Cosmological structure formation using spectral methods
- Authors: Funcke, Michelle
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/2969 , vital:20348
- Description: Numerical simulations are becoming an increasingly important tool for understanding the growth and development of structure in the universe. Common practice is to discretize the space-time using physical variables. The discreteness is embodied by considering the dynamical variables as fields on a fixed spatial and time resolution, or by constructing the matter fields by a large number of particles which interact gravitationally (N-body methods). Recognizing that the physical quantities of interest are related to the spectrum of perturbations, we propose an alternate discretization in the frequency domain, using standard spectral methods. This approach is further aided by periodic boundary conditions which allows a straightforward decomposition of variables in a Fourier basis. Fixed resources require a high-frequency cut-off which lead to aliasing effects in non-linear equations, such as the ones considered here. This thesis describes the implementation of a 3D cosmological model based on Newtonian hydrodynamic equations in an expanding background. Initial data is constructed as a spectrum of perturbations, and evolved in the frequency domain using a pseudo-spectral evolution scheme and an explicit Runge-Kutta time integrator. The code is found to converge for both linear and non-linear evolutions, and the convergence rate is determined. The correct growth rates expected from analytical calculations are recovered in the linear case. In the non-linear model, we observe close correspondence with linear growth and are able to monitor the growth on features associated with the non-linearity. High-frequency aliasing effects were evident in the non-linear evolutions, leading to a study of two potential resolutions to this problem: a boxcar filter which adheres to“Orszag’s two thirds rule” and an exponential window function, the exponential filter suggested by Hou and Li [1], and a shifted version of the exponential filter suggested, which has the potential to alleviate high frequency- ripples resulting from the Gibbs’ phenomenon. We found that the filters were somewhat successful at reducing aliasing effects but that the Gibbs’ phenomenon could not be entirely removed by the choice of filters.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Funcke, Michelle
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/2969 , vital:20348
- Description: Numerical simulations are becoming an increasingly important tool for understanding the growth and development of structure in the universe. Common practice is to discretize the space-time using physical variables. The discreteness is embodied by considering the dynamical variables as fields on a fixed spatial and time resolution, or by constructing the matter fields by a large number of particles which interact gravitationally (N-body methods). Recognizing that the physical quantities of interest are related to the spectrum of perturbations, we propose an alternate discretization in the frequency domain, using standard spectral methods. This approach is further aided by periodic boundary conditions which allows a straightforward decomposition of variables in a Fourier basis. Fixed resources require a high-frequency cut-off which lead to aliasing effects in non-linear equations, such as the ones considered here. This thesis describes the implementation of a 3D cosmological model based on Newtonian hydrodynamic equations in an expanding background. Initial data is constructed as a spectrum of perturbations, and evolved in the frequency domain using a pseudo-spectral evolution scheme and an explicit Runge-Kutta time integrator. The code is found to converge for both linear and non-linear evolutions, and the convergence rate is determined. The correct growth rates expected from analytical calculations are recovered in the linear case. In the non-linear model, we observe close correspondence with linear growth and are able to monitor the growth on features associated with the non-linearity. High-frequency aliasing effects were evident in the non-linear evolutions, leading to a study of two potential resolutions to this problem: a boxcar filter which adheres to“Orszag’s two thirds rule” and an exponential window function, the exponential filter suggested by Hou and Li [1], and a shifted version of the exponential filter suggested, which has the potential to alleviate high frequency- ripples resulting from the Gibbs’ phenomenon. We found that the filters were somewhat successful at reducing aliasing effects but that the Gibbs’ phenomenon could not be entirely removed by the choice of filters.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Thermoluminescence of annealed synthetic quartz
- Atang, Elizabeth Fende Midiki
- Authors: Atang, Elizabeth Fende Midiki
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/420 , vital:19957
- Description: The kinetic and dosimetric features of the main thermoluminescent peak of synthetic quartz have been investigated in quartz ordinarily annealed at 500_C as well as quartz annealed at 500_C for 10 minutes. The main peak is found at 78 _C for the samples annealed at 500_C for 10 minutes irradiated to 10 Gy and heated at 1.0 _C/s. For the samples ordinarily annealed at 500_C the main peak is found at 106 _C after the sample has been irradiated to 30 Gy and heated at 5.0 _C/s. In these samples, the intensity of the main peak is enhanced with repetitive measurement whereas its maximum temperature is unaffected. The peak position of the main peak in the sample is independent of the irradiation dose and this, together with its fading characteristics, are consistent with first-order kinetics. For doses between 5 and 25 Gy, the dose response of the main peak of the annealed sample is superlinear. The half-life of the main TL peak of the annealed sample is about 1 h. The activation energy E of the main peak is around 0.90 eV. For a heating rate of 0.4 _C/s, its order of kinetics b derived from the whole curve method of analysis is 1.0. Following irradiation, preheating and illumination with 470 nm blue light, the main peak in the annealed sample is regenerated during heating. The resulting phototransferred peak occurs at the same temperature as the original peak and has similar kinetic and dosimetric features, with a half-life of about 1 h. For a preheat temperature of 200 _C, the intensity of the phototransferred peak in the sample increases with illumination time up to a maximum and decreases thereafter. At longer illumination times, no further decrease in the intensity of the phototransferred peak is observed. The traps associated with the 325 _C peak are the main source of the electrons responsible for the regenerated peak.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Atang, Elizabeth Fende Midiki
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/420 , vital:19957
- Description: The kinetic and dosimetric features of the main thermoluminescent peak of synthetic quartz have been investigated in quartz ordinarily annealed at 500_C as well as quartz annealed at 500_C for 10 minutes. The main peak is found at 78 _C for the samples annealed at 500_C for 10 minutes irradiated to 10 Gy and heated at 1.0 _C/s. For the samples ordinarily annealed at 500_C the main peak is found at 106 _C after the sample has been irradiated to 30 Gy and heated at 5.0 _C/s. In these samples, the intensity of the main peak is enhanced with repetitive measurement whereas its maximum temperature is unaffected. The peak position of the main peak in the sample is independent of the irradiation dose and this, together with its fading characteristics, are consistent with first-order kinetics. For doses between 5 and 25 Gy, the dose response of the main peak of the annealed sample is superlinear. The half-life of the main TL peak of the annealed sample is about 1 h. The activation energy E of the main peak is around 0.90 eV. For a heating rate of 0.4 _C/s, its order of kinetics b derived from the whole curve method of analysis is 1.0. Following irradiation, preheating and illumination with 470 nm blue light, the main peak in the annealed sample is regenerated during heating. The resulting phototransferred peak occurs at the same temperature as the original peak and has similar kinetic and dosimetric features, with a half-life of about 1 h. For a preheat temperature of 200 _C, the intensity of the phototransferred peak in the sample increases with illumination time up to a maximum and decreases thereafter. At longer illumination times, no further decrease in the intensity of the phototransferred peak is observed. The traps associated with the 325 _C peak are the main source of the electrons responsible for the regenerated peak.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Die hantering van etikette in woordeboeke, met spesiale verwysing na Xhosa-woordeboeke
- Landman, Kie-Mari, Kwatsha, Linda Loretta, Otto, PR
- Authors: Landman, Kie-Mari , Kwatsha, Linda Loretta , Otto, PR
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Xhosa language -- Lexicology Xhosa language -- Terms and phrases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21845 , vital:29793
- Description: The researcher’s decision to study the labelling of lexical items in dictionaries was prompted by the frustration experienced with subjective labelling in Afrikaans and English dictionaries. Some lexicographers rely too much on their subjective judgement when it comes to labelling lexical items. The problem with this is that the different dictionaries often label the same word differently or that words in the same dictionary which should get the same label are labelled differently. The question arose as to what exactly constitutes the correct handling of labels, especially with regard to Xhosa dictionaries. The search for an answer to achieve this aim dictated the necessity to examine the essence of the concept “label” in order to establish criteria for evaluating the effective usage of labels, because as Harteveld (1993:143) stated: “…the incorrect treatment of labels or the lack thereof can have important implications for a dictionary”. Since the hypothesis of this study is that it is possible to use labels objectively and correctly it is therefore possible to establish criteria that can be used to achieve this end. A literature review was undertaken to identify criteria for the handling of labels. Fieldwork with the aid of a questionnaire was conducted to supplement the establishment of such criteria. A number of criteria for handling labels was determined. Each criterion was discussed and its implementation was practically demonstrated by means of exemplars.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Landman, Kie-Mari , Kwatsha, Linda Loretta , Otto, PR
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Xhosa language -- Lexicology Xhosa language -- Terms and phrases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21845 , vital:29793
- Description: The researcher’s decision to study the labelling of lexical items in dictionaries was prompted by the frustration experienced with subjective labelling in Afrikaans and English dictionaries. Some lexicographers rely too much on their subjective judgement when it comes to labelling lexical items. The problem with this is that the different dictionaries often label the same word differently or that words in the same dictionary which should get the same label are labelled differently. The question arose as to what exactly constitutes the correct handling of labels, especially with regard to Xhosa dictionaries. The search for an answer to achieve this aim dictated the necessity to examine the essence of the concept “label” in order to establish criteria for evaluating the effective usage of labels, because as Harteveld (1993:143) stated: “…the incorrect treatment of labels or the lack thereof can have important implications for a dictionary”. Since the hypothesis of this study is that it is possible to use labels objectively and correctly it is therefore possible to establish criteria that can be used to achieve this end. A literature review was undertaken to identify criteria for the handling of labels. Fieldwork with the aid of a questionnaire was conducted to supplement the establishment of such criteria. A number of criteria for handling labels was determined. Each criterion was discussed and its implementation was practically demonstrated by means of exemplars.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Genotypic and phenotypic characterization of enterococci from cow dung and environmental water sources in three selected dairy farms in Amathole District
- Authors: Tanih, Godfred Ngu
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Enterobacteriaceae Water -- Microbiology Enterococcus faecalis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2348 , vital:27755
