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Continuous flow synthesis of a key intermediate towards the antidiabetic drug repaglinide
Get PDFAcross the world, diabetes is one of the leading causes of deaths attributed to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). In Africa, a huge proportion of African countries’ annual healthcare budgets are consumed by diabetes (7 %) with many already experiencing healthcare budget deficits. The prevalence of diabetes is rapidly growing and threatens the economic productivity and livelihood of many families within the region. The world leaders have invested heavily in reducing the pandemic by focusing on increasing the availability of affordable essential medicines in developing countries. The majority of diabetes cases are due to type 2 diabetes (90 %) and may be treated using oral hypoglycaemic drugs (OHDs). Repaglinide (REP) is a non-sulfonylurea insulin secretagogue (meglitinide) with greater HbA1c reduction than metformin in newly onset type 2 diabetic patients, however due to the high price of REP outside Asia, cheaper and less effective OHDs are prescribed to patients. Many of the reported synthetic routes towards REP utilize a key intermediate, 2-(3-ethoxy-4- iethoxycarbonyl)phenyl)acetic acid. The key intermediate contributes significantly to the price of REP as many of the intermediate’s synthetic routes suffer from long reaction times, low yields and industrial complex approaches. Therefore, this has prompted us to investigate an efficient process towards the synthesis of 2-(3-ethoxy-4-(ethoxycarbonyl)phenyl)acetic acid using multiple continuous flow systems.Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 202
Desired sensory branding strategies in-store versus online: the skincare industry
Get PDFModern shoppers are inundated with purchasing options in every product category, with thousands of brands competing for their patronage. It has therefore become increasingly important for organisations to differentiate product offerings in the market if they want to be competitive. It has further been highlighted that an individual’s experience of a brand is of paramount importance, as it is directly linked to brand loyalty. A vehicle for creating memorable brand experiences is the utilisation of multi-sensory experiences or sensory branding. Within the context of traditional or in-store shopping, sensory branding encompasses the use of visual, auditory, olfactory, tactile and gustatory stimuli to adjust consumer purchasing behaviour. However, more and more consumers are opting for online shopping, spurred on by the effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic, and are no less demanding of brands online than they would be in-store. The cosmetics and personal care industry is one of the more predominant gainers from e-commerce. The skincare industry exhibited one of the largest growth rates from 2019 – 2025 and had an estimated market value of 788.4 million by 2027 (Statista 2023). With reference to in-store shopping for skincare products, sensory marketing strategies have been known to be heavily relied on. Therefore, with consumers moving towards online shopping, it is essential for skincare businesses to consider how to deliver sensory experiences online as well as in-store. Whilst the importance of the use of sensory branding and marketing in the skincare industry is notable, both in-store and online, it was established that while there is research available on sensory branding, there is very limited academic research on digital sensory branding and the sensory branding of v skincare products. Moreover, to the researcher’s knowledge, no academic literature specifically investigates the digital sensory branding of skincare brands. Therefore, this study will contribute not only by adding academic research to the topic being investigated but also through rreccomendations made based on the outcomes of this study to skincare brands in South Africa. From the comprehensive literature review, a conceptual model was constructed to investigate the relationship between traditional and digital sensory branding strategies (independent variables) and brand loyalty (dependent variable). Two sets of hypotheses were formulated relating to the identified variables of this study and the empirical research conducted was utilised to deduce whether these hypotheses should be rejected or supported. To conduct the empirical research needed for this study, certain research methodology was employed. This study made use of a positivistic paradigm and a quantitative approach. The target population of this study constituted consumers who had purchased skincare products in-store as well as online and, as no true sample frame existed, respondents were selected through the use of non-probability sampling, more specifically, convenience sampling. To collect the data, an online survey was used, with the specific data collection instrument being a web-based self-administered questionnaire, which was distributed via social media platforms, such as Facebook and LinkedIn, as well as via email. Section A of the questionnaire focused on the demographic details of the respondents, while Section B – Section F related to the variables of the study. A total of 372 potential respondents started the questionnaire, however only 321 questionnaires were deemed usable after the data had been coded and cleaned, indicating a response rate of 86.3%. This study made use of both descriptive (measures of central tendency as well as standard deviation and skewness) and inferential (SEM Models, Primary Models, Pearson’s correlation coefficients, Chi-Square test of Association, ANOVAs and Welch Robust test, Tukey test and Games Howell Test as well as Cohen’s d) statistics to interpret the data, which was graphically illustrated. vi The empirical investigation conducted in this study between the variables and sub-variables revealed that