Browsing by Type "Thesis"

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2D brachytherapy planning versus 3D brachytherapy planning for patients with cervical cancer
(2015-03-05) Govender, Natalie; Naidoo, Subhadranalene; Govender, Poovandren
Research Aims The purpose of this study is to compare 2D HDR Brachytherapy planning and 3D HDR Brachytherapy planning in terms of dose distribution in order to accurately determine bladder and rectal doses. Further research questions were explored to determine whether relationships existed between Computer Tomography volumes and bladder and rectum dose. Methodology The 30 female patients that volunteered for the study were conveniently selected. Their age and ethnic group did not contribute to their selection. All participants were prepared for cervical HDR Brachytherapy. The Brachytherapy templates were computer generated and treatments were given based on the templates. They then had a Computer Tomography (CT) scan (3D data set) of the pelvis. The computer generated templates for 2D Brachytherapy planning were applied to the CT data set i.e. 2DBP. The plans were optimised to take into consideration the dose to the bladder and the rectum i.e. 3DBP. The 2DBP and the 3DBP were then evaluated in order to determine which method of planning yielded more acceptable dose distributions to the bladder and rectum. Results Significant differences in dose distribution were noted on comparison of 2DBP and 3DBP. A significant relationship was noted in respect of bladder mean dose and rectum mean dose. 3DBP proved to be more efficient in yielding lower mean dose to the bladder and the rectum. Whilst a significant relationship was noted in respect of bladder maximum dose, an insignificant relationship was noted for rectum maximum dose. Therefore, the efficiency of 3DBP to yield lower bladder maximum dose was established but its efficiency to yield lower rectum maximum dose is questionable. This has implications for the management of patients’ with cervical cancer who require cervical Brachytherapy. Recommendations It is imperative that imaging modalities be used for the accurate planning of cervical Brachytherapy. This study recommends that CT be used for HDR Brachytherapy planning by proving its greater efficiency compared to template planning.
AB initio studies of a pentacyclo-undecane cage lactam
(2003) Singh, Thishana
The purpose of this study is to utilize computational techniques in the determination of the mechanistic pathways for the one-pot conversion of a pentacyclo-undecane (PCU) dione 1.1 to a pentacyclo-undecane cage lactam 1.2.
The ability of the South African Small Medium Enterprise Development Programme to promote economic growth and employment
(2008) Jessup, Dylan; Myburgh, Cornelius; Raap, Peter John
The ability of the South African Small Medium Enterprise Development Programme to promote economic growth and employment. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) offers the Small Medium Enterprise Development Programme (SMEDP) incentive grant programme to qualifying manufacturers in South Africa. The status of the progress of this incentive grant programme is unknown. The DTI alluded to an impact study in the 2004 DTI Annual Report but no further reference or publication of results of the impact study has been made. The objectives of the study are to investigate the following three criteria of the SMEDP and to develop benchmarks and recommendations for future incentive grants offered by the DTI. • Rationale for implementation of SMEDP; • Exploration of SMEDP merits; and • Measure of SMEDP success. The study is a secondary analysis design with both qualitative and quantitative components. The qualitative component allows the researcher to reflect on the process by which the incentive programme under investigation came into being, whilst the quantitative component allows for comment on the result of the process as per the markers developed in the qualitative component of the design. There were 152 sample cases used in the study. The outcome measures are the output measures stated in the Medium Term Strategic Plan which are: • The number of jobs sustained. v i • The number of jobs created. • The number of Greenfield’s projects supported. • The fixed investment in Rand terms. • The improvement in employment levels. The DTI achieved certain of the stated objectives. The empirical data analysed confirms the achievement of these objectives. There is scope for further empirical investigation for the future development of incentive grants. The contribution of the SMEDP to economic growth and employment growth is evident and such government interventions should be continued. The recommendations from the study include further investigation into the following areas to improve the benefits provided by manufacturing incentive programmes: • Limit the incentive to a specified Rand value per job created; • Volume driven turnover growth not price driven turnover growth; • The continued inclusion of expansions in future programme; and • Specified sector programmes i.e. textile sector.