- Description: Enterococcus species are integral members of the gastrointestinal microfloral of humans, animals, birds, as well as insects. Their presence in water and food has been greatly associated with faecal contamination. This study was aimed at evaluating the incidence of Enterococcus species in cow dung and environmental water sources in three commercial dairy farms. In addition, their antibiotic profiles were determined as well as resistance and virulence genes. Furthermore, the genetic relatedness of the isolates was determined by molecular typing method (RAPD PCR). Three hundred and thirty four water and faecal samples consisting of 117, 116 and 101 were collected from Seven Star Middle Drift and Fort Hare Dairy trusts respectively. Of the 334 samples collected, 289 were of faecal origin and 45 from water sources within the farms. All samples were screened for enterococci using culture base growth media and molecular methods targeting the tuf gene. Speciation was done using species-specific primers and the incidences of various species within the farms determined. Furthermore resistance to antibiotics and multidrug-resistant phenotypes were established using the disk diffusion method. Genes coding for virulence and resistance were also determined. From the samples collected, 313 (289 faecal and 24 water) presumptive enteroccocci were isolated, 305 of 313 (97.45 percent) were confirmed as Enterococcus of which 239 of 305 (78.38 percent) were identified as E. hirae, 15 of 305 (4.92 percent) as E. faecium, 12/305 (3.93 percent) as E. durans, 6 of 305 (1.97 percent) as E. faecalis and 33 of 305 (10.82 percent) were unidentified. Out of the five virulence genes that were targeted in the study only gelE (71.80 percent of 219/305) and ace (27.2 percent 83/305) were present in the isolates. Phenotypic resistance to antibiotics was observed is in all twelve antibiotics tested with multidrug resistance phenotypes detected in some enterococcal isolates most predominant in Seven Star and Middledrift dairy trust. Finally RAPD profiles of the isolates showed high relatedness between the strains from water and cow dung sources in all three commercial dairy farms suggesting possible contamination from cow dung to the water sources or vice versa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Tanih, Godfred Ngu
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Enterobacteriaceae Water -- Microbiology Enterococcus faecalis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2348 , vital:27755
- Description: Enterococcus species are integral members of the gastrointestinal microfloral of humans, animals, birds, as well as insects. Their presence in water and food has been greatly associated with faecal contamination. This study was aimed at evaluating the incidence of Enterococcus species in cow dung and environmental water sources in three commercial dairy farms. In addition, their antibiotic profiles were determined as well as resistance and virulence genes. Furthermore, the genetic relatedness of the isolates was determined by molecular typing method (RAPD PCR). Three hundred and thirty four water and faecal samples consisting of 117, 116 and 101 were collected from Seven Star Middle Drift and Fort Hare Dairy trusts respectively. Of the 334 samples collected, 289 were of faecal origin and 45 from water sources within the farms. All samples were screened for enterococci using culture base growth media and molecular methods targeting the tuf gene. Speciation was done using species-specific primers and the incidences of various species within the farms determined. Furthermore resistance to antibiotics and multidrug-resistant phenotypes were established using the disk diffusion method. Genes coding for virulence and resistance were also determined. From the samples collected, 313 (289 faecal and 24 water) presumptive enteroccocci were isolated, 305 of 313 (97.45 percent) were confirmed as Enterococcus of which 239 of 305 (78.38 percent) were identified as E. hirae, 15 of 305 (4.92 percent) as E. faecium, 12/305 (3.93 percent) as E. durans, 6 of 305 (1.97 percent) as E. faecalis and 33 of 305 (10.82 percent) were unidentified. Out of the five virulence genes that were targeted in the study only gelE (71.80 percent of 219/305) and ace (27.2 percent 83/305) were present in the isolates. Phenotypic resistance to antibiotics was observed is in all twelve antibiotics tested with multidrug resistance phenotypes detected in some enterococcal isolates most predominant in Seven Star and Middledrift dairy trust. Finally RAPD profiles of the isolates showed high relatedness between the strains from water and cow dung sources in all three commercial dairy farms suggesting possible contamination from cow dung to the water sources or vice versa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Risk management practices on public sector construction projects: Case studies in Lesotho
- Authors: Nketekete, Molefi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Risk management Construction industry -- Lesotho Risk management -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11228 , vital:26900
- Description: Risk management (RM) is a knowledge area in project management (PM). The challenges of project complexity require astute RM. However, RM practices in Lesotho appear to lag behind international trends. Within the sub-Sahara African region, RM incompetence affects timely delivery of public projects owing to PM practices that do not address risks. This study, which adopts a case study approach, unravels the „how and why‟ of contemporary RM practices which are lacking in Lesotho, despite a poor record of project success in the construction industry. Through the reviewed literature and primary data collection, this study investigates three elements in order to determine the level of RM practice within Lesotho public sector construction projects. These elements were the basis of RM, the RM processes, and the peoples‟ perceptions which were essentially centred on the probability of risk and the impact thereof. The results from the study achieved through cross-case synthesis show that the level of RM practice in the Lesotho public sector construction projects is at variance with international practice. The notable gaps in practice include construction professionals who do not know about or who have not practiced project RM. The study thus propose that the Government of Lesotho (GoL) should invest in educating more people in the areas of construction project management or engage professionals with extensive project RM experience. The recommended initiatives should promote professionalism and accountability that are essential for bracing the RM practice in public sector construction projects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Nketekete, Molefi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Risk management Construction industry -- Lesotho Risk management -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11228 , vital:26900
- Description: Risk management (RM) is a knowledge area in project management (PM). The challenges of project complexity require astute RM. However, RM practices in Lesotho appear to lag behind international trends. Within the sub-Sahara African region, RM incompetence affects timely delivery of public projects owing to PM practices that do not address risks. This study, which adopts a case study approach, unravels the „how and why‟ of contemporary RM practices which are lacking in Lesotho, despite a poor record of project success in the construction industry. Through the reviewed literature and primary data collection, this study investigates three elements in order to determine the level of RM practice within Lesotho public sector construction projects. These elements were the basis of RM, the RM processes, and the peoples‟ perceptions which were essentially centred on the probability of risk and the impact thereof. The results from the study achieved through cross-case synthesis show that the level of RM practice in the Lesotho public sector construction projects is at variance with international practice. The notable gaps in practice include construction professionals who do not know about or who have not practiced project RM. The study thus propose that the Government of Lesotho (GoL) should invest in educating more people in the areas of construction project management or engage professionals with extensive project RM experience. The recommended initiatives should promote professionalism and accountability that are essential for bracing the RM practice in public sector construction projects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Biology and ecology of Glossogobius callidus (Smith 1937) in irrigation impoundments in the Sundays River Valley of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mofu, Lubabalo
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/1136 , vital:20023
- Description: The River Goby Glossogobius callidus (Smith, 1937) is a native abundant fish in both freshwater and estuarine habitats in the Cape Fold Ecoregion, yet little information is available on its life-history. This study aims to contribute to knowledge on the age and growth, reproductive biology and the diet and feeding habits of G. callidus in irrigation impoundments. Glossogobius callidus was sampled monthly from August 2013 till March 2015; from the irrigation ponds in the Sundays River Valley, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. To determine sex, gonads were visually assessed under a dissecting microscope to confirm the sex based on the shape of the urogenital papillae. Fish were then dissected to confirm sex and gonads were categorised into five macroscopic stages which were histologically validated. Microscopic stages of gonadal development were discerned based on nuclear and cytoplasmic characteristics of the oocyte or sperm. Ovaries and sperms were assigned stages based on the most advanced type of oocyte present. In total 2054 fishes ranging in length from 21.1 mm to 137.2 mm TL were sampled. The sex ratio (1.1 males: 1 females) did not differ from unity (x2 = 0.027, df = 1, p = 0.87). Length at 50% maturity (Lm) was 70 mm TL females and 72 mm TL for males. Spawning season was mid-spring and mid-summer and mean ± S.D absolute fecundity was estimated at 1028.2 ± 131.7 ova/fish. Relative fecundity (number of vitellogenic oocytes per gram of eviscerated fish mass) were estimated at 50 ± 18 ova/fish gram. Otoliths from 560 fish were used for ageing. Growth zone deposition rate was validated using edge analysis. As a unimodal periodic regression model best described the temporal proportion of opaque zone deposition on the edge of otoliths over a one-year period, growth zone deposition rate was validated as annual. The oldest female fish was a 4-year old 84.4 mm TL fish and the oldest male was a 7-year old 100.5 mm TL fish. The length-at-age for the entire population of 560 G. callidus provided von Bertalanffy parameters of Lt = 92 (1 - e -0.58(t + 0.4)) mm TL for the entire population, Lt = 70 (1 - e -1.8 (t + 0.06)) mm TL for males and Lt = 65 (1 - e -1.8 (t + 0.05)) mm TL for females. Converting length at maturity to age at maturity demonstrated that G. callidus attained maturity at an age of 2-years. Growth performance described using the phi-prime index showed that G. callidus had lower growth performance compared to the invasive Neogobius melanostomus. Using age structure, natural mortality was estimated at 1.31 yr-1 using catch curve analysis. Diet of G. callidus comprised of ten taxonomic groups. Among these, aquatic invertebrates were the most diverse group but while relative contribution of the dietary components varied across all size classes and seasons, the key prey items were consistently found in all size classes. These were Diptera, Hemiptera, Trichoptera, Odonata, Cladocera, Copepoda, Hydracarina, Amphipoda, Crustacea, and Mollusca. While dietary differences were observed between the size classes and throughout the seasons, G. callidus can be regarded as a generalist feeder preying on an array of different species. Given its abundance and diet, I suggest that G. callidus contribute considerably to the invertebrate predation pressure in these artificial aquatic environments in an arid region. In summary, medium fecundity, fast growth, moderate maturity, and a generalist feeding behaviour demonstrate that G. callidus is an equilibrium life strategist. In comparison with other species, the life-history traits of G. callidus from irrigation impoundments resemble those of other freshwater goby species, some of which are global invaders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mofu, Lubabalo
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/1136 , vital:20023