significant relationships exist between traditional sensory branding strategies (traditional olfactory and tactile stimuli) and digital sensory branding strategies (digital visual, olfactory and tactile stimuli) and brand loyalty, with refence to the skincare industry. It was further notable that, with specific reference to the skincare industry, the sense of sight, smell and touch are key factors for sensory branding, whereas auditory stimuli were found to only be useful when used in unison with the other senses. Moreover, with reference to in-store shopping, it was deduced that consumers shop for skincare mostly via retail outlets, which could lead to sensory overload. Furthermore, the results of this study suggest that younger consumers are price sensitive. Based on the pertinent empirical results, and corresponding literature findings, of this study, recommendations were provided to businesses operating in the skincare industry. With reference to in-store trading, it was recommended that because skincare is mostly sold via retail outlets, the brand itself does not have control over all sensory stimuli to which the consumer is exposed. As a result, consumers may be subject to sensory overload and skincare brands should keep their sensory branding in-store simple. Moreover, skincare brands could make use of an in-store aesthetician or beautician, which would facilitate consumer-product interaction. With regards to online trading, a recommendation for skincare brands would be to use moving images or GIFs, which will allow the consumer to more easily imagine the feel of the product. Moreover, skincare brands can make use of brand ambassadors to create “unboxing” videos, which will convey more clearly the sensory information of the product and instil confidence in consumers. Reccomendations were also made with reference to the financial state of consumers, as the financial position of the respondents could influence their decision making. The limitations of this study comprised the availability of reliable existing sources to support the study as the concept of digital sensory branding is still relatively new and, due to the study being focused on the skincare industry, taste stimuli were excluded as they were found to have no relevance. Finally, vii based on all the literature findings and empirical results, recommendations for future areas of study were made. This study provides evidence that both traditional and digital sensory branding strategies have an influence on, or relationship with, brand loyalty. Through this study, the importance of sensory branding, with specific reference to the skincare industry, is brought to light. Furthermore, skincare brands can utilise the information provided to improve the experience of their consumers when shopping in-store, as well as online, thereby increasing their base of brand loyal consumers.Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 202
Collective entrepreneurship and economic development in MALAWI: A case study of Blantyre City
Get PDFEntrepreneurship is one of the corner stones of poverty alleviation as it is a tool for economic growth. As Malawi’s SME sector comprising entrepreneurs is facing challenges such as lack of access to finance, and high business operating costs, collective entrepreneurship has been found to be a possible solution. Collective entrepreneurship occurs when individual’s resources and skills are incorporated into a group so that the innovation process and accessing marketing resources is made easier compared to individual effort. The collective ability of individuals and organisations is important in developing countries as it enables the use of the community as a means of targeting business opportunities and hence promoting growth of the economy. This study’s purpose was to assess the potential of collective entrepreneurship in enhancing economic development in Malawi. Specifically, the study aimed to investigate the youths’ attitudes towards collective entrepreneurship, examine the potential of collective entrepreneurship to empower the youth economically, explore ways of engaging the youth in collective entrepreneurship programmes and identify strategies that could be used to promote economic development by the youth through collective entrepreneurship. The study focused on the youth to increase their empowerment economically, as this element was previously not critically examined. Furthermore, this study was based on the fact that not much research has been conducted in Malawi to guide an entrepreneurship development strategy. The study’s participants were from Blantyre City townships. A survey method was adopted, targeting a population of 90 respondents. Data was collected using 40 questionnaires, 17 in-depth interviews and two focus group discussions. Data was analysed using software packages such as Rev, Microsoft Excel and SPSS. The results of the study revealed that the majority of the youth are ready to participate in collective entrepreneurship ventures as they can potentially empower them economically. The study found ways of engaging the youth in collective entrepreneurship programmes, which included financial institutions such as banks providing timely tailored financing options and engaging responsively with youth. The study identified strategies that could be used to promote economic development by means of collective entrepreneurship including universities supporting young entrepreneurs through courses on collective vii entrepreneurship, and the hosting of incubator and accelerator programmes. The study made several recommendations which among them was targeting the youth in the formation of collective entrepreneurship programmes, developing policies that embrace key success factors for collective entrepreneurship and promoting entities that can foster collective entrepreneurship.Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 202