Academic integration of libraries at Universities of Technology (UoTs) in South Africa
(2014-09-16) Neerputh, Shirlene; Singh, Penny; Underwood, Peter
Academic libraries should lead in the instructional change process by being at the nexus of teaching, learning and research in the university. This study was set in the context of the current higher educational landscape of South Africa. In particular, it focused on the emerging role of the University of Technology (UoT) library to enhance academic success. This was an exploratory study juxtaposed with a literature review pertinent to national and international library integration programmes and practices. Justification for this study stemmed from the current local and international trend for academic libraries to become proactive partners in teaching and learning through academic integration and leadership in promoting the university’s mission and goals. Underpinned by the process learning theoretical framework, the aim of this study was to explore the extent to which academic integration has been adopted by UoT libraries in South Africa. Process learning was chosen by the researcher because it is considered a learner-centred teaching technique for student engagement and it is consistent with the constructivist theory postulated and applicable to UoT libraries. The specific objectives of the survey were to determine: what academic integration programmes are offered by UoT libraries to enhance teaching, learning and research in South Africa; existing information literacy programmes and assessment practices in UoT libraries; what postgraduate/research programmes are offered by the library to academics and students and how they are represented in strategy or policy documents; and the similarities and differences in academic integration programmes in all six UoTs in SA. A mixed methods approach (quantitative and qualitative methodologies) were used to collect data regarding programmes and practices prevalent in UoT libraries across all six UoTs in South Africa. An online questionnaire was administered using SurveyMonkey. Forty-two subject librarians participated in the survey, yielding a sixty- two percent response rate. The objectives of the study were achieved by the identification of the following key academic integration programmes: embedded information literacy programmes; resource collection and development; faculty collaboration and partnerships to promote academic success; research scholarship and open access initiatives; social media networking; and reading and writing programmes. This study found that while academic integration has gained momentum in UoTs in South Africa, greater effort should be made in collaboration with academics in: embedded information literacy and blended learning; open access and scholarship; reading and writing programmes; and collaboration in postgraduate interventions. The findings also revealed that while most libraries internationally have embraced reading and writing programmes, libraries offering reading and writing programmes to enhance academic success are relatively scarce in UoTs in South Africa. It is recommended that the subject librarians engage in academic integration practices by: supporting the curricula and research programmes; improving institutional outcomes; improving collaborations; building intellectual or knowledge centres and providing relevant information to students and staff within a knowledge society.
Academic staff perceptions of empowerment training programmes initiated by Durban University of Technology
(2018) Bingwa, Luyanda Loraine; Ngwane, Knowledge Siyabonga Vusamandla; Reddy, Radha
Higher education in South Africa underwent a significant change during the last decade. Lecturers may not be necessarily equipped to face all the changes that are a result of changes faced by higher education. Academic staff needs to be trained so as to strengthen their teaching competencies. Training serves as an opportunity to upgrade their qualifications. Without training, it would be challenging for academics to perform their core activities. The problem that arises is that the type of routine tasks typical of the functions of academic staff does not require only training in the form of coaching but also learning in the form of gaining knowledge and competence within the academic disciplinary context. However, hands-on training seems to be the crucial component that will ensure the correct application of routine procedures. The purpose of this study was to identify the academic staff perception of empowerment programmes initiated by the Durban University of Technology (DUT), and the challenges involved in successfully empowering staff. This study also identified problems encountered during academic staff development process and further investigated if the academic staff were provided with reasonable opportunity to participate. In this study, a quantitative approach was used, and data was collected from academic staff, comprising of professors, head of departments, senior lecturers, lecturers and junior lecturers of the Durban University of Technology. A sample size of 132 was drawn from the population. Questionnaires were designed with both closed and open-ended questions, and were personally administered by the researcher to all academic staff members in all faculties of the Durban University of Technology. Analysis of data revealed that the University provide academic staff with sufficient and relevant training however staff felt that they should be included in the planning of these programmes. Furthermore there was a need for follow-up to evaluate effectiveness of the training programmes and if they served the purpose for which they were intended to. This study, therefore, recommended that respective faculties should involve their staff members in planning, and that a follow-up be conducted after completion of training.
Academics perceptions of community engagement at a selected University of Technology in South Africa
(2021-09) Patchappan, Terslina; Govender, Ivan Gunass
The South African society is unambiguously in a flux, plagued with wicked challenges such as increased levels of poverty, youth unemployment and an extensive public health crisis, which have become the societal norm. Increased prominence exists for university programmes to alleviate these challenges and sustain the South African landscape. This study aimed to investigate the perceptions of community engagement amongst academics at a selected University of Technology, namely the Durban University of Technology in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Academics’ perceptions towards community engagement are significant for the institutionalisation of engagement at the university. Against this backdrop, the main objectives of this study were to evaluate academics’ understanding of community engagement; assess the extent of their initiatives; determine their enablers and constraints to undertake such initiatives; and recommend strategies that could lead to an improved community engagement experience. The research design adopted was the quantitative paradigm, which entailed the distribution of a structured open and closed-ended questionnaire to the respondents. Against a Five-Point Likert Scale, the questionnaire comprised of six sections, each under a specific main theme related to the research topic. The simple random sampling technique achieved a sample size of 80 respondents from a target population of 102 academics. The sample respondents returned seventy-four questionnaires. This represented a high response rate of 93%, through the attribution of a personal method of data collection. Furthermore, the data collected was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 24.0 for Windows. Upon completion, the entire dissertation was verified against plagiarism through the Turnitin programme and achieved a 10% rating. The study found that workload demand and time are main inhibitors of community engagement. The researcher recommended that DUT should consider offering rigid empowerment and support structures for academics. Lastly, the research project concluded with directions for future research based on the insights of academics into community engagement in South African higher education.