- Description: The River Goby Glossogobius callidus (Smith, 1937) is a native abundant fish in both freshwater and estuarine habitats in the Cape Fold Ecoregion, yet little information is available on its life-history. This study aims to contribute to knowledge on the age and growth, reproductive biology and the diet and feeding habits of G. callidus in irrigation impoundments. Glossogobius callidus was sampled monthly from August 2013 till March 2015; from the irrigation ponds in the Sundays River Valley, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. To determine sex, gonads were visually assessed under a dissecting microscope to confirm the sex based on the shape of the urogenital papillae. Fish were then dissected to confirm sex and gonads were categorised into five macroscopic stages which were histologically validated. Microscopic stages of gonadal development were discerned based on nuclear and cytoplasmic characteristics of the oocyte or sperm. Ovaries and sperms were assigned stages based on the most advanced type of oocyte present. In total 2054 fishes ranging in length from 21.1 mm to 137.2 mm TL were sampled. The sex ratio (1.1 males: 1 females) did not differ from unity (x2 = 0.027, df = 1, p = 0.87). Length at 50% maturity (Lm) was 70 mm TL females and 72 mm TL for males. Spawning season was mid-spring and mid-summer and mean ± S.D absolute fecundity was estimated at 1028.2 ± 131.7 ova/fish. Relative fecundity (number of vitellogenic oocytes per gram of eviscerated fish mass) were estimated at 50 ± 18 ova/fish gram. Otoliths from 560 fish were used for ageing. Growth zone deposition rate was validated using edge analysis. As a unimodal periodic regression model best described the temporal proportion of opaque zone deposition on the edge of otoliths over a one-year period, growth zone deposition rate was validated as annual. The oldest female fish was a 4-year old 84.4 mm TL fish and the oldest male was a 7-year old 100.5 mm TL fish. The length-at-age for the entire population of 560 G. callidus provided von Bertalanffy parameters of Lt = 92 (1 - e -0.58(t + 0.4)) mm TL for the entire population, Lt = 70 (1 - e -1.8 (t + 0.06)) mm TL for males and Lt = 65 (1 - e -1.8 (t + 0.05)) mm TL for females. Converting length at maturity to age at maturity demonstrated that G. callidus attained maturity at an age of 2-years. Growth performance described using the phi-prime index showed that G. callidus had lower growth performance compared to the invasive Neogobius melanostomus. Using age structure, natural mortality was estimated at 1.31 yr-1 using catch curve analysis. Diet of G. callidus comprised of ten taxonomic groups. Among these, aquatic invertebrates were the most diverse group but while relative contribution of the dietary components varied across all size classes and seasons, the key prey items were consistently found in all size classes. These were Diptera, Hemiptera, Trichoptera, Odonata, Cladocera, Copepoda, Hydracarina, Amphipoda, Crustacea, and Mollusca. While dietary differences were observed between the size classes and throughout the seasons, G. callidus can be regarded as a generalist feeder preying on an array of different species. Given its abundance and diet, I suggest that G. callidus contribute considerably to the invertebrate predation pressure in these artificial aquatic environments in an arid region. In summary, medium fecundity, fast growth, moderate maturity, and a generalist feeding behaviour demonstrate that G. callidus is an equilibrium life strategist. In comparison with other species, the life-history traits of G. callidus from irrigation impoundments resemble those of other freshwater goby species, some of which are global invaders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Geochemical exploration for copper - cobalt in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African Copperbelt: a case study on PR851
- Authors: Katombe-Kisumbule, Paul
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3035 , vital:20354
- Description: The PR851 licence area is located at about 80 km west from the town of Likasi in the district of Haut-Katanga and 175 km north-west of Lubumbashi, the capital city of Katanga Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The exploration licence was granted by the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo to First Quantum Minerals Ltd through its Congolese subsidiary Compagnie Minière de Sakania Sprl (CoMiSa Sprl) under certificate N˚ CAMI/CR/70/2003 on the 10th of October 2003 for a period of 5 years with a possibility of renewal for 3 years in respect to the new Congolese mining code. The PR851 area lies on fragments of Mines Subgroup rocks of the Roan Group in the Congolese Copperbelt where most of the Cu-Co and stratiform-stratabound deposits such as Kipushi, Ruashi-Etoile, Kinsevere, Kipoi, Luishya, Luswishi, Shituru, Kamoya, Kambove, Tenke- Fungurume, Shinkolobwe, Swambo, Mindingi and Kamoto among others are found. During the 20th century, the Union Minière du Haut Katanga (U.M.H.K.) undertook mineral exploration in the Congolese Copperbelt and numerous copper- and cobalt-occurrences were identified (for instance Kibamba copper occurrence in PR851 area). From 2003, the Compagnie Minière de Sakania Sprl initiated a grassroots exploration program in PR851 area and geochemical exploration survey as one of the mineral exploration tools was implemented to aim at detecting copper and cobalt concentration in soil. The B horizon of the thick tropical soil in the area was sampled and soil samples were sent to Genalysis laboratories in Johannesburg, Republic of South Africa for main chemical analysis of Cu and Co only, whereas 10% of analyzed samples were dispatched to Perth, Western Australia for quality control analysis. Thresholds for anomalies of copper and cobalt were defined by literature comparison, standard deviations and spatial analysis. The anomalies were tested at a later stage by reverse circulation / diamond drilling during the year of 2005 to 2008 and the Cu-Co resources were estimated by Digital Mining Services of Harare, Zimbabwe in the year of 2008. Geological logging of chips from reverse circulation and diamond drill cores revealed that copper mineralization is represented by malachite, chrysocolla, chalcopyrite and bornite whereas cobalt mineralization appeared in form of heterogenite. The source of supergene mineralization remains unknown. Recommendations have been made to undertake more geological exploration work in order to fully investigate the geological setting and structural architecture of the region, which may result in a better understanding of the Cu-Co mineralization system and ore genesis. The latter has been no consensus up-to-date and different theories have been proposed to discuss the ore genesis, including syn- and dia- genetic, synorogenic and sulphide remobilization to late-to-post- orogenic Cu-Zn-Pb Kipushi-type deposit. However, geological observations favored that the diagenetic and syngenetic models are applicable to numerous deposits in the Central African Copperbelt.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Katombe-Kisumbule, Paul
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3035 , vital:20354
- Description: The PR851 licence area is located at about 80 km west from the town of Likasi in the district of Haut-Katanga and 175 km north-west of Lubumbashi, the capital city of Katanga Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The exploration licence was granted by the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo to First Quantum Minerals Ltd through its Congolese subsidiary Compagnie Minière de Sakania Sprl (CoMiSa Sprl) under certificate N˚ CAMI/CR/70/2003 on the 10th of October 2003 for a period of 5 years with a possibility of renewal for 3 years in respect to the new Congolese mining code. The PR851 area lies on fragments of Mines Subgroup rocks of the Roan Group in the Congolese Copperbelt where most of the Cu-Co and stratiform-stratabound deposits such as Kipushi, Ruashi-Etoile, Kinsevere, Kipoi, Luishya, Luswishi, Shituru, Kamoya, Kambove, Tenke- Fungurume, Shinkolobwe, Swambo, Mindingi and Kamoto among others are found. During the 20th century, the Union Minière du Haut Katanga (U.M.H.K.) undertook mineral exploration in the Congolese Copperbelt and numerous copper- and cobalt-occurrences were identified (for instance Kibamba copper occurrence in PR851 area). From 2003, the Compagnie Minière de Sakania Sprl initiated a grassroots exploration program in PR851 area and geochemical exploration survey as one of the mineral exploration tools was implemented to aim at detecting copper and cobalt concentration in soil. The B horizon of the thick tropical soil in the area was sampled and soil samples were sent to Genalysis laboratories in Johannesburg, Republic of South Africa for main chemical analysis of Cu and Co only, whereas 10% of analyzed samples were dispatched to Perth, Western Australia for quality control analysis. Thresholds for anomalies of copper and cobalt were defined by literature comparison, standard deviations and spatial analysis. The anomalies were tested at a later stage by reverse circulation / diamond drilling during the year of 2005 to 2008 and the Cu-Co resources were estimated by Digital Mining Services of Harare, Zimbabwe in the year of 2008. Geological logging of chips from reverse circulation and diamond drill cores revealed that copper mineralization is represented by malachite, chrysocolla, chalcopyrite and bornite whereas cobalt mineralization appeared in form of heterogenite. The source of supergene mineralization remains unknown. Recommendations have been made to undertake more geological exploration work in order to fully investigate the geological setting and structural architecture of the region, which may result in a better understanding of the Cu-Co mineralization system and ore genesis. The latter has been no consensus up-to-date and different theories have been proposed to discuss the ore genesis, including syn- and dia- genetic, synorogenic and sulphide remobilization to late-to-post- orogenic Cu-Zn-Pb Kipushi-type deposit. However, geological observations favored that the diagenetic and syngenetic models are applicable to numerous deposits in the Central African Copperbelt.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Tourism potential as a tool for local economic development in Mnquma Local Municipality
- Authors: Mlondleni, Mzuyanda
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3095 , vital:20398
- Description: This research study aims to investigate what is there on offer for tourists in Mnquma Local Municipality, such as products (arts and craft, accommodation establishments and places of interests), their readiness for tourist consumption (state, accessibility), tourism routes and the understanding of communities on tourism and what can be derived from it to improve their livelihoods. This in turn will establish whether the tourism sector can be used as a tool for local economic development in the municipality. In the end, this study will make recommendations on what needs to be done in the municipality for the tourism sector to be more effective for the local communities and the municipality. The researcher has conducted a qualitative research study through the use of structured questionnaires as the data collection tool, in order to obtain information from specific population members of the concerned local municipality on tourism and LED issues. The study has been conducted from twenty three accommodation establishments in Mnquma Local Municipality. During the data collection period, the researcher discovered that these accommodation establishments are facing a number of challenges ranging from poor accessibility and signage for which the study is expected to address these in the recommendations. The study will include a purposive sample of tourism businesses in the hospitality sector in Mnquma Local Municipality. From the purposive sample, the researcher opted for total population sampling which is a type of purposive sampling technique where the researcher chooses to examine the entire population. At the end, researcher recommends that the municipality needs to address the infrastructural challenges such as roads (for accessibility to tourist sites), electricity and health centers to be able to support tourism economic activities. It also needs to ensure on the continuous hosting of events to address the seasonal nature of tourism and to market the municipality as an event destination. The researcher also recommended the establishment of partnerships with sector departments and parastatals such as SEDA, DTI, ECPTA, TEP etc. Lastly, being such a rural municipality with a rich history, culture and heritage, it is recommended that the municipality must prioritise tourism as a tool for Local Economic Development to better the lives of its population and to improve its economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mlondleni, Mzuyanda
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3095 , vital:20398
- Description: This research study aims to investigate what is there on offer for tourists in Mnquma Local Municipality, such as products (arts and craft, accommodation establishments and places of interests), their readiness for tourist consumption (state, accessibility), tourism routes and the understanding of communities on tourism and what can be derived from it to improve their livelihoods. This in turn will establish whether the tourism sector can be used as a tool for local economic development in the municipality. In the end, this study will make recommendations on what needs to be done in the municipality for the tourism sector to be more effective for the local communities and the municipality. The researcher has conducted a qualitative research study through the use of structured questionnaires as the data collection tool, in order to obtain information from specific population members of the concerned local municipality on tourism and LED issues. The study has been conducted from twenty three accommodation establishments in Mnquma Local Municipality. During the data collection period, the researcher discovered that these accommodation establishments are facing a number of challenges ranging from poor accessibility and signage for which the study is expected to address these in the recommendations. The study will include a purposive sample of tourism businesses in the hospitality sector in Mnquma Local Municipality. From the purposive sample, the researcher opted for total population sampling which is a type of purposive sampling technique where the researcher chooses to examine the entire population. At the end, researcher recommends that the municipality needs to address the infrastructural challenges such as roads (for accessibility to tourist sites), electricity and health centers to be able to support tourism economic activities. It also needs to ensure on the continuous hosting of events to address the seasonal nature of tourism and to market the municipality as an event destination. The researcher also recommended the establishment of partnerships with sector departments and parastatals such as SEDA, DTI, ECPTA, TEP etc. Lastly, being such a rural municipality with a rich history, culture and heritage, it is recommended that the municipality must prioritise tourism as a tool for Local Economic Development to better the lives of its population and to improve its economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An assessment of the invasion state and fisheries suitability in four dams and a natural lake in the Western Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Dredge, Brendon Neville
