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An investigation into the bacterial communities associated with pyrroloiminoquinone-producing South African latrunculid sponges

  • Authors: Hilliar, Storm Hannah
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Sponges South Africa Algoa Bay , Betaproteobacteria , Spirochaeta , Symbiosis , Bacterial communities
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62112 , vital:28128
  • Description: Marine sponges belonging to the family Latrunculiidae are known for their production of cytotoxic pyrroloiminoquinone alkaloids and the South African coast provides a unique environment for the exploitation of these potent bioactive compounds. The isolation of structurally similar pyrroloiminoquinone compounds from unrelated, non poriferan sources has led to the suggestion that South African latrunculid pyrroloiminoquinones may be secondary metabolites produced by sponge associated microbial symbionts. Previous studies investigating the bacterial communities of South African latrunculid sponges have shown the conservation of distinct microbial populations with unusual bacterial taxa dominated by a novel betaproteobacterial and spirochete species. This study describes the further investigation into these associated bacterial communities, their conservation and sponge microbiome comparisons across spatial, temporal and environmental scales. The bacterial communities associated with seven latrunculid species representing three genera (Tsitsikamma, Cyclacanthia and Latrunculia) were characterized as well as a Mycale and Tethya rubra species. Latrunculid sponge microbiomes were significantly different from those associated with sympatric outlier sponge species and the surrounding environment. The bacterial communities associated with latrunculid sponges appear host specific with the conservation of two dominant bacterial symbionts which mirror the phylogeny of their host species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2018
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation into the effectiveness of financial management systems in the public service: a case study of the department of health, Eastern Cape Province

  • Authors: Galada, Unathi Luthando
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Financial management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Performance -- Measurement -- Evaluation
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30227 , vital:30904
  • Description: The aim of this study is to investigate the effective and efficient of the financial management systems and its translation into good governance in the Department of Health in order to meet all the compliance requirements as contained in legislations. Financial management is a critical element for good governance. It requires a great deal of attention with parallel internal systems and control that support it for optimal performance. To that, the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act 1 of 1999) and National Treasury Regulations require all government departments to ensure accountability on resource allocated yet able to measure value for money in relation to the delivery of goods and services. The Eastern Cape is one of five provinces with at least 60% of its population living in rural parts serviced by small towns. There is a total of 72 small towns in the province. The province has a legacy of endemic rural poverty and is characterized by the historical neglect of rural areas. The Eastern Cape still has many people moving to other provinces and to the two main cities of East London and Port Elizabeth, in search of employment. (ECSECC, 2006). The compliance to all key financial management legislation and policies has been a constant challenge faced by the Department of Health and the province, which has been largely caused by high levels of corruption, poor financial management systems, poor management tools, poor internal resource controls and maladministration practices (Auditor General Report, 2013/14). As a result, several incidents of dissatisfaction by members of the communities has been on the public domain, calling for government to deliver on quality health services throughout the province. The Public Finance Management Act, Act No. 1 of 1999, with regards to government’s utilisation of financial resources outlines the following objectives: Modernise the system of financial management in the public sector; Enable public sector managers to manage, but at the same time be held more accountable; Ensure the timely provision of quality information; and Eliminate the waste and corruption in the use of public assets. The Auditor General, as the supreme audit institution of the Republic, must, in terms of section 4(1) of the Public Audit Act (Act No. 25 of 2004), audit and report on the accounts, financial statements and financial statement of all government entities. Based on the 2014/15 Consolidated General Report issued by the Auditor General, various government entities were found not to have complied with the legislation relating to the payment of suppliers. The Constitution Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996) makes a provision that all the three government spheres to be developmental-oriented in nature with clear accountability and transparency lines towards service delivery. On the same note , The Public Finance Management Act of 1999 (PFMA) is meant “To regulate financial management in the national government and provincial governments; to ensure that all revenue, expenditure, assets and liabilities of those governments are managed efficiently and effectively; to provide for the responsibilities of persons entrusted with financial management in those governments; and to provide for matters connected therewith”. Based on these legislations, the department of health is not isolated from the responsibility as it forms part of the provincial government, which is the provincial sphere. With the above introductory contentions from different authors and researchers, this study will provide more detail on the policy documents namely; PFMA so to establish the nature and extent to which effective and efficient Financial Management System has improved good governance in the Department of Health, Eastern Cape Province.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation into the introduction of a new wealth tax in South Africa

