both of these zones have both been affected by a later hydrothermal fluid. The source of the fluid is likely a mature basinal brine, of oxidized, alkaline nature - which leached elements (Ba, K, Na, Pb, Ca) from older rocks, and carried them in solution. On a local-scale, this fluid has exploited areas of weakness in the form of fractures, less consolidated conglomeratic material and crosscutting veins. Manganese and iron has been remobilized on a local scale - producing secondary textures and partitioning into phases such as Mn-rich calcite and serandite. Comparisons to other studies in the PMF and KMF have revealed very similar alkali-rich assemblages, bearing many of the same minerals observed in this study - even within more manganiferous deposits. These findings have led to suggestions of a possible regional-scale hydrothermal overprint, which may have imparted a similar geochemical signal over the entire region - with the assistance of faults and unconformities. Of course, proving this is no mean feat, but current work on the source of barium in barite, using Sr isotopes from samples across the region may shed light on the source of at least one key element of these deposits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Bursey, James Rodney
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Iron ores -- Geology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Conglomerate -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Petrology -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Manganese -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Sodium -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Barium -- South Africa -- Northern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62516 , vital:28201
- Description: The Postmasburg Manganese Field (PMF), located in the Northern Cape province of South Africa, plays host to significant deposits of iron and manganese that have been utilized since their discovery in 1922 by Captain L.T. Shone. Further afield, lies the massive high-grade manganese deposit of the Kalahari Manganese Field (KMF), which drew attention away from the PMF after its discovery. These deposits are not limited to iron and manganese ore, but contain significant assemblages of alkali-rich rocks - which is the focus of this study. The existence of alkali-rich assemblages beneath conglomeratic iron-ore on farm Langwervacht, has come under investigation in this study, and in particular, the enrichment of these rocks in Ba, Na and Mn. Petrographic analysis of the clast-supported conglomerate unit (ore-zone), has uncovered the presence of vugs (up to 8mm across) which contain barite, K-feldspar and fluorapatite. In addition to this, the ore-zone of one of the three boreholes contains late carbonate veins (kutnohorite), which travel along Fe-clast boundaries, and exploit clast-fractures and areas of weakness. Further down, within the ‘enriched-zone’ of alkalis, the mineralogy is more diverse - containing elevated concentrations of Ba, Na and Mn. Seventeen distinct minerals containing these three key elements have been identified - along with one solid-solution series in the form of hollandite-coronadite. The existence of minerals such as natrolite, aegirine, albite, banalsite, barite, serandite, celsian and hollandite-coronadite are indicative of hydrothermal activity having influenced these rocks. Bulk-geochemistry was used to compare the major and trace elements of each borehole and the associated units. Both the trace elements and the REE’s from the ore-zone are enriched by an average of 5-10x relative to the BIF standard used - which immediately suggests an influx of elements. Compared to PAAS (Post Archaean Australian Shales), the ore-zone REE’s are slightly depleted, but more importantly the profiles are very similar to that of the Mapedi shales achieved in previous studies. This result points towards a strong shale influence in the ore-zone protolith. Expectedly, many of the enriched-zone trace elements and REE’s show far greater enrichment than what is observed in the ore-zone. Trace and Rare Earth Element profiles between the ore-zone and the enriched-zone are, however, generally correlative, with profiles reflecting similar enrichments and depletions for a given element - even within different rock units. This suggests that the hydrothermal fluid has moved in a general upward direction, reacting with host-rock units, and relinquishing elements carried in solution - wherever conditions have been favourable for the accommodation of these elements. This study has shed light on the relationship between the ore-zone and the enriched-zone, and results suggest that the process of alkali enrichment is not directly related to the process of upgrading of the iron ores. This is due to the extent of the alkali-enrichment below the ore-zone, as well as enrichment factors in some trace elements being superior to that of Fe2O3 in the ore- zone. Hence, both of these zones have both been affected by a later hydrothermal fluid. The source of the fluid is likely a mature basinal brine, of oxidized, alkaline nature - which leached elements (Ba, K, Na, Pb, Ca) from older rocks, and carried them in solution. On a local-scale, this fluid has exploited areas of weakness in the form of fractures, less consolidated conglomeratic material and crosscutting veins. Manganese and iron has been remobilized on a local scale - producing secondary textures and partitioning into phases such as Mn-rich calcite and serandite. Comparisons to other studies in the PMF and KMF have revealed very similar alkali-rich assemblages, bearing many of the same minerals observed in this study - even within more manganiferous deposits. These findings have led to suggestions of a possible regional-scale hydrothermal overprint, which may have imparted a similar geochemical signal over the entire region - with the assistance of faults and unconformities. Of course, proving this is no mean feat, but current work on the source of barium in barite, using Sr isotopes from samples across the region may shed light on the source of at least one key element of these deposits.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A missing link in the estuarine nitrogen cycle?: coupled nitrification-denitrification mediated by suspended particulate matter
- Zhu, Weijing, Wang, Cheng, Hill, Jaclyn M, He, Yangyang, Tao, Bangyi, Mao, Zhihua, Wu, Weixiang
- Authors: Zhu, Weijing , Wang, Cheng , Hill, Jaclyn M , He, Yangyang , Tao, Bangyi , Mao, Zhihua , Wu, Weixiang
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68368 , vital:29244 , https://0-doi.org.wam.seals.ac.za/10.1038/s41598-018-20688-4
- Description: In estuarine and coastal ecosystems, the majority of previous studies have considered coupled nitrification-denitrification (CND) processes to be exclusively sediment based, with little focus onsuspended particulate matter (SPM) in the water column. Here, we present evidence of CND processes in the water column of Hangzhou Bay, one of the largest macrotidal embayments in the world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Zhu, Weijing , Wang, Cheng , Hill, Jaclyn M , He, Yangyang , Tao, Bangyi , Mao, Zhihua , Wu, Weixiang
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/68368 , vital:29244 , https://0-doi.org.wam.seals.ac.za/10.1038/s41598-018-20688-4
- Description: In estuarine and coastal ecosystems, the majority of previous studies have considered coupled nitrification-denitrification (CND) processes to be exclusively sediment based, with little focus onsuspended particulate matter (SPM) in the water column. Here, we present evidence of CND processes in the water column of Hangzhou Bay, one of the largest macrotidal embayments in the world.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A model for retention-to-graduation of undergraduate nursing students at universities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Nkutu, Nonyaniso Trustina
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Universities and colleges--South Africa--Eastern Cape College students--South Africa--Eastern Cape Nursing students--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Nursing
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15946 , vital:40566
