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1
Wilson, David H. "Hearing in South Australia : disability, impairment and quality-of-life /." Title page, contents and abstract only, 1997. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09PH/09phw7469.pdf.
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Lothian, Andrew. "Landscape quality assessment of South Australia." Title page, table of contents, abstract and detailed contents only, 2000. http://hdl.handle.net/2440/37804.
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The object of this thesis is to provide, through a thorough analysis of human perception and interaction with aesthetics and landscape quality, a comprehensive basis on which to develop a credible methodology for the large scale assessment of perceived landscape quality. The analysis of human perception and interaction with aesthetics and landscape quality is gained by inquiring in depth into a range of theoretical constructs from key disciplines, cultural aspects, and empirical studies covering : 1. the contribution of philosophers to aesthetics 2. the psychology of perception and colour 3. the contribution of Gestalt psychology to aesthetics 4. the psychoanalytical construct of human responses to aesthetics 5. the influence of culture on landscape preferences, tracing the changing perceptions of mountains, the portrayal of landscapes in art, and the design of parks and gardens 6. a review of over 200 surveys of landscape quality in the late 20th century, including typologies and theories of landscape quality Based on the analysis of these and the knowledge gained, an empirical study is formulated and conducted, comprising a study of landscape quality of South Australia, an area of nearly 1 million km - 1. This involves, firstly, the acquisition of data covering the delineation of landscape character regions for the State, photography of these landscapes, derivation of a set of representative slides, and rating of these by groups of participants. Secondly, these preference ratings are comprehensively analysed on the basis of the attributes of the scenes covering land form, land cover, land use, water bodies, naturalism, diversity and colour. Thirdly, the results are applied as follows: 1. a map of landscape quality of South Australia is derived 2. the results are used to predict the effect that changes in land use ( e.g. clearance of trees ) will have on landscape quality 3. the theoretical constructs of landscape quality are evaluated on the basis of the preference ratings 4. a protocol is detailed to guide the undertaking of large - scale landscape quality assessment. The thesis thus fulfils the objective of conducting a thorough analysis of human perception and interaction with, aesthetics and landscape quality, to provide a basis for developing a credible methodology for the large - scale assessment of perceived landscape quality.Thesis (Ph.D.)--School of Social Sciences, 2000.
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Moller, Valerie, and Benjamin J. Roberts. "South Africa, quality of life." Springer Netherlands, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/67255.
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publisher versionThe aim of this encyclopedia is to provide a comprehensive reference work on scientific and other scholarly research on the quality of life, including health-related quality of life research or also called patient-reported outcomes research. Since the 1960s two overlapping but fairly distinct research communities and traditions have developed concerning ideas about the quality of life, individually and collectively, one with a fairly narrow focus on health-related issues and one with a quite broad focus. In many ways, the central issues of these fields have roots extending to the observations and speculations of ancient philosophers, creating a continuous exploration by diverse explorers in diverse historic and cultural circumstances over several centuries of the qualities of human existence. What we have not had so far is a single, multidimensional reference work connecting the most salient and important contributions to the relevant fields. Entries are organized alphabetically and cover basic concepts, relatively well established facts, lawlike and causal relations, theories, methods, standardized tests, biographic entries on significant figures, organizational profiles, indicators and indexes of qualities of individuals and of communities of diverse sizes, including rural areas, towns, cities, counties, provinces, states, regions, countries and groups of countries.
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Whitehead, Kay. "Women's 'life-work' : teachers in South Australia, 1836-1906 /." Title page, abstract and contents only, 1996. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09PH/09phw592.pdf.
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Brice, Jeremy. "Pursuing quality wine in South Australia : materials, markets, valuations." Thesis, University of Oxford, 2014. http://ora.ox.ac.uk/objects/uuid:f8ef1e0d-587e-4985-a088-9a1abdc24379.
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This thesis presents an ethnography of the processes and practices through which Australian grape and wine producers attempt to produce, and to assess, quality and value in the materials with which they work. Drawing on participant observation research conducted within two wine companies in South Australia – one owned by a multinational beverage conglomerate, one a family-owned boutique winery – this thesis engages with three overarching questions, which engage with the concerns of agro-food studies and of social studies of markets. First, how – and with what economic effects – are the sensory qualities of materials made to matter within the Australian wine industry? Second, how do grape and wine producers pursue wine quality in a more-than-human world, and in what ways might their endeavours problematise extant theorisations of economic agency? Finally, what might be the consequences of Australian wine producers’ recent engagements with principles of grape and wine quality centred upon geographical origin? In response to these questions, this thesis explores time-reckoning and value production in viticultural practice, the pricing of winegrapes during a fungal disease epidemic, the commercial relationships convened through the production of large-volume mass-market wine blends, and Australian wine producers’ recent attempts to produce ‘wines from somewhere.’ These empirical engagements lead it to argue that the qualification and valuation practices deployed within the Australian wine industry do not simply affect the qualities and prices of grapes and wines. They also shape economic agencies and vulnerabilities, organise and value commercial relationships among grape growers and wine producers, and reassemble the economic geographies of Australian grape production. This thesis concludes that because different ways of pursuing quality enact these phenomena in different ways, much may depend not only upon how successfully, but also upon how – through what techniques, practices, and associations – quality is pursued.
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Bagnato, Annunziata Teresa. "Postharvest improvement of Cavendish banana quality and shelf life /." Title page, table of contents and abstract only, 2002. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09PH/09phb147.pdf.
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Brooks, Robert School of Community Medicine UNSW. "Health related quality of life of intensive care patients: Development of the Sydney quality of life questionnaire." Awarded by:University of New South Wales. School of Community Medicine, 1998. http://handle.unsw.edu.au/1959.4/17465.
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This thesis has three main research aims. First the development of a questionnaire to measure HRQOL of ICU patients. Second, to examine a model of HRQOL proposed to assist with the development of the questionnaire. Third, to examine the HRQOL outcomes of patient after hospital discharge. The proposed model is based on a review of conceptual issues related to Quality of Life (QOL), Health Status and HRQOL. After a content analysis of a broad range of definitions of QOL, Health Status and HRQOL, QOL was defined as a dynamic attitude, continually being modified by experience. It is a function of the cognitive and affective appraisals of the discrepancies between domain specific perceptions and expectations. HRQOL was defined as an individuals cognitive and affective response to, or the QOL associated with, their health status. Health status was seen to consist of two health dimensions, physical and psychological health, with each dimension being composed of a number of component measures assessed subjectively. The developed questionnaire, the Sydney Quality of Life (SQOL) had good construct validity, based on substantial correspondence between qualitative and quantitative data, and internal consistency data (factor analysis and Cronbach's alpha). It had good concurrent validity in relation to the Sickness Impact Profile. The second order factor analysis of the SQOL suggested that health status may consist of three dimensions, physical health, positive mental health and negative mental health. The HRQOL model when formally examined, using Structural Equation Modelling (using LISREL), was not supported. However, exploratory modelling supported the separation of mental health into positive and negative components. The structure of HRQOL was different for patients than for the community from which they came. Patients QOL was determined largely by positive mental and physical health, whereas community members QOL was largely determined by negative mental health. Sixty three percent of patients at 12 months after discharge had significantly worse physical and functional health, lower satisfaction with their lives, lower positive affect and poorer QOL. Overall, mental health adapts rapidly to the impact of serious physical ill health and hospitalisation. Implications for clinical practice are examined.
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Richardson, Lesley. "The state of the child : life in late nineteenth century South Australia /." Title page, contents and introduction only, 1994. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09AR/09arr523.pdf.
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Stevens, Christine Audrey. ""New life in the freedom country" : young Cambodians in Adelaide." Title page, contents and abstract only, 1990. http://hdl.handle.net/2440/19370.
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Esfandiari, Baiat Mansour, of Western Sydney Hawkesbury University, of Science Technology and Agriculture Faculty, and School of Agriculture and Rural Development. "Evaluation of furrow irrigation models for south-east Australia." THESIS_FSTA_ARD_EsfandiariBaiat_M.xml, 1997. http://handle.uws.edu.au:8081/1959.7/739.
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The overall objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of selected furrow irrigation models for field conditions in south-east Australia. The other important aspects which were examined during this study include: developing a methodology for estimating of infiltrating characteristics, assessing the applicability of the Manning and other similar equations for flows in furrow irrigation, investigating the variation of shape factor during irrigation developing methodology for estimation of recession time and exploring the sensitivity of the models to the input parameters. Field experiments were conducted at Walla Park in northern N.S.W. and on two selected paddocks at the University Farm, Richmond, in western Sydney,Australia, over a period of three years. The validity of the assumption that the shape factor of advancing water front during furrow irrigation varies between 0.7 and 0.8 was investigated using field data collected from irrigation events monitored in the study. It was found that the average values of the shape factor varied from 0.96 to 1.80 at Walla Park site, from 0.56 to 0.80 at Field Services unit paddock site and from 0.78 to 0.84 at Horticulture Farm paddock site. The value of shape factor was affected by uniformity of furrow cross section along the length, the value and uniformity of furrow slope, furrow length and infiltration characteristics of soil. This means it is difficult to recommend a typical value for the shape factor for a given field situation.The performance of the models for prediction of advance and recession characteristics and runoff were evaluated using different indices of performance. In general, it was found that the Walker-HD and ZI model was the most satisfactory for the field conditions encountered in this study. This finding can provide a basis for initiating work on developing design criteria and management strategies for furrow irrigation in south-east Australia.Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
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Whitefield, Victoria Jane. "The quality of life in epilepsy : a South African study." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 1999. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/9743.
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Bibliography: leaves 73-81.The present study investigated the relationship between quality of life (QOL) and measures of epilepsy (i.e. seizure frequency, seizure type, duration of epilepsy and perceived seizure control) in a South African sample of adults with epilepsy. A 3I item quality of life inventory (QOLIE-31) which has been cross culturally translated was administered to 72 epilepsy adults ( age range 17-65 years) across three sites (Groote Schuur Hospital, Tygerberg I-Iospitai and South African National Epilepsy League SANEL) in the Western Cape. Forty individuals were classified as "coloured" and 32 were classified as " white". Data was collected and scored using the QOLIE -31 scoring manual and then analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The ANOVA and Logistic Regression analysis support a significant relationship between the quality of life of the sample and the measure of perceived seizure control (p < 0.0001), although the prediction on that measure is relatively poor, due to the sample size and number in each cell per variable. The explorative analysis, PRINCALS, looking at the relationship between the demographic variables of the sample group, quality of life and significant measures of epilepsy, illustrates a relationship between employment and site as well as between race and the subscale of emotion. In addition, the second analysis yields strong correlations between seizure frequency and seizure control, social and cognitive aspects of epilepsy and less explicit correlations between emotional aspects and quality of life. The results support other research on quality of life in epilepsy. The instrument is comprehensive, easy to score and appears to adequately assess the primary concerns of individuals who are living with epilepsy, except for the concern over autonomy and independence. Limitations of the study include the small sample size as well as the exclusion of other cultural groups in South Africa which would require further translations and validations of the inventory. The findings support the fact that epilepsy is a disorder characterized by a "loss of control" and that perceived seizure frequency serves to reinforce the perception of control. As a diagnosis however it cannot be separated from psychosocial, emotional and physical functioning and well-being. In addition cross-cultural differences in the perception of epilepsy need to he explored more fitlly in terms of the patient who defines his/her own quality of life, in his/her own particular context. When measuring quality of life cross-culturally, an instrument that has been culturally validated and translated to a particular cultural gnoup must be employed. Further investigations involving a broader cultural and linguistic sample group are warranted.