  • Authors: Arendse, Jacqueline A
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Wealth tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Income tax -- South Africa , Fiscal policy -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions , Income distribution -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61379 , vital:28020
  • Description: In a world of economic uncertainty and manifold social problems, South Africa has its own unique challenges of low economic growth, persistent budget deficits that produce increasing government debt and the highest level of economic inequality in the world. The history of injustice and economic marginalisation and the failure of the economy to provide inclusive growth drives an urgent need to address economic inequality through tax policy, placing ever more focus on wealth taxes as a possible solution. There is a hope is that taxing the wealthy may provide the opportunity to redistribute desperately-needed resources to those denied the opportunity to build wealth and who are trapped in the cycle of poverty. Yet, as appealing as a new wealth tax may seem, the introduction of such a tax carries with it a range of risks, not all of which are known. Of great concern is the possible effect on the economy, which, in its vulnerable state, cannot afford any loss of capital and investment. Very little research has been done on wealth tax in the South African context and there is a dearth of literature focusing on the views and perceptions of the wealthy individuals themselves. This qualitative study investigates the merits and disadvantages of a new wealth tax and seeks to identify any unintended consequences that could result from the implementation of a new wealth tax in South Africa, drawing from historical and international experience and primary data obtained from interviews with individuals likely to be affected by such a tax. Having explored the literature and international experiences with wealth tax and having probed the thinking of wealthy individuals who would be the payers of a wealth tax, the study finds that a new wealth tax may contribute towards the progressivity of the tax system, but it is doubtful whether such a tax would provide a sustainable revenue stream that would be sufficient to address economic inequality and there is a risk of causing harm to the economy. Recognising that the motivation for wealth taxes is often driven more by political argument and public perception than by rational quantitative analysis, the study also anticipates the introduction of a new wealth tax and suggests guidelines for the design of such a tax within the framework for evaluating a good tax system. This study informs the debate on wealth taxes in South Africa and contributes to the design of such a tax, should it be implemented.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation into the role of ethics and morality in translation with particular reference to English and isiXhosa

  • Authors: Ntantiso, Nobuntu Faith
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Translating and interpreting -- Research , Language -- Moral and ethical aspects English language -- Moral and ethical aspects Xhosa language -- Moral and ethical aspects
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33780 , vital:33028
  • Description: Translation is one of the oldest professions in the world. It is also a unique profession because most of the time translation professionals work in isolation. They work in their private spaces without any supervision. This means that the decision on how to translate lies solely on the translator, and on his or her individual ethical and moral integrity. As a result, translators have a responsibility to produce translations that are ethically and morally acceptable. This study will consequently investigate the role of ethics and morality in translation with particular reference to English and isiXhosa. This study will discuss how ethics and morality play a role in translation. It will first state the objectives, define the relevant terminology and provide a list of abbreviations that will be used in the study. It will also explain the significance of the study, analyse and state the problem, do a literature review and indicate the methodology that it will use. In addition, it will mention how the chapters have been structured and the topics that will be covered in each chapter.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation into the translation of Isixhosa kinship lexical items into English