- Description: The retention of nursing students in the undergraduate programme in universities is a global concern for the health care system, because of the low rate of nurse graduates. The strategies for retention for nursing students in undergraduate programmes in South African universities arguably have limited success in curbing failure to graduate. The failure to graduate rate of nursing students is a global phenomenon, where for example in 2009, the rate of failure to graduate in the United States of America was 30%. However, countries like Jamaica and Australia reported good retention rates through the use of various successful initiatives, such as student bursaries, student loans, scholarships and academic assistance. Previous studies in South Africa have showed that the incidence of nursing students’ failure to graduate rate is an ongoing challenge since the 1960s. Further, research has found that, despite the high annual enrolment of students into universities, only few nursing students graduate on time, while others fail to graduate. This phenomenon affects the rendering and quality of services to patients and clients in the health care facilities. When students fail to graduate from the programme, patients and clients get deprived of the services they would have got, had the students completed and graduated from the programme. On the other hand, the students themselves get frustrated due to the failure to complete the programme. Nursing Education Institutions (NEIs) also share in the disappointment and the loss of even one student who fails to graduate, because it is their obligation to graduate more nurses. Previous studies have sought to understand why students fail to complete their studies, and many factors have been identified. Therefore, there is need to further understand the factors associated with nursing student failure to complete their programme in different contexts such as South Africa. It is for this reason that the aim of this study was to develop a model for retention of nursing students in order to facilitate progression towards graduation in the undergraduate programme at the universities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study endeavoured to answer the following research questions: What are the factors associated with retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate nursing programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What are the strategies to enhance retention to graduation of nursing students in universities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What conceptual framework can be developed for retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What model could be developed for retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate nursing programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What guidelines should be formulated for the implementation of the model for retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate nursing programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? To answer these questions, quantitative research approach with a descriptive, contextual and theory generation design was used. The study was conducted in four phases. Phase 1 used deductive concept identification to describe factors and strategies to enhance retention –to-graduation of nursing students in the undergraduate nursing programme. Phase 2 used inductive concept analysis for the development of a conceptual framework. In phase 3 reasoning strategies (inductive, deductive, derivation, synthesis and analysis) informed by data as well as the literature were used in order to generate a theory for model development. In phase 4, the guidelines for developing a preliminary model were formulated for theory implementation. The study setting was in the Eastern Cape universities, within faculties of Health Sciences. The researcher adapted Jeffreys’ Nursing Undergraduate Retention and Success (NURS) 2012 model as a data collecting instrument, which was pilot tested for reliability and validity. Permission to utilize the model was obtained. The targeted population was full time nursing students in the undergraduate nursing programme. A multistage stratified random sample from first year to fourth year level was used. The inclusion criterion was based on one being full time nursing student, aged between 18 and 50 years and from the Eastern Cape Province universities. Student nurses in colleges and part-time students were excluded from this study. The study adhered to research ethics and procedures by for example obtaining ethical clearance from the ethics committee of the University of Fort Hare and the other two selected universities. The ethical components were met: The Ethical clearance based on the following aspects: written consent to undertake the study; approval from the two of the selected universities; and permission to conduct a pilot study from the University of Fort Hare. Permission was also sought and obtained from Quality Assurance Unit in the Eastern Cape Province, in Bisho. The principle of beneficence; respect for human dignity; the right to self-determination based on the ethical principle of respect for persons; the principle of self-determination; the principle of justice, the right to fair treatment, the right to privacy, the right to informed consent were all considered. Data analysis was done through Statistical Analysis Systems (SAS) version 9.3 for quantitative data and Atlas Ti was used to analyse and quantify the open-ended section of the questionnaire. The results showed multidimensional factors associated with retention-to-graduation of the nursing students in the undergraduate programme. Strategies to enhance retention –to graduation were also indicated although there was no one perfect example since they were not evaluated for effectiveness. A retention-to-graduation model for nursing students in the undergraduate nursing programme was developed based on the results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Nkutu, Nonyaniso Trustina
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Universities and colleges--South Africa--Eastern Cape College students--South Africa--Eastern Cape Nursing students--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Nursing
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15946 , vital:40566
- Description: The retention of nursing students in the undergraduate programme in universities is a global concern for the health care system, because of the low rate of nurse graduates. The strategies for retention for nursing students in undergraduate programmes in South African universities arguably have limited success in curbing failure to graduate. The failure to graduate rate of nursing students is a global phenomenon, where for example in 2009, the rate of failure to graduate in the United States of America was 30%. However, countries like Jamaica and Australia reported good retention rates through the use of various successful initiatives, such as student bursaries, student loans, scholarships and academic assistance. Previous studies in South Africa have showed that the incidence of nursing students’ failure to graduate rate is an ongoing challenge since the 1960s. Further, research has found that, despite the high annual enrolment of students into universities, only few nursing students graduate on time, while others fail to graduate. This phenomenon affects the rendering and quality of services to patients and clients in the health care facilities. When students fail to graduate from the programme, patients and clients get deprived of the services they would have got, had the students completed and graduated from the programme. On the other hand, the students themselves get frustrated due to the failure to complete the programme. Nursing Education Institutions (NEIs) also share in the disappointment and the loss of even one student who fails to graduate, because it is their obligation to graduate more nurses. Previous studies have sought to understand why students fail to complete their studies, and many factors have been identified. Therefore, there is need to further understand the factors associated with nursing student failure to complete their programme in different contexts such as South Africa. It is for this reason that the aim of this study was to develop a model for retention of nursing students in order to facilitate progression towards graduation in the undergraduate programme at the universities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study endeavoured to answer the following research questions: What are the factors associated with retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate nursing programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What are the strategies to enhance retention to graduation of nursing students in universities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What conceptual framework can be developed for retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What model could be developed for retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate nursing programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? What guidelines should be formulated for the implementation of the model for retention-to-graduation of nursing students from the undergraduate nursing programme in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa? To answer these questions, quantitative research approach with a descriptive, contextual and theory generation design was used. The study was conducted in four phases. Phase 1 used deductive concept identification to describe factors and strategies to enhance retention –to-graduation of nursing students in the undergraduate nursing programme. Phase 2 used inductive concept analysis for the development of a conceptual framework. In phase 3 reasoning strategies (inductive, deductive, derivation, synthesis and analysis) informed by data as well as the literature were used in order to generate a theory for model development. In phase 4, the guidelines for developing a preliminary model were formulated for theory implementation. The study setting was in the Eastern Cape universities, within faculties of Health Sciences. The researcher adapted Jeffreys’ Nursing Undergraduate Retention and Success (NURS) 2012 model as a data collecting instrument, which was pilot tested for reliability and validity. Permission to utilize the model was obtained. The targeted population was full time nursing students in the undergraduate nursing programme. A multistage stratified random sample from first year to fourth year level was used. The inclusion criterion was based on one being full time nursing student, aged between 18 and 50 years and from the Eastern Cape Province universities. Student nurses in colleges and part-time students were excluded from this study. The study adhered to research ethics and procedures by for example obtaining ethical clearance from the ethics committee of the University of Fort Hare and the other two selected universities. The ethical components were met: The Ethical clearance based on the following aspects: written consent to undertake the study; approval from the two of the selected universities; and permission to conduct a pilot study from the University of Fort Hare. Permission was also sought and obtained from Quality Assurance Unit in the Eastern Cape Province, in Bisho. The principle of beneficence; respect for human dignity; the right to self-determination based on the ethical principle of respect for persons; the principle of self-determination; the principle of justice, the right to fair treatment, the right to privacy, the right to informed consent were all considered. Data analysis was done through Statistical Analysis Systems (SAS) version 9.3 for quantitative data and Atlas Ti was used to analyse and quantify the open-ended section of the questionnaire. The results showed multidimensional factors associated with retention-to-graduation of the nursing students in the undergraduate programme. Strategies to enhance retention –to graduation were also indicated although there was no one perfect example since they were not evaluated for effectiveness. A retention-to-graduation model for nursing students in the undergraduate nursing programme was developed based on the results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A model for smart factories in the automotive sector
- Authors: Leo, Jo-Anne Ronell
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Internet of things , Manufacturing processes -- Automation Labor supply -- Effect of technological innovations on Cloud computing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22531 , vital:29997
- Description: The manufacturing industry is on the brink of transformation, with smart factories and digitalisation at the forefront. New challenges such as globalisation, cost pressure and consumer demands are imminent in the current environment. In order to overcome these challenges, the Fourth Industrial Revolution, also known as Industry 4.0 has emerged. Industry 4.0 promotes the computerisation of manufacturing facilities and emphasises an end-to-end digitalisation of physical resources and integration of processes through the entire value chain. The smart factory, a component of Industry 4.0, is a self-organised, modular, highly flexible and reconfigurable factory that enables production of customised products at low cost, therefore maximising profitability. Manufacturing processes are driven by technologies such as cyber-physical systems, big data, collaborative robots and the Internet of Things. This allows autonomous communication throughout the value chain between machine-to-machine and human-to-machine. Organisations consider automation and technology as strategic business tools which are used to increase short and long term profits and realise operating objectives. In contrast, the implementation of automation and technology in the workplace raises labour concerns, fear of layoffs and redundancies among the workforce. This unease, in turn, influences the employees’ attitude towards technology which could lead either to its acceptance or refusal thereof. The purpose of this research is to enhance the understanding of smart factories in the automotive industry by conducting a systematic analysis of the factors which influence the attitude of those involved towards a smart factory implementation. This study focuses on the perceptions among employees and management. The research is an quantitative study consisting of a literature review of the key concepts related to Industry 4.0, smart factories and technology-acceptance theories. The empirical study consisted of surveys completed by management and employees of one of the automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), in South Africa. The questionnaire used in this research consists of questions regarding demographic data and questions regarding the perception of change and factors influencing the attitudes towards the acceptance of technology within the OEM. To summarise the data into a more condensed form which could simplify the identification of patterns in the data, descriptive statistics were used. Inferential statistics were used to validate if the conclusions made from the sample data could be inferred to a larger population. Various factors influence the perception about ease of use and usefulness, which then in turn influences the attitude and the intention to use technology. These factors have been examined by numerous authors in the technology acceptance literature. Recommended factors based on the statistical analysis of the questionnaire results were identified. A model identified the following factors as having an influence on the Attitude towards the Positive Impact of Smart Factories within the OEM: Skills and Training, Individual Characteristics, Trust, Organisational Culture, Resources and Costs and Job Security. The importance of each factor was identified to understand its function in how to improve the implementation of smart factories. This research suggested improvements for the automotive OEM based on the statistical analysis of the survey results. Inconclusive results were indicated on three variables and these should be improved, namely, Organisational Culture, Job Security and Security and International / National Standards. Two sub-groups were defined by different job levels and different perceptions were found concerning the factors that were measured. People at different job levels in the OEM perceived medium to large significant differences in all the factors comprising the proposed model of the Attitude towards a Smart Factory. The smart factory model developed in this study specified the factors which influence the Attitude towards a Smart Factory within the automotive sector and the effect these factors have on technology acceptance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Leo, Jo-Anne Ronell
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Internet of things , Manufacturing processes -- Automation Labor supply -- Effect of technological innovations on Cloud computing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22531 , vital:29997