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Moussavi-Nik, Mohsen. "Seed quality and crop establishment in wheat." Title page, contents and abstract only, 1997. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09PH/09phm933.pdf.
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Bibliography: leaves 247-268. A series of laboratory, greenhouse and field experiments were conducted to investigate aspects of seed quality in a range of bread wheat genotypes important in South Australia as well as a durum cultivar, Yallaroi. It was concluded that sound healthy seed does vary in quality and this affects seedling vigour, crop establishment and grain yield. Seed source can affect genotype performance in evaluation trials. There is genetic variability for embryo size, coleoptile length, nutrient efficiency and nutrient loading in to the seed which can be exploited by breeders. Agronomically, seed quality can be improved by managing seed crops to aid accumulation of mineral nutrients in the seed and then selecting, by grading, only large seed for sowing.
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Moller, Valerie. "South African quality of life trends over three decades, 1980–2010." Springer Netherlands, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/67145.
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publisher versionThe South African Quality of Life Trends study has tracked the subjective well-being of South Africans in ten waves from 1983 to 2010. The paper presents the SAQoL trendline of life satisfaction, happiness and perceptions of life getting better or worse against the backdrop of the transition from apartheid to democracy. Subjective well-being peaked in the month following the first open elections in April 1994 when black and white South Africans were equally satisfied and happy at levels found in other democratic societies. But post-election euphoria was short-lived and levels of well-being dropped the following year and racial inequalities in evaluations of life re-emerged. The tenth and latest wave in the study was conducted a few months after South Africa’s successful hosting of the Soccer World Cup. In 2010, the proportions of all South Africans expressing satisfaction, happiness and optimism was among the highest since the coming of democracy—just over half stated they were satisfied, close on two-thirds were happy, and half felt life was getting better. Nonetheless, while the standard of living has increased for a minority of formerly disadvantaged South Africans and a small black middle class has emerged, there are still huge disparities in both material and subjective well-being. In 1997 and 2010, South Africans were asked what would make them happier in future. In 2010, the majority of citizens still hoped for basic necessities, income and employment, to enhance their quality of life.
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Moller, Valerie. "Valerie Møller: a pioneer in South African Quality of Life Research." Springer Netherlands, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/67205.
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publisher versionProfessor Valerie Møller is Professor Emeritus of Quality of Life Studies at Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa. Before that she was director of the Institute of Social and Economic Research at Rhodes University (1998–2006) and headed the Quality of Life Research Unit at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa, in the 1990s. She completed her primary school education in North Carolina, USA, and her secondary and tertiary education in Zürich, Switzerland. She earned Lic. Phil and DPhil degrees from the University of Zürich, majoring in sociology. She has lived and worked in Southern Africa since 1972. Together with the late Professor Lawrence Schlemmer she developed the first survey instruments to measure objective and subjective well-being among South Africans from all walks of life. The South African Quality of Life Trends Study has tracked happiness and life satisfaction from apartheid to the transition to democracy (1983–2012).
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Leggett, Ted, Valerie Moller, and Robin Richards. ""My life in the new South Africa": a youth perspective." HSRC Publishers, 1997. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1010393.
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The young people of South Africa hold the future of society in their hands. They will become the new leaders who will make or break South Africa's fledgling democracy. Of course, it is impossible to know how society will fare in the millennium; but knowledge of where the youth think their lives and their country are heading will provide some clues to what the future holds. The research for this book was inspired by the "Monitoring the future" project, a regular survey of young people's values and aspirations by the Institute of Social Research at the University of Michigan. Our research was informed by recent comprehensive inquiries on the youth conducted by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) Co-operative Research Programme on South African Youth and the research by the Joint Enrichment Programme and the Community Agency for Social Enquiry (CASE). The present study also builds on more focused research on leisure, educational aspirations and quality of life conducted by researchers attached to the University of Natal's Quality of Life Research Unit. The evidence for the two large-scale inquiries and the quality of life studies was collected before South Africa's first open general elections. The material presented in this book is about young people who have experience of living under the new democracy. This report may be among the first to inform the newly formed National Youth Commission of young people's needs and aspirations. Urgently needed for planning and policy formation is a systematic programme of research into the evolving situation of South African youth under the new political dispensation. Until such time as the values and lifestyles of young people are monitored at regular intervals, ad hoc studies such as the one reported here may help to fill the gap. It is hoped that the views of young people expressed in this book will deepen our understanding of young people's expectations and aspirations for the future. My life in the New South Africa provides a snapshot of society two years after the first open general elections as seen through the lenses of the youth. The book, which was written by the young people themselves, documents contemporary everyday life and hopes and fears for the future as envisaged by the youth. The material was gathered through an innovative research project which aimed to learn how young people see themselves and their society two years into the new democracy. Over 900 of the youth gave descriptions of "my life in the New South Africa" in the first half of 1996 in response to a letter writing competition designed by the Quality of Life Research Unit at the University of Natal. The competition fits the currently fashionable genre of "participatory" research, in which subjects double as analysts of their life situation. Although a fairly recent addition to the South African research repertoire, the participatory method is not unfamiliar to quality of life researchers. For many years, students of quality of life have advocated that ordinary people and not the external experts are the best judges of what makes people's lives satisfactory or not. Working in this research tradition, the Quality of Life research team at the University of Natal took on the task of shaping a book around the issues addressed by the youth in their letters. The material produced by the letter writing competition was content-analysed by a team of experts and organised in a number of thematic chapters which cover many of the dominant concerns of contemporary youth. Essentially, the youth wrote the script and the researchers did the editing. The mood of the letters is overwhelmingly positive and inspiring for a new democracy intent on overcoming the shortcomings of the past. Energy, youthful optimism and good intentions radiate from the letters. There is no doubt that My life in the New South Africa will provide useful pointers for current policy formation. It is hoped that the contents of this book will also serve as benchmark information against which South African society will be able to measure itself in years to come. The majority of the young people who entered the competition fervently believe, or at least wish to believe, that their hopes for an ideal society in which all South Africans live in harmony will be realised. Their idealism is as refreshing and touching in its naivetέ as it is sobering. The youth who wrote to the Quality of Life research team, boldly outline the challenges that lie ahead for a new democracy. Time will tell if the hopes and fears of contemporary youth can be laid to rest and their dreams for the future fulfilled. South Africa owes it to the next generation that its young people not be disappointed.
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Mageni, Gavin Francois. "The South African workplace : meeting the work life balance challenge." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/1743.
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Thesis (MTech (Human Resources Management))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2005.The construct of Work Life Balance (WLB) gained international recognition as a business imperative within overseas organisations, realising the reality impact of work-life conflict. The past two decades marked intensive research within countries, such as Canada, on the value-add of these practices on hte bottom-line of the organisation. The pressures created by competing within a global economy marked the importance of creating a sustainable global competitive advantage through human capital. Within the last decade this aspect has been prominenet on various research forums. South African organisations which could be regarded as Multi - National Corporations (MNCs) swiftly adopted these practices as a cloned version on their South African counterparts. However, no actual studies provide insight into the applicability of WLB models to the South frican workplace.
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Mugford, John S. "Towards an equitable land-use policy in the Mount Bold catchment of South Australia /." Title page, contents and abstract only, 1991. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09ENV/09envm951.pdf.
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Clark, Chevon Lee. "Quality of life of chronic dialysis patients." Thesis, [Bloemfontein?] : Central University of Technology, Free State, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/11462/194.
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Thesis (D. Tech. (Clinical Technology)) -- Central University of technology, Free State, 2013Objectives: Survival with end stage kidney disease (ESKD) is made possible by dialysis but is in turn associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and decreased quality of life (QOL). Quality of life is a frequently overlooked, yet a critical consideration in evaluating the overall medical care of ESKD patients. This study aimed to evaluate the QOL of chronic haemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients in multiple dialysis units in South Africa. Methods: A comparative descriptive study carried out on 100 haemodialysis (HD) (n=100) and 100 peritoneal dialysis patients (PD) (n=100) patients, evaluating factors such as demographics, duration on dialysis, medical history, clinical indicators and the patient’s understanding thereof, was performed. Quality of life was measured using the medical outcomes study 36 (SF-36). These factors, clinical scores and QOL measures were compared amongst HD and PD patients and thereafter correlated to nephrology professionals’ perspective on QOL. Results: A total of 200 (n=200) patients from 11 dialysis units were evaluated. Mean age for the HD group was 49±15 years compared to 53±14 years for the PD group (p=0.043). The HD patient group had an improved physical composite (PCS) score adjusted for age, urea, creatinine and albumin (p<0.001). The mental composite score (MCS) was improved in the PD group although not significant (p>0.05). A positive correlation was found, as PD patients had an improved symptom control score, adjusted for age (p=0.04), an improved effect of kidney disease score adjusted for albumin (p=0.000), and an improved burden QOL score adjusted for urea, creatinine and albumin (p=0.019). Age was shown to be associated to the physical functioning (p=0.01) and PCS (p=0.040), and diabetes to the emotional role (p=0.04), in QOL. An increase in the years on dialysis showed a reduced emotional well-being (p=0.028) and being on the transplant list an improved MCS (p=0.003). Participation in a pre-end stage kidney disease (PESKD) management programme showed improvement in the general health component (p=0.032), the effect (p=0.01), and the burden of kidney disease (p=0.02). Assessing patients’ knowledge on ESKD revealed the relationship of the PCS to the understanding of managing the complications associated with CKD (p=0.01) and access management (p=0.01). The understanding of diet was found to be significant to the burden of CKD (p=0.01) and the complications associated with CKD was found to be further significant to the effect and symptom QOL (p=0.01). Nephrology professionals rated the difficulty of living with kidney disease a 7.49 out of 10 score and 71% felt QOL is taken into consideration with managing ESKD patients. Conclusion: The study demonstrated differences in the adjusted QOL scores amongst HD and PD dialysis patients in the dialysis units studied. The importance of PESKD was emphasized in relation to improved QOL. Quality of life is a valid marker and important for the ongoing audit of renal services.