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Introduced organisms Fishery management -- South Africa -- Western Cape Fishes -- Conservation -- South Africa -- Western Cape Introduced fishes -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/69114 , vital:29391
- Description: Despite more than a century of introductions, fish invasions are poorly understood in South Africa. This thesis aims to: (1) provide baseline information on the fish fauna in five inland water bodies (four dams: Theewaterskloof, Clanwilliam, Quaggaskloof, and Voelvlei and a natural lake, Groenvlei) in the Western Cape; (2) determine which species were established and provide a baseline of abundance and size structure for monitoring and, (3) make preliminary recommendations for a fishery. First, criteria for determining establishment were developed by undertaking a full biological assessment of bluegill Lepomis macrochirus, a data-poor species in South Africa. This included the assessment of growth rate using validated estimates of age derived from otoliths in two dams (Clanwilliam Dam: Lt=335.9(1−eo.113(t+1.06)); Groenvlei: Lt=287.2(1-e−0.171(t+0.54)). Length at 50% maturity was similar for males (146 mmFL) and females (147 mmFL). Length frequency analysis combined with data on the age and growth and reproduction demonstrated that established populations of bluegill contained several age cohorts as well as mature and juvenile fishes. A meta-analysis was conducted to: (1) compile a list of initial stocking dates for all alien fishes in each waterbody and (2) use angler tournament data to assess for additional species and persistence over time. Data from the meta-analysis was combined with ichthyological survey data to determine establishment success. These data demonstrated that nine non-native species had established in the five water bodies. Clanwilliam Dam had the largest number (7) of non-native species established, Groenvlei (5) and Theewaterskloof, Brandvlei and Voelvlei the lowest with four species. The state of invasion of each species in the province showed that all nine species are categorised as invasive. This information on establishment was then integrated into a framework for rapidly determining what type of fishery would be most suitable for the 5 waterbodies. Potential yield was estimated using morphoedaphic models, were 260 t/yr for Theewaterskloof Dam, 93 t/yr for Voelvlei, 81 t/yr for Brandvlei, 59 t/yr for Groenvlei and 55 t/yr for Groenvlei. The CPUE for Groenvlei was the highest in gill nets with 1.32 ± 1.94 kg/h, then Voelvlei 1.05 ± 1.34 kg/h followed by Brandvlei (0.84 ± 1.48 kg/h), Clanwilliam (0.71 ± 1.55 kg/h) and lastly Theewaterskloof (0.36 ± 0.41 kg/h). Only Theewaterskloof could produce in excess of 100 t/yr but less than 400 t/yr of fish making it suitable for a small scale fishery. The CPUE values of Theewaterskloof were the lowest and a gill net fishery on this water body may not produce sufficient fish for the fishery. All water bodies had a high recreational angling usage, the opening of a small scale fishery could be detrimental to this industry. Subsistence and recreational anglers should be promoted with the possibility of a long line industry targeting Clarias gariepinus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Dredge, Brendon Neville
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Introduced organisms Fishery management -- South Africa -- Western Cape Fishes -- Conservation -- South Africa -- Western Cape Introduced fishes -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/69114 , vital:29391
- Description: Despite more than a century of introductions, fish invasions are poorly understood in South Africa. This thesis aims to: (1) provide baseline information on the fish fauna in five inland water bodies (four dams: Theewaterskloof, Clanwilliam, Quaggaskloof, and Voelvlei and a natural lake, Groenvlei) in the Western Cape; (2) determine which species were established and provide a baseline of abundance and size structure for monitoring and, (3) make preliminary recommendations for a fishery. First, criteria for determining establishment were developed by undertaking a full biological assessment of bluegill Lepomis macrochirus, a data-poor species in South Africa. This included the assessment of growth rate using validated estimates of age derived from otoliths in two dams (Clanwilliam Dam: Lt=335.9(1−eo.113(t+1.06)); Groenvlei: Lt=287.2(1-e−0.171(t+0.54)). Length at 50% maturity was similar for males (146 mmFL) and females (147 mmFL). Length frequency analysis combined with data on the age and growth and reproduction demonstrated that established populations of bluegill contained several age cohorts as well as mature and juvenile fishes. A meta-analysis was conducted to: (1) compile a list of initial stocking dates for all alien fishes in each waterbody and (2) use angler tournament data to assess for additional species and persistence over time. Data from the meta-analysis was combined with ichthyological survey data to determine establishment success. These data demonstrated that nine non-native species had established in the five water bodies. Clanwilliam Dam had the largest number (7) of non-native species established, Groenvlei (5) and Theewaterskloof, Brandvlei and Voelvlei the lowest with four species. The state of invasion of each species in the province showed that all nine species are categorised as invasive. This information on establishment was then integrated into a framework for rapidly determining what type of fishery would be most suitable for the 5 waterbodies. Potential yield was estimated using morphoedaphic models, were 260 t/yr for Theewaterskloof Dam, 93 t/yr for Voelvlei, 81 t/yr for Brandvlei, 59 t/yr for Groenvlei and 55 t/yr for Groenvlei. The CPUE for Groenvlei was the highest in gill nets with 1.32 ± 1.94 kg/h, then Voelvlei 1.05 ± 1.34 kg/h followed by Brandvlei (0.84 ± 1.48 kg/h), Clanwilliam (0.71 ± 1.55 kg/h) and lastly Theewaterskloof (0.36 ± 0.41 kg/h). Only Theewaterskloof could produce in excess of 100 t/yr but less than 400 t/yr of fish making it suitable for a small scale fishery. The CPUE values of Theewaterskloof were the lowest and a gill net fishery on this water body may not produce sufficient fish for the fishery. All water bodies had a high recreational angling usage, the opening of a small scale fishery could be detrimental to this industry. Subsistence and recreational anglers should be promoted with the possibility of a long line industry targeting Clarias gariepinus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
A change management model for the implementation of environmental sustainability principles at General Motors South Africa
- Authors: Mzuzu, Ncedisa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: General Motors Corporation Organizational change -- Management , Corporate culture Business ethics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48047 , vital:40466
- Description: In this day and age, Environmental issues are considered to be very pertinent in a business environment. Lee (2010) argues that the natural environment is not only important for the general population, but the concern for the natural environment has become increasingly important within the accounting practice. Lee (2010) references (Porter & Van der Linde, 1995; Schaltegger & Wagner, 2006; Lee, 2009), in supporting his argument that there has been increasing interest in the relationship between environmental and economic performance, that is to say reducing costs while simultaneously improving environmental performance. Organisation in the past decades have either opted to disregard or embrace change as a result of this global phenomenon. Within organisations current leaders have had to manage operations in their local areas with a global mindset. Hill (2011:4) defines globalisation as a process whereby barriers to cross border trade and investment are declining, perceived trading distances are shrinking, material culture is starting to look similar and where national economies are merging to an interdependent, integrated economic system. With the increased hype and awareness of environmental and sustainability issues within the manufacturing environment, certain companies have adopted best practices that focus on firms' production processes (Hart, 1995; Stead & Stead, 1995) that can result in cost advantage. Within the South African context, the government has put in place a legislative framework laid down by the South African Constitution that enforces the responsibility of sustainable use of natural resources and responsible management of process outputs such as waste, effluent and gas emissions. General Motors adopted an Environmental Management System. The fundamental principles of EMS are based on continuous improvement where most of improvement opportunities and challenges exist within the implementation stages. The fundamental questions the study seeks to address are: As General Motors South Africa put in place this sustainability tool, how does the company ensure that in line with continuous improvement, the improvements are sustained? What interventions can the company implement to drive the change to ensure that it improves the implementation of its Environmental Management System so as to reap the benefits as outlined? This research effort discussed recommendations for achieving the objective of developing a change management model for improving implementation of sustainability principles at General Motors South Africa. Based on the outcome of the survey and the interview, the current senior managers at General Motors South Africa have embraced environmental issues, but there is no clear indication that the future leaders will also do the same. Based on the eight steps for transforming an organisation by Kotter (2006), the following are recommendations: A communication strategy to all employees (including leadership) that will continuously articulate connections between new behaviours and corporate success throughout the organisation, and not limit to manufacturing operations. Secondly, the company needs to ensure that there are programmes in place for leadership development and succession.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mzuzu, Ncedisa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: General Motors Corporation Organizational change -- Management , Corporate culture Business ethics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48047 , vital:40466
- Description: In this day and age, Environmental issues are considered to be very pertinent in a business environment. Lee (2010) argues that the natural environment is not only important for the general population, but the concern for the natural environment has become increasingly important within the accounting practice. Lee (2010) references (Porter & Van der Linde, 1995; Schaltegger & Wagner, 2006; Lee, 2009), in supporting his argument that there has been increasing interest in the relationship between environmental and economic performance, that is to say reducing costs while simultaneously improving environmental performance. Organisation in the past decades have either opted to disregard or embrace change as a result of this global phenomenon. Within organisations current leaders have had to manage operations in their local areas with a global mindset. Hill (2011:4) defines globalisation as a process whereby barriers to cross border trade and investment are declining, perceived trading distances are shrinking, material culture is starting to look similar and where national economies are merging to an interdependent, integrated economic system. With the increased hype and awareness of environmental and sustainability issues within the manufacturing environment, certain companies have adopted best practices that focus on firms' production processes (Hart, 1995; Stead & Stead, 1995) that can result in cost advantage. Within the South African context, the government has put in place a legislative framework laid down by the South African Constitution that enforces the responsibility of sustainable use of natural resources and responsible management of process outputs such as waste, effluent and gas emissions. General Motors adopted an Environmental Management System. The fundamental principles of EMS are based on continuous improvement where most of improvement opportunities and challenges exist within the implementation stages. The fundamental questions the study seeks to address are: As General Motors South Africa put in place this sustainability tool, how does the company ensure that in line with continuous improvement, the improvements are sustained? What interventions can the company implement to drive the change to ensure that it improves the implementation of its Environmental Management System so as to reap the benefits as outlined? This research effort discussed recommendations for achieving the objective of developing a change management model for improving implementation of sustainability principles at General Motors South Africa. Based on the outcome of the survey and the interview, the current senior managers at General Motors South Africa have embraced environmental issues, but there is no clear indication that the future leaders will also do the same. Based on the eight steps for transforming an organisation by Kotter (2006), the following are recommendations: A communication strategy to all employees (including leadership) that will continuously articulate connections between new behaviours and corporate success throughout the organisation, and not limit to manufacturing operations. Secondly, the company needs to ensure that there are programmes in place for leadership development and succession.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The managerial leadership styles of school principals for school effectiveness: a study of six Secondary schools of the Dutywa Education District