- Description: The manufacturing industry is on the brink of transformation, with smart factories and digitalisation at the forefront. New challenges such as globalisation, cost pressure and consumer demands are imminent in the current environment. In order to overcome these challenges, the Fourth Industrial Revolution, also known as Industry 4.0 has emerged. Industry 4.0 promotes the computerisation of manufacturing facilities and emphasises an end-to-end digitalisation of physical resources and integration of processes through the entire value chain. The smart factory, a component of Industry 4.0, is a self-organised, modular, highly flexible and reconfigurable factory that enables production of customised products at low cost, therefore maximising profitability. Manufacturing processes are driven by technologies such as cyber-physical systems, big data, collaborative robots and the Internet of Things. This allows autonomous communication throughout the value chain between machine-to-machine and human-to-machine. Organisations consider automation and technology as strategic business tools which are used to increase short and long term profits and realise operating objectives. In contrast, the implementation of automation and technology in the workplace raises labour concerns, fear of layoffs and redundancies among the workforce. This unease, in turn, influences the employees’ attitude towards technology which could lead either to its acceptance or refusal thereof. The purpose of this research is to enhance the understanding of smart factories in the automotive industry by conducting a systematic analysis of the factors which influence the attitude of those involved towards a smart factory implementation. This study focuses on the perceptions among employees and management. The research is an quantitative study consisting of a literature review of the key concepts related to Industry 4.0, smart factories and technology-acceptance theories. The empirical study consisted of surveys completed by management and employees of one of the automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), in South Africa. The questionnaire used in this research consists of questions regarding demographic data and questions regarding the perception of change and factors influencing the attitudes towards the acceptance of technology within the OEM. To summarise the data into a more condensed form which could simplify the identification of patterns in the data, descriptive statistics were used. Inferential statistics were used to validate if the conclusions made from the sample data could be inferred to a larger population. Various factors influence the perception about ease of use and usefulness, which then in turn influences the attitude and the intention to use technology. These factors have been examined by numerous authors in the technology acceptance literature. Recommended factors based on the statistical analysis of the questionnaire results were identified. A model identified the following factors as having an influence on the Attitude towards the Positive Impact of Smart Factories within the OEM: Skills and Training, Individual Characteristics, Trust, Organisational Culture, Resources and Costs and Job Security. The importance of each factor was identified to understand its function in how to improve the implementation of smart factories. This research suggested improvements for the automotive OEM based on the statistical analysis of the survey results. Inconclusive results were indicated on three variables and these should be improved, namely, Organisational Culture, Job Security and Security and International / National Standards. Two sub-groups were defined by different job levels and different perceptions were found concerning the factors that were measured. People at different job levels in the OEM perceived medium to large significant differences in all the factors comprising the proposed model of the Attitude towards a Smart Factory. The smart factory model developed in this study specified the factors which influence the Attitude towards a Smart Factory within the automotive sector and the effect these factors have on technology acceptance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A model of support for divorced professional nurses in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Murray, Daphne
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Divorce counseling -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Divorce -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employees -- Counseling of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Nursing
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10028 , vital:35293
- Description: The purpose of this research study was to develop a support model for divorced professional nurses in the health-care facilities of the Department of Health, Eastern Cape, with guidelines to operationalise the model. Divorce is a process with psychological as well as social implications, and with a series of economic causes it also has implications in terms of the society and culture in which individuals operate. The main causes for divorce are adultery and domestic violence, especially against women and children (Lurea, 2011:99). A need for support from managers in the health-care facilities of the Department of Health, Eastern Cape during the process of divorce was identified by divorced professional nurses, since a lack of support and all the negativity that encompasses divorce could lead to severe depression, which will later have a negative effect on work performance (Abdul Kadir & Bifulco, 2010:858). The literature in this field of study, along with experience, indicates that it is imperative for divorced professional nurses to be supported in the workplace to help them to cope emotionally with their work demands, as prescribed by the South African Nursing Council. An explorative, descriptive and contextual qualitative design with theory generation was used to achieve the purpose of the study. Snowball sampling was employed to select participants, namely divorced professional nurses who were unknown to the researcher. A sample of 21 divorced professional nurses who work in health-care facilities in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape participated in the study. Data was collected by means of individual face-face interviews with divorced professional nurses. The interviews continued until data saturation was reached. Field notes supplemented data that could not be portrayed by audio-taped interviews, such as non- verbal communication in observed interactions. Data analysis was done using Tesch’s approach to open coding in qualitative research. Themes, categories and sub-categories emerged from the data analysis and were fully discussed, becoming fundamental units in the development of the conceptual framework as well as in the model. The researcher did a thorough literature review to conceptualise the identified concepts on which the model was based. The description and evaluation of the model, along with guidelines to operationalise the model, were done in accordance with the method described by Chinn and Kramer (2011:197). The justification of the research, the limitations, and the recommendations for operationalisation of the model of support for divorced professional nurses working in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality of the Department of Health, Eastern Cape Province, and South Africa were indicated accordingly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Murray, Daphne
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Divorce counseling -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Divorce -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employees -- Counseling of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Nursing
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10028 , vital:35293