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Eleftheriou, John. "Reservoir quality of Permian sandstones in the Strzelecki-Kidman-Kerna areas, Cooper-Basin, South Australia." Title page, contents and abstract only, 1990. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09SM/09sme38.pdf.
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Mpange, Zolisa Bavuyise. "Water service delivery for improved quality of life in the Mbizana Local Municipal." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018891.
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This study deals with water service delivery for improved quality of life in the Mbizana Local Municipality. The study sets out to determine how the inner workings of water service delivery work in the Mbizana Local Municipality, situated in the Eastern Cape, and how this should function in terms of South African legislation. The objectives of the study are to understand the current state of water service delivery in the Mbizana Local Municipality, finding out information about South African legislation regarding the ideal state of water service delivery, and recommending development programmes to improve water service delivery. This study is about understanding trends in the body of scientific knowledge or literature, and studying (as objects) the ideas and writings of other scholars. No empirical study was conducted. The research methodology for this study is descriptive, with data sourced from available literature. The findings in this study indicate that backlogs for water service delivery remain high in the Mbizana Local Municipality. Regrettably, the situation has worsened since 2004; backlogs have shifted from 45 percent to 94 percent of households with no access to tap water. A number of normative criteria to deal with the research problem were extracted from available literature, from which conclusions were drawn and recommendations made.
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Rossouw, Stephanié. "Sub-national differences in the quality of life in South Africa / Stephanié Rossouw." Thesis, North-West University, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10394/1299.
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It is increasingly acknowledged that the proper objective of government efforts towards
economic development should be aimed at improvements beyond simple measures of
growth, poverty and inequality towards richer measures of human well-being. Herein, the
economic and non-economic quality of life, as well as the quantity of life, becomes
important indicators. Economists and other social planners therefore need to develop more
meaningful indicators of the quality of life. Objective and subjective indicators of the quality
of life can be distinguished. For various reasons, this thesis will focus on the search for more
meaningful objective indicators of the quality of life.
One of the most wellknown objective indicators of quality of life is the Human
Development Index (HDI). There is, however, a growing dissatisfaction with the HDI. In
this thesis, two recent methodological advances in the measurement of quality of life are
applied and combined and, in particular, in the measurement of the non-economic quality of
life, to the sub-national quality of life in South Africa. As such, this thesis’ contribution is
twofold. First, it investigates the extent to which the quality of life differs within a
developing country, as opposed to most studies that focus on either inter-country
differences in quality of life, or studies that focus only on spatial inequalities within countries
using a restricted set of measures such as per capita income or poverty rates and headcounts.
Secondly, this thesis applies a recent methodology proposed by McGillivray (2005) to isolate
the non-economic (non-monetary) quality of life in various composite indices and to focus
on the non-economic quality of life across 351 South African magisterial districts
Indices for the non-economic quality of life are compiled for geographical quality, for
demographic quality, and based on the human development index. Furthermore, given that
composite indices used in the construction of measures of quality of life consist of
weightings of multiple proxies, this thesis implements the method of Lubotsky and Wittenberg (2006) which proposed a new estimator for the case where multiple proxies are
to be used for a single, unobserved variable such as quality of life.
This thesis establishes that when the non-economic quality of life of the demographic index
is considered, the top ten regions in 1001 were as follows: Pretoria, Johannesburg, Soweto,
Port Elizabeth, Durban, Inanda, Pietermaritzburg, Wynberg, Mitchellsplain and
Vanderbijlpark. It is important to note that, when interpreting these results, one should take
caution since variables such as the number of people, number of households etc. is included
in this index and as a region grows in population size the more negative consequences such
as a higher crime rate can be associated with the particular region.
The top ten regions in which to reside in 1004 as determined by the geography quality of life
index were: Calvinia, Gordonia, Namaqualand, Kenhardt, Carnarvon, Ubombo, Williston,
Hlabisa, Ceres and Ingwavuma. This geography index measures a region's natural beauty
which, according to Wey (2000), contributes positively to one's perceived quality of life.
Considering changes in non-economic quality of life indices between 1996 and 2004, the
conclusion can he drawn that the South African government has been successful to a certain
degree in addressing non-economic quality of life. Social policies such as health care,
education, housing, water and sanitation appear to have had a positive effect on people's
perceived non-economic quality of life in areas that were relatively deprived in 1996.Thesis (Ph.D. (Economics))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2007
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Moller, Valerie. "Farewell to Lawrence Schlemmer: initiator of quality-of-life studies in South Africa." Springer Netherlands, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/67175.
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publisher versionProfessor Lawrence Schlemmer, affectionately known as Lawrie, was the father of South Africa’s quality-of-life studies and social indicators movement. He died on 26 October 2011 at the age of 75 after a short illness. In 1978, Lawrence marched into my office at the Centre for Applied Social Sciences, University of Natal, brandishing two books. We need to do some work on quality of life in South Africa, he announced, before handing me the volumes. At the time, South Africa’s leaders assumed that smiling black faces meant that South Africans were happy with their lot in life under apartheid. Our surveys were to prove otherwise. That weekend was spent reading cover to cover the classic works by Frank Andrews, Angus Campbell and their colleagues. The next week we pored over lists of concerns voiced by South Africans which we later put to test in the field. In 1982, we submitted our findings by ‘slug’ post to the editor of Social Indicators Research. We received a letter by return mail from Alex Michalos to say he would publish our paper and we should not be too disappointed with our regression results!
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Manona, Wellman Wela. "Impact of health, water and sanitation services on improving the quality of life of poor communities." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/49987.
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Thesis (PhD)--Stellenbosch University, 2004.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Good health is a major imperative for social, economic and personal development, thus an important dimension of quality of life. Quality of life, in turn, is significantly influenced by access to the goods and services provided by the State. Access to infrastructure and services such as water and sanitation, has direct effects on health. Thus, the delivery of health, water and sanitation services should ensure improved access to basic needs, enhance the health profile of poor communities and their access to employment opportunities. Safe clean water supplies and adequate sanitation services therefore are among the major determinants of health. Health-related services such as water and sanitation should ensure a certain average life expectancy and eliminate mass disease and ill health. Mindful of the fact that there are many factors that determine the quality of life, the aim of the study was to investigate the impact of health, water and sanitation services in improving the quality of life among poor communities. To do this, this study adopted a comparative qualitative analysis approach between poorly serviced and adequately serviced areas. Subsequent to the findings, this study espouses constructive suggestions and recommendations that could act as guidance to community development agencies' strategies in amelioration of the quality of life among poverty-stricken communities. The research was based on a narrow model of services (health, water and sanitation services) that have impact on improving the quality of life among poor communities. The empirical findings of this study indicate these services to be insufficient to draw conclusive findings in other aspects of the survey. The research was conducted in a sample of 573 households in 6 communities in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape Provinces in South Africa. The sample comprised 3 communities in the category classified as poorly serviced with health, water and sanitation services, and 3 communities that were regarded as adequately provided with these services. The data was gathered by means of structured questionnaires, administered by the researcher with the assistance of a trained field worker. Additional, the data was gathered by means of a semi-structured, open-ended interview with a Sister-in-Charge of a clinic in the rural villages. The interaction between variables on the improvement of the quality of life were explored by means of basic statistics, which made it possible to assess the effects of independent and dependent variables. The results of data analysis provided support for the proposition contained in the premise of the study that although the provision of health, safe clean water and adequate sanitation services lead to improvement in the standard of living, their impact alone does not incorporate all the attributes that enhance quality of life as suggested by mainstream schools of thought in the health sector. Poverty-related factors also have to be taken into account. As such, the findings of this study have shown that poverty, combined with poor public health conditions, inadequate nutrition, overcrowded poor quality housing, lack of accessible drinking water and sanitation, renders communities vulnerable to ill health. Given the poor socio-economic conditions prevalent in the communities under investigation, it was not surprising that tuberculosis was most prevalent in all areas. In line with the premise of this study, there were instances that povertyrelated factors such as income, housing and nutrition had significant influences with regard to improvement in the quality of life. It became evident therefore that in certain instances, health, water, and sanitation services alone are not sufficient to make conclusive findings. Thus, the impact of povertyrelated factors such as income, housing and nutrition necessitate expansion of factors that impact on the quality of life to include their influence.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Goeie gesondheid is 'n belangrike vereiste vir sosiale, ekonomiese en persoonlike ontwikkeling, en dus ook 'n wesenlike aspek van 'n goeie lewensgehalte. Toegang tot goedere en dienste wat deur die staat voorsien word, het ook 'n beduidende invloed op lewensgehalte. Boonop het die toegang tot infrastruktuur en dienste soos water en sanitasie 'n direkte invloed op gesondheid. Die lewering van gesondheids, water- en sanitasiedienste verseker dus die bevrediging van basiese behoeftes, onderwyl arm gemeenskappe se gesondheidsprofiel en daarmee saam hul toegang tot werksgeleenthede verbeter word. Toegang tot veilige en skoon waterbronne en voldoende sanitasiedienste is gevolglik van die belangrikste gesondheidsbepalers. Gesondheidsverwante dienste soos water en sanitasie verseker 'n sekere gemiddelde lewensverwagting, en verminder die moontlikheid van wydverspreide siektetoestande. Met inagneming van die feit dat lewensgehalte deur talle faktore beïnvloed kan word, was die doel van hierdie studie om ondersoek in te stel na die invloed van gesondheids, water- en sanitasiedienste op die verbetering van lewensgehalte in arm gemeenskappe. Gevolglik is 'n vergelykende analise tussen areas met swak dienslewering en areas met bevredigende dienslewering uitgevoer. Op grond van die bevindinge word sekere voorstelle en aanbevelings gemaak wat kan dien as riglyne vir ontwikkelingsagentskappe ter bevordering van die lewensgehalte in arm gemeenskappe. Die navorsing was gegrond op 'n beperkte model van dienste (gesondheids, water- en sanitasiedienste) wat die verbetering van lewensgehalte in arm gemeenskappe beïnvloed. Die empiriese bevindinge van die studie toon aan dat hierdie dienste onvoldoende is om as basis te dien vir beslissende uitsprake oor ander aspekte van die opname. Die studie het 'n steekproef van 573 huishoudings in 6 gemeenskappe in die provinsies van die Oos-Kaap en Wes-Kaap in Suid-Afrika ingesluit. Die steekproef het bestaan uit 3 gemeenskappe met swak gesondheids, water en sanitasiedienste, en 3 gemeenskappe waar sulke dienste op 'n bevredigende vlak voorsien word. 'n Gestruktureerde vraelys is gebruik om die navorsingsinligting in te samel, wat deur die navorser en 'n opgeleide veldwerker toegedien is. Bykomende inligting is bekom deur 'n semigestruktureerde onderhoud met die verpleeghoof van 'n kliniek in 'n landelike gemeenskap. Die invloed van die verskillende veranderlikes op lewensgehalte is deur middel van basiese statistiese analise geëvalueer. Die resultate van die data-analise verleen 'n mate van steun vir die premis van die studie dat hoewel die voorsiening van gesondheid, veilige, skoon water en voldoende sanitasie tot 'n beter lewenstandaard kan lei, die uitwerking daarvan as sodanig nie alle vereistes insluit vir 'n beter lewenstaard nie, soos voorgestaan deur hoofstroom denkskole in die gesondheidsektor. Faktore wat met armoede verband hou moet ook in ag geneem word. Die studie se bevindinge dui dus daarop dat armoede, tesame met swak openbare gesondheidstoestande, onvoldoende voeding, gebrekkige behuising en swak water- en sanitasiegeriewe gemeenskappe meer kwesbaar maak. Weens die swak sosio-ekonomiese toestande in die gemeenskappe in die steekproef, is gevind dat tuberkulose wydverspreid voorkom. Alhoewel die studie se hipotese met betrekking tot verskeie aspekte bevestig is, was daar ook gevalle waar armoede-verwante faktore soos inkomste, behuising en voeding 'n beduidende rol gespeel het. Dit het dus geblyk dat gesondheids, water- en sanitasiedienste nie in alle gevalle voldoende is om swak lewensgehalte te verklaar nie. Dus sal die faktore wat op lewens kwaliteit 'n impak maak, uitgebrei moet word om vir die invloed van armoede-verwante faktore soos inkomste, behuising en voeding voorsiening te maak.