  • Authors: Majikija, Sandisiwe
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Sociolinguistics , Communication -- Language Xhosa (African people) -- Kinship -- Language Lexicology -- Kinship
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22607 , vital:30024
  • Description: This study investigates the problem of non- equivalence in the translation of IsiXhosa kinship lexical items or concepts into English. Venuti (2012:5) says translation can be seen as ‘a set of changing relationships between the relative autonomy of the translated text…and…equivalence and function.’ Equivalence, of which non- equivalence is the antithesis, includes “accuracy,’ adequacy,’ ‘correctness,’ ‘correspondence,’ or ‘identity’. A variable notion, it indicates how translation is connected to the source text. A break in that connection results in non-equivalence. Therein lies the problem. The current study examines these notions, among other things, as they apply to the translation of isiXhosa kinship lexical items into English. As Venuti (2010) points out translation rests on particular assumptions about language use. These assumptions draw on two particular, emerging theories or approaches namely, the ‘instrumental and the hermeneutic’ as will be discussed. Isicatshulwa Olu phando lumalunga nengxaki yokungafani kwentsingiselo yamagama okanye ingqikelelo xa kuguqulelwa esiNgesini amagama okuzalana esiXhoseni. UVenuti (2012:5) uthi inguqulo ingajongwa njengokujika konxulumano oluguqukayo phakathi kokungaxhomekeki kwesiqendwana esiguqulwayo nonxulumano. Unxulumano oluphikisana nokunganxulumani, lubandakanya ‘ukuchaneka,’ ‘ukufanela,’ ‘ukulunga,’ ukungqinelana,’ okanye ‘ukufana twatse.’ Le ngcingane iguquguqukayo ibonisa indlela inguqulo ihambelana ngayo nesiqendwana esiguqulwayo. Xa oko kuhambelana kuthe kwangabikho, loo nto izala ukunganxulumani. Ilapho ke ingxaki. Olu phando luphonononga ezi ngcingane, phakathi kwezinye zezinto, njengoko zisebenza kwinguqulelo esiNgesini kwamagama okuzalana esiXhoseni. Njengoko uVenuti (2010) abonisayo, inguqulo ingqiyame ngeengcinga ezithile ezimbini malunga nokusetyenziswa kolwimi. Ezi ngcinga ziphenjelelwa ziinkcazo eziziingcingane ezithile zamva nje. Zibizwa ‘i-instrumental,’ ‘ne- hermeneutic,’ njengoko uphando olu luza kuxoxa ngazo.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation of mitochondrial dynamics and networks observed within human undifferentiated and differentiated cell lines

  • Authors: Houseman, Pascalené Shannon
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Mitochondria , Mitochondrial pathology , Degeneration (Pathology) , Mesenchymal stem cells , Neural stem cells , Cell lines , Reactive oxygen species (ROS)
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/60687 , vital:27816
  • Description: Mitochondrial dynamics refers to a series of constant division and fusion cycles that form interconnecting networks within healthy cells. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are the byproducts of cellular redox reactions, and, when in excess, have been linked to degenerative diseases and aging. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) require a niche that presents with low levels of ROS; this enables the stem cell to maintain its “sternness”, the stem cell population, as well as the ability to adhere, migrate, and proliferate. If ROS levels increase within the MSC niche, inhibition of cellular adhesion and migration occurs. In contrast, neural stem cells require a niche that presents with a high level of ROS, aiding in their proliferative, self- renewing capacities. Investigations into what constitutes a healthy mitochondrial network versus the disease state of the network are required in order to determine what promotes degeneration and aging within stem cells. It was hypothesized that increased levels of ROS would stunt the ability of MSCs to attach and migrate, and hinder their abilities of proliferation and differentiation. In contrast, neuronal differentiation would present with an increased proliferation. This led to the investigation into the effects of ROS and oxidative stress, and the resulting mitochondrial dynamics, have on undifferentiated and differentiated mesenchymal stem and SH-SY5Y cells. Upon the addition of non-lethal S3I-201 (STAT3 has been linked to a reduction in ROS) to MSCs, an increase in ROS was observed. Higher concentrations of STAT3 inhibitor resulted in a decrease in MSC attachment and proliferation. When exposed to similar conditions, the SH-SY5Y cells underwent an increased proliferation; due to multiple restrictions, they were not used any further within the study. Mitochondrial dynamics were observed using a fusion promoter (M1) and a fission inhibitor (Mdivi-1); the MSCs were dosed with varying concentrations in order to determine the effects that mitochondrial dysfunction may have on the established networks, and cell survival. The mitochondria within MSCs migrated to the extensions of the cell, and displayed an alteration in morphology, or were clustered around the nucleus and/or the lipid deposits. These high density clusters correlated with a high intensity of fluorescence using 2’,7’- dichlorofluorescein diacetate. In conclusion, varying concentrations of ROS have different effects on MSCs in terms of overall maintenance and function; mitochondrial dynamics play an important role in cell survivability and the fate of stem cell differentiation. Further investigation into the mitochondrial dynamics and networks of these cell lines and their differentiated progeny is required.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation of multidimensional energy poverty among South African low‐income households