- Description: The purpose of this research study was to develop a support model for divorced professional nurses in the health-care facilities of the Department of Health, Eastern Cape, with guidelines to operationalise the model. Divorce is a process with psychological as well as social implications, and with a series of economic causes it also has implications in terms of the society and culture in which individuals operate. The main causes for divorce are adultery and domestic violence, especially against women and children (Lurea, 2011:99). A need for support from managers in the health-care facilities of the Department of Health, Eastern Cape during the process of divorce was identified by divorced professional nurses, since a lack of support and all the negativity that encompasses divorce could lead to severe depression, which will later have a negative effect on work performance (Abdul Kadir & Bifulco, 2010:858). The literature in this field of study, along with experience, indicates that it is imperative for divorced professional nurses to be supported in the workplace to help them to cope emotionally with their work demands, as prescribed by the South African Nursing Council. An explorative, descriptive and contextual qualitative design with theory generation was used to achieve the purpose of the study. Snowball sampling was employed to select participants, namely divorced professional nurses who were unknown to the researcher. A sample of 21 divorced professional nurses who work in health-care facilities in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape participated in the study. Data was collected by means of individual face-face interviews with divorced professional nurses. The interviews continued until data saturation was reached. Field notes supplemented data that could not be portrayed by audio-taped interviews, such as non- verbal communication in observed interactions. Data analysis was done using Tesch’s approach to open coding in qualitative research. Themes, categories and sub-categories emerged from the data analysis and were fully discussed, becoming fundamental units in the development of the conceptual framework as well as in the model. The researcher did a thorough literature review to conceptualise the identified concepts on which the model was based. The description and evaluation of the model, along with guidelines to operationalise the model, were done in accordance with the method described by Chinn and Kramer (2011:197). The justification of the research, the limitations, and the recommendations for operationalisation of the model of support for divorced professional nurses working in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality of the Department of Health, Eastern Cape Province, and South Africa were indicated accordingly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A molecular phylogeny of the cicadas (Hemiptera: Cicadidae) with a review of tribe and subfamily classification:
- Marshall, David C, Moulds, Max, Hill, Kathy B R, Price, Benjamin W, Wade, Elizabeth J, Owen, Christopher L, Goemans, Geert, Marathe, Kiran, Sarkar, Vivek, Cooley, John R, Sanborn, Allen F, Kunte, Krushnamegh, Villet, Martin H, Simon, Chris
- Authors: Marshall, David C , Moulds, Max , Hill, Kathy B R , Price, Benjamin W , Wade, Elizabeth J , Owen, Christopher L , Goemans, Geert , Marathe, Kiran , Sarkar, Vivek , Cooley, John R , Sanborn, Allen F , Kunte, Krushnamegh , Villet, Martin H , Simon, Chris
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140601 , vital:37902 , DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4424.1.1
- Description: A molecular phylogeny and a review of family-group classification are presented for 137 species (ca. 125 genera) of the insect family Cicadidae, the true cicadas, plus two species of hairy cicadas (Tettigarctidae) and two outgroup species from Cercopidae. Five genes, two of them mitochondrial, comprise the 4992 base-pair molecular dataset. Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic results are shown, including analyses to address potential base composition bias. Tettigarcta is confirmed as the sister-clade of the Cicadidae and support is found for three subfamilies identified in an earlier morphological cladistic analysis. A set of paraphyletic deep-level clades formed by African genera are together named as Tettigomyiinae n. stat. Taxonomic reassignments of genera and tribes are made where morphological examination confirms incorrect placements suggested by the molecular tree, and 11 new tribes are defined (Arenopsaltriini n. tribe, Durangonini n. tribe, Katoini n. tribe, Lacetasini n. tribe, Macrotristriini n. tribe, Malagasiini n. tribe, Nelcyndanini n. tribe, Pagiphorini n. tribe, Pictilini n. tribe, Psaltodini n. tribe, and Selymbriini n. tribe). Tribe Tacuini n. syn. is synonymized with Cryptotympanini, and Tryellina n. syn. is synonymized with an expanded Tribe Lamotialnini. Tribe Hyantiini n. syn. is synonymized with Fidicinini. Tribe Sinosenini is transferred to Cicadinae from Cicadettinae, Cicadatrini is moved to Cicadettinae from Cicadinae, and Ydiellini and Tettigomyiini are transferred to Tettigomyiinae n. stat from Cicadettinae. While the subfamily Cicadinae, historically defined by the presence of timbal covers, is weakly supported in the molecular tree, high taxonomic rank is not supported for several earlier clades based on unique morphology associated with sound production.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Marshall, David C , Moulds, Max , Hill, Kathy B R , Price, Benjamin W , Wade, Elizabeth J , Owen, Christopher L , Goemans, Geert , Marathe, Kiran , Sarkar, Vivek , Cooley, John R , Sanborn, Allen F , Kunte, Krushnamegh , Villet, Martin H , Simon, Chris
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140601 , vital:37902 , DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4424.1.1
- Description: A molecular phylogeny and a review of family-group classification are presented for 137 species (ca. 125 genera) of the insect family Cicadidae, the true cicadas, plus two species of hairy cicadas (Tettigarctidae) and two outgroup species from Cercopidae. Five genes, two of them mitochondrial, comprise the 4992 base-pair molecular dataset. Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic results are shown, including analyses to address potential base composition bias. Tettigarcta is confirmed as the sister-clade of the Cicadidae and support is found for three subfamilies identified in an earlier morphological cladistic analysis. A set of paraphyletic deep-level clades formed by African genera are together named as Tettigomyiinae n. stat. Taxonomic reassignments of genera and tribes are made where morphological examination confirms incorrect placements suggested by the molecular tree, and 11 new tribes are defined (Arenopsaltriini n. tribe, Durangonini n. tribe, Katoini n. tribe, Lacetasini n. tribe, Macrotristriini n. tribe, Malagasiini n. tribe, Nelcyndanini n. tribe, Pagiphorini n. tribe, Pictilini n. tribe, Psaltodini n. tribe, and Selymbriini n. tribe). Tribe Tacuini n. syn. is synonymized with Cryptotympanini, and Tryellina n. syn. is synonymized with an expanded Tribe Lamotialnini. Tribe Hyantiini n. syn. is synonymized with Fidicinini. Tribe Sinosenini is transferred to Cicadinae from Cicadettinae, Cicadatrini is moved to Cicadettinae from Cicadinae, and Ydiellini and Tettigomyiini are transferred to Tettigomyiinae n. stat from Cicadettinae. While the subfamily Cicadinae, historically defined by the presence of timbal covers, is weakly supported in the molecular tree, high taxonomic rank is not supported for several earlier clades based on unique morphology associated with sound production.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A multi-stakeholder approach to productivity improvement in the South African construction industry
- Authors: Adebowale, Oluseyi Julius
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Labor productivity , Construction industry -- Labor productivity Construction industry -- South Africa Construction industry -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19597 , vital:28902
