Home is in the wandering
- Authors: Purdon, Bradley Michael
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435547 , vital:73167
- Description: Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Creative Writing , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Purdon, Bradley Michael
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435547 , vital:73167
- Description: Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Creative Writing , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Insights: elucidation of squalene monooxygenase inhibitors for lowering cholesterol in cardiovascular diseases
- Authors: Leoma, Mofeli Benedict
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434861 , vital:73111
- Description: Statins have been used to lower high cholesterol levels in the past few decades. However, several studies have shown that some people taking statins experience side effects over time, especially elderly patients, women of childbirth possibility, and children. Several studies have shown that the majority of people with underlying cardiovascular complications caused by high cholesterol are at a greater risk of fatality due to COVID-19, regardless of age and sex. The literature suggests that antimycotic squalene monooxygenase inhibitors, terbinafine and its derivatives, and anticholesterolemic squalene monooxygenase (SM) inhibitors could be another option and a safer remedy for lowering cholesterol in mammals. Molecular docking calculations, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, molecular mechanics generalized born surface area (MM-GBSA) calculations, quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics calculations (QM/MM), and density functional theory (DFT) calculations were used in this study. An early stage in drug discovery, in which small molecular hits from high- throughput screening (HTS) are evaluated and undergo limited optimization to identify promising lead compounds, is referred to as lead generation. To address the first step of lead generation, the number of compounds to be tested was narrowed down, and the hit compounds that could be taken for further tests were obtained. Thus, the molecular docking technique was taken advantage of, which assisted us in identifying the antimycotic ligand SDZ 18, which had a good binding affinity of about -8,4 kcal mol−1. Another widely employed strategy, the molecular mechanics-generalized born surface area (MM-GBSA), was used to investigate the binding free energies of the protein-ligand complexes to validate the binding affinities obtained from molecular docking. Despite the excellent docking results, it must be emphasized that the stability of the ligand in the binding pocket must be investigated. To address this, the protein-ligand complexes were then taken through molecular dynamics for 100 ns simulations calculations which showed that the inhibitors stayed in the binding pocket with the RMSD values below 3.5 Å for most systems. This provided insight into a realistic model because the docked complexes were placed in conditions closer to the physiological environment at 300 K and 1.01325 bar, and in an explicitly solvated dynamic environment. Density functional theory (DFT) at the B3LPY level of theory using the standard 6-31G(d,p) basis set was used to assess the reactivity and other properties of the SM inhibitors. ONIOM calculations were performed to explain what was happening at the microscopic level by calculating the total energy of the complex. The aim of this project was to efficiently uncover the non-physical aspects of SM inhibitors with the help of computational techniques to identify new drugs that can lower high cholesterol levels. From a theoretical perspective, the results obtained from docking indicated that the antimycotic ligands SDZ SBA 586 18 and TNSA 84 (trisnor-squalene alcohol ) have good binding affinities, and the MM-GBSA method provided free energy calculations. MD results indicated that the stability of the ligand in the binding pocket was achieved during the 100 ns simulations. The HOMO-LUMO energy gaps obtained from DFT calculations provided information on the reactivity of the ligands. Other insights into the protein-ligand complexes were obtained from a hybrid ONIOM QM/MM study. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Leoma, Mofeli Benedict
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434861 , vital:73111
- Description: Statins have been used to lower high cholesterol levels in the past few decades. However, several studies have shown that some people taking statins experience side effects over time, especially elderly patients, women of childbirth possibility, and children. Several studies have shown that the majority of people with underlying cardiovascular complications caused by high cholesterol are at a greater risk of fatality due to COVID-19, regardless of age and sex. The literature suggests that antimycotic squalene monooxygenase inhibitors, terbinafine and its derivatives, and anticholesterolemic squalene monooxygenase (SM) inhibitors could be another option and a safer remedy for lowering cholesterol in mammals. Molecular docking calculations, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, molecular mechanics generalized born surface area (MM-GBSA) calculations, quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics calculations (QM/MM), and density functional theory (DFT) calculations were used in this study. An early stage in drug discovery, in which small molecular hits from high- throughput screening (HTS) are evaluated and undergo limited optimization to identify promising lead compounds, is referred to as lead generation. To address the first step of lead generation, the number of compounds to be tested was narrowed down, and the hit compounds that could be taken for further tests were obtained. Thus, the molecular docking technique was taken advantage of, which assisted us in identifying the antimycotic ligand SDZ 18, which had a good binding affinity of about -8,4 kcal mol−1. Another widely employed strategy, the molecular mechanics-generalized born surface area (MM-GBSA), was used to investigate the binding free energies of the protein-ligand complexes to validate the binding affinities obtained from molecular docking. Despite the excellent docking results, it must be emphasized that the stability of the ligand in the binding pocket must be investigated. To address this, the protein-ligand complexes were then taken through molecular dynamics for 100 ns simulations calculations which showed that the inhibitors stayed in the binding pocket with the RMSD values below 3.5 Å for most systems. This provided insight into a realistic model because the docked complexes were placed in conditions closer to the physiological environment at 300 K and 1.01325 bar, and in an explicitly solvated dynamic environment. Density functional theory (DFT) at the B3LPY level of theory using the standard 6-31G(d,p) basis set was used to assess the reactivity and other properties of the SM inhibitors. ONIOM calculations were performed to explain what was happening at the microscopic level by calculating the total energy of the complex. The aim of this project was to efficiently uncover the non-physical aspects of SM inhibitors with the help of computational techniques to identify new drugs that can lower high cholesterol levels. From a theoretical perspective, the results obtained from docking indicated that the antimycotic ligands SDZ SBA 586 18 and TNSA 84 (trisnor-squalene alcohol ) have good binding affinities, and the MM-GBSA method provided free energy calculations. MD results indicated that the stability of the ligand in the binding pocket was achieved during the 100 ns simulations. The HOMO-LUMO energy gaps obtained from DFT calculations provided information on the reactivity of the ligands. Other insights into the protein-ligand complexes were obtained from a hybrid ONIOM QM/MM study. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Interlingual and intercultural communication discordances as impediments to the provision of quality public healthcare services: cases of Cecilia Makiwane Hospital, Nkqubela Chest Hospital and Frere Hospital
- Authors: Hlitane, Nkosekaya
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435501 , vital:73163
- Description: This study seeks to explore interlingual and intercultural discordances between clinicians and patients during treatment processes in selected public hospitals in the Eastern Cape. The two languages under investigation are English and isiXhosa. Intercultural communication refers to a phenomenon in which people who speak different native languages are engaged in a conversation (Gudykunst 1993). , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Hlitane, Nkosekaya
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435501 , vital:73163
- Description: This study seeks to explore interlingual and intercultural discordances between clinicians and patients during treatment processes in selected public hospitals in the Eastern Cape. The two languages under investigation are English and isiXhosa. Intercultural communication refers to a phenomenon in which people who speak different native languages are engaged in a conversation (Gudykunst 1993). , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Investigating changes in pineapple (Aananas comosus) cultivation in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, from 1984 to 2020
- Authors: Marriner, Paul Joseph
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435354 , vital:73150
- Description: Land use and land cover change (LULCC) resulting from agricultural activities have significantly impacted landscape transformation and fragmentation. The Albany Thicket Biome in the Eastern Cape Province stands out for its exceptional vegetation diversity and remarkable rates of species endemism. However, the relationship between agricultural activities and the Albany Thicket Biome has not received sufficient attention in the literature, creating a significant gap in understanding the extent of landscape transformation and the vegetation's recovery rate. This study aims to address this gap by utilising remote sensing technologies to investigate the LULCC specifically caused by pineapple cultivation in the Lower Albany area between 1984 and 2020. Analysis, using remotely sensed imagery and spatial analytical tools, provide accurate identification of pineapple fields and enable monitoring of their effects on LULCC dynamics across a wide spatial and temporal scale. Complementary field assessments examined the impacts of pineapple cultivation on land use and cover. Twelve image classifiers were tested to identify the most appropriate technique for mapping pineapple fields, and the Supervised Pixel-based Support Vector Machine (SVM) image classifier was found to be the most suitable. Utilising Landsat 4, 5, 7, and 8 satellite imagery, 27 land cover maps were created, spanning the period from 1984 to 2020. Additionally, field verification was conducted at 59 randomly generated sites to validate the findings. Spatial analysis of the data revealed that the pineapple industry in the study area has expanded by 733 hectares since 1984. Significant land use changes were observed, including converting land to wildlife ranches, grazing areas, and alternative agricultural practices. The land cover analysis identified the emergence of pioneer species in former pineapple fields, suggesting the potential for Albany Thicket regrowth if appropriately managed. This research contributes to a better understanding of the impacts of pineapple cultivation on the Albany Thicket Biome and provides valuable insights for land use planning and monitoring efforts. A comprehensive assessment of LULCC dynamics can be achieved by utilising remote sensing techniques, informing sustainable land management practices in the study area and beyond. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Geography, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Marriner, Paul Joseph
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435354 , vital:73150
- Description: Land use and land cover change (LULCC) resulting from agricultural activities have significantly impacted landscape transformation and fragmentation. The Albany Thicket Biome in the Eastern Cape Province stands out for its exceptional vegetation diversity and remarkable rates of species endemism. However, the relationship between agricultural activities and the Albany Thicket Biome has not received sufficient attention in the literature, creating a significant gap in understanding the extent of landscape transformation and the vegetation's recovery rate. This study aims to address this gap by utilising remote sensing technologies to investigate the LULCC specifically caused by pineapple cultivation in the Lower Albany area between 1984 and 2020. Analysis, using remotely sensed imagery and spatial analytical tools, provide accurate identification of pineapple fields and enable monitoring of their effects on LULCC dynamics across a wide spatial and temporal scale. Complementary field assessments examined the impacts of pineapple cultivation on land use and cover. Twelve image classifiers were tested to identify the most appropriate technique for mapping pineapple fields, and the Supervised Pixel-based Support Vector Machine (SVM) image classifier was found to be the most suitable. Utilising Landsat 4, 5, 7, and 8 satellite imagery, 27 land cover maps were created, spanning the period from 1984 to 2020. Additionally, field verification was conducted at 59 randomly generated sites to validate the findings. Spatial analysis of the data revealed that the pineapple industry in the study area has expanded by 733 hectares since 1984. Significant land use changes were observed, including converting land to wildlife ranches, grazing areas, and alternative agricultural practices. The land cover analysis identified the emergence of pioneer species in former pineapple fields, suggesting