The acceptance of westernised health care into the ulwaluko (traditional circumcision) custom by amaXhosa in a rural Eastern Cape village
(2002) Ntsaba, Mohlomi Jafta; Grainger, Linda D.
The Ulwaluko (traditional circumcision) custom among the AmaXhosa is a traditional rite of passage. Traditionally all young men are required to undergo the custom. Its modern manifestation, however, has become problematic, because there is an increase in the morbidity and mortality which is associated with gangrenous and septic complications of the wound. Therefore an intervention was needed to reduce the problems. A westernised health care project was developed and implemented but some communities have not accepted it. Therefore there was a need to understand how it came to be accepted in one village in order to adapt it and promote its acceptance by other communities. The purpose of this study is to explain the acceptance of westernised health care into the traditional circumcision and give nurses a better understanding of how to give culturally sensitive care. A qualitative research design was used, specifically Ethnography, since this is the tradition for studying the meaning, patterns, and experiences of a defined cultural group (Polit and Hungier, 1997). ABSTRACT The researcher conducted separate in-depth semi-structured face-to-face interviews with the two key informants from the community and three focus groups. A total of 18 AmaXhosa men participated in the study. Data was transcribed from taped sessions. Thematic analysis was carried out and 12 major themes and eight sub-themes emerged.
Access and utilisation of antenatal care services in a rural community of eThekwini District in KwaZulu-Natal
(2016) Bhengu, Thandeka Jacqueline; Sibiya, Maureen Nokuthula; Ngxongo, Thembelihle Sylvia Patience
Introduction Although the South African Government adopted a primary health care approach to health care service provision in order to ensure equitable access to and utilization of health care services to all communities, the country continues to face challenges regarding access and utilisation of health care services especially in the rural communities. Antenatal care which is mostly provided at primary health care level is regarded as the cornerstone for the success of the maternal and child health care programme. Therefore, poor access to and under-utilisation of health care services could potentially influence the success of this programme and pregnancy outcomes. Aim of the study The aim of the study was to determine whether pregnant women from KwaMkhizwana rural community had access to and were utilising antenatal care services. Methodology A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual study was conducted guided by Thaddeus and Maine’s three delays model. Purposive sampling of the pregnant women and all categories of nurses who were employed in the three health care facilities in the area was done. Data was collected in two phases through in-depth semi-structured interviews with both the pregnant women and the nurses respectively between February and March 2016. The sample size was guided by data saturation. All data were analysed using the Tesch’s method of data analysis. Study findings Six major themes and several sub-themes emerged from the interviews with both Phase 1 and Phase 2 participants. The major themes included: 1) access to health care and emergency services, 2) availability of human and material resources, 3) social and cultural beliefs, 4) past pregnancy experiences, 5) communication and transparency regarding health care service delivery and 6) quality of antenatal care services. Summary of the findings The pregnant women encountered several challenges which led to delays in seeking, reaching and receiving antenatal care. Most of the pregnant women participants related limited access to health care, with under-utilisation of antenatal services. They were unhappy about the antenatal care services they received in the three available health care facilities in the area, which made these facilities to be inaccessible and underutilised. The nurse participants recognised the challenges facing the pregnant women regarding the access and utilisation of antenatal care services, together with the challenges faced by the nurses while working in the three available health care facilities in the area. Recommendations The recommendations that were made included: to consider building a centrally located fixed primary health care clinic that would ensure equal access to health care services, strengthening the implementation of policies regarding the referral system and ambulance services, ensuring sustainable availability of human and material resources, developing strategies to ensure that the antenatal care services are delivered in line with the South African Department of Health policies and guidelines and strengthening community education. A further study on provision of antenatal care services in the area is also recommended.