Validation and adaptation of statistical models based on the SAPS III score to predict in-hospital mortality in a South African ICU
Get PDFIn-hospital mortality prediction remains an important task in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). In particular, the estimated in-hospital mortality risk is essential to describe case-mix, for research and clinical auditing purposes. Furthermore, in settings with limited hospital resources (e.g beds) such as the South African public health care system, the estimated in-hospital mortality risk is essential for resource allocation and to inform local patient triage guidelines. Commonly used models for prediction of in-hospital mortality in ICU patients includes, but not limited to, the Simplified Acute Physiology Score III (SAPS III). The SAPS III model was developed in 2005. Notably, the SAPS III model was developed without data collected from African based hospitals. Given the general application of the SAPS III model, including benchmarking and quality control, the development of such a model based on local data is of paramount importance. To this end, this study developed a model for prediction of in-hospital mortality based on data collected in a hospital in South Africa. Logistic regression modelling was used to develop the proposed mortality risk assessment model. The results indicated that the proposed model exhibited superior discrimination and classification abilities compared to the SAPS III model. Future research includes the external validation of the proposed model in different hospitals in South Africa.Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 202
Costs and consequences at the population-environment-development interface in St Francis Bay: exploring the linkages of a complex system
Get PDFCoastal zones the world over are particularly attractive for the development of human settlements. Naturally, this trend frequently results in human induced disturbances of sensitive ecosystems, often resulting in dramatic and unintended consequences. The South African coastline is no stranger to this phenomenon. Dynamics at the population-environment-development interface in the coastal zone often presents affected communities and institutions with complex challenges. An infamous case along the South African coastline is the settlement of St Francis Bay, the focus of this dissertation. St Francis Bay was established as a holiday village around sixty years ago and its economy is today firmly dependent on the fragile bond and reciprocal relationship between the tourist trade and the integrity of sandy beaches. The dissertation, against this background and drawing from complex systems theory, explores the links between human activity and the biophysical environment and the ominous costs and consequences that are produced at the local population-environment-development interface. Domains that are considered within the nexus of relevant aspects include the wind-driven sediment bypass system across the local headland; climate change; the local economy; social wellbeing, inequality and social justice; as well urban planning and political governance. The desktop study applied to St Francis Bay made use of Geographic Information Systems and statistical information to form the basis of the methodological approach in this dissertation. The Population-Environment-Development nexus was formed as a result. The results illustrate how critical levels of beach erosion are connected amidst an intricate reciprocal nexus to these and other aspects. It demonstrates that the sustainability of the settlement hinges on the understanding of such linkages and underscores the relevance of the methodological approach that is applied. The sustainability of the environment and the resulting impact on the quality of life of the human population remains a challenge for future generations as well as governance systems. By acknowledging and understanding the complexity that exists in coastal zones allows for future research on the topic to be explored and enable key role players to proactively intervene to benefit the population and the environment.Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 202
Justification of chest mobile radiographic examinations: experiences of radiographers in a private radiology practice in the Nelson Mandela Bay Health District
Get PDFThe principle of justification in radiographic imaging aims to best answer a medical question while evaluating the expected benefits of radiation exposure against the probable detriment to the individual patient. The implementation of justification in radiography requires the assessment and evaluation of chest mobile radiographic requests against justification criteria, considering the underpinning principles of radiation: justification, optimisation and authorisation. Diagnostic chest mobile radiographic imaging has been part of healthcare for the last century. Medico-legal requirements by the professional registration body, the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), identify justification as an advocated and obligatory practice among radiographers. Yet, justification remains an inconsistent practice among South African radiographers due to several challenges in the healthcare setting. The aim of this study was to investigate the experiences of radiographers regarding the justification of chest mobile radiographic examination requests in a private radiology practice in the Nelson Mandela Bay Health District (NMBHD). A qualitative, exploratory-descriptive and contextual research design was used to gain in-depth data of the experiences of South African radiographers regarding the justification of chest mobile radiographic requests. Data were gathered from the participants using unstructured, open-ended, in-depth individual interviews. Data were transcribed verbatim and coded using Tesch’s eight steps of data coding and analysis process. Two principal themes were constructed during data analysis. Theme one identified the barriers and associated affective responses related to the appropriate implementation of justification of mobile chest radiographic examinations. Theme two recognised recommendations to enhance the implementation of justification by radiographers for mobile chest radiographic examinations. The research study was governed by methods to ensure trustworthiness and ethical practices. Based on the findings of this study, four recommendations were developed to assist radiographers to establish whether a request for mobile radiographic chest examinations is appropriately justified, which can contribute to establishing a radiation safety culture in the research setting pertaining to chest mobile radiography.Thesis (MTech) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 202