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Vilizzi, Lorenzo. "Age, growth and early life history of Carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) in the River Murray, South Australia /." Title page, table of contents and synopsis only, 1997. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09PH/09phv711.pdf.
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Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Adelaide, Dept. of Zoology, 1998?Addendum and erratum pasted onto back fly leaf. Copy of author's previously published work inserted. Includes bibliographical references (p. 169-215).
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Bansal, Jacqueline A. "Quality of life issues in motor neurone disease." Thesis, Queensland University of Technology, 1998. https://eprints.qut.edu.au/36747/1/36747_Digitised%20Thesis.pdf.
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Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is caused by the degeneration and death of motor neurones. It is universally fatal and causes wasting and weakness of the somatic musculature. The disease usually affects those aged between 40 and 70, with 50% of people with MND dying within 3 years and 90 percent within 6 years. Only 10 percent survive 10 years or more
While the incidence of MND is much lower than that of Multiple Sclerosis, twice as many people die of MND as die from Multiple Sclerosis and Muscular Dystrophy combined. Once diagnosis is confirmed it appears that the health care service has little to offer in the way of care or a cure. The majority of people with MND are cared for in their home by family members which places enormous stress on both the individual and other family members.
The purpose of this study is to examine the factors which influence quality of life (QOL) in people with MND. This remains sadly under-investigated with only one significant report in the last three decades. The present study utilised a self-rated questionnaire, sent to individuals with neurologically confirmed MND, volunteering their participation via requests for help published in the MND Association newsletters throughout Australia. The questionnaire comprised standard measures which allowed the assessment of general well being (Rand 36-item Health Survey), depression (Beck Depression Inventory), coping strategies (Jalowiec Coping Scale), levels of hope (Herth Hope Scale), social support network (Norbeck Social Support Scale). Additional questions were constructed to assess illness-related knowledge, use of alternative therapies, the importance of spirituality and satisfaction with the way the diagnosis was delivered.
Demographically the individuals involved with the study differed little from other reports on MND. Psychologically, low mood was evident in over three quarters of the subjects. However, only 10 percent could be described as depressed. Coping strategies most frequently used was a problem solving approach and a dependency mechanism least frequently. Fifty three of the 74 in the study group held favourable levels of hope.
For such a terrible diagnosis it was most disturbing that 45 percent of those with MND thought that the information made available at diagnosis was inadequate. Of even greater concern was the fact that three quarters said that the diagnosis was disclosed in a brutal manner, with 61 % saying the manner was officious and factual.
Many individuals with MND had a poor knowledge about the disease with 40 percent believing that MND was a disorder of the muscles and one third did not know the median survival in this condition. Twenty three of the 74 admitted to using at least one alternative therapy at some stage. Expectedly, MND had a significant adverse effect on the life style, financial situation, social life, physical disability , psychological state and overall quality of life of many involved in the study. Only family relationships appeared to show little change following the diagnosis of MND. Despite great strains on marital harmony spouses remained the main carers in over half of the individuals with MND.
People with MND suffer greatly from the moment that the diagnosis is communicated through the depression of relentless muscle weakness and finally death from aspiration or respiratory failure. This study has highlighted that in general the care available to those suffering from MND is rather a hit or miss affair. Several measures to meet the specific needs of those diagnosed with MND are discussed. Most important of all is the need to better anticipate the rapidly changing needs of such individuals and for the medical and nursing professionals to be aware of the great harm they cause by removing all hope by well meaning frankness and the good they can do by offering support at all stages of the disease.
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Sithole, Sisanda. "Measuring quality of work life of municipal firefighters in the Western Cape, South Africa." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2019. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/3026.
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Thesis (MTech (Business Administration))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2019Municipal firefighters face a number of risks and much stress at work. In the South African context, the quality of work life (QWL) is impacted considerably by high stress levels and work-related demands. Currently, firefighting organisations face serious challenges that hamper the QWL among municipal firefighters. These challenges include physical and mental challenges, and the element of work which negatively affects the job performance among the firefighters. The primary research objective has been to identify the key factors that impact on the QWL of municipal firefighters in the Western Cape, South Africa. In addition, this study explores a common approach for measuring the QWL and determining an effective way to maintain a better work life for the firefighters. The quantitative research method was employed. This study measured and analysed the key factors that had impacted on the QWL of municipal firefighters in the Western Cape, South Africa. A questionnaire was used to collect data from a group of 120 municipal firefighters from the Goodwood Fire Department. This study used the ethical principles of informed consent, the right to privacy and honesty, and confidentiality/anonymity in the research process. The quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings and results provide insight into and guidance to management and employees in a practical way to improve the QWL among municipal firefighters. The fire department should upgrade the QWL of its workers so as to hold them and get its very own vital needs. The fire department should develop and keep up QWL programmes. Support from ranking employees are basic to a useful QWL programme. In addition, unmistakable upper level management contribution is one of the critical factors in the procedure accomplishment.
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Coetzee, Gerrit. "Formal retail as a strategy to enhance the quality of life in marginalized communities." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/52851.
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Thesis (MS en S)--Stellenbosch University, 2002.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Of all the strategies available to help eradicate poverty and enhance the quality of life of people living in marginalized communities, the provision of a formal retail centre would not stand out as a number one strategy. Nevertheless, the Nomzamo Business Centre was built as part of a local economic development initiative to help local businesses to develop. The primary goal of this study was to establish whether the residents of Nomzamo perceived the development of the centre as a contributing factor towards improving the quality of their lives. Although the retail sector is well represented in these marginalized communities, in the form of spazas and other informal businesses, these businesses desperately lack the bearings of formality. The Nomzamo Business Centre provides a formal business premises at affordable rates, for local business people and gives them the opportunity to develop skills through business training courses and the provision of information. As the study concludes, the residents of Nomzamo perceived the centre as an enhancement towards their quality of live, even though many of them still do not make use of the centre. Established shopping habits are hard to brake especially if the centre does not provide any real magnetism. The centre failed to attract an anchor tenant and although Eskom's presence at the centre does provide some form of attraction, the benefits have not yet spilled over to the other shops. At this stage the Nomzamo Business Centre cannot be deemed a success. The centre fails to compete with local informal businesses. What is needed in most of these communities however is a change in the local economic structure. Local economies in most cases are retail based, with no or little representation in sectors like manufacturing. Although the Nomzamo Business Centre will not contribute much towards a more balanced local economy, it does provide the foundation for future changes to take place.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Van al die strategieë beskikbaar om te help met die uitwissing van armoede en die verbetering in die kwaliteit van lewe van mense wat in marginale gemeenskappe bly, sal die voorsiening van 'n formele kleinhandelsentrum beslis nie as 'n nommer een strategie bekend staan nie. Nogtans is die Nomzamo Besigheidsentrum, geleë tussen die Strand en Gordonsbaai, gebou as deel van 'n plaaslike ekonomiese ontwikkelingsinisiatief om plaaslike besighede te help ontwikkel. Die primêre doel van die studie was om vas te stel of die inwoners van Nomzamo, die ontwikkeling van die sentrum as 'n bydraende faktor in die verbetering van hul lewenskwaliteit waarneem. Alhoewel die kleinhandelsektor goed verteenwoordig is in die marginale gemeenskappe, in die vorm van spaza-winkels en ander informele besighede, ontbreek die besighede aan die nodige formaliteit. Die Nomzamo Besigheidsentrum bied 'n formele besigheidperseel teen bekostigbare tariewe vir plaaslike besighede en gee hulle die geleentheid om vaardighede te ontwikkel, deur kursusse in besigheidsopleiding en die voorsiening van informasie. Die studie kom tot die gevolgtrekking dat die inwoners van Nomzamo wel die sentrum as 'n verbetering in hul lewenskwaliteit waarneem, selfs al maak meeste van hulle steeds nie gebruik van die sentrum nie. Gevestigde inkopie gewoontes is moeilik om te verander, veral as die sentrum geen werklike aantrekking bied nie. Die sentrum het misluk in die poging om 'n anker huurder te lok en alhoewel Eskom se teenwoordigheid by die sentrum, 'n vorm van aantrekking bied, het die voordele van Eskom se teenwoordigheid nog nie na ander winkels oorgespoel nie. Op hierdie stadium kan die Nomzamo Besigheidsentrum nie as 'n sukses verklaar word nie. Die sentrum misluk om met plaaslike informele besighede mee te ding. Wat egter benodig word in die gemeenskappe is 'n verandering in die plaaslike ekonomiese struktuur. Plaaslike ekonomieë is in meeste gevalle op kleinhandel gebaseer, met min of geen verteenwoordiging in sektore soos vervaardiging nie. Alhoewel die Nomzamo Besigheidsentrum nie sal bydra tot 'n meer gebalanseerde plaaslike ekonomie nie, bied die sentrum 'n platform vir toekomstige veranderinge om op plaas te vind.