Access and utilization of adolescent youth friendly services in primary health care clinics in Ekurhuleni South District, Gauteng Province
(2022-05-13) Naicker, Reshna; Naidoo, Vasanthrie; Munsamy, Michelle; Mavundla, Amile
Background- The Adult Youth Friendly Health Service (AYFHS) programme has been fragmented in the healthcare system. Regardless of youth healthcare being a priority, the inequalities within the implementation and sustenance of this service, there has been unmet health needs of many youth and adolescents within the community of Ekurhuleni in the South district of Gauteng. This study has therefore found it necessary to explore the youth perspectives in accessing and utilising adolescent/youth friendly health services within the community. Aim of the study-The aim of the study was to explore the perspectives of adolescents regarding their access and utilization of AYFHS in Primary Health Care clinics in the Ekurhuleni South District, Gauteng Province. Methodology- The study utilised a qualitative, explorative, descriptive approach where data was gathered through individual interviews from a study population based in the Ekurhuleni South District in Gauteng province and selected through a purposive sampling technique. The analysis and interpretation of the data revealed emerging themes which discussed and formed the core of the research findings. Conclusion- Access and utilisation of AYFHS in the Ekurhuleni South District, noted that several barriers existed. From the perspective of the youth that have been interviewed, it was noted that a lack of knowledge regarding the AYFHS programme was prevalent. Youth healthcare is the centre of priority in the healthcare system and AYFHS should be the programme of focus as it encapsulates the burden of disease holistically amongst the youth population. Provision of accessible, available, equitable and appropriate youth healthcare services are required at healthcare facilities in the Ekurhuleni South District. Recommendations- Policy makers and those in authority should routinely assess and evaluate healthcare facilities to ensure that the essential package of the AYFHS programme is implemented at all healthcare facilities and quality healthcare services are provided to the youth population. This study recommends that all aspects of quality service delivery, such as adequate infrastructure, human and material resources and operating hours of the healthcare facility need to be improved to meet the needs of the community. Education and training of staff and the community regarding AYFHS is required as matter of urgency. Strategies to improve satisfaction of healthcare services should be targeted and retaining the youth population within the healthcare facility must be given priority.
The accessibility of further education and training colleges to South African sign language users in KwaZulu-Natal
(2018) Sawula, Nqobile Lovable; Makhubu-Badenhorst, R.L.; Pratt, Deirdre Denise
After twenty-four years of democracy, the predicament of people with disabilities has finally become part of the transformation agenda. There has been a growing acceptance that people with disabilities can play active roles in both transforming their own lives and contributing to society. For this to transpire, access to proper education and training opportunities is fundamental. There is thus a need for higher educational institutions to divest themselves of all forms of discrimination against those with disabilities. This requires that people with disabilities be given equal opportunities to enter higher education programmes and to succeed in them. Despite the strong legislative and policy framework for addressing disability in the education sector, access to higher education for disabled students, particularly the South African Sign Language (SASL) users, is believed to be limited. Using the Social Model of disability, this study seeks to investigate the accessibility of Further Education and Training (FET) Colleges to SASL users in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). In this investigation, a total number of fifty South African Sign Language users filled in questionnaires and two representatives from Further Education and Training (FET) Colleges in KwaZulu-Natal were interviewed. This study targeted SASL users who were out of school and wanted to further their studies at higher education institutions. The participants were recruited by inviting all d/Deaf and hard of hearing people from the four selected Deaf organizations/associations in KwaZulu-Natal to participate in the study. The study undeniably reveals that FET Colleges are not accessible to SASL users in KwaZulu-Natal. This is because FET Colleges in KwaZulu-Natal do not provide access services like SASL interpreters for the d/Deaf community, which violates d/Deaf people’s right to education and is a barrier to the d/Deaf students who want to further their studies. Furthermore, this research identified that the Deaf community in KwaZulu-Natal is not well informed about devices that can be used to assist them in classrooms in order to access information.
The accumulation of heavy metals by aquatic plants
(2003) Maharaj, Saroja; Moodley, Kandasamy Govindsamy; Southway-Ajulu, F. A.; Baijnath, Himansu
The pollution of water bodies by heavy metals is a serious threat to humanity. The technique known as phytoremediation is used to clean up these polluted water bodies. The accumulation of heavy metals by aquatic plants is a safer, . cheaper and friendlier manner of cleaning the environment. The aquatic plants -studied in this project are A.sessilis, P.stratiotes, R.steudelii and T.capensis. The accumulation of heavy metals in aquatic plants growing in waste water treatment ponds was investigated. The water, sludge and plants were collected from five maturation ponds at the Northern Waste Water Treatment Works, Sea Cow Lake, Durban. The samples were analysed for Zn, Mn, Cr, Ni, Pb and Cu using ICP-MS. In general it was found that the concentrations of the targeted metals were much lower in the water (0.002 to 0.109 mg/I) compared to sediment/sludge (44 to 1543mg/kg dry wt) and plants (0.4 to 2246 mg/kg dry wt). These results show that water released into the river from the final maturation pond has metal concentrations well below the maximum limits set by international environmental control bodies. It also shows that sediments act as good sinks for metals and that plants do uptake metals to a significant extent. Of the four plants investigated it was found that }t.sessi[ir (leaves, roots and stems) and }A.sessilis (roots and stems) are relatively good collectors of Mn and Cu respectively. These findings are described in the thesis. The concentration of heavy metals in the stems, leaves and roots of the three plants were compared to ascertain if there were differences in the ability of the plant at different parts of the plant to bioaccumulate the six heavy metals studied.