- Description: As poor productivity in construction continues to constitute a setback to projects’ success in different countries of the world, the situation in South African construction is no exception. Poor productivity on construction projects and its detrimental impact on project objectives have continually resonated for decades. As a result, several strategies, interventions, and measures that aimed at improving productivity in the construction sector have been proposed. Nevertheless, the phenomenon importunately creates a major challenge on construction projects, and by extension, the construction industry especially in developing countries. Even when construction management literature acknowledged the commonalities in productivity influences, the practice of addressing construction productivity influences as separate entities has gained much relevance over the years. Taking into perspective, the multidisciplinary and complexity inherent in construction, a systemic approach to addressing construction productivity influences is fast becoming essential. This study addressed productivity-influencing factors by considering factors that are related to rework, shortage of construction resources, constructability, political, socio-economic, working environment, welfare conditions, disputes, planning and training. Consequently, the interdependencies of the most significant productivity-influencing factors in South African construction was developed in the form of a qualitative model. The study adopts the underlying assumptions of the quantitative approach, but also accepts some qualitative data. With regards to the subject of enquiry, the paradigm of the research is positivism which consists of realists’ ontological prescriptions and objectivists’ epistemological prescriptions. Site engineers, site managers, and site supervisors working for cidb registered contractors in four South African provinces constitute the sample stratum. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 was used to analyse the data gathered from these project participants; both descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Descriptive statistics was used to summarise and describe the data obtained, while inferential statistics in the form of analysis of variance, T-test, and Tukey post hoc test were adopted. The study reported the most significant factors which negatively influence productivity on South African construction projects as inadequate workers’ skills, defective workmanship, the practice of awarding contracts to lowest bidders, political activities resulting in industrial action, inadequate contractors’ experience in project planning, payment delays by contractors, and corruption. Furthermore, it was found that contractors largely share similar perceptions regarding the factors that constrain productivity growth in South African construction. The approximate level of labour, material, and plant productivity on South African construction projects is 50.4%, 72.9%, and 62.0% respectively, while the approximate multifactor productivity was estimated as 61.8%. The study concluded that productivity has a considerable relationship with time and cost and a less potent relationship with quality. Based on the research findings, contractors’, consultants’, clients’ and government qualitative intervention models were proposed while recommendations towards improving South African construction productivity were made. The study recommended the reinvention of the apprentice training system to develop skills in construction, the involvement of stakeholders in improving workers’ skills, improved collaboration between the construction industry and higher institutions of learning regarding curricula development, adequate supervision of construction activities to mitigate the propagation of rework on construction projects, character in leadership, and integrity of project stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Adebowale, Oluseyi Julius
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Labor productivity , Construction industry -- Labor productivity Construction industry -- South Africa Construction industry -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19597 , vital:28902
- Description: As poor productivity in construction continues to constitute a setback to projects’ success in different countries of the world, the situation in South African construction is no exception. Poor productivity on construction projects and its detrimental impact on project objectives have continually resonated for decades. As a result, several strategies, interventions, and measures that aimed at improving productivity in the construction sector have been proposed. Nevertheless, the phenomenon importunately creates a major challenge on construction projects, and by extension, the construction industry especially in developing countries. Even when construction management literature acknowledged the commonalities in productivity influences, the practice of addressing construction productivity influences as separate entities has gained much relevance over the years. Taking into perspective, the multidisciplinary and complexity inherent in construction, a systemic approach to addressing construction productivity influences is fast becoming essential. This study addressed productivity-influencing factors by considering factors that are related to rework, shortage of construction resources, constructability, political, socio-economic, working environment, welfare conditions, disputes, planning and training. Consequently, the interdependencies of the most significant productivity-influencing factors in South African construction was developed in the form of a qualitative model. The study adopts the underlying assumptions of the quantitative approach, but also accepts some qualitative data. With regards to the subject of enquiry, the paradigm of the research is positivism which consists of realists’ ontological prescriptions and objectivists’ epistemological prescriptions. Site engineers, site managers, and site supervisors working for cidb registered contractors in four South African provinces constitute the sample stratum. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 was used to analyse the data gathered from these project participants; both descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Descriptive statistics was used to summarise and describe the data obtained, while inferential statistics in the form of analysis of variance, T-test, and Tukey post hoc test were adopted. The study reported the most significant factors which negatively influence productivity on South African construction projects as inadequate workers’ skills, defective workmanship, the practice of awarding contracts to lowest bidders, political activities resulting in industrial action, inadequate contractors’ experience in project planning, payment delays by contractors, and corruption. Furthermore, it was found that contractors largely share similar perceptions regarding the factors that constrain productivity growth in South African construction. The approximate level of labour, material, and plant productivity on South African construction projects is 50.4%, 72.9%, and 62.0% respectively, while the approximate multifactor productivity was estimated as 61.8%. The study concluded that productivity has a considerable relationship with time and cost and a less potent relationship with quality. Based on the research findings, contractors’, consultants’, clients’ and government qualitative intervention models were proposed while recommendations towards improving South African construction productivity were made. The study recommended the reinvention of the apprentice training system to develop skills in construction, the involvement of stakeholders in improving workers’ skills, improved collaboration between the construction industry and higher institutions of learning regarding curricula development, adequate supervision of construction activities to mitigate the propagation of rework on construction projects, character in leadership, and integrity of project stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A narrative study of patients’ illness experiences on antiretroviral treatment
- Authors: Tsope, Lindiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) Social aspects South Africa , HIV infections Social aspects South Africa , Stigma (Social psychology) , Antiretroviral agents , Disclosure of information , Social media in medicine South Africa , Discourse analysis, Narrative
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63032 , vital:28356