  • Authors: Olawumi Israel-Akinbo, Sylvia , Snowball, Jeanette D , Fraser, Gavin C G
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: To be catalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/471097 , vital:77418 , https://doi.org/10.1111/saje.12207
  • Description: This paper empirically assesses multidimensional energy poverty for low‐income households in South Africa using the four waves of the National Income Dynamics Study. The study adopts the Nussbaumer et al. (Measuring Energy Poverty, 2011) methodology, the multidimensional energy poverty index (MEPI), to estimate energy poverty on 10,801 low‐income households. The results indicate that low‐income households in rural areas are more energy deprived than those in the urban areas. The MEPI score across the years in low‐income urban and rural households depicts a moderate state of energy poverty. Furthermore, low‐income households in both the urban and the rural areas are mostly deprived in the dimension of heating fuel. The study recommends that suitable measures to combat energy poverty be rural–urban specific.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation of teachers’ experiences of a Geoboard intervention programme in area and perimeter in selected Grade 9 classes: a case study

  • Authors: Mkhwane, Fezeka Felicia
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa , Teachers -- Training of -- South Africa , Manipulatives (Education) , Effective teaching , Area measurement , Perimeters (Geometry) , Problem solving -- Study and teaching , Geoboard Intervention Programme , RUMEP
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61646 , vital:28045
  • Description: The study was undertaken with three Grade 9 teachers at three selected schools which are part of RUMEP’s Collegial Cluster Schools’ programme that I coordinate. Collegial clusters are communities of teachers who aim at improving their practice by working on their own professional development. The purpose of this study was to investigate the selected Grade 9 teachers’ experiences of a Geoboard intervention programme. It also wanted to investigate the role that a Geoboard can play in the teaching and learning of area and perimeter of two-dimensional shapes. The research was a case-study within the interpretive paradigm. A variety of data collection techniques was used. These included baseline assessment tasks, observations during the intervention programme, post intervention assessment tasks and semistructured interviews with the participating teachers and a few learners from each participating school. The collected data was analysed using both the quantitative and qualitative methods. My research findings reveal that a Geoboard, as a manipulative, developed confidence in the participating teachers. In the interviews with teachers, it transpired that teachers’ skills in teaching area and perimeter of two-dimensional shapes had been sharpened. According to the interviews with learners, the use of a Geoboard led to better conceptual understanding of the area and perimeter, as learners no longer had to rely on formulae. Kilpatrick et al. (2001) refer to conceptual understanding as an integrated functional grasp of mathematical ideas. The post intervention assessment task showed a positive shift in learners’ performance. The average learner performance improved from 29% in the baseline assessment task to 61% in the post intervention assessment task. This shows that the use of a Geoboard led to meaningful learning of area and perimeter of two-dimensional shapes. The overall research findings reveal that the use of manipulatives has a positive impact in the teaching and learning of area and perimeter. Learners’ responses to the interview questions showed that there was better understanding of the two concepts, which enabled them to construct their own knowledge. They further said the Geoboard allowed them to be hands-on, which contributed to their active involvement in the lesson.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation of the challenges associated with conducting home visits in rural areas, from the lenses of social workers: the case of Raymond Mhlaba Municipality - Eastern Cape, South Africa

  • Authors: Nguza, Zizipho Zintle https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6559-3183
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Home-based family services http://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh89005719 , Social workers http://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh85124114 , Sociology, Rural http://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh85124229
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19523 , vital:43135
  • Description: This study strove to understand the challenges encountered by social workers in conducting home visits in rural areas of the Eastern Cape in Raymond Mhlaba Municipality. The intention was to achieve the following objectives; (i) establish the kind of problems that social workers attend to when conducting home visits in rural areas, (ii) investigate the challenges that social workers encounter in the provision of home visits in rural areas, (iii) establish the support services offered to the social workers by their organisations; from the lenses of both social workers and supervisors. The study employed the qualitative approach and was guided by a qualitative research design in the form of a case study. It also employed in-depth one-on-one interviews complemented by both focus group discussions and social work participants as methods of data collection. The study used non-probability sampling technique, specifically the purposive sampling of twenty five (25) social work stakeholders. The sample comprised twenty (20) social workers, both female and male participants and five (5) supervisors. Data was analysed qualitatively through content thematic data analysis which used interpretative approaches and textual presentation. The study revealed the following findings: that social workers in Raymond Mhlaba municipality dealt with an immense range of social problems such as poverty, unemployment, crime, HIV and AIDS, orphanhood, child headed households, marital discord, violence against women and children, abuse of families and persons with disability and mismanagement of social grants. The study recommends employee assistance programmes so that independent counselling and supportive services could be provided for social workers working in rural areas. Regular in-service training programmes can play a vital role in helping staff handle pressure and avoid occupational stress. , Thesis (M Soc Sc) (Social Work) -- University of Fort Hare, 2018
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation of the combustion kinetics of coal-microalgae composite