Achievement of clinical learning objectives by midwifery nursing students : an appreciative inquiry
(2020-06-19) Ngcobo, Ntombifuthi Pearl; Sokhela, Dudu Gloria
INTRODUCTION ABSTRACT Clinical practice in nursing education is vital as it provides a platform for nursing students to correlate what they have been taught in the classroom during a theory session and apply it in the real-life situation. There are specific objectives which midwifery nursing students must achieve in order to meet the required competency levels as prescribed by the South African nursing education regulating body the South African Nursing Council (SANC) (South Africa 2005: 5). Some of the learning objectives that have to be achieved by midwifery students are: demonstrate competency in the assessment, planning and implementation and evaluation of nursing care for a woman with an uncomplicated and complicated pregnancy, labour puerperium and normal new born baby. The country has embarked on an endeavour to improve maternal and child health as expressed in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) (United Nations 2015: 3). Goal number 3 of the 17 SDGs is to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. This goal is relevant to this study as competent midwives are the foundation for maintaining mother and child well- being during pregnancy, labour, delivery and post-delivery, yielding healthy families, communities and the nation. AIM OF THE STUDY The purpose of the study was to describe how an Appreciative inquiry (AI) was used to determine strategies used towards achievement of the midwifery clinical learning objectives. METHODOLOGY An AI approach with a qualitative descriptive research design was used to determine the strategies used by the lecturer and midwifery clinical instructors and students in the University of Technology (UoT) selected for this study and students towards achievement of their clinical learning outcomes. Purposive sampling was used to select the lecturer, midwifery clinical instructors in the UoT, hospital midwifery clinical instructors and students. Six professional nurses from the clinical facilities, one lecturer from the UoT, seven clinical instructors from the UoT and eleven midwifery nursing students were purposively sampled and interviewed. RESULTS The results of the study revealed that there were several factors that assisted students to achieve their midwifery clinical learning objectives. These included supervision by clinical instructors who modelled good behaviour, had no favouritism and were always willing to teach students. Collegiality and co-operation between lecturers, clinical instructors in the UoT and facility clinical instructors assisted in bridging the gap between theory and practice resulting in students achieving their midwifery clinical learning objectives. Staff development was cited as a key factor in ensuring that students are taught relevant and up-to-date knowledge. CONCLUSION Collaboration of all stakeholders in coordinating and planning student training is essential for the production of well-rounded, competent and confident students. In this collaboration, it is imperative to acknowledge that everyone’s contribution is equally important for good outcomes of students.
Acousto-ultrasonics for defect assessment of composite materials
(2002) Dugmore, Kevin M.; Jonson, Jon David; Walker, Mark
The experiments and their results contained herein will form the basis for the development of a portable non-destructive testing device for composite structures. This device is to be capable of detecting any of a variety of defects and assessing their severity within a short time
Acquisition of agricultural knowledge and negotiation of gender power relations by women commercial farmers in Zimbabwe : implications for adult education training and development
(2018) Kaziboni, Tabeth; Preece, Julia; Mukeredzi, Tabitha
This study examined how women commercial farmers who got land during the Zimbabwe Fast Track Land Reform Programme (ZFTLRP) accessed new farming knowledge, applied and integrated it with their traditional knowledge. The study also analysed how these women farmers managed traditional gender power dynamics in the process of accessing knowledge and utilising their farm land. Kolb’s experiential learning theory was used to illuminate this study in terms of how the women acquired new farming knowledge and how indigenous knowledge and modern farming knowledge could illustrate farmer learning as experiential and/or self-directed. Foucault’s post-structuralist theory was used as a lens to explore how the women managed issues of gender and power relations during the process of owning and managing land. The study was qualitative and employed a life history research design. It relied on focus group discussions, individual interviews and observation for data collection from ten women farmers who were purposively sampled. Data were collected during an eight-month agricultural season from January 2016 to August 2016. The study revealed that the women went through Kolb’s experiential learning cycle in the process of acquiring knowledge. The women’s learning cycle, however, included a fifth stage of social interaction at some point, which Kolb did not emphasize. Social interaction is often referred to as a core feature of learning in African contexts (Ntseane, 2011) and it reflects the way in which Indigenous Knowledge (IK) had traditionally been learned. Women experienced non-formal and informal learning, with most of the latter being self-directed in nature. The range of learning sources included friends, neighbours, experts and media. Women complemented indigenous knowledge with modern farming methods and adopted more modern methods and fewer indigenous methods as soon as they had knowledge and resources. Occasionally they used indigenous knowledge when it was affordable, readily available and sustainable. Women farmers were happy to own land, but their husbands and males in the community did not support them and resisted the new discourse of women empowerment. The clash between the traditional discourse that women are not expected to be autonomous and the new discourse created gender power tensions. Women employed a variety of power techniques to enable them to farm. Initially they used the strategy of ‘reverse discourse,’ negotiating and manipulating people into accepting their new status. The women also used accepted power differentials to accommodate their own subjugated status through using a third party to resolve conflicts. Women also exhibited different forms of agency and self-determination to get accepted. This included employing ‘resistant discourse’ whereby the women demanded what was theirs and asserted their authority, especially with their workers. The use of economic rationales was another discursive strategy used by women, whereby they used their farm income to support other community members, and demonstrated financial outcomes that acted as a persuasive force for acceptance of their new status and role. A third form of agency was exhibited by working hard to achieve good yields and profits from their farms. Women demonstrated success stories which in turn helped them to improve the life styles of their families and re-invest into their farming business. They thus managed to create an autonomous identity for themselves. Women showed that they had progressed from the initial ‘disciplinary power’ behaviours in which they were passive and submissive, moving to a process of ‘reverse discourse’ where they achieved what they wanted through manipulation. But the women then showed agency and determination. Some did this through resistant discourse and others through demonstrating they could work hard. The success stories have seen them creating a new ‘regime of truth’ that women are capable people, although this achievement took several years. These findings demonstrated that making land available to these women was a positive act, but in order to help them succeed more effectively and quickly they needed gender-sensitive training. The study’s training recommendations include the need for both access to agricultural and business knowledge, and also the management of gender power relations.