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Cordes, Dene D. "The salt of the earth : gypsum mining, community, and conservation at Inneston, South Australia, 1888 to 1988 /." Title page, contents and preface only, 1988. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09AR/09arc794.pdf.
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Hotchkiss, Sarah L. "Life history strategies of three species of Cystophora (Phaeophyta, Fucales) from a shallow subtidal community in South Australia /." Title page, contents and summary only, 1999. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09PH/09phh832.pdf.
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Russel, M. G. V. M. "Incidence, risk factors and quality of life in IBD Inflammatory Bowel Disease registry South Limburg /." Maastricht : Maastricht : Universiteit Maastricht ; University Library, Maastricht University [Host], 1997. http://arno.unimaas.nl/show.cgi?fid=5910.
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Ali, Safdar. "Psychosocial predictors of health-related quality of life of South Asians with acute coronary syndrome." Thesis, University of Manchester, 2011. https://www.research.manchester.ac.uk/portal/en/theses/psychosocial-predictors-of-healthrelated-quality-of-life-of-south-asians-with-acute-coronary-syndrome(7d81f988-f2fb-4efa-957e-353016ec7b70).html.
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Introduction: South-Asians are the largest ethnic minority group in the UK. Depression and coronary heart disease (CHD) are common in this group. The importance of depression in South Asians has not attracted significant research interest, to date; yet there is evidence that it is associated with the development of CHD, and when it develops after CHD leads to poor prognosis. Objective: This study aims to investigate the effects of depression on quality of life of the South Asians under secondary care, by reviewing previous literature and performing a prospective research. The hypothesis was that, after controlling for demographic, psychological and medical variables depression would be associated with impaired HRQoL in South Asians 6 months after acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods: Demographic, psychological and medical data were collected. Participants completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Short-Form 36 (SF-36) and ENRICHD Social Support Instrument (ESSI) in the first phase. In the 2nd phase the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV (SCID) was performed to validate the HADS. The PCS (SF-36) and HADS were completed at follow up. Results: Of the 250 enrolled patients 202 completed follow up. A HADS score of ≥ 17 was identified as the best cut off point. The prevalence of depression was 30%. Baseline depression, lack of education and retirement were predictors of poor QoL (p<0.05). Moreover, diabetes mellitus, respiratory and haematological disorders were associated (p< 0.05) with QoL; however after adjustment depression was the only significant predictor of poor HRQoL. Conclusions: This study suggests that depression is common in South Asians following ACS and it is associated with poor HRQoL. Further developments in the liaison psychiatry and increasing mental health knowledge of the cardiologists may help the earlier identification and subsequent treatment of depression to improve the prognosis of CHD patients.
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Douw-Jack, Nomfundo Princess. "Perceptions of quality of work-life: a study of the research fieldworkers in the Western Cape." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7005.
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Yadav & Khanna (2015) argue that quality of work life (QWL) defines the life at work and the life at home with family members. The work of research-fieldworkers is an exceptional work in that it requires them to frequent households and commercial businesses, unlike other occupations where the work is conducted at the workplace of the employer. The private households by their very nature, and the locations where these households are based present risky conditions to the research-fieldworkers. In order for remedial measures to be suggested that can be implemented to improve the QWL of the research-fieldworkers of the agency, the perceptions of the QWL need to be investigated. Research objectives: To address the research problem, research objectives and questions were established. The main objective of the study is to investigate the perceptions of the QWL of the research-fieldworkers of the research agency in the Western Cape with the goal of improving employee performance through the cost effective interventions that will be implemented. Research questions: Three research questions were established and these were; What is the QWL among the research-fieldworkers in the Western Cape? Do some groups, distinguished by gender, age, work experience, working hours and location experience significantly different levels of QWL? Which measures can be recommended for maximizing QWL among the research-fieldworkers in the Western Cape Province? Research design: The nature of this research is descriptive in nature. The study used a self-administered questionnaire to collect work-related quality of life information from research-fieldworkers. Major findings: The results above show that research-fieldworkers perceptions of the QWL were more affected by the location, working hours and age sub-groups. Gender, family responsibility and marital status did not have much impact on the perceptions of research-fieldworkers on the QWL. Differences were observed with regards to control at work, stress at work, home-work interface against sub-groups. Lastly, the fieldworkers’ perceptions about the working conditions were negative for all the sub-groups. For example, the results show that there are poor working conditions for research-fieldworkers of the agency. This was evident irrespective of gender, age, family responsibility, hours of work and location.
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Klunzinger, Michael. "Ecology, life history and conservation status of Westralunio carteri IREDALE 1934, an endemic freshwater mussel of South-western Australia." Thesis, Klunzinger, Michael (2012) Ecology, life history and conservation status of Westralunio carteri IREDALE 1934, an endemic freshwater mussel of South-western Australia. PhD thesis, Murdoch University, 2012. https://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/12641/.
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Westralunio carteri, the only hyriid in south-western Australia, was nominated ‘Vulnerable’ (IUCN) in 1994. The aims of this study were to update the species’ range and determine factors limiting its distribution, quantify tolerance to threats, quantify reproduction, describe glochidia morphology, identify host fishes to support the species’ life cycle and estimate growth and age.
Extent of Occurrence (EOO) of W. carteri is currently 16,011.9 km2, a 63.3% decline from the historic EOO of 43,579.8 km2, suggesting that the species should be classified as ‘Endangered’ under IUCN guidelines. Multivariate analysis identified flow and drying as explaining most of the variation in the distribution data, while the difference between historic and current distribution was explained principally by salinity. Salinity tolerance experiments indicated LC50 values of 1.3 - 3.0 and LC95 of 3.2 - 4.3 g L-1. Artificial water removal suggested W. carteri is intolerant of drying for more than five days during summer without shade or moist sediments.
Westralunio carteri spawns during winter; embryos are brooded in the gills of females to become glochidia and released on mucus strings in September – December, when they attach to fins of fishes. Glochidia morphology (size and larval teeth) is distinctive in W. carteri, compared to other Australian hyriids.
Glochidia were found on fins of seven native and three alien fish species from 18 populations. Prevalence was 0.0 - 41.0% and 9.2 - 90.5% and intensity 1.0 - 6.0 and 2.3 - 7.1 in alien and native fishes, respectively. Four native and one alien fish species were confirmed as competent hosts in the laboratory. Time to metamorphosis was 21-27 days.
Growth rates were ~12.0 to <0.1 mm yr-1 in the smallest (<30 mm long) and largest (>75 mm long) sizes. Calcein validated growth rings as annuli and ages were 3 – 51 years at shell lengths of 12.6 - 82.5 mm, respectively, from five populations. Growth rates and ages-at-length were highly variable between populations.
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Cork, Kevin James, of Western Sydney Nepean University, and Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. "Twenty-four miles around Nelungaloo : the history and importance of cinema exhibition in pre-television times to a country area of central-western New South Wales." THESIS_FHSS_XXX_Cork_K.xml, 1994. http://handle.uws.edu.au:8081/1959.7/684.
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Little research into historical, architectural and social significance of the picture theatre in pre-television rural Australian society has been undertaken. Taking a New South Wales country area (to represent a microcosm), this thesis records the picture venues and qualitative research material from past patrons and theatre staff. The study 1/. establishes the environment created by a picture theatre 2/. shows that New South Wales was typical of Australia in film attendance before the 1960s 3/. introduces the Central-West subject area, and describes how data was gathered from available records 4/. shows the development of the picture venues within the subject areas 5/. gives 'life' to the occasion formerly associated with going to the pictures 6/. suggests the success ot the rural picture shows was a happy co-incidence: the exhibitors' desire to make money and the patrons' desire for a social experience (and entertainment). A recommendation is made that one of the venues discovered during the course of research should be investigated for heritage listing. It is important that we should acknowledge the vital part that going to the pictures once played in pre-television days, especially in rural areasMaster of Arts (Hons)
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Steyn, Johanna Wilhelmina. "A critical analysis of working partnerships aimed at increasing the quality of life for all population groups with special reference to urban and rural development in the Western Cape Province." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/1686.
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Thesis (DTech (Public Management))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2007This thesis explores, inter alia, initiatives, proposals, directives, programmes and projects aimed at increasing quality of life for all population groups via rural and urban developments in the Western Cape province. The study traces the roots of philosophy in the social sciences, provides a philosophical basis for public management and development, before proceeding to a discussion of relevant legislative- and structural frameworks for development in the Western Cape province. These are followed by an exposition of rural and urban development programmes in the province, within the nodal areas selected for this study. In addition to the above aspects, the research report identifies and explains elements of model theory, discusses a number of applicable models, as well as presenting an adapted normative, input-output transformational systems model for change, with a feedback mechanism, in terms of which given dysfunctionalities can be transformed to higher degrees of functionality in order to achieve, maintain and enhance the general welfare of society with specific reference to current problematic rural and urban developmental issues. As part of the recommendations, a number of methods are suggested in the study whereby rural and urban development in the Western Cape province can be improved and which could be universally applicable, particularly in the rest of South Africa. The results of the research show the need for practising constitutionally-based political, legislative, executive and administrative accountability with a developmental approach by all relevant role players and participants in the policymaking and implementation processes. The raison de etre of the developmental approach is explained, supported by a number of recommendations aimed at bringing about a higher degree of development in the nodal areas selected for this study.
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Madadi, Nazanin. "Assessing the effect of Addison's disease on patient quality of life within the South African context." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/11648.
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Includes bibliographical references (leaves 43-46).This study finds that our patients do indeed have the same QOL, and that we should therefore be able to apply the European findings here. Measuring QOL alone, however, gives us very general information which is not sufficient for our study. The second aim of this research is to compare different aspects of QOL in AD, as this has not been researched before. This knowledge should help clinicians to recognise QOL impairment better, which will enable modifiable risk factors to be adjusted with early intervention. (For example, psychological impairment can be reduced with counselling.) This study also finds that some AD patients who suffer a combination of other autoimmune diseases have a lower QOL. The main instrument used for this research was the Rotterdam QOL questionnaire.
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Ayo-Yusuf, Imade Joan. "Socio-economic position, oral pain and oral health-related quality of life among South African adults." Thesis, University of the Western Cape, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/11394/3857.