- Description: Eight female respondents, who have publicly disclosed their HIV-positive status on social media, were involved in a semi-structured in-depth interview process. Using the theoretical frameworks of symbolic interactionism and social constructionism, the study explores the effects of antiretroviral treatment on patients’ illness experiences, looking at the personal and social symbolisms and meanings attached to taking antiretrovirals. The study revealed a positive and inspirational aspect of living with HIV/AIDS and especially consuming antiretroviral therapy. It became evident that the knowledge participants had of antiretrovirals before consuming them was misguided and based more on false ‘general knowledge’ among laypersons than actual medical fact. Moreover, the study revealed that there is a social reconstruction of narratives that has taken place in each participant’s life due to consuming antiretrovirals. Publicly disclosing their statuses has also proved to have both negative and positive consequences for the individuals and for society at large. While there is a consensus that participants’ illness experiences are directly affected by antiretroviral treatment, each participant’s narrative is different, yet positive.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Tsope, Lindiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) Social aspects South Africa , HIV infections Social aspects South Africa , Stigma (Social psychology) , Antiretroviral agents , Disclosure of information , Social media in medicine South Africa , Discourse analysis, Narrative
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63032 , vital:28356
- Description: Eight female respondents, who have publicly disclosed their HIV-positive status on social media, were involved in a semi-structured in-depth interview process. Using the theoretical frameworks of symbolic interactionism and social constructionism, the study explores the effects of antiretroviral treatment on patients’ illness experiences, looking at the personal and social symbolisms and meanings attached to taking antiretrovirals. The study revealed a positive and inspirational aspect of living with HIV/AIDS and especially consuming antiretroviral therapy. It became evident that the knowledge participants had of antiretrovirals before consuming them was misguided and based more on false ‘general knowledge’ among laypersons than actual medical fact. Moreover, the study revealed that there is a social reconstruction of narratives that has taken place in each participant’s life due to consuming antiretrovirals. Publicly disclosing their statuses has also proved to have both negative and positive consequences for the individuals and for society at large. While there is a consensus that participants’ illness experiences are directly affected by antiretroviral treatment, each participant’s narrative is different, yet positive.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A New Synthetic Method for Tetraazatricyclic Derivatives and Evaluation of Their Biological Properties
- Odame, Felix, Betz, Richard, Hosten, Eric C, Krause, Jason, Isaacs, Michelle, Hoppe, Heinrich C, Khanye, Setshaba D, Sayed, Yasien, Frost, P Carminita, Lobb, Kevin A, Tshentu, Zenixole R
- Authors: Odame, Felix , Betz, Richard , Hosten, Eric C , Krause, Jason , Isaacs, Michelle , Hoppe, Heinrich C , Khanye, Setshaba D , Sayed, Yasien , Frost, P Carminita , Lobb, Kevin A , Tshentu, Zenixole R
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123189 , vital:35413 , https://doi.org/10.1002/slct.201802930
- Description: Herein, we propose novel quinolones incorporating an INH moiety as potential drug templates against TB. The quinolone-based compounds bearing an INH moiety attached via a hydrazide–hydrazone bond were synthesised and evaluated against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv (MTB). The compounds were also evaluated for cytotoxicity against HeLa cell lines. These compounds showed significant activity (MIC90) against MTB in the range of 0.2–8 μM without any cytotoxic effects. Compounds 10 (MIC90; 0.9 μM), 11 (MIC90; 0.2 μM), 12 (MIC90; 0.8 μM) and compound 15 (MIC90; 0.8 μM), the most active compounds in this series, demonstrate activities on par with INH and superior to those reported for the fluoroquinolones. The SAR analysis suggests that the nature of substituents at positions −1 and −3 of the quinolone nucleus influences anti-MTB activity. Aqueous solubility evaluation and in vitro metabolic stability of compound 12 highlights favourable drug-like properties for this compound class.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Odame, Felix , Betz, Richard , Hosten, Eric C , Krause, Jason , Isaacs, Michelle , Hoppe, Heinrich C , Khanye, Setshaba D , Sayed, Yasien , Frost, P Carminita , Lobb, Kevin A , Tshentu, Zenixole R
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123189 , vital:35413 , https://doi.org/10.1002/slct.201802930
- Description: Herein, we propose novel quinolones incorporating an INH moiety as potential drug templates against TB. The quinolone-based compounds bearing an INH moiety attached via a hydrazide–hydrazone bond were synthesised and evaluated against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv (MTB). The compounds were also evaluated for cytotoxicity against HeLa cell lines. These compounds showed significant activity (MIC90) against MTB in the range of 0.2–8 μM without any cytotoxic effects. Compounds 10 (MIC90; 0.9 μM), 11 (MIC90; 0.2 μM), 12 (MIC90; 0.8 μM) and compound 15 (MIC90; 0.8 μM), the most active compounds in this series, demonstrate activities on par with INH and superior to those reported for the fluoroquinolones. The SAR analysis suggests that the nature of substituents at positions −1 and −3 of the quinolone nucleus influences anti-MTB activity. Aqueous solubility evaluation and in vitro metabolic stability of compound 12 highlights favourable drug-like properties for this compound class.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A peaceful revenge: Achieving structural and agential transformation in a South African context using cognitive justice and emancipatory social learning
- Authors: Burt, Jane C , James, Anna
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/392049 , vital:68717 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/14767430.2018.1550312"
- Description: This is an account of the emancipatory struggle that faces agents who seek to change the oppressive social structures associated with neo-liberalism. We begin by ‘digging amongst the bones’ of the calls for resistance that have been declared dead or assimilated/co-opted by neoliberal theorists. This leads us to unearth, then utilize, Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed, Steve Biko’s Black Consciousness and Shiv Visvanathan's ideas; which are examples of Roy Bhaskar’s transformative dialectic. We argue, using examples, that cognitive justice – a concept common to each of our chosen theorists – is vital in enabling emancipatory social learning. By embracing cognitive justice, the agents gained confidence, which led to their increased ability to champion community and non-academic knowledge. It also uncovered structural tensions – attendant in neoliberalism – around privilege. By articulating these tensions, the participants were able to ‘come closer together’. Such processes, initiated by ensuring cognitive justice, are possible steps in achieving universal solidarity; which is likely to be a necessary step along the path of achieving emancipation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Burt, Jane C , James, Anna
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/392049 , vital:68717 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/14767430.2018.1550312"
- Description: This is an account of the emancipatory struggle that faces agents who seek to change the oppressive social structures associated with neo-liberalism. We begin by ‘digging amongst the bones’ of the calls for resistance that have been declared dead or assimilated/co-opted by neoliberal theorists. This leads us to unearth, then utilize, Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed, Steve Biko’s Black Consciousness and Shiv Visvanathan's ideas; which are examples of Roy Bhaskar’s transformative dialectic. We argue, using examples, that cognitive justice – a concept common to each of our chosen theorists – is vital in enabling emancipatory social learning. By embracing cognitive justice, the agents gained confidence, which led to their increased ability to champion community and non-academic knowledge. It also uncovered structural tensions – attendant in neoliberalism – around privilege. By articulating these tensions, the participants were able to ‘come closer together’. Such processes, initiated by ensuring cognitive justice, are possible steps in achieving universal solidarity; which is likely to be a necessary step along the path of achieving emancipation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A performance management model for organisational performance excellence in the South African railway industry
