Fluctuations in the formation time of ultracold dimers from fermionic atoms

We investigate the temporal fluctuations characteristic of the formation of molecular dimers from ultracold fermionic atoms via Raman photoassociation. The quantum fluctuations inherent to the initial atomic state result in large fluctuations in the passage time from atoms to molecules. Assuming degeneracy of kinetic energies of atoms in the strong coupling limit we find that a heuristic classical stochastic model yields qualitative agreement with the full quantum treatment in the initial stages of the dynamics. We also show that in contrast to the association of atoms into dimers, the reverse process of dissociation from a condensate of bosonic dimers exhibits little passage time fluctuations. Finally we explore effects due to the non-degeneracy of atomic kinetic energies.Comment: 7 pages, 6 figure

Environmental requirements for optimal naval operational efficiency

In this thesis the applicability of ocean environment modelling as a part of optimal naval operational efficiency, and thus military oceanography, is evaluated. To be able to do this, the principles of knowledge-based warfare and the ability to make rapid environmental assessments, are introduced. These then form part of optimal efficiency. Modelling of the environment implies knowledge-based warfare and accommodates the ability to make a rapid environmental assessment. After an overview of past and current ocean modelling (specifically wave modelling), the third generation SWAN (Simulating WAves Nearshore) model is selected to model a small component of the military oceanographic spectrum viz. waves. The selected area, includes an area where the US Navy conducted an amphibious landing exercise (Operation Laurel) during October 2001. Three case studies are considered for modelling. These included an extreme wave condition, a mode wave condition and the conditions during Operation Laurel. Data were obtained from the wave rider buoy at Slangkop near Cape Town and analysed for a specific period during 2001. In all three cases the wave dissipation and maximum energy transfer areas were determined from the model. From these, certain deductions could be made regarding the influence the environment under these three different conditions could have on naval operations in the littorals. It is concluded that ocean modelling should form an integral part of naval operational efficiency and its contribution as force multiplier should be taken into consideration

A scheme for training effective English Second Language medium of instruction teachers

Effective second language medium of instruction refers to an instructional approach that differs from that of regular, first language content instruction or a language across the curriculum approach. This approach uses language teaching strategies in subjects other than the formal language classes, to promote both conceptual and language development in language learners. The purpose of this article is to suggest a scheme for training effective second language medium of instruction teachers in the South African context. In order to determine how teachers should be trained (both on in-service and pre-service level), the article proposes a profile of what can be construed as effective English second language medium of instruction (L2MI). It is then used as a template for identifying outcomes that need to be attained by L2MI teachers and for the design of a checklist that may be used for teacher training at inservice or pre-service level. Keywords: English medium of instruction; language across the curriculum; teacher training Journal for Language Teaching Vol. 39(2) 2005: 321-33

The social support network for black psychiatric inpatients

A survey was carried out of almost 50% of Black inpatients in a state psychiatric hospital to evaluate the level of accessibility of the family network of the patients. Staff were interviewed on the problems they have with contacting families. The survey shows the extent of inadequate access and identifies reasons for the problem

The health needs of the black elderly population in certain areas of rural and urban Kwazulu

The health needs of Black elderly in rural and urban KwaZulu was investigated through a survey. Interviews with 240 elderly was done, looking at the first and second level of the health facilities plan, as well as social support and health indicators. It was found that urban elderly are generally better off than rural elderly and a profile of need is described

The measurement of quality of care in public sector psychiatric services based on consumer expectations

In this study the expectations of consumers of public sector psychiatric care in South Africa were identified, and formulated in the form of 13 standards, each with a set of criteria. During this phase input from the literature was incorporated, and expectations were validated with different groups of consumers, so that rural/urban, ethnicity and regional differences were taken into account. Based on the comprehensive set of standards and criteria, four instruments were developed to measure attainment of these standards. These included a questionnaire to consumers and one to the Director of Mental Health. It also included two schedules to be filled in by observers during site visits to hospital units and clinics. The observer teams included community members and consumers. The content validity of the instruments was established by setting out the items measuring each criterium, and validating that with a group of experts

Academic staffing patterns in nursing colleges in Natal and Transvaal

The purpose of this study was to determine post structure in Natal and Transvaal nursing colleges, the extent to which these posts are filled by suitably qualified tutors and the workload of the academic staff in relation to post level and qualifications. Two hundred and thirty-three nurse tutors participated in the study. Data were collected by a questionnaire developed by the researcher. Findings revealed that the post structure was similar in Natal and Transvaal nursing colleges and the workload of nurse tutors was recorded

Nursing students’ perception of clinical learning experiences as provided by the nursing staff in the wards

A descriptive survey was carried out, using convenience and systematic sampling in order to better understand the manner in which student nurses perceive their clinical experience in the hospital. Data were collected from 80 subjects in 4 nursing colleges using a critical incident technique. Positive and negative experiences are described

Results from South Africa's 2016 report card on physical activity for children and youth

Background: We present results of the 2016 Healthy Active Kids South Africa (HAKSA) Report Card on the current status of physical activity (PA) and nutrition in South African youth. The context in which we interpret the findings is that participation in PA is a fundamental human right, along with the right to "attainment of the highest standard of health." Methods: The HAKSA 2016 Writing Group was comprised of 33 authorities in physical education, exercise science, nutrition, public health, and journalism. The search strategy was based on peer-reviewed manuscripts, dissertations, and 'gray' literature. The core PA indicators are Overall Physical Activity Level; Organized Sport Participation; Active and Outdoor Play; Active Transportation; Sedentary Behaviors; Family and Peer Influences; School; Community and the Built Environment; and National Government Policy, Strategies, and Investment. In addition, we reported on Physical Fitness and Motor Proficiency separately. We also reported on nutrition indicators including Overweight and Under-nutrition along with certain key behaviors such as Fruit and Vegetable Intake, and policies and programs including School Nutrition Programs and Tuck Shops. Data were extracted and grades assigned after consensus was reached. Grades were assigned to each indicator ranging from an A, succeeding with a large majority of children and youth (81% to 100%); B, succeeding with well over half of children and youth (61% to 80%); C, succeeding with about half of children and youth (41% to 60%); D, succeeding with less than half but some children and youth (21% to 40%); and F, succeeding with very few children and youth (0% to 20%); INC is inconclusive. Results: Overall PA levels received a C grade, as we are succeeding with more than 50% of children meeting recommendations. Organized Sports Participation also received a C, and Government Policies remain promising, receiving a B. Screen time and sedentary behavior were a major concern. Under-and over-weight were highlighted and, as overweight is on the rise, received a D grade. Conclusion: In particular, issues of food security, obesogenic environments, and access to activity-supportive environments should guide social mobilization downstream and policy upstream. There is an urgent need for practice-based evidence based on evaluation of existing, scaled up interventions.Scopu

A profile of selected psychiatric out-patients in South Africa

This article reflects the results of three studies done between 1988 and 1991 describing psychiatric outpatients in different towns and cities of South Africa. Two of the samples consist of Black patients and one of Asian patients. In all three studies demographic, socio-economic and illness data were gathered and analysed. A total of 230 patients were surveyed. The typical psychiatric outpatient seems to be in productive period of his life, single, but living with family. He is poorly educated, may never have been employed and is probably now unemployed. The income of this person and the household is very limited, with many people dependent on the few ecomonically active members of the household