Active targeting of cancer cells using gemcitabine conjugated platinum nanoparticles
(2017) Odayar, Kriya; Odhav, Bharti; Mohanlall, Viresh
Nanotechnology is explained as the science of engineered materials and systems on a molecular scale. This innovation is currently used in a wide variety of applications which include using these nanoparticles as drug delivery vehicles. Such nanocarriers are relatively smaller than 100 nm in size with the ability to convey therapeutic drugs to a number of disease sites. Platinum-based nanoparticles have been extensively used in a number of applications namely catalysts, gas sensors, glucose sensors and cancer therapy. The properties of platinum nanoparticles (PtNP’s) typically depend on characteristics such as shape, particle size, elemental composition and structure, all of which can be manipulated and controlled in the fabrication process. Their unique size in the nanometer scale makes platinum nanoparticles an ideal candidate as targeted drug delivery vehicles. To target an anticancer drug to a diseased site is a distinctive feature of most studies, which aim to transfer an adequate dosage of the drug to cancer cells. Transport systems used as carriers of anticancer drugs offer numerous advantages, which include improved efficacy and a decrease in toxicity towards healthy cells when compared to standard drugs. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of platinum nanoparticles, gemcitabine and gemcitabine conjugated platinum nanoparticles (Hybrids) against cancer cells and healthy cells and to determine the mode of cell death and cell death pathways using flow cytometry. Platinum nanoparticles were synthesized via the reduction of hexachloroplatinic acid using sodium borohydride in the presence of capping agents. Synthesized platinum nanoparticles and the hybrids were characterized by observing peaks at 301 nm and 379 nm respectively using UV-visible spectroscopy. TEM images revealed that the PtNP’s and the conjugate compounds were spherical in shape with core sizes of 1.14 nm - 1.65 nm and 1.53 - 2.66 nm respectively. The bioactivity platinum nanoparticles, gemcitabine and the hybrids were investigated using MCF7 and Melanoma cancer cells at different concentrations from 0.10 to 100 µg/ml. Results indicated that conjugated nanoparticles induced the highest cell inhibition against both cell lines compared to gemcitabine and platinum nanoparticles. Bioactivity against PBMC (peripheral blood mononuclear) cells indicated that all three compounds show little or no effect towards the healthy cell line compared to the control. Melanoma cell line was used to determine the mode of cell death. Apoptosis was detected using Annexin V-FITC to detect membrane changes, JC-1 to detect a loss in mitochondrial membrane potential and caspase-3 assay kits. Results indicated that a significant amount of cell death was caused by cleavage of caspase-3. Nanoparticle drug delivery is an area that has shown significant promise in cancer treatment. Interaction of nanoparticles with human cells is an interesting topic for understanding toxicity and developing potential drug candidates. Imagine, something that is atleast or more than 80,000 times smaller than the edge of the ridge on a fingertip and unlocks a new wilderness into cancer research. Nanotechnology, known as the science of minute, is changing the approach to cancer and especially future diagnosis and treatment. Nanotechnology permits scientists to fabricate new apparatuses that are definitely smaller than cells, giving them the chance to attack tumor diseased cells. This innovation not just empowers practitioners to recognize malignancies prior but additionally holds the guarantee of halting cancer growth before it further develops. This progressive approach is so exact, specialists will in future be able to outline a unique treatment for an individual’s own restorative and hereditary profile. Researchers are designing nanoparticles that detect and destroy diseased cells and this optimistic innovation could be personalized for targeted drug delivery, enhanced imaging and ongoing affirmation of cancer cell death. The National Cancer Institute remains hopeful that facilitated development, nanotechnology will drastically change cancer treatment.