- Authors: Mtati, Tabisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Success in business -- South Africa Railroads -- South Africa -- Track
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33043 , vital:32501
- Description: The South African railway industry has seven times more of labour productivity than its counterparts within Sub-Saharan Africa. Though, when compared to countries in Europe, the United States of America, and China, the South African railway industry is non-competitive. The National Railway Safety Regulator of South Africa (NRSR) has been gradually considering novel ways of measuring organisational performance which encompass a broad approach that goes beyond infrastructure. To that end, a business excellence model adoption is proposed for an integrated agile performance management system. Performance management is viewed as a method that involves measuring goals against a set of standards within an organisation so as to evaluate whether or not the intended objectives have been (successfully) accomplished. Management quality systems (MQS) is one seamless system which integrates the Individual Performance Assessments, ISO-Systems, and Total Quality Management (TQM) in order to achieve the operational distinction in pursuit of the organisational performance excellence. Similarly, organisational excellence is continuous efforts made to build an internal framework of standards and processes intended to involve and motivate employees to deliver products and services within organisational expectations. Various business excellence models, such as the European Framework of Quality Management (EFQM), Common Assessment Framework (CAF), Malcolm Bridge National Quality Awards (MBNQA), International Standard Organisation (ISO) 9000/1/4 and South African Excellence Models (SAEM) have been proposed as continuous improvement (CI) tools. Embedded within these frameworks are areas such as leadership, strategic planning, total quality human resources management, CI, communications, culture, process management and organisational results. Even though attention has been paid to quality performance management in literature, limited empirical research has been conducted on the impact of these models to organisational performance in the railway industry. Moreover, few studies have been conducted to investigate this within the South African context. In this study, the difference in perceptions regarding the envisioned model will be measured to determine the level of employee awareness on quality management. Secondly, the impact of the implementation of MQS factors on organisational performance is investigated to determine critical success factors. Lastly, the barriers to effective MQS implementation are explored and discussed. The study focuses on enablers (i.e. leadership, strategy planning, total quality human resources management, CI, communications, culture and process management) and their impact on organisational performance. An empirical survey has been conducted in this study to examine the influence of the identified factors on business performance. In order to measure the impact of the above factors on improving of organisational performance, the MQS model has been used. The data collected has been statistically analysed using descriptive statistics, correlational relationships and regression analysis. The results of the study indicate that the MQS is useful and effective for the improvement of organisational performance in pursuit of organisational excellence. Furthermore, the critical success factors that, when prioritised, will directly influence organisational performance have been identified. Also, all the measured factors are correlated with organisational performance. It has been proven that though there are signs of implementation of MQS, the employees have not yet owned the process and do not implement quality practises in their daily operations. It is recommended that for future studies a more representative sample be sought in order to validate the relationship between strategy planning; communication and organisational performance, and the overall impact of implementing of MQS in the rail industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mtati, Tabisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Success in business -- South Africa Railroads -- South Africa -- Track
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33043 , vital:32501
- Description: The South African railway industry has seven times more of labour productivity than its counterparts within Sub-Saharan Africa. Though, when compared to countries in Europe, the United States of America, and China, the South African railway industry is non-competitive. The National Railway Safety Regulator of South Africa (NRSR) has been gradually considering novel ways of measuring organisational performance which encompass a broad approach that goes beyond infrastructure. To that end, a business excellence model adoption is proposed for an integrated agile performance management system. Performance management is viewed as a method that involves measuring goals against a set of standards within an organisation so as to evaluate whether or not the intended objectives have been (successfully) accomplished. Management quality systems (MQS) is one seamless system which integrates the Individual Performance Assessments, ISO-Systems, and Total Quality Management (TQM) in order to achieve the operational distinction in pursuit of the organisational performance excellence. Similarly, organisational excellence is continuous efforts made to build an internal framework of standards and processes intended to involve and motivate employees to deliver products and services within organisational expectations. Various business excellence models, such as the European Framework of Quality Management (EFQM), Common Assessment Framework (CAF), Malcolm Bridge National Quality Awards (MBNQA), International Standard Organisation (ISO) 9000/1/4 and South African Excellence Models (SAEM) have been proposed as continuous improvement (CI) tools. Embedded within these frameworks are areas such as leadership, strategic planning, total quality human resources management, CI, communications, culture, process management and organisational results. Even though attention has been paid to quality performance management in literature, limited empirical research has been conducted on the impact of these models to organisational performance in the railway industry. Moreover, few studies have been conducted to investigate this within the South African context. In this study, the difference in perceptions regarding the envisioned model will be measured to determine the level of employee awareness on quality management. Secondly, the impact of the implementation of MQS factors on organisational performance is investigated to determine critical success factors. Lastly, the barriers to effective MQS implementation are explored and discussed. The study focuses on enablers (i.e. leadership, strategy planning, total quality human resources management, CI, communications, culture and process management) and their impact on organisational performance. An empirical survey has been conducted in this study to examine the influence of the identified factors on business performance. In order to measure the impact of the above factors on improving of organisational performance, the MQS model has been used. The data collected has been statistically analysed using descriptive statistics, correlational relationships and regression analysis. The results of the study indicate that the MQS is useful and effective for the improvement of organisational performance in pursuit of organisational excellence. Furthermore, the critical success factors that, when prioritised, will directly influence organisational performance have been identified. Also, all the measured factors are correlated with organisational performance. It has been proven that though there are signs of implementation of MQS, the employees have not yet owned the process and do not implement quality practises in their daily operations. It is recommended that for future studies a more representative sample be sought in order to validate the relationship between strategy planning; communication and organisational performance, and the overall impact of implementing of MQS in the rail industry.
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- Date Issued: 2018