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Philosophiae Doctor - PhDValidation of the OHIP-14 for a South African adult population using CFA resulted in a 12-item scale (OHIP-12) with excellent reliability (α =0.94), but the structural pathway varied across the socio-economic groups. The prevalence of oral pain was 19.4%, and varied significantly only across area-level SEP. Cost of care over the six months was estimated at about one billion Rand. Of those residing in the lowest SEP areas, 20.8% reported that they “did nothing” to relieve their last pain episode. Oral pain resulted in an average of two days lost per person from work/school over a six months period. The prevalence of OHIP was 16.2%. Those who had never visited a dental clinic had significantly better OHRQoL and less pain experience compared to those who previously visited a dental clinic. Both individual-level and area-level SEP were associated with OHRQoL in the bi-variate analysis, but these effects did not remain significant in multivariable-adjusted analysis. In particular, the respondents‟ race completely attenuated the effect of individual-level SEP on OHRQoL, while the experience of oral pain in the past six months completely attenuated the effect of area-level SEP on OHRQoL. Both absolute and relative inequality in oral health among the South African adult population was greater in the highest SEP areas than in the areas of lowest SEP
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Dube, Tinashe H. "The application of architectural indicators to compare residential quality of life: A case study of Zimbabwean families currently residing in South Africa and the UK." Diss., University of Pretoria, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/64742.
Full textAbstract:
Throughout human history, people have migrated from one area to another for many reasons, including searching for better economic, political or other conditions that are assumed to improve the human standard of living (Kotkin 2016:6; United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs 2014). Migration to urban areas has increased over the past century, and is only expected to continue doing so. In 2016, 54% of earth’s human population lived within urban areas, making it the largest urban population ever to occur on the planet (Brenner & Schmidt 2014:733; United Nations Population Fund 2014). A 2013 study by El Din, Shalaby, Farouh and Elariane states that, with more of the human population residing in urban areas than in the past, studies around human life in urban areas are more significant and necessary for the sake of increasing knowledge bases for the development of sustainable human environments (El Din et al. 2013:87, 88). Architects and urban planners focus on improving the quality of life of the end users of their designs at a contextual level, which in turn is beneficial as a good quality of life is considered to be one of the most important aspects for sustainable urban development (Othman, Aird & Buys 2015:22). Over the past 15 years there has been a knowledge shift towards global parameters for measurement of quality of life that are not uniform or based solely on economic indicators, but rather are developed so that these indicators can be used to measure quality of life at a contextual level in order to supply informative data and results (United Nations Population Fund 2016; Vermuni & Costanza 2006:124). There are contextual differences, similarities and variations for the definition of a good quality of life between the large urban areas in the developed world as well as in countries within the Global South, which contains the majority of the world’s Third World countries (Rigg 2007:8-10). With the global continuation of the urbanisation of the human population in different contexts, along with the migration of individuals between different parts of the world, urban planners and architects are challenged to design spaces that provide good quality of life within any urban context for an end user coming from any urban or rural context. This study seeks to investigate the means of assessing quality of life in residential spaces of end users who share similar values in terms of quality of life, but will be studied in three varied urban contexts, namely Zimbabwe, South Africa and the United Kingdom. Zimbabwe, is classified as a Low Income country by the United Nations Department of Economics and Social Affairs (2014), has experienced high levels of migration out of the country over the past 16 years (Humphris 2010), with the highest number of migrations into South Africa, which is classified as an Upper Middle Income Country, and the United Kingdom, classified as a High Income country (United Nations Department of Economics and Social Affairs 2014). This research paper seeks to measure and compare quality of life in the homes of Zimbabweans in the three contexts mentioned above, in order to gauge what aspects of residential design impact positively or negatively on the end user’s quality of life.Mini Dissertation (MSc)--University of Pretoria, 2017.
Architecture
MSc Applied Sciences in Architecture
Unrestricted
39
Reed, Deborah A. "Spatial and temporal biogeochemical changes of groundwater associated with managed aquifer recharge in two different geographical areas." University of Western Australia. School of Biomedical, Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2008. http://theses.library.uwa.edu.au/adt-WU2008.0074.
Full textAbstract:
[Truncated abstract] Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) is a technique that can be used to capture and store water in aquifers for later reuse. This method recycles water that would normally be lost or discarded to the environment. MAR has been observed to have the potential for improving the quality of recharged water through a combination of physical, chemical and biological processes. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in groundwater microbial population structure during MAR and the major influences that drive these population changes. Biogeochemical MAR studies have the potential to assist in the improved prediction of the removal of contaminants such as nutrients, pathogens and trace organics from the recharged water. Biological clogging during recharge also has the potential to overwhelm an aquifers ability to process wastewater thus reducing the hydraulic conductivity of the aquifer. Therefore further research into the spatial and temporal biogeochemical processes that occur during MAR is required. The geochemical and microbial population dynamics of two contrasting MAR techniques were investigated at two different geographical locations (Perth, Western Australia and Adelaide, South Australia). These MAR sites contained aquifers of dissimilar properties that were recharged with wastewater that contrasted in water quality. The Perth MAR site received secondary treated effluent which continuously infiltrated the unsaturated zone into an unconfined aquifer aided by infiltration galleries. Reclaimed water was extracted from a well at distance from the infiltration gallery. ... Notably the background and recovered water was most dissimilar in microbial and chemical population structure to that described for the infiltration gallery and injection well. Microbial and chemical evidence suggested that the background and extraction well groundwater were unaffected by plume migration. These results suggested that extraction well groundwater was similar in quality to that of ambient groundwater. Significant geochemical and microbial changes of secondary treated effluent during infiltration and lateral movement through aquifer were implicated in addition to the forced hydraulic gradient created from extracting fives time the volume of infiltrating wastewater. This study demonstrated that microbial populations and the geochemical processes associated with MAR can be studied and compared. Multivariate statistical methodology greatly simplified a vast array of dynamic biogeochemical information that could be dissected for meaningful interpretation over distance and time. The study evaluated the major biogeochemical influences which resulted in microbial and geochemical changes where it was noted that microbial populations were more dynamic than geochemical variation over time. Additionally biogeochemical comparative analysis indicated that microbial populations could change in population structure before a shift in aquifer geochemistry was detected. It is anticipated that the results from this study will benefit further research into the biogeochemical processes involved in water quality changes (e.g. nutrient removal, pathogen decay and biodegradation of trace organics) as well as controlling biological clogging of MAR schemes.
40
Marufu, Tandiwe Joy. "The impact of learning advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in Amathole District, South Africa." Thesis, University of Fort Hare, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2182.
Full textAbstract:
Ongoing instability in the nursing workforce is raising questions globally about the issue of nurse turnover. It is against this background that this research examines the impact of learning, advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in selected hospitals from Eastern Cape. Little research has been conducted to investigate the impact of the above mentioned subjects on turnover intentions among nurses in the South African health sector. Research questions as well as hypotheses were formulated as the means to gain data on the subject. The research employed a quantitative design with a sample size of 160 nurses and 159 were returned. The data analysis consisted of both descriptive and inferential statistics. The main findings of the study showed a positive relationship among job satisfaction, work-life rewards, learning and advancement opportunities and job satisfaction. However, there were negative relationships between job satisfaction and turnover intentions; work-life rewards and turnover intentions; and also among learning, career advancement and turnover intentions. Finally, suggestions were made to the top management in the Health sector to come up with strategies and mechanisms that improve nurses’ quality of work-life and offering them training and advancement opportunities through organisational change programs.
41
Le, Roux Talita. "Predictors of cochlear implant outcomes in South Africa." Thesis, University of Pretoria, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/60377.
Full textAbstract:
This research focused on the identification and description of predictors of pediatric and
adult cochlear implantation outcomes in a South African cohort and the depiction of
profound childhood hearing loss in terms of risk and intervention profiles.
Study I described profound childhood hearing loss in a South African cohort of pediatric
cochlear implant (CI) recipients in terms of risk profile and age of diagnosis and intervention.
A retrospective review of patient files for 264 pediatric CI recipients from five CI programs
was conducted. For all subjects, permanent congenital and early onset hearing loss (PCEHL)
was confirmed under the age of five years old.
The most prevalent risks for profound PCEHL were neonatal intesive care unit (NICU)
admittance (28.1%), family history of childhood hearing loss (19.6%) and prematurity
(15.1%). An associated syndrome was diagnosed in 10% of children and 23.5% had at least
one additional developmental condition. Hearing loss for most (77.6%) children was
confirmed as congenital or early onset, while 20.3% presented with postnatal onset of
hearing loss. Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder (ANSD) was diagnosed in 5% of
children, with admittance to NICU (80%) and hyperbilirubinemia (50%) being the most
prevalent risk factors for these cases. Hearing loss was typically diagnosed late (15.3
months), resulting in delayed initial hearing aid fitting (18.8 months), enrollment in early
intervention services (19.5 months), and eventual cochlear implantation (43.6 months).
Delayed diagnosis and intervention predispose this population to poorer outcomes.Thesis (DPhil)--University of Pretoria, 2016.
Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology
DPhil
Unrestricted
42
Wilson, David H. 1942. "Hearing in South Australia : disability, impairment and quality-of-life / David Hugh Wilson." 1997. http://hdl.handle.net/2440/19140.
Full textAbstract:
Bibliography: leaves 199-215.215 leaves ; 30 cm.
Title page, contents and abstract only. The complete thesis in print form is available from the University Library.
Reports on the prevalence of hearing impairment, and the quality-of-life of hearing impaired adults in South Australia, using a study group aged 15 years or older. Questions the value of previous Australian hearing studies, which were based on self-reported disability. The quality-of-life study which compared scores for the hearing impaired with people suffering other chronic conditions, and a control group, shows that the severe hearing impaired group had quality-of-life scores below that of the control group and the norm for the population.
Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Adelaide, Dept. of Community Medicine, 1997
43
Kent, Penny. "Measuring quality of life : developing a questionnaire to measure satisfaction with lifestyle of people with an intellectual disability." Thesis, 1990. http://hdl.handle.net/2440/122261.
Full text
44
Carbone, Josephine A. "The mental health and well-being of children and adolescents in home-based foster care in South Australia." Thesis, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/2440/62331.
Full textAbstract:
Despite attempts to keep families together and investment in family preservation and reunification services, the number of children in foster care has been increasing across Western jurisdictions during recent decades. Furthermore, use of home-based foster care as the preferred placement option, as opposed to residential or community group care, is now at record levels (Barber & Gilbertson, 2001). Although there is growing evidence that children in alternative care systems and state custody experience elevated rates of mental health problems, little is known about the mental health of children residing in home-based care, and almost nothing is known about their broader well-being and quality of life. Furthermore, most studies have been conducted overseas and have not been tested for their applicability to children in care in Australia.