- Authors: Ziduli, Mlungiseleli
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: High school -- Management Secondary education performance -- School leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/504 , vital:27279
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the managerial leadership styles of school principals for school effectiveness at secondary schools of the Dutywa Education District in the Eastern Cape Province of the Republic of South. The literature review reflects theories concerning the managerial leadership styles of school principals for school effectiveness. In order to attain the aims and objectives of the study, the researcher used the qualitative research method, both in collecting and analyzing the data. The case study design was used to describe and access the phenomenon and the purposive sampling method was used to select (6) secondary school principals. An open ended interview schedule was used for the face-to-face in-depth interviews on the managerial leadership styles of school principals for school effectiveness at secondary schools of the Dutywa Education District. Themes were drawn from the responses of the participants and analysed. Some of the findings were: Democratic and participatory leadership styles were used by the school principals to achieve maximum co-operation from both experienced and beginning teachers and the learners in the schools. Laissez fair and autocratic styles of leadership appeared to be undesirable for the management of schools. For school principals’ effective management, they need to do proper planning, organising and scheduling of activities, assigning duties to teachers and delegating some of their work to competent teachers. The reasons for school principals’ ineffectiveness in this study were: favouritism, over-familiar relationships with some teachers, ignoring teachers’ personal problems, workload, lack of support and co-operation from teachers. Incorrect interpretation of educational policies were seen to lead to chaotic situations, poor performance of both teachers and learners, division between learners and teachers, a lack of unity between school stake-holders, poor job satisfaction and lack of trust and respect for the principals concerned. Factors contributing to principals’ incorrect interpretation of educational policies and execution of management roles were: negligence, lack of knowledge and ability to interpret educational policies, lack of proper induction programmes and training of principals and lack of support on policy matters from the Department of Education. Contributing factors resulting in barriers to principals’ ineffectiveness in the management of schools were: failure to give proper instructions to teachers and learners, failure to effectively use of available funds in the school, failure to implement all educational programmes in the school including co-curricular and extra mural activities, lack of experience, lack of support from both the Department of Education and the parents, lack of resources, high staff turnover, favourtisms and failure to hold teachers accountable for poor work done. Mechanisms deemed to overcome the factors leading to barriers to principals’ execution of their management roles at schools were: making the effort to be knowledgeable about educational policies, timely responses to problems in the school, regular consultation with stakeholders, employment of SGB teachers, taking direct supervision of instructions in classrooms and endeavoring to have good relations and gaining support from the SGB and the parents. The researcher made some recommendations on the managerial leadership styles of school principals for school effectiveness at secondary schools of the Dutywa Education District.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ziduli, Mlungiseleli
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: High school -- Management Secondary education performance -- School leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/504 , vital:27279
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the managerial leadership styles of school principals for school effectiveness at secondary schools of the Dutywa Education District in the Eastern Cape Province of the Republic of South. The literature review reflects theories concerning the managerial leadership styles of school principals for school effectiveness. In order to attain the aims and objectives of the study, the researcher used the qualitative research method, both in collecting and analyzing the data. The case study design was used to describe and access the phenomenon and the purposive sampling method was used to select (6) secondary school principals. An open ended interview schedule was used for the face-to-face in-depth interviews on the managerial leadership styles of school principals for school effectiveness at secondary schools of the Dutywa Education District. Themes were drawn from the responses of the participants and analysed. Some of the findings were: Democratic and participatory leadership styles were used by the school principals to achieve maximum co-operation from both experienced and beginning teachers and the learners in the schools. Laissez fair and autocratic styles of leadership appeared to be undesirable for the management of schools. For school principals’ effective management, they need to do proper planning, organising and scheduling of activities, assigning duties to teachers and delegating some of their work to competent teachers. The reasons for school principals’ ineffectiveness in this study were: favouritism, over-familiar relationships with some teachers, ignoring teachers’ personal problems, workload, lack of support and co-operation from teachers. Incorrect interpretation of educational policies were seen to lead to chaotic situations, poor performance of both teachers and learners, division between learners and teachers, a lack of unity between school stake-holders, poor job satisfaction and lack of trust and respect for the principals concerned. Factors contributing to principals’ incorrect interpretation of educational policies and execution of management roles were: negligence, lack of knowledge and ability to interpret educational policies, lack of proper induction programmes and training of principals and lack of support on policy matters from the Department of Education. Contributing factors resulting in barriers to principals’ ineffectiveness in the management of schools were: failure to give proper instructions to teachers and learners, failure to effectively use of available funds in the school, failure to implement all educational programmes in the school including co-curricular and extra mural activities, lack of experience, lack of support from both the Department of Education and the parents, lack of resources, high staff turnover, favourtisms and failure to hold teachers accountable for poor work done. Mechanisms deemed to overcome the factors leading to barriers to principals’ execution of their management roles at schools were: making the effort to be knowledgeable about educational policies, timely responses to problems in the school, regular consultation with stakeholders, employment of SGB teachers, taking direct supervision of instructions in classrooms and endeavoring to have good relations and gaining support from the SGB and the parents. The researcher made some recommendations on the managerial leadership styles of school principals for school effectiveness at secondary schools of the Dutywa Education District.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Local versus landscape effects of bush encroachment on plant available light, soil moisture, frost occurrence and herbaceous productivity and composition
- Authors: Klopper, Chrisna
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3137 , vital:20376
- Description: Bush encroachment is a global phenomenon and a pressing concern for South Africa rangelands. The expansion and increase in density of Vachellia karroo (hereafter referred to aAcacia karroo) has been documented in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal in South Africa. This increase in woody species in savannas is often at the expense of grass cover and thus is causing concern about how this will impact agriculture due to possible loss of grazing capacity. To understand the impacts of bush encroachment the effect of trees on their micro-climate and abiotic factors and in turn on the herbaceous layer needs to be examined. The objective of this study was to quantify the effect of Acacia karroo encroachment on the light environment, soil moisture and frost occurrence in the sub-canopy and inter-canopy micro-habitats, and how these changes affected herbaceous player productivity and composition. Another question that is being addressed here is whether, and how, the local tree effects scale up in the landscape and whether prediction can be made based on the effects of individual trees. The study was undertaken on a farm, Endwell, in the Smaldeel, Eastern Cape. At the study site, a semi-arid savanna, Acacia karroo has been encroaching since the 1980’s. The study was conducted at three scales: landscape, stand-wide and local scale. The landscape scale was represented by four areas with 0, 21, 45 and 72% tree canopy cover, the stand-wide scale consisted of transects with varying percentages of tree canopy cover within each of the four levels of encroachment. The local scale was represented by the sub-canopy and inter-canopy environment to test the effect of trees. At the local scale plant available light and soil moisture were lower in the sub-canopy than intercanopy regions, with leaf area index being higher in the sub-canopy. This local negative effect of the tree canopy on light and soil moisture in the sub-canopy did not scale up predictably in the landscape. At the stand-wide scale light in the inter-canopy was reduced as shading increased. Frost was excluded from under the canopies and frost incidence decreased at higher tree cover. Grass productivity was reduced in the sub-canopy, possibly due to lower light and soil moisture. Overall biomass increased from the low to medium level of encroachment but lowest at the high level of encroachment. Grass composition and cover was only slightly affected by tree canopies cover and C4 grass species were still present in the sub-canopy and at lower light environments. At the levels of Acacia karroo encroachment encountered at this study site, it seems unlikely that palatable or desirable C4 would be excluded from the system and that a shift from C4 to shade-tolerant species would occur. This is due to tree canopies at the site not reducing light to such anextent that they would outcompete grasses, and likely the very low grazing pressure at thesesites. Herbaceous biomass at these sites were still sufficient to carry a fire in the inter-canopyregion and sufficient grazing for herbivores. In the sub-canopy region fires will be excluded thus with higher the portion of sub-canopy areas increasing at the high levels of encroachment they may interrupt fire spread. Thus it was concluded that Acacia karroo encroachment up to 45% tree cover is currently not creating negative feedback on herbivory, but low stocking rates appear to be key to maintain this.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Klopper, Chrisna
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3137 , vital:20376