  • Authors: Ejesieme, Obialo Vitus , Dugmore, Gary
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Microalgae -- Biotechnology , Biomass energy -- South Africa Coal -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34777 , vital:33447
  • Description: Coal mining and handling generate sizeable quantities of ultra-fine coal particles which are heaped as discard material. Use of the ultra-fine coal for co-firing with microalgae biomass appears to be a promising option that would improve combustion of the discard. There is no available traditional biomass binder that can be used to agglomerate, reclaim, and co-fire the discard ultra-fine coal to generate heat. In a recent research, microalgae biomass was identified as an effective natural binder for discard ultra-fine coal. Biomass is a renewable resource, and many have been co-fired on a large scale except microalgae biomass. Researchers have studied co-firing of dry mixed coal-microalgae, however, the kinetics of a wet mix of microalgae biomass and ultra-fine coal, “Coalgae®” patented recently by the Nelson Mandela University needs to be explored. The study aimed at investigating in some detail the oxidation mechanism of coal-microalgae composites. The objective is to understand the impact of microalgae on the kinetic properties of coal which will inform on the application of “Coalgae®”. It involves correlating the small and large-scale combustion properties that will establish the co-firing option on an industrial scenario. The goal is to utilize all grades of discard ultra-fine resource using microalgae biomass as binder and a renewable component which enhances the combustion of coal to supply heat and electricity. The use of microalgae for fuel preparation and upgrading is on the increase due to its high growth potential, reactivity, and ability to store energy more than other biomasses. This research hypothesized that blending of discard ultra-fine coal with live microalgae biomass would improve the kinetic properties of the coal more than expected from linear combination of the dry materials. Thermogravimetric combustion of “Coalgae®” was studied under non-isothermal conditions from 40 °C to 900°C at a heating rate of 15 °C/min and air flow rate of 20 ml/min. The thermogravimetric combustion properties i.e. small-scale was related to the large-scale, John Thompson’s fixed-bed reactor under the above condition. Thermal profiles were transformed into a differential function to reveal overlapped combustion events. The Coat-Redferns kinetic model was applied on the non-de-Ejesieme, O.V. PhD Chemistry (Research), Nelson Mandela Univ. Email: ejevit@yahoo.com , s211266744@live.nmmu.ac.za convoluted reactions set to obtain some of kinetic parameters. The Fraser-Suzuki equation was used to de-convolute the overlapped combustion. Then, rate law combined with Arrhenius equation was used to derive the activation energy E a and pre-exponential factor A, while the integral form of solid states reaction model, g (∝) was applied to deduce the oxidation mechanism. The composite formed a strong and partly renewable blend under controlled temperature conditions, unlike assorted dried biomass mixed with coal. Microalgae biomass upgraded the fuel and kinetics properties of ultra-fine coal more than what was expected from a linear combination. It released heat that promoted the oxidation mechanism of the discard coal. The main effect is that the “Coalgae®” is significantly (p = 0.0570) more reactive than the coal. The co-firing approach is partly renewable and contributes to the utilization of high and low-quality available discard ultra-fine coal. It advances the combustion of coal resources and reduces carbon dioxide, CO2 emission attributed to global warming as well as preserves the natural biomass sources. The combustion of “Coalgae® “will improve economy, environment, and health, heat, and electricity supply to the society.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation of the correlation of mitochondrial biogenesis, mitochondrial DNA methylation, mitochondrial network topology and adipogenesis in the human adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal stem cell model