Activity coefficients at infinite dilution for ILs : methyltrioctylammonium cation and bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide or thiosalicylate anions using glc
(2009) Gwala, Nobuhle V.; Deenadayalu, Nirmala
The activity coefficients at infinite dilution ( γ13 ) were calculated for alkanes, alkenes, cycloalkanes, alkynes, ketones, alcohols and aromatic compounds from gas liquid chromatography (glc) measurements at three temperatures (303.15 and 313.15 and 323.15) K. The γ13 values were calculated from the retention data for two ionic liquids (ILs) with the same cation but different anions. The ionic liquids: [methyltrioctylammonium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide and methyltrioctylammonium thiosalicylate] were used as the stationary phase. The γ13 data for methyltrioctylammonium thiosalicylate were higher than for methyltrioctylammonium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide. For each temperature and each ionic liquid, γ13 values were determined for two columns and the average γ13 values were used for the calculation of the partial molar excess enthalpies at infinite dilution, H E 1 Δ , using the Gibbs-Helmholtz equation. Graphs of In γ13 vs 1/T were plotted to determine H E 1 Δ at T = 303.15 K. The selectivity, S12 , value for the hexane/benzene separation was calculated from the ratio of the avarage γ13 values to determine the suitability of the ILs as an entrainer for extractive distillation in the separation of aromatic and aliphatic compounds.The S12 values were also compared to the literature values for other ionic liquids. It was found that the longer chain alkyl group attached to the cation or anion gave lower S12 values. Both ILs have S12 values greater than one and in theory can be used as an entrainer for the hexane/ benzene separation. The capacities at infinite dilutions, k1 , were also calculated from the inverse of the avarage γ13 values for each IL at each temperature.
An adaptive quotation system for web-based manufacturing
(2005) Li, Qingxue; Walker, Mark
Increased global competition is challenging manufacturing industries to bring competitively priced, well-designed and well-manufactured products into the marketplace as quickly as possible. Manufacturing companies are responding to these challenges in their industry by extending current internet trends to create virtual marketplaces where factories, suppliers, and customers are part of the solution. Pressing demands to reduce lead-time by providing a suitable manufacturing price for a product has become an important step in the current competition age. This thesis presents an approach for providing a quotation for a product via the web, automatically and autonomously.
Addressing bullying at a boy’s high school in Durban
(2023-04) Naidoo, Meedhaloshnie Ragoobathie; Hamlall, Vijay
This study aimed to explore the current status of bullying at a boys’ high school in urban KZN and the experiences and perceptions of bullying among the learners of this single sex, multicultural, multiracial school. The objective of the study was to investigate the nature, causes and consequences of bullying in this particular school. This study further proposed and implemented interventions that served to address bullying behaviour at the school. The study adopted the interpretivist paradigm and qualitative methods to answer the research questions. A participatory action research approach was used to conduct this study. The data collection methods were semi-structured individual interviews and focus group discussions. Content analysis was used to analyse the data. The non-purposive sampling method was used to select the target population, which consisted of five learners from the boarding establishment (a hostel for learners who choose to stay at school during the school term) and five from the day’ boys. Three educators were also interviewed: two males and one female. In total, this study comprised 13 participants. The data gathered from the interviews and focus group discussions with both the learners and educators indicated that bullying was highly prevalent at the school. Forms of both direct and indirect bullying were evident at the school. Direct bullying was both verbal and physical. Physical bullying took place more covertly in the form of boys using their body strength and size to punish and dominate the weaker boys. A considerable amount of verbal bullying took place at the school. This included acts of harassment, teasing, name-calling and ridiculing. Indirect bullying in the form of social exclusion involving ostracism, and the spread of rumours or gossip was also rife. Both forms of bullying targeted personal characteristics and generally constituted attacks on sexuality and appearance. The underlying themes for the causes of bullying behaviour were identified as boys subscribing to hegemonic forms of masculinity, power-seeking and peer expectation. Being in an environment in which there are predominantly male influences, the boys were expected to act like ‘real men’. They wanted to feel powerful and dominate the so called ‘weaker’ boys. This increased their social status in the eyes of their peers. Data generated from the interviews indicated that the consequences of bullying behaviour resulted in the victim experiencing a poor self-image and low self-esteem. Avoidance and absence from school, seclusion and isolation and an increase in violent behaviour were identified as major outcomes of being bullied. Participatory action was used to plan and implement an intervention programme for the whole school to tackle bullying. The aim was to create a safe, positive learning environment for the learners. The short-term outcomes of the programme were evaluated. The study recommends that it is imperative that the seriousness of bullying be recognised by all stakeholders in the school community for appropriate and effective measures to be implemented to reduce bullying in schools. It is not uncommon for school stakeholders to trivialise bullying that takes place in their schools. Many hold the view that bullying is part of growing up (e.g., boys will be boys) and should not be made an issue. Greater awareness of the problem of school bullying is required and a focus on prevention would ensure that schools create safer and more harmonious learning environments