- Description: Bush encroachment is a global phenomenon and a pressing concern for South Africa rangelands. The expansion and increase in density of Vachellia karroo (hereafter referred to aAcacia karroo) has been documented in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal in South Africa. This increase in woody species in savannas is often at the expense of grass cover and thus is causing concern about how this will impact agriculture due to possible loss of grazing capacity. To understand the impacts of bush encroachment the effect of trees on their micro-climate and abiotic factors and in turn on the herbaceous layer needs to be examined. The objective of this study was to quantify the effect of Acacia karroo encroachment on the light environment, soil moisture and frost occurrence in the sub-canopy and inter-canopy micro-habitats, and how these changes affected herbaceous player productivity and composition. Another question that is being addressed here is whether, and how, the local tree effects scale up in the landscape and whether prediction can be made based on the effects of individual trees. The study was undertaken on a farm, Endwell, in the Smaldeel, Eastern Cape. At the study site, a semi-arid savanna, Acacia karroo has been encroaching since the 1980’s. The study was conducted at three scales: landscape, stand-wide and local scale. The landscape scale was represented by four areas with 0, 21, 45 and 72% tree canopy cover, the stand-wide scale consisted of transects with varying percentages of tree canopy cover within each of the four levels of encroachment. The local scale was represented by the sub-canopy and inter-canopy environment to test the effect of trees. At the local scale plant available light and soil moisture were lower in the sub-canopy than intercanopy regions, with leaf area index being higher in the sub-canopy. This local negative effect of the tree canopy on light and soil moisture in the sub-canopy did not scale up predictably in the landscape. At the stand-wide scale light in the inter-canopy was reduced as shading increased. Frost was excluded from under the canopies and frost incidence decreased at higher tree cover. Grass productivity was reduced in the sub-canopy, possibly due to lower light and soil moisture. Overall biomass increased from the low to medium level of encroachment but lowest at the high level of encroachment. Grass composition and cover was only slightly affected by tree canopies cover and C4 grass species were still present in the sub-canopy and at lower light environments. At the levels of Acacia karroo encroachment encountered at this study site, it seems unlikely that palatable or desirable C4 would be excluded from the system and that a shift from C4 to shade-tolerant species would occur. This is due to tree canopies at the site not reducing light to such anextent that they would outcompete grasses, and likely the very low grazing pressure at thesesites. Herbaceous biomass at these sites were still sufficient to carry a fire in the inter-canopyregion and sufficient grazing for herbivores. In the sub-canopy region fires will be excluded thus with higher the portion of sub-canopy areas increasing at the high levels of encroachment they may interrupt fire spread. Thus it was concluded that Acacia karroo encroachment up to 45% tree cover is currently not creating negative feedback on herbivory, but low stocking rates appear to be key to maintain this.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Exploring the relationship between leadership styles and quality of work life: a case study of a Chinese- South African joint venture
- Authors: Handley, Rayne Cyla
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4058 , vital:20597
- Description: This thesis employs a phenomenological qualitative research methodology to explore its research aims and objectives. It focuses on describing the various leadership styles and quality of work life (QWL) levels with reference to the Chinese-South African intercultural context. By doing so, it answers a primary exploratory research question; how does a particular leadership style influence QWL. By answering this question, this study will contribute to the understanding of the dynamics of Chinese organisations in South Africa. Furthermore, it will assist in creating greater intercultural synergy within the respective organisation. In order to explore the research question related to leadership and QWL, the thesis will begin by defining and describing the two concepts indigenously. In light of the research gap pertaining to African intercultural managerial contexts, as well as the rising Chinese and South Africa intercultural business environments, this case study demonstrates how leadership style is an important determining factor in QWL levels, both of the leaders as well as leader-raters within an intercultural context. China is South Africa’s largest trading partner and the signing of new agreements in 2015 will lead to enhanced China-Africa engagement at the macro and organisational level. China’s increasing engagement in both Africa and South Africa has been widely covered, but non-pejorative empirical research is needed to shed light on the organisational manifestations of China’s engagement. The study was conducted within the mining sector which is a key component of Chinese investment in, and trade with, South Africa. Through an in-depth content analysis which draws on coding and thematic concerns, quantification and description, this study finds that leaders directly influence QWL through relationships with their followers. Moreover, leaders indirectly have a bearing on QWL through the influence they have on organisational and work environment factors. Another finding is that leaders are inclined to describing higher levels of QWL and more transformational leadership styles. In addition, it is shown that executives (irrespective of leader or leader-rater status) were more likely to describe a high level of QWL and transformational leadership behaviours when compared to skilled level participants while the semi-skilled participants where least likely of all. Finally, it was found that the nature of the relationship between a leader and a follower is influenced by whether the said leader is a direct supervisor or if there is a large organisational level ‘gap’ between a leader and a leader- rater. It can also be said that leaders at higher organisational levels are expected to exhibit different leadership behaviours and meet different needs. Overall this study suggests that leaders need to be aware of the way in which the intercultural context can influence perceptions of subjective phenomena such as leadership effectiveness and QWL. The study concludes that leaders directly and indirectly play a key role in determining need satisfaction and QWL levels. To that extent, they ought to strategically adopt leadership practices that enhance need satisfaction and wellbeing in the workplace. Wellbeing and employee satisfaction are increasingly gaining importance within theory and literature related to QWL and has, importantly, also been shown to influence workplace attitudes and behaviours.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Handley, Rayne Cyla
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4058 , vital:20597
- Description: This thesis employs a phenomenological qualitative research methodology to explore its research aims and objectives. It focuses on describing the various leadership styles and quality of work life (QWL) levels with reference to the Chinese-South African intercultural context. By doing so, it answers a primary exploratory research question; how does a particular leadership style influence QWL. By answering this question, this study will contribute to the understanding of the dynamics of Chinese organisations in South Africa. Furthermore, it will assist in creating greater intercultural synergy within the respective organisation. In order to explore the research question related to leadership and QWL, the thesis will begin by defining and describing the two concepts indigenously. In light of the research gap pertaining to African intercultural managerial contexts, as well as the rising Chinese and South Africa intercultural business environments, this case study demonstrates how leadership style is an important determining factor in QWL levels, both of the leaders as well as leader-raters within an intercultural context. China is South Africa’s largest trading partner and the signing of new agreements in 2015 will lead to enhanced China-Africa engagement at the macro and organisational level. China’s increasing engagement in both Africa and South Africa has been widely covered, but non-pejorative empirical research is needed to shed light on the organisational manifestations of China’s engagement. The study was conducted within the mining sector which is a key component of Chinese investment in, and trade with, South Africa. Through an in-depth content analysis which draws on coding and thematic concerns, quantification and description, this study finds that leaders directly influence QWL through relationships with their followers. Moreover, leaders indirectly have a bearing on QWL through the influence they have on organisational and work environment factors. Another finding is that leaders are inclined to describing higher levels of QWL and more transformational leadership styles. In addition, it is shown that executives (irrespective of leader or leader-rater status) were more likely to describe a high level of QWL and transformational leadership behaviours when compared to skilled level participants while the semi-skilled participants where least likely of all. Finally, it was found that the nature of the relationship between a leader and a follower is influenced by whether the said leader is a direct supervisor or if there is a large organisational level ‘gap’ between a leader and a leader- rater. It can also be said that leaders at higher organisational levels are expected to exhibit different leadership behaviours and meet different needs. Overall this study suggests that leaders need to be aware of the way in which the intercultural context can influence perceptions of subjective phenomena such as leadership effectiveness and QWL. The study concludes that leaders directly and indirectly play a key role in determining need satisfaction and QWL levels. To that extent, they ought to strategically adopt leadership practices that enhance need satisfaction and wellbeing in the workplace. Wellbeing and employee satisfaction are increasingly gaining importance within theory and literature related to QWL and has, importantly, also been shown to influence workplace attitudes and behaviours.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
A case study of public service delivery in Cookhouse, Eastern Cape
- Makrwalana, Nomlindo Lillian
- Authors: Makrwalana, Nomlindo Lillian
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- Management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6986 , vital:21188
- Description: In South Africa the economic gaps imposed by the previous apartheid government aggravated economic inequalities and caused considerable disparities, which has resulted in high unemployment rates. Inequalities were also manifest in the neglect of infrastructural and service provision as well in the effective absence of independent governance among some race groups. This led to a call for pro-active initiatives by the post-1994 democratic government to remedy the living condition of the previously disadvantage people. As part of this poverty relief drive the South African government has embarked on a series of developmental initiatives in bringing infrastructure related service to the poor and to reduce the enormous prevailing backlog, with the aim of increasing community participation, improving service delivery and promoting the upliftment of the lives of poor people through the medium of local governance. This study investigated the integrated Development Planning, which has been undertaken in Cookhouse in Blue Crane Route Municipality in the Eastern Cape to respond to the prevailing poverty and underdevelopment among the poor communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Makrwalana, Nomlindo Lillian
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- Management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6986 , vital:21188
- Description: In South Africa the economic gaps imposed by the previous apartheid government aggravated economic inequalities and caused considerable disparities, which has resulted in high unemployment rates. Inequalities were also manifest in the neglect of infrastructural and service provision as well in the effective absence of independent governance among some race groups. This led to a call for pro-active initiatives by the post-1994 democratic government to remedy the living condition of the previously disadvantage people. As part of this poverty relief drive the South African government has embarked on a series of developmental initiatives in bringing infrastructure related service to the poor and to reduce the enormous prevailing backlog, with the aim of increasing community participation, improving service delivery and promoting the upliftment of the lives of poor people through the medium of local governance. This study investigated the integrated Development Planning, which has been undertaken in Cookhouse in Blue Crane Route Municipality in the Eastern Cape to respond to the prevailing poverty and underdevelopment among the poor communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Diplomatic relations and their impact on development: the case of South Sudan and Uganda
- Authors: Legge, Mikaya Modi Lubajo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: International economic relations South Sudan -- Foreign relations -- Uganda , Uganda -- Foreign relations -- South Sudan