Effect of a school-based health intervention on the non-communicable disease risk status of schoolchildren from disadvantaged communities
Get PDFBackground: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and dyslipidaemia are a global public health concern, but more so in low- income countries where the underprivileged are exposed to unhealthy lifestyle practices with limited access to primary health care. Poor dietary habits and physical inactivity have also led to the unprecedented rise of NCD risk factors among school- aged children, which places them at greater risk of disease later in life. These NCDs are largely driven by obesity which has continued to rise in sub-Saharan Africa. However, high levels of undernutrition (such as stunting, underweight and wasting) among children are also present, thereby translating to a dual burden of malnutrition. Promoting regular physical activity (PA) among children is crucial for the health of future generations as it assists in weight reduction, improves insulin sensitivity, reduces blood pressure and is associated with good health and wellbeing. However, physical education (PE), the most obvious vehicle to develop the motor abilities of children, creating opportunities for their sports skills development and educating learners about the importance of PA as a lifestyle, has long been overlooked since the transformation of the South African school curriculum. Furthermore, many in-service PE teachers were not trained to teach the new multi-disciplinary Life Skills and Life Orientation subjects, of which PE forms a small part. Evidence shows that many PE teachers lack the content knowledge and practical skills to implement the subject, which raises the question of how many children, especially those in low-income communities, are participating in quality PE needed to foster healthy lifestyles and prevent the risk of NCDs. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of a 20- week school-based health intervention on NCD risk factors of primary schoolchildren from low-income schools in Gqeberha, South Africa. Methods: A cluster randomised control trial was used to test a 20-week intervention, which included three components, namely [1] the KaziKidz toolkit (comprised of pre- prepared PE, health, hygiene and nutrition lessons, equipment for PE, and painted games) [2] a PE coach (human movement science graduate to assist teachers) and [3]two 90-min training workshops. Eight schools were randomly selected to participatein the study: four intervention schools received the KaziKidz toolkit, while the externalsupport components were staggered across three intervention schools, and the Chapter 1: Introduction 2 remaining four schools served as the control group. Altogether 961 children (491 boys and 511 girls) from grades 4 to 6 (8 - 13 years old, M=10.88±1.19 yrs) participated In the study. Demographic information and socio-economic status were captured with a questionnaire. Further measures included height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, glycated haemoglobin, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, accelerometer-based PA and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). Results: Cross-sectional baseline data showed that 43.1% of the sample presented with at least one NCD risk factor, and 17% presented with an elevated clustered risk score (CRS). In addition, higher CRF and moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) were associated with a lowered CRS whereby an elevated CRS was halved for every 49 min increase in MVPA (95% CI 27 - 224) or every 2.17 ml/kg/min increase in CRF, as determined via estimated VO2max (95% CI 1.66 - 3.12). Overall, 13% of the cohort were underweight, 12% overweight, 7% obese, and 64% engaged in an average of 60 min MVPA per day. The results also identified an inverse association between body mass index categories and the total duration of MVPA achieved per day as children categorised as underweight to normal‐weight (boys: OR = 3.89, 95% CI: 2.18 - 6.93; girls: OR =1.78, 95% CI: 1.13 - 2.80) were more likely to engage in 60 min per day of MVPA than overweight to obese children. Finally, the school-based health intervention results revealed improvements in children's NCD risk factors and increased MVPA levels when the intervention conditions included the workshops and, in some cases, the PE coach. The KaziKidz toolkit (on its own) showed little to no improvements in NCD risk factors and MVPA levels. Conclusion: School-based health interventions have the potential to improve the NCD risk factors of children attending low-income schools in South Africa. These findings also add to our understanding of implementing interventions in settings where teachers are not sufficiently trained to teach PE. Therefore, school-based health interventions, including a toolkit, should be accompanied by workshops to equip educators with the necessary tools to confidently facilitate PE lessons and integrate a range of PE activities into their classrooms. Future research is recommended to determine the long-term sustainability of school-based health interventions and the long-term post-intervention impact on NCD risk factors.Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Science, Department of Human Movement Science, 202