Addressing bullying at a primary school in the Ilembe District, Kwazulu-Natal
(2023-04) Mthembu, David Nhlakanipho; Hamlall, Vijay
School-based bullying has over the recent years become increasingly common and vicious. Schools are a microcosm of society in general. The society we inhabit has become increasingly intolerant and violent. Kruger (2013) highlighted that bullying is rife in today's school culture, with devastating consequences which negatively affect not only learners and staff, but the broader neighbourhood community, the general school climate, and the overall functioning of the school. Research, according to Kruger (2013), shows that bullying can be a precursor to aggression and, if not addressed, may lead to more serious acts of violence. Bullying is a common problem in this school, according to the research. Boys are more likely to engage in physical bullying, such as beating, punching, and kicking, whereas girls are more likely to engage in verbal bullying, such as insulting, name calling, and spreading rumours, as well as cyber bullying. The study discovered that these types of bullying had a physical, emotional, and psychological impact on students. Bullying was found to be influenced by gender, age, socioeconomic level, and sexuality in this school. The school playground has also been identified as a common site for bullying. Gender discourses, according to the findings, play a significant role in promoting bullying in this school, as boys attempt to exert control over girls. The motivation of this study emanates from the need to tackle school bullying against the backdrop of violence that learners face in their school and home life. According to Childline (2019) bullying gangs often become violent gangs that are involved in crime, so schools need to respond pro-actively to bullying to prevent it becoming gangsterism. Research shows that most children believe that when they report the bullying to an educator nothing is going to be done to stop it. The overall aim of this study was to investigate and address bullying among learners at Sund Primary School in Mandeni, iLembe District. The goals of this study was to uncover the nature of bullying that learners face, the causes and consequences of bullying at the school, the effects of bullying on learners’ lives, to use participatory action research to plan and implement a programme aimed at creating a safe positive environment and to evaluate the short-term outcome of the programme. vii A qualitative Participatory Action Research was used in this study. The data was gathered through semi-structured individual and focus group interviews. The study included ten boys, ten girls and three educators as participants. This study was further aimed at contributing towards peace building and creating harmonious teaching and learning schooling environments through an ant-bullying intervention programme.
Addressing gender-based violence in Umlazi, Ward 83 Durban
(2023) Khuzwayo, Zanele Maureen; Hamlall, Vijay
Extensive research has pointed to ongoing and increasing gender-based violence internationally and in South Africa. The rampant escalation of gender-based violence in many South African townships is of particular concern. The main focus of this study was to investigate the experiences, perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs regarding gender-based violence of a sample of men and women living in Ward 83 in the township of Umlazi, in KwaZulu-Natal. This study looked beyond the dichotomy of women as victims and men as perpetrators, with a focus on understanding how society constrains and enables individual agency around gender-based violence and decision-making and how behaviour is affected by social norms and expectations. This study identified the sources of the attitudes and beliefs expressed by the chosen sample of community members in Umlazi using a participatory action research approach and implemented a programme of action aimed at preventing and reducing the prevalence of gender-based violence in the township through behaviour and attitudinal change. Men play an active role in shaping women's identities and controlling their behaviour. For this reason, the study included men living in the area. This study is situated in the social constructionist framework since the researcher was interested in understanding the experiences, perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs of a sample of men and women as described by them. This framework allows for the interpretation of gender, culture and social factors that shape identities and actions. The choice of a small sample is based on the intention to produce rich, in-depth qualitative data. The participants consisted of seven females and five males ranging in age from twentyone to fifty years old, since this study focused on the experiences of the adult community of Umlazi. The two main research methods employed were individual semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The results were interpreted and analysed using thematic analysis. The findings of this study revealed that gender-based violence in this community manifested itself in various forms. However, I classified the consequences of gender based violence into two broad categories: physical and psychological. Scholars of gender and violence argue that there is no single factor that causes gender-based violence but rather an array of factors that raises the likelihood that a man in a particular setting may act violently towards a woman. Significantly, it emerged in this study that the main causes of gendered violent behaviour were associated with social norms, substance abuse and constructions of masculinity. The effects of gender-based violence were acute and immediate physical injuries and psychological trauma. The women mentioned feelings of depression and anxiety and suicidal thoughts. The abuse also impacted their self-worth and self-esteem. This study recommends an integrated comprehensive approach of all stakeholders in the form of community based intervention programmes towards the eradication gender-based violence.