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15365 , vital:28226
- Description: Since Sudan’s Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) was signed in 2005, its border with Uganda has become a hub of activities. These economic activities have been enhanced by ethnic and political relations, but also by diplomatic relations between the two countries. Contrasting developments on the Ugandan side of the border with those on the South Sudanese side, this research draws on empirical fieldwork to examine the impact of diplomatic relations on the development between both countries since 2005, with international trade as the main aspect of development. The study sets out to show how trade between both countries has been affected by the diplomatic relations between them. The post-CPA demand for goods and state-building processes created a range of economic opportunities for traders. This was particularly the case for Ugandan large-scale traders who, as a result, became an important and empowered group. These factors have further been enhanced by good diplomatic relations between both countries, and as a result South Sudan has become Uganda’s most important trading partner as well as a destination for many Ugandans to conduct their trade. Simultaneously, post-conflict problems have emerged in South Sudan such as insecurity, weak government institutions run by incompetent officials, corruption, high foreign exchange rate, cultural diversity, mistrust and poor infrastructure. These problems have emerged as major challenges to trade and investment by Ugandan traders in South Sudan with traders as well as government officials agreeing that these challenges present major setbacks to trade and investment in South Sudan. Ugandan small-scale traders in particular have become more vulnerable to expressions of authority on the part of South Sudan’s post-CPA state, in which state or individual military might is used effectively to control trade. The current conflict, which began in December 2013, has added a new dimension to the list of impediments to trade as insecurity and economic instability have precipitated an atmosphere of uncertainty among many traders and investors. Despite all those challenges, Ugandan traders as well as government officials still view South Sudan as a business destination of choice. Overall, the study confirms that diplomatic relations have enhanced international trade between South Sudan and Uganda by way of solving trade disputes, investment promotion and influencing leadership on policy matters.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Legge, Mikaya Modi Lubajo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: International economic relations South Sudan -- Foreign relations -- Uganda , Uganda -- Foreign relations -- South Sudan
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15365 , vital:28226
- Description: Since Sudan’s Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) was signed in 2005, its border with Uganda has become a hub of activities. These economic activities have been enhanced by ethnic and political relations, but also by diplomatic relations between the two countries. Contrasting developments on the Ugandan side of the border with those on the South Sudanese side, this research draws on empirical fieldwork to examine the impact of diplomatic relations on the development between both countries since 2005, with international trade as the main aspect of development. The study sets out to show how trade between both countries has been affected by the diplomatic relations between them. The post-CPA demand for goods and state-building processes created a range of economic opportunities for traders. This was particularly the case for Ugandan large-scale traders who, as a result, became an important and empowered group. These factors have further been enhanced by good diplomatic relations between both countries, and as a result South Sudan has become Uganda’s most important trading partner as well as a destination for many Ugandans to conduct their trade. Simultaneously, post-conflict problems have emerged in South Sudan such as insecurity, weak government institutions run by incompetent officials, corruption, high foreign exchange rate, cultural diversity, mistrust and poor infrastructure. These problems have emerged as major challenges to trade and investment by Ugandan traders in South Sudan with traders as well as government officials agreeing that these challenges present major setbacks to trade and investment in South Sudan. Ugandan small-scale traders in particular have become more vulnerable to expressions of authority on the part of South Sudan’s post-CPA state, in which state or individual military might is used effectively to control trade. The current conflict, which began in December 2013, has added a new dimension to the list of impediments to trade as insecurity and economic instability have precipitated an atmosphere of uncertainty among many traders and investors. Despite all those challenges, Ugandan traders as well as government officials still view South Sudan as a business destination of choice. Overall, the study confirms that diplomatic relations have enhanced international trade between South Sudan and Uganda by way of solving trade disputes, investment promotion and influencing leadership on policy matters.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Investigating soil microbial interactions of Portulacaria afra
- Authors: Fulmaka, Aviwe
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/54598 , vital:26592
- Description: Portulacaria afra commonly known as Spekboom contributes significantly to carbon sequestration and has been widely planted in degraded areas of the Eastern Cape. Approximately 50% of planted cuttings do not survive although the cause of this decline is unknown. Like many indigenous plants, Spekboom forms a symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi and the interaction with rhizobacteria may enhance and improve plant growth and establishment. This study aims to investigate these relationships which will include a survey of the arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal populations associated with Spekboom, determination of the causal agent of Spekboom decline, isolation and identification of the associated rhizobacteria and investigation of their plant growth promotion properties and assessing the ability of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and selected rhizobacteria to enhance establishment and growth of Spekboom. Soil and root samples from selected trial sites were used to assess AM fungal spore abundance and colonisation; isolation, characterization, and identification of rhizobacteria and determine the interaction of the microbes on Spekboom growth and tolerance to Fusarium. AM spore abundance and percentage root colonisation did not differ between the three Spekboom plots. Molecular analyses of the SSU region from the plots showed 4 families of AM fungi and were identified as Ambisporaceae, Glomeraceae, Claroideoglomeraceae and Paraglomeraceae. A suspected Fusarium pathogen was isolated and molecularly identified. Pathogenicity tests indicated reduced Spekboom growth with poor root development. Thirty four rhizobacterial isolates were tested for various plant growth promoting abilities. Of these, 6 were able to produce IAA which may promote plant root growth, 27 siderophores and 23 were phosphate solubilisers. Bacterial isolates were molecularly identified to be from various species of Bacillus, with some Arthrobacter, Enterobacter, Pseudomonas and Microbacterium. Inoculation of Spekboom cuttings with mycorrhizal fungi and selected rhizobacterial isolates significantly improved shoot height. Spekboom cuttings challenged with Fusarium and inoculated with mycorrhizal fungi and two rhizobacterial isolates significantly improved growth. The inoculation of cuttings in the nursery with mycorrhizal fungi and selected rhizobacteria is recommended prior to establishing Spekboom in the field.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Fulmaka, Aviwe
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/54598 , vital:26592
- Description: Portulacaria afra commonly known as Spekboom contributes significantly to carbon sequestration and has been widely planted in degraded areas of the Eastern Cape. Approximately 50% of planted cuttings do not survive although the cause of this decline is unknown. Like many indigenous plants, Spekboom forms a symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi and the interaction with rhizobacteria may enhance and improve plant growth and establishment. This study aims to investigate these relationships which will include a survey of the arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal populations associated with Spekboom, determination of the causal agent of Spekboom decline, isolation and identification of the associated rhizobacteria and investigation of their plant growth promotion properties and assessing the ability of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and selected rhizobacteria to enhance establishment and growth of Spekboom. Soil and root samples from selected trial sites were used to assess AM fungal spore abundance and colonisation; isolation, characterization, and identification of rhizobacteria and determine the interaction of the microbes on Spekboom growth and tolerance to Fusarium. AM spore abundance and percentage root colonisation did not differ between the three Spekboom plots. Molecular analyses of the SSU region from the plots showed 4 families of AM fungi and were identified as Ambisporaceae, Glomeraceae, Claroideoglomeraceae and Paraglomeraceae. A suspected Fusarium pathogen was isolated and molecularly identified. Pathogenicity tests indicated reduced Spekboom growth with poor root development. Thirty four rhizobacterial isolates were tested for various plant growth promoting abilities. Of these, 6 were able to produce IAA which may promote plant root growth, 27 siderophores and 23 were phosphate solubilisers. Bacterial isolates were molecularly identified to be from various species of Bacillus, with some Arthrobacter, Enterobacter, Pseudomonas and Microbacterium. Inoculation of Spekboom cuttings with mycorrhizal fungi and selected rhizobacterial isolates significantly improved shoot height. Spekboom cuttings challenged with Fusarium and inoculated with mycorrhizal fungi and two rhizobacterial isolates significantly improved growth. The inoculation of cuttings in the nursery with mycorrhizal fungi and selected rhizobacteria is recommended prior to establishing Spekboom in the field.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Synthesis, spectroscopic and nonlinear optical properties of metal-free and nickel β substituted binuclear phthalocyanines
- Authors: Kabwe, Kapambwe Peter
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3013 , vital:20352
- Description: In this project, nickel and metal-free 4β-(4-tert-butylphenoxy) phthalocyanine, biphenyl bridged binuclear 4-tert-butylphenoxy phthalocyanine and naphthalene bridged binuclear 4-tert-butylphenoxy phthalocyanine have been synthesised. The Z-scan technique has been employed to comparatively study their second order nonlinear optical (NLO) properties. This work, shows that the presence of H-aggregation in binuclear Pcs of metal-free and nickel 4β-(4-tertbutylphenoxy) phthalocyanines do not have an effect on the magnitude of second order nonlinear absorption coefficient (β) as compared to monomeric Pcs. Density functional (DFT) calculations of dipolar/octupolar contributions were performed, in order to explain experimentally determined β values. Spectroscopic and photophysical properties of the synthesised compounds have been determined using a range of different spectroscopic techniques, including magnetic circular dichroism (MCD), time correlated single photon counting spectroscopy (TCSPC), UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, mass spectroscopy and IR Spectroscopy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Kabwe, Kapambwe Peter
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3013 , vital:20352
- Description: In this project, nickel and metal-free 4β-(4-tert-butylphenoxy) phthalocyanine, biphenyl bridged binuclear 4-tert-butylphenoxy phthalocyanine and naphthalene bridged binuclear 4-tert-butylphenoxy phthalocyanine have been synthesised. The Z-scan technique has been employed to comparatively study their second order nonlinear optical (NLO) properties. This work, shows that the presence of H-aggregation in binuclear Pcs of metal-free and nickel 4β-(4-tertbutylphenoxy) phthalocyanines do not have an effect on the magnitude of second order nonlinear absorption coefficient (β) as compared to monomeric Pcs. Density functional (DFT) calculations of dipolar/octupolar contributions were performed, in order to explain experimentally determined β values. Spectroscopic and photophysical properties of the synthesised compounds have been determined using a range of different spectroscopic techniques, including magnetic circular dichroism (MCD), time correlated single photon counting spectroscopy (TCSPC), UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, mass spectroscopy and IR Spectroscopy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Experiences of R425 newly qualified professional Nurses during their first year of practice in 3 selected hospitals in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Qwaqwa, Nomathamsanqa P