This is the first study to provide comprehensive information about the mental health and broader well-being of a representative sample of children and adolescents living in homebased foster care in Australia. Participants were 326 children and adolescents (aged 6-17 years) residing in home-based foster care in metropolitan Adelaide, Australia, who were under a Guardianship of the Minister court order between August 2004 and January 2006. Information about children’s mental health, health-related quality of life, and service use was obtained from foster carers and older children (13-17 years) during face-to-face interviews. Information about health-risk behaviours such as suicidal ideation and behaviour, and drug use was also obtained from older children (13-17 years). In addition, foster carers provided information about the extent to which the problems of children in their care impacted upon their personal lives. The study utilised the same measures as those employed in the Australian Child and Adolescent Survey of Mental Health and Well-Being (Sawyer et al., 2000; Sawyer et al., 2001). This enabled the mental health and well-being of children in home-based foster care to be compared with that reported for children of the same age and gender in the general community in Australia.
The results showed that, compared to their peers in the general community, children in home-based care experienced significantly more mental health problems that were of clinical significance, and much poorer health-related quality of life across a wide range of domains that impeded their ability to fulfil daily roles such as schooling and social events. A substantial proportion of children in foster care who were identified as needing help for physical or emotional and behavioural problems, had not received this help. Furthermore, rates of suicidal ideation and attempts were significantly higher amongst foster youth than youth in the general community. The results also showed that foster carers were experiencing high levels of emotional stress and limitations on their personal time, due to the psychosocial and/or physical health problems of children in their care.
The findings of this study have important implications for child protection policy and practice. Although home-based care is the preferred option in Australia and other Western jurisdictions because it is believed to avoid problems associated with institutionalisation and provide ‘normalcy’ by modelling the family environment in which most children live (Barber & Delfabbro, 2004), the results of this study raise questions about the extent to which the needs of children in home-based care are currently being met. The significant health problems and poor quality of life of children in home-based foster care identified in the present study challenge child welfare agencies, practitioners, and policy makers to identify ways of providing more effective care for this vulnerable population, so as to maximise their short and longer-term outcomes.Thesis (Ph.D.) -- University of Adelaide, School of Psychology, 2010
45
Tonkin, Rebecca. "The influence of seeding density and environmental factors on grain quality of main stems and tillers of wheat in South Australia." 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/2440/37928.
Full textAbstract:
Prime Hard wheat, a high protein hard wheat classification of the Australian Wheat Board, has traditionally been grown in Queensland and the northern areas of New South Wales. Recently there have been moves to extend this area into the more southern regions of the wheat belt, to expand production of this grain and for greater reliability of supply. The emphasis of this thesis is on the opportunities and constraints to Prime Hard wheat production in South Australia. The environmental factors affecting wheat crops in South Australia are different to those in the traditional Prime Hard producing areas, with heat and moisture stress likely to be the most important climatic influences. Management practices such as the recent trends towards higher seeding densities could also be important (influencing main stem and tiller ratios). An experiment using controlled temperature and moisture conditions showed that main stems and tillers differed in their responses to post-anthesis heat and drought. A field experiment with moisture stress as the only treatment also showed differences in harvest parameters and grain quality between main stems and tillers. Grain produced from field plots at different plant densities showed significant differences in a number of quality measurements, the most important being 1000-grain weight and flour colour. Less screenings and higher 1000-grain weights were obtained from plots with higher seeding rates. However, flour from plots with higher seeding rates had slightly more yellow colour. When main stems and tillers from these plots were tested separately, using small-scale equipment, grain weight and flour colour also differed between main stems and tillers. Main stems produced larger grains than tillers, as expected, and tillers produced grains with yellower flour. The smaller grain size and yellower flour of the tillers is attributed to the higher degree of stress likely to be experienced by tillers, as they have later anthesis dates and are more likely to experience moisture, and/or heat stress at a critical stage of grain filling. Plants with more tillers, such as those grown in a low-density crop, have a later average anthesis date than an equivalent crop of higher seeding density, with more main stems. Therefore it is likely that increasing seeding density will give a shorter crop ripening period and a more uniform seed quality. However, care must be taken not to exceed the optimum plant population density. In conclusion, the experiments showed that tillers are more sensitive to conditions of moisture or heat stress than main stems, and that they make a measurable contribution to the quality of a wheat crop. Increasing the crop density decreased the proportion of tillers present, leading to a more uniform crop and less screenings at harvest. Increased competition in high-density crops may result in slightly more yellow flour, but dough and loaf quality were not affected.Thesis (Ph.D.)--School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, 2004.
46
Tonkin, Rebecca. "The influence of seeding density and environmental factors on grain quality of main stems and tillers of wheat in South Australia." Thesis, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/2440/37928.
Full textAbstract:
Prime Hard wheat, a high protein hard wheat classification of the Australian Wheat Board, has traditionally been grown in Queensland and the northern areas of New South Wales. Recently there have been moves to extend this area into the more southern regions of the wheat belt, to expand production of this grain and for greater reliability of supply. The emphasis of this thesis is on the opportunities and constraints to Prime Hard wheat production in South Australia. The environmental factors affecting wheat crops in South Australia are different to those in the traditional Prime Hard producing areas, with heat and moisture stress likely to be the most important climatic influences. Management practices such as the recent trends towards higher seeding densities could also be important (influencing main stem and tiller ratios). An experiment using controlled temperature and moisture conditions showed that main stems and tillers differed in their responses to post-anthesis heat and drought. A field experiment with moisture stress as the only treatment also showed differences in harvest parameters and grain quality between main stems and tillers. Grain produced from field plots at different plant densities showed significant differences in a number of quality measurements, the most important being 1000-grain weight and flour colour. Less screenings and higher 1000-grain weights were obtained from plots with higher seeding rates. However, flour from plots with higher seeding rates had slightly more yellow colour. When main stems and tillers from these plots were tested separately, using small-scale equipment, grain weight and flour colour also differed between main stems and tillers. Main stems produced larger grains than tillers, as expected, and tillers produced grains with yellower flour. The smaller grain size and yellower flour of the tillers is attributed to the higher degree of stress likely to be experienced by tillers, as they have later anthesis dates and are more likely to experience moisture, and/or heat stress at a critical stage of grain filling. Plants with more tillers, such as those grown in a low-density crop, have a later average anthesis date than an equivalent crop of higher seeding density, with more main stems. Therefore it is likely that increasing seeding density will give a shorter crop ripening period and a more uniform seed quality. However, care must be taken not to exceed the optimum plant population density. In conclusion, the experiments showed that tillers are more sensitive to conditions of moisture or heat stress than main stems, and that they make a measurable contribution to the quality of a wheat crop. Increasing the crop density decreased the proportion of tillers present, leading to a more uniform crop and less screenings at harvest. Increased competition in high-density crops may result in slightly more yellow flour, but dough and loaf quality were not affected.Thesis (Ph.D.)--School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, 2004.
47
Naves, Patience Mmetja. "Quality of life of migrant workers at Eskom." Thesis, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6486.
Full textAbstract:
M.A.This chapter has been dedicated towards painting a picture of the quality of life issues regarding migrant workers living in hostels. The results and findings as interpreted has brought about useful information that will be utilised to draw conclusions and recommendations. Quality of Life of Migrant Workers at Eskom The findings have reconfirmed who the migrant worker is in terms of the description given by Leatt (1981) which was the definition adopted for the study. The indices drawn from the objective and subjective indicators of quality of life which were adopted from Moller, Schlemmer and Du Toit's (1987) were used as the basis from which the interview schedule was drawn, and has proved useful. Reference is made in particular to questions 12,13 and 14. Relevant construct for quality of life were found, with more usable constructs from questions 12 and 13. Furthermore the statistical analysis of the vector of the mean test scores referring to the HOT 1 has also given useful information as it enabled the student to analyse three variables independently and jointly see section 3.3. Cross tabulations representing correlations between indices created out of quality of life indicators namely core quality of life issues as identified by Question(s) 12,13 and 14 and the objective indicators of quality of life, namely accommodation, the intake of nutritious food, and recreation practices. There is a clear demonstration of quality of life issues that should be looked at if the quality of life of migrant workers living in hostels has to be improved. Although there are many diverse quality of life issues identified in the study the three that were selected with the framework of this study has given usable information. The next chapter will address the conclusions and recommendations.
48
Noell, Craig J. "Early life stages of the southern sea garfish, Hyporhamphus Melanochir (Valenciennes 1846), and their association with seagrass beds." 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/2440/57972.