  • Authors: Kadye, Rose
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Uncatalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62637 , vital:28222
  • Description: Expected release date-April 2019
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation of the informal market value chain for prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) in Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Ntsonge, Sinazo
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Opuntia ficus-indica -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Alien plants -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Women heads of households -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Poor -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Informal sector (Economics) -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Sustainable Livelihoods Framework
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62894 , vital:28308
  • Description: The use of alien plant species as part of the livelihood resources of poor people raises conflicts with national legislation, which views these plants as threats to native plant biodiversity. However, there is also increasing body of literature on the contribution that some of these plants make to the livelihoods of poor people. The level of significance of some alien plant species to livelihoods is mostly highlighted in the case of female market participants who are in a position of household headship. Since most African cultures dictate the role of females as solely being that of homemaker while males are assigned the role household headship and breadwinner, women often find themselves having to shoulder the household responsibilities when the household head is no longer there. This was the case in the Nelson Mandela Bay informal prickly pear market that this study sought to investigate. Even though there were also male participants in the prickly pear market, the majority of participants in the market were female who also mentioned they were the sole breadwinner for their households. This study investigated the economic contribution that the prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) informal market makes to the livelihoods of people living in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The significance of the market’s contribution to their livelihoods was examined through using the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework. The study revealed that although the prickly pear income was largely supplementary due to it being available for only three months of the year, the income was a safety net resource for the market participants who had limited access to other sources of income. The results also highlighted the reasons people were engaging in the informal prickly pear market. The main reason that was mentioned was unemployment. Through a livelihoods analysis using the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework, it was revealed that the other factors that were contributing to their unemployment were low levels of education, low levels of marketable skills, and old age. The study revealed through calculations of the estimated economic value of each market activity the potential of the prickly pear to be used as a poverty fighting tool. Although the results of this study only highlight the economic value of the prickly pear to people in a small area compared to the rest of the province and the country, the informal market’s significance still presents a strong case for the establishment of an agroprocessing industry, which would support the production of value-added products. Since the largest populations of the prickly pear in Uitenhage are currently under effective control by the cochineal species, promotion of its economic value instead of eradicating it without considering its value to the livelihoods of the people in the market could also ensure that its populations are kept under control. Job creation in the agroprocessing industry would not only improve the livelihoods of those involved in the market, but would also feed into the national economy instead of taking from it via the costs incurred during clearing.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation of the leadership practices and organizational culture at a private Christian school

  • Authors: Babu, Bithun
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Church schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Leadership , Corporate culture
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62155 , vital:28133
  • Description: The purpose of this study is to investigate the leadership practices and organizational culture at a private Christian school in the Eastern Cape. A preliminary review of leadership literature suggested that traces of servant leadership may be apparent at the organization. Thus servant leadership will form a key focus area for exploration in this study. An analysis of this nature can make one aware of the influence leadership has in shaping the organizational culture of an institution. This in turn can be used to inform the future thinking around leadership efforts with respect to culture formation within an organization. The issue was addressed by consulting various articles to view the issue from different perspectives. The school served as a vehicle to explore the tenets of leadership and organizational culture. The study will take the form of a descriptive quantitative study. It was concluded that leadership plays a significant role in establishing the culture at an organization. However, leadership is not the only factor that shapes the organizational culture of an institution. The beliefs and values of the organization also has a role in shaping the overall culture and identity of an organization.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation of the movement of sediment through the Noordhoek headland bypass dunefield system at Cape Recife, South Africa

  • Authors: Goosen, Gerrit Pieter
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Sedimentation and deposition , Fluvial geomorphology Geomorphology Sand dunes -- Environmental aspects
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22101 , vital:29840
  • Description: A detailed study of the movement of sediment across the Cape Recife headland via the Noordhoek headland bypass dunefield was conducted. The Noordhoek HBD is important because of the environmental impacts anticipated on the sewerage works, settling ponds, and road to the Cape Recife lighthouse situated in the migration path of the dunefield to the ENE of its active boundary. The primary objective of the study was to investigate the movement of sediment in and through the Noordhoek HBD system. This study has provided sand transportation and dune migration rates by making use of various dune monitoring techniques. In doing so, useful predictions have been made as to when the settling ponds and the road to the lighthouse will be inundated. An indication has also been given as to how much sand moves through the system. Some key findings from this research included: the net migration direction of the Noordhoek HBD was found to be towards the east-north-east; the wind environment at the study area was classified as a high energy wind environment; this study has highlighted that various climatic factors such as rainfall and temperature influence the movement of sediment through dune systems; sediment transport was found to be directly related to the source area and topography; the central zone of the dunefield proved to be a groundwater recharge zone for the western and eastern zones; and the leading lobes of the migrating Noordhoek dunefield are gradually covering stabilising vegetation by pulses of dunes moving through. In this study, it was calculated that presently a total volume of about 26 000 m3 of sand is migrating into the vegetation at the leading lobes annually. If the Noordhoek HBD is left to run its natural course and migrate across the Cape Recife headland to the downwind beach, an approximate volume of 26 000 m3 of sand could be supplied to the downwind beach by this system. In doing so, it has the potential to play a role in replenishing some of the sand to Port Elizabeth’s eroded southern beaches via a natural process.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation of the teaching of reading in isiXhosa in three Grade 1 classrooms in the Eastern Cape, South Africa