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Student nurses practice -- Hospitals
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Cur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/677 , vital:27767
- Description: Transition of the newly qualified nurses from an educational focus to professional practitioner has long been identified as a conflicted time of critical personal and professional adjustment and staggering reality shock. This study explored the experiences of newly qualified R425 professional nurses during their first year of practice in the Eastern Cape Province at three selected hospitals. The study followed a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive design using a phenomenological approach. The sample included newly qualified professional nurses in their first year of employment. Convenience sampling was used to select the participants. Data collection was conducted by means of semi-structured interviews from ten (n=10) participants. Each interview took about 45 minutes. Ethical codes of research were followed. Data was coded manually and analyzed using content analysis Four themes and seven subthemes emerged from the data collected The findings revealed positive experiences such as sense of belonging and feelings of independence; negative experiences such as feelings of rejection, as well as management challenges The study identified challenges which impacted on the performance of new nurses, namely shortage of human and material resources and inadequate support in the working environment Recommendation: Introducing mandatory education by service institutions on transition as well as extended, sequential and structured orientation and mentoring programs for newly qualified professional nurses as this will assist them in their career development Managers to use different strategies in enhancing quality environments in order to reduce frustration for these newly qualified nurses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Qwaqwa, Nomathamsanqa P
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Student nurses practice -- Hospitals
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Cur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/677 , vital:27767
- Description: Transition of the newly qualified nurses from an educational focus to professional practitioner has long been identified as a conflicted time of critical personal and professional adjustment and staggering reality shock. This study explored the experiences of newly qualified R425 professional nurses during their first year of practice in the Eastern Cape Province at three selected hospitals. The study followed a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive design using a phenomenological approach. The sample included newly qualified professional nurses in their first year of employment. Convenience sampling was used to select the participants. Data collection was conducted by means of semi-structured interviews from ten (n=10) participants. Each interview took about 45 minutes. Ethical codes of research were followed. Data was coded manually and analyzed using content analysis Four themes and seven subthemes emerged from the data collected The findings revealed positive experiences such as sense of belonging and feelings of independence; negative experiences such as feelings of rejection, as well as management challenges The study identified challenges which impacted on the performance of new nurses, namely shortage of human and material resources and inadequate support in the working environment Recommendation: Introducing mandatory education by service institutions on transition as well as extended, sequential and structured orientation and mentoring programs for newly qualified professional nurses as this will assist them in their career development Managers to use different strategies in enhancing quality environments in order to reduce frustration for these newly qualified nurses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Assessment of the flocculating efficiency of bioflocculant produced by bacillus sp. Aemreg4 isolated from Tyhume river, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Ntsangani, Nozipho
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Flocculants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Biochemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11357 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021324
- Description: Bioflocculants are flocculating substances produced by microorganisms during growth and have recently received considerable attention from researchers; due to their biodegradability, non-toxicity and lack of secondary pollution from degradation intermediates. This study evaluated the efficiency of bioflocculant produced by Bacillus sp. AEMREG4 isolated from Tyhume River. The bacterial identification was through 16S rDNA sequencing; nucleotide sequences were deposited in GenBank as Bacillus sp. AEMREG4 with an Accession number KP406729. The optimum culture conditions for bioflocculant production were an inoculum size of 4% (v/v) and starch as well as yeast extract as sole carbon and nitrogen sources respectively. The addition of CaCl2 enhanced the flocculating activity, at a wide range of pH 4-10 and the highest flocculating activity was reached at an initial pH 8 (80%). A bioflocculant yield of 0.78 g was recovered from 1 L of culture broth. The optimum flocculating activity of 78% was reached at the lowest bioflocculant dosage of 0.1 mg/ml and the presence of divalent cations (Ca2+, Mn2+ and Mg2+) as well as a trivalent cation (Al3+) enhanced flocculating activity. The purified bioflocculant retained more than 70% flocculating activity when subjected to heating at 100 °C for 1 h and maximum flocculating activity of 83% was achieved at both acidic and basic pH values of 3 and 10 respectively. Chemical analysis showed that the bioflocculant is predominantly polysaccharide. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum revealed the presence of carboxyl, hydroxyl and methoxyl groups as the functional moieties and the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging of the purified bioflocculant showed its morphological structure as rod-shaped which contributes to its high flocculating efficiency. The high flocculation activity displayed by this bioflocculant indicates its potential suitability for industrial application.Keywords: Bioflocculant, Bacillus sp. AEMREG4, flocculating activity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ntsangani, Nozipho
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Flocculants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Biochemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11357 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021324
- Description: Bioflocculants are flocculating substances produced by microorganisms during growth and have recently received considerable attention from researchers; due to their biodegradability, non-toxicity and lack of secondary pollution from degradation intermediates. This study evaluated the efficiency of bioflocculant produced by Bacillus sp. AEMREG4 isolated from Tyhume River. The bacterial identification was through 16S rDNA sequencing; nucleotide sequences were deposited in GenBank as Bacillus sp. AEMREG4 with an Accession number KP406729. The optimum culture conditions for bioflocculant production were an inoculum size of 4% (v/v) and starch as well as yeast extract as sole carbon and nitrogen sources respectively. The addition of CaCl2 enhanced the flocculating activity, at a wide range of pH 4-10 and the highest flocculating activity was reached at an initial pH 8 (80%). A bioflocculant yield of 0.78 g was recovered from 1 L of culture broth. The optimum flocculating activity of 78% was reached at the lowest bioflocculant dosage of 0.1 mg/ml and the presence of divalent cations (Ca2+, Mn2+ and Mg2+) as well as a trivalent cation (Al3+) enhanced flocculating activity. The purified bioflocculant retained more than 70% flocculating activity when subjected to heating at 100 °C for 1 h and maximum flocculating activity of 83% was achieved at both acidic and basic pH values of 3 and 10 respectively. Chemical analysis showed that the bioflocculant is predominantly polysaccharide. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum revealed the presence of carboxyl, hydroxyl and methoxyl groups as the functional moieties and the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging of the purified bioflocculant showed its morphological structure as rod-shaped which contributes to its high flocculating efficiency. The high flocculation activity displayed by this bioflocculant indicates its potential suitability for industrial application.Keywords: Bioflocculant, Bacillus sp. AEMREG4, flocculating activity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Knowledge, attitudes and experiences of dieticians in relation to tuberculosis at the workplace
- Authors: Oxland, Ingrid Oxley
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Tuberculosis -- South Africa -- Etiology Disease management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12972 , vital:27140
- Description: Tuberculosis (TB) is acknowledged as an epidemic in South Africa. Health care professionals (HCPs), including dieticians, are at an increased risk for TB-infection compared to the general population. Implementation of the World Health Organization (WHO) TB infection control measures can protect HCPs from contracting TB; however, many studies have shown poor adherence to guidelines by HCPs. The aim of the study was to determine dieticians’ knowledge, attitudes and experiences in relation to TB at the workplace. A descriptive quantitative, cross-sectional research design was employed. Convenience sampling was applied. The online survey was conducted between August 2014 and March 2015. Data analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics. Ethical principles were adhered to. The sample consisted of 102 registered dieticians in South Africa. Good knowledge was displayed as two-thirds of dieticians correctly identified the National TB Management Guidelines and the main signs and symptoms of TB. However, a critical knowledge gap regarding TB transmission was identified, as only 42% of dieticians knew that TB could spread by talking. Favourable attitudes towards TB and infection control measures were present, except towards inadequate staffing levels and being worried about TB. The respondents reported that the fear of contracting TB affected patient interaction. Poor adherence to infection control measures was found. Only 45% of dieticians reported having a written TB infection control plan at their workplace, and only 23% were trained on TB infection control measures. Coughing patients were not always triaged and education material was not always available for TB patients. The availability of N-95 respirators was reported by 76% of dieticians. Training on TB infection control measures could influence dieticians’ adherence to infection control measures, ultimately protecting them from contracting TB at the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Oxland, Ingrid Oxley
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Tuberculosis -- South Africa -- Etiology Disease management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12972 , vital:27140
- Description: Tuberculosis (TB) is acknowledged as an epidemic in South Africa. Health care professionals (HCPs), including dieticians, are at an increased risk for TB-infection compared to the general population. Implementation of the World Health Organization (WHO) TB infection control measures can protect HCPs from contracting TB; however, many studies have shown poor adherence to guidelines by HCPs. The aim of the study was to determine dieticians’ knowledge, attitudes and experiences in relation to TB at the workplace. A descriptive quantitative, cross-sectional research design was employed. Convenience sampling was applied. The online survey was conducted between August 2014 and March 2015. Data analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics. Ethical principles were adhered to. The sample consisted of 102 registered dieticians in South Africa. Good knowledge was displayed as two-thirds of dieticians correctly identified the National TB Management Guidelines and the main signs and symptoms of TB. However, a critical knowledge gap regarding TB transmission was identified, as only 42% of dieticians knew that TB could spread by talking. Favourable attitudes towards TB and infection control measures were present, except towards inadequate staffing levels and being worried about TB. The respondents reported that the fear of contracting TB affected patient interaction. Poor adherence to infection control measures was found. Only 45% of dieticians reported having a written TB infection control plan at their workplace, and only 23% were trained on TB infection control measures. Coughing patients were not always triaged and education material was not always available for TB patients. The availability of N-95 respirators was reported by 76% of dieticians. Training on TB infection control measures could influence dieticians’ adherence to infection control measures, ultimately protecting them from contracting TB at the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016