Full textAbstract:
This study investigates early life stages of the southern sea garfish (Hyporhamphus melanochir) and their association with seagrass in Gulf St Vincent, South Australia. The overall aims were to identify and describe the early life stages of H. melanochir and to explore the possible relationship(s) between these life stages and seagrass habitat with the emphasis on seagrass as a requirement for spawning or as a food source. The reproductive biology of female H. melanochir from the commercial fishery was assessed by microscopic examination of ovaries, oocyte size distributions, gonadosomatic indices, and macroscopic ovarian stages. Five stages of oocyte development were identified and described: perinucleolar, yolk vesicle, yolk globule, migratory nucleus and hydrated. A coherence between histological and whole oocyte descriptions is demonstrated. Hyporhamphus melanochir are characterised as multiple spawners with group-synchronous oocyte development and indeterminate fecundity. A protracted spawning season from October to March was indicated by the occurrence of ripe ovaries and increases in gonadosomatic index. Females reach sexual maturity at 193 mm standard length, and batch fecundity ranged from 201-3044 oocytes depending on fish size. Spawning shoals are segregated by sex, as indicated by commercial samples, with a biased female-to-male ratio of 4.5:1 during the spawning season (1.2:1 during the non-spawning season). In addition, features of the oocyte surface were closely examined, which revealed that the filaments on the chorion of the hydrated oocyte are adhesive. These adhesive filaments presumably allow the fertilised egg to become attached to vegetative substrate by adhesion and/or entanglement. H. melanochir larvae were discriminated from another hemiramphid species, river garfish (H. regularis), which is also known to occur in the study area, based on species-specific amplification of part of the mitochondrial control region using a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. The species were easily discerned by the number and distinct sizes of PCR products [H. melanochir, 443 bp; river garfish (H. regularis), 462 and 264 bp]. Although based on a single gene, this molecular method will correctly identify the species of individuals in at least 96% and 94% of tests for H. melanochir and H. regularis, respectively. Subsequent to verifying the identification of species by molecular discrimination, the larval development of H. melanochir and H. regularis were described. Larvae of H. melanochir and H. regularis had completed notochord flexion at hatching and are characterized by their elongate body with distinct rows of melanophores along the dorsal, lateral and ventral surfaces; small to moderate head; heavily pigmented, long straight gut; persistent preanal finfold; and extended lower jaw. Fin formation occurs in the sequence: caudal, dorsal and anal (almost simultaneously), pectoral, pelvic. Despite the similarities between both species and among hemiramphid larvae in general, H. melanochir larvae are distinguishable from H. regularis by: having 58-61 vertebrae (v. 51-54 for H. regularis); having 12-15 melanophore pairs in longitudinal rows along the dorsal margin between the head and origin of the dorsal fin (v. 19-22 for H. regularis); and the absence of a large ventral pigment blotch anteriorly on the gut and isthmus (present in H. regularis). A logistic regression analysis of body measurements also revealed interspecies differences in the combined measurements of eye diameter and pre-anal fin length. Both species can be distinguished from morphologically similar larvae found in southern Australia (other hemiramphids and a scomberosocid) by differences in meristic counts and pigmentation. Hyporhamphus melanochir larvae were successfully collected throughout Gulf St Vincent using a neuston net; however, attempts to sample eggs were unsuccessful. Abundances of larvae in the gulf averaged 4.8 and 12.3 larvae 1000⁻ ² of surface water in December 1998 and December 2000, respectively. Larvae exhibit fast growth, as indicated by otolith growth increments, with backcalculated spawning dates falling within the October-March spawning season. Spatial analysis of larval distributions revealed a positive spatial autocorrelation, i.e. non-randomness or clustering of similar abundance values. Most larvae were found in the upper region of the gulf, and the prevalence of seagrass habitat throughout this region supports the view that the demersal eggs of H. melanochir become attached to seagrass and/or algae following spawning. A gyre in waters of the upper gulf, influenced by prevailing southerly winds, the Coriolis effect, and land boundaries, may explain retention of larvae. The importance of seagrass beds to H. melanochir spawning is also supported by anecdotal evidence and available literature on eggs of other Beloniformes, which are also demersal and attach to marine plants. Dual stable isotope analysis (δ¹³ and δ¹⁵N) of larval, juvenile and adult H. melanochir and several potential food sources from the Bay of Shoals was carried out to estimate the importance of zosteracean seagrass towards the assimilated diet of H. melanochir. Although the diet of H. melanochir larvae is probably planktonivorous, their isotopic signatures partly reflect the parental diet due to the influence of pre–existing tissue in addition to growth. According to mixing model calculations, the signatures of juveniles can be explained by a diet consisting of 23–37% Zostera, 0–10% Halophila and the remainder zooplankton, whilst the diet of adults consists of 53–58% Zostera and the remainder zooplankton. These findings indicate an increasing dependence upon Zostera with growth of H. melanochir. The results of this study enhance the completeness of our understanding of the fisheries biology and ecology of H. melanochir. Significant contributions are provided in reproductive biology and larval biology, seagrass beds (in combination with mixed algae) are demonstrated to be an important habitat for spawning, and Zostera seagrass is shown to be a necessary food source in the diet of juveniles and adults.Thesis (Ph.D.)-- University of Adelaide, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, 2005.
49
Noell, Craig J. "Early life stages of the southern sea garfish, Hyporhamphus Melanochir (Valenciennes 1846), and their association with seagrass beds." Thesis, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/2440/57972.
Full textAbstract:
This study investigates early life stages of the southern sea garfish (Hyporhamphus melanochir)
and their association with seagrass in Gulf St Vincent, South Australia. The overall aims were to
identify and describe the early life stages of H. melanochir and to explore the possible relationship(s) between these life stages and seagrass habitat with the emphasis on seagrass as a requirement for spawning or as a food source.
The reproductive biology of female H. melanochir from the commercial fishery was assessed by
microscopic examination of ovaries, oocyte size distributions, gonadosomatic indices, and macroscopic ovarian stages. Five stages of oocyte development were identified and described: perinucleolar, yolk vesicle, yolk globule, migratory nucleus and hydrated. A coherence between histological and whole oocyte descriptions is demonstrated. Hyporhamphus melanochir are characterised as multiple spawners
with group-synchronous oocyte development and indeterminate fecundity. A protracted spawning
season from October to March was indicated by the occurrence of ripe ovaries and increases in
gonadosomatic index. Females reach sexual maturity at 193 mm standard length, and batch fecundity ranged from 201-3044 oocytes depending on fish size. Spawning shoals are segregated by sex, as indicated by commercial samples, with a biased female-to-male ratio of 4.5:1 during the spawning season (1.2:1 during the non-spawning season). In addition, features of the oocyte surface were closely examined, which revealed that the filaments on the chorion of the hydrated oocyte are adhesive. These adhesive filaments presumably allow the fertilised egg to become attached to vegetative substrate by adhesion and/or entanglement.
H. melanochir larvae were discriminated from another hemiramphid species, river garfish (H.
regularis), which is also known to occur in the study area, based on species-specific amplification of part of the mitochondrial control region using a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. The species were easily discerned by the number and distinct sizes of PCR products [H. melanochir, 443 bp; river garfish (H. regularis), 462 and 264 bp]. Although based on a single gene, this molecular method will correctly identify the species of individuals in at least 96% and 94% of tests for H. melanochir and H. regularis, respectively.
Subsequent to verifying the identification of species by molecular discrimination, the larval
development of H. melanochir and H. regularis were described. Larvae of H. melanochir and H.
regularis had completed notochord flexion at hatching and are characterized by their elongate body with distinct rows of melanophores along the dorsal, lateral and ventral surfaces; small to moderate head; heavily pigmented, long straight gut; persistent preanal finfold; and extended lower jaw. Fin formation occurs in the sequence: caudal, dorsal and anal (almost simultaneously), pectoral, pelvic.
Despite the similarities between both species and among hemiramphid larvae in general, H. melanochir
larvae are distinguishable from H. regularis by: having 58-61 vertebrae (v. 51-54 for H. regularis); having 12-15 melanophore pairs in longitudinal rows along the dorsal margin between the head and origin of the dorsal fin (v. 19-22 for H. regularis); and the absence of a large ventral pigment blotch
anteriorly on the gut and isthmus (present in H. regularis). A logistic regression analysis of body
measurements also revealed interspecies differences in the combined measurements of eye diameter and pre-anal fin length. Both species can be distinguished from morphologically similar larvae found in southern Australia (other hemiramphids and a scomberosocid) by differences in meristic counts and pigmentation.
Hyporhamphus melanochir larvae were successfully collected throughout Gulf St Vincent using a
neuston net; however, attempts to sample eggs were unsuccessful. Abundances of larvae in the gulf averaged 4.8 and 12.3 larvae 1000⁻ ² of surface water in December 1998 and December 2000, respectively. Larvae exhibit fast growth, as indicated by otolith growth increments, with backcalculated spawning dates falling within the October-March spawning season. Spatial analysis of larval distributions revealed a positive spatial autocorrelation, i.e. non-randomness or clustering of similar
abundance values. Most larvae were found in the upper region of the gulf, and the prevalence of
seagrass habitat throughout this region supports the view that the demersal eggs of H. melanochir
become attached to seagrass and/or algae following spawning. A gyre in waters of the upper gulf, influenced by prevailing southerly winds, the Coriolis effect, and land boundaries, may explain retention of larvae. The importance of seagrass beds to H. melanochir spawning is also supported by anecdotal evidence and available literature on eggs of other Beloniformes, which are also demersal and attach to marine plants.
Dual stable isotope analysis (δ¹³ and δ¹⁵N) of larval, juvenile and adult H. melanochir and several potential food sources from the Bay of Shoals was carried out to estimate the importance of zosteracean seagrass towards the assimilated diet of H. melanochir. Although the diet of H. melanochir larvae is probably planktonivorous, their isotopic signatures partly reflect the parental diet due to the influence of pre–existing tissue in addition to growth. According to mixing model calculations, the signatures of juveniles can be explained by a diet consisting of 23–37% Zostera, 0–10% Halophila and the remainder zooplankton, whilst the diet of adults consists of 53–58% Zostera and the remainder zooplankton. These findings indicate an increasing dependence upon Zostera with growth of H. melanochir.
The results of this study enhance the completeness of our understanding of the fisheries biology and ecology of H. melanochir. Significant contributions are provided in reproductive biology and larval biology, seagrass beds (in combination with mixed algae) are demonstrated to be an important habitat for spawning, and Zostera seagrass is shown to be a necessary food source in the diet of juveniles and
adults.Thesis (Ph.D.)-- University of Adelaide, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, 2005.
50
Leppard, Phillip I. "An analysis of population lifetime data of South Australia 1841 - 1996." 2003. http://hdl.handle.net/2440/37894.
Full textAbstract:
The average length of life from birth until death in a human population is a single statistic that is often used to characterise the prevailing health status of the population. It is one of many statistics calculated from an analysis that, for each age, combines the number of deaths with the size of the population in which these deaths occur. This analysis is generally known as life table analysis. Life tables have only occasionally been produced specifically for South Australia, although the necessary data has been routinely collected since 1842. In this thesis, the mortality pattern of South Australia over the period of 150 years of European settlement is quantified by using life table analyses and estimates of average length of life. In Chapter 1, a mathematical derivation is given for the lifetime statistical distribution function that is the basis of life table analysis, and from which the average length of life or current expected life is calculated. This derivation uses mathematical notation that clearly shows the deficiency of current expected life as a measure of the life expectancy of an existing population. Four statistical estimation procedures are defined, and the computationally intensive method of bootstrapping is discussed as an estimation procedure for the standard error of each of the estimates of expected life. A generalisation of this method is given to examine the robustness of the estimate of current expected life. In Chapter 2, gender and age-specific mortality and population data are presented for twenty five three-year periods; each period encompassing one of the colonial (1841-1901) or post-Federation (1911-96) censuses that have been taken in South Australia. For both genders within a census period, four types of estimate of current expected life, each with a bootstrap standard error, are calculated and compared, and a robustness assessment is made. In Chapter 3, an alternate measure of life expectancy known as generation expected life is considered. Generation expected life is derived by extracting, from official records arranged in temporal order, the mortality pattern of a notional group of individuals who were born in the same calendar year. Several estimates of generation expected life are calculated using South Australian data, and each estimate is compared to the corresponding estimate of current expected life. Additional estimates of generation expected life calculated using data obtained from the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Memorial quantify the reduction in male generation expected life for 1881-1900 as a consequence of military service during World War I, 1914-18, and the Influenza Pandemic, 1919.Thesis (M.Sc.) -- University of Adelaide, School of Applied Mathematics, 2003.