  • Authors: Magadla, Noluthando
  • Date: 2018
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63408 , vital:28408
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An Investigation of victims' perspectives of "Ukuthwala" practice :a case study of Mbizana Local Municipality

  • Authors: Voyi, Ziyanda
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Forced marriage -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Girls -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Crimes againts Child abuse -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10361 , vital:35441
  • Description: This research was an investigation of victims’ perspectives of ukuthwala practice in Mbizana Local Municipality. The aim of the study was to describe the consequences and experiences of ukuthwala practice relating to infringement of Human Rights, to identify the modus operandi men use to abduct (thwala) these victims, to investigate the reasons that hinder victims from reporting the practice to the police officials and to investigate programs that can be implemented to prevent the ukuthwala practice. This study focused on victims’ perspectives of ukuthwala practice, which seemed to be on the rise in Mbizana Local Municipality. The study used the feminist theory and the social exchange theory. The study is qualitative in nature and it employed the exploratory research design. The study collected data from married and divorced females aged between 16 and 45 years, who were residing in Mbizana Local Municipality at the time of the study and who were also victims of ukuthwala practice. The study used snowball non-probability sampling. In non-probability sampling, the chances of selecting a particular individual are not known. The study collected data using semi-structured in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. The research findings show that there are a number of women and girls in Mbizana Local municipality who are in forced marriages. The study also found that the practice of ukuthwala (forced marriage) is still practiced in rural areas of Mbizana Local Municipality and victims face many challenges in these marriages. The findings reveal that girls as young as twelve years are forced to marry older men, in some cases with the consent of their parents or guardians. Most victims are unaware that the ukuthwala practice is illegal. Those who are aware are afraid to disappoint their families. The findings of the study also show that community members are keen help stop the ukuthwala practice. The study shows the important for the relevant government stakeholders to intervene. The study recommends that government departments and community members should work hand in hand in order to fight the issue of ukuthwala practice in the municipality.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An investigation study on the effectiveness of Community Policing Forums in Sephokong Local Council Leribe in Lesotho

  • Authors: Tlhakana, Motlalepula W
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Community policing Police
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc (Criminology)
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16430 , vital:40719
  • Description: The purpose of this study was to examine the role of Community Policing Forums (CPFs) in Sephokong village in the Leribe District of Lesotho. The objectives of this study were; to describe the participation of the community members in the Community Policing Forums; to identify the participation of CPFs in the community; to identify challenges faced by Community Policing Forums in Sephokong Local Council Leribe District in Lesotho; to identify the purpose of the Community Policing Forums in Sephokong in Lesotho; to establish the strengths of the CPFs in doing their work; and to determine the needs of the CPFs to enable them to do their work. The research methodology used in the study is the qualitative type. The major findings of the study revealed that CPFs, which were trained by the Lesotho Mounted Police Services (LMPS), was beneficial to the communities because they were equipped with skills and knowledge that they used to protect the villagers and their property. The social status of the villagers was also enhanced by the presence of the CPFs, in that they were capable of discussing their differences amicably and brought them to the chief or the police station for further deliberations if some members were not satisfied. Also study findings indicated that a lot of criminal activities could have taken place without the work of CPFs in the village since they were the only trained people to do the patrolling at night, which deterred the criminals. The chiefs, in particular, benefited from the CPFs’ work when they reported cases, arrested criminals and assisted in mobilizing the villagers for a meeting at the chief’s court. All in all, the CPFs unified the people, protected the pastures, going between the chief and the LMPS and they followed after the stolen (stock) animals and rescued them from the hands of thieves even though they were not paid by members of the community or LMPS. v | Page Lastly the Police officers pointed out that they provide trainings to CPFs members in different villages as to serve the community members in their different vicinities. While CPFs help them to arrest the suspects for them and provide them with enough information for investigations. Hence their presence in the villages plays solve the matters easily, and during operations they work together with CPFs as police officer and that enables them to give evidence in the courts of laws.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