Justification of chest mobile radiographic examinations: : experiences of radiographers in a private radiology practice in the Nelson Mandela Bay Health District
Get PDFThe principle of justification in radiographic imaging aims to best answer a medical question while evaluating the expected benefits of radiation exposure against the probable detriment to the individual patient. The implementation of justification in radiography requires the assessment and evaluation of chest mobile radiographic requests against justification criteria, considering the underpinning principles of radiation: justification, optimisation and authorisation. Diagnostic chest mobile radiographic imaging has been part of healthcare for the last century. Medico-legal requirements by the professional registration body, the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), identify justification as an advocated and obligatory practice among radiographers. Yet, justification remains an inconsistent practice among South African radiographers due to several challenges in the healthcare setting. The aim of this study was to investigate the experiences of radiographers regarding the justification of chest mobile radiographic examination requests in a private radiology practice in the Nelson Mandela Bay Health District (NMBHD). A qualitative, exploratory-descriptive and contextual research design was used to gain in-depth data of the experiences of South African radiographers regarding the justification of chest mobile radiographic requests. Data were gathered from the participants using unstructured, open-ended, in-depth individual interviews. Data were transcribed verbatim and coded using Tesch’s eight steps of data coding and analysis process. Two principal themes were constructed during data analysis. Theme one identified the barriers and associated affective responses related to the appropriate implementation of justification of mobile chest radiographic examinations. Theme two recognised recommendations to enhance the implementation of justification by radiographers for mobile chest radiographic examinations. The research study was governed by methods to ensure trustworthiness and ethical practices. Based on the findings of this study, four recommendations were developed to assist radiographers to establish whether a request for mobile radiographic chest examinations is appropriately justified, which can contribute to establishing a radiation safety culture in the research setting pertaining to chest mobile radiography.Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Clinical Care Sciences, 202
Late delivery of infrastructure projects by the Eastern Cape Department of Public works
Get PDFThe main objective of the study was to evaluate building infrastructure delivery within the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, Eastern Cape Province. The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure is a governmental section in charge for the development of infrastructure and delivery of government projects. The study adopted a quantitative research approach; the sampling technique that was used for the current study is the convenience sampling technique. This technique is also referred to as availability or accidental sampling. The population for the study consisted of respondents from the construction-consulting firms and contractors such as the Aurecon Group, Haw and Inglis Civil Engineering, the Metro Bay Municipality, and the National Home Builders Registration Council. The number of questionnaire that was distributed is about thirty-three (33) and about 36.4% response rate received. The findings of the study revealed the impact of the late payment on the progress of building infrastructure projects. The study indicated that, delayed payment to the contractor can affect the can affect the productivity adversely. It is also established that delayed payment includes unrealistic cash flows, error in clams, financial challenges and disagreements relating to the valuation of work. This implies that, payments that are processed on time to the contractors can be of critical importance on the success of the project, whilst on the other hand non-payment or delayed payment have a negative impact on the implementation of construction projects. In the context of building infrastructure projects delay is a regular and common problem, which has a negative impact on the overall project success particularly in the Eastern Cape Province.Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Built Environment, 202
The impact of knowledge economy on economic complexity in Africa
Get PDFThe paper’s primary goal is to investigate the impact of the Knowledge Economy on the Economic Complexity in Africa. The paper presents the concept of the knowledge economy, an economy where knowledge is the main engine of economic growth and a measure of the knowledge in a country as expressed in the diversification of its products (Economic Complexity). It highlights the knowledge economy framework by the World Bank, which asserts that sustained investments in education, innovation, information and communication technologies, and a conducive economic and institutional environment will lead to increases in the use and creation of knowledge in economic production. Summary findings on machine learning estimates proved method LASSO has the minimum SE, which shows that the method LASSO forecasts the model with much precision than the other methods. The panel quantile regression results designate that the education component, ICT, economic incentives tend to affect ECI significantly and positively, while government indicators and innovation play a partial role.Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 202