An overview of absence without leave, sick absence and absconding in the local government sector

  • Authors: Kalawe, Thozama Mavis
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Absenteeism (Labor) , Local government -- South Africa Civil service -- Labor productivity -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30430 , vital:30943
  • Description: The treatise will investigate, examine and determine how the three types of absenteeism affects the local government sector, the impact absenteeism has on service delivery. The study will examine how the employers and employees are protected by legislation when confronted with absenteeism. The three types of absenteeism, namely absence without leave, desertion and abuse of sick leave can be considered as misconduct which may result in termination of contract of employment. The treatise will unpack these three types of absenteeism in relation to the provisions applicable in South African legislation, policies and collective agreements of the local government. A comparison of the local government policies with public, and private sector will be considered. The case study of local government will be provided wherein the basic services that are provided by local government will be discussed to give a better understanding of how these three types of absenteeism impact on the delivery of such services. Recommendation will be provided regarding research findings and conclusion drawn from literature review.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

Analysing the role of enterprise and supplier development within Mercedes Benz South Africa in improving their B-BBEE scorecard

  • Authors: Silinga, Zukiswa
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- South Africa , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa , Blacks -- South Africa -- Economic conditions , Employee empowerment -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23208 , vital:30455
  • Description: This research is born out of the realisation of the unique challenges that the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policy required from the private sector in South Africa, with Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) being one of the components of the B-BBEE’s economic empowerment strategy. Over the years, the B-BBEE’s role has been one of ensuring that economic empowerment of historically disadvantaged individuals was addressed. The role of the B-BBEE policy is described as the framework that targets the reform of the economy, reduction of poverty and inequality and empowerment of those individuals that were historically disadvantaged (Patel & Graham, 2012, p. 194). The automotive industry is South Africa’s most important and largest sector, making a great contribution to the country’s GDP. It is responsible for the employment of many people in the country, including employment in the component manufacturers and tyre industry. With these linkages throughout the economy, the government has identified the automotive industry as a vital growth sector. Government is certain that this sector will address one of the major challenges for economic growth in South Africa, which is unemployment. In the year 2015, the B-BBEE Act was amended with new compliance requirements and this changed the B-BBEE rating of Mercedes Benz South Africa (MBSA), resulting in a reduction of the company’s rating. The changes to the standard, particularly the ownership component, resulted in challenges for multinational companies such as MBSA, and an opportunity to improve the rating was identified in the ESD component sector. If these new compliance requirements were not addressed by MBSA, a predictable reduction in B-BBEE status would occur, resulting in a loss of business with government and provision of government incentives. The objective of this research study was to analyse the role that ESD plays within MBSA in improving their B-BBEE scorecard, as part of its overall B-BBEE strategy. This study was sculpted on the concept that the role of ESD at MBSA is related to (a) preferential procurement, (b) skills transfer, and (c) mentoring and a detailed literature review was conducted for these variables as well as for ESD. In testing the above research objective, the researcher utilised statistical analysis methods to reach a conclusion with regard to the relationship of ESD to these variables. A positivistic research paradigm (quantitative) was selected in order to test the objective by using hypothesis testing. An empirical study was undertaken by means of a survey with a questionnaire utilised as a data collecting tool and distributed using the supplier database of MBSA. The aim of the questionnaire was to validate the outcomes obtained from the theoretical overview. Out of a sample of 116 respondents employed at the suppliers, only 92 responses were received, thus representing a 79% response rate, which is considered acceptable. The key findings of the study indicated that preferential procurement, skills development and mentoring play a significant role in the promotion of ESD. Preferential procurement indicated a stronger association than the other variables, and thus it was recommended that MBSA place importance on this variable. Based on these findings, recommendations were made to the management of MBSA in an effort to improve the ESD component of the B-BBEE score of the company. As a way of addressing some of the challenges automotive manufacturers face, suggestions for future research were made.
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  • Date Issued: 2018

Analysis of the human HSP70-HSP90 organising protein (HOP) gene - characterisation of the promoter and identification of a novel isoform

  • Authors: Mattison, Stacey
  • Date: 2018
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62821 , vital:28296
  • Description: Expected release date-April 2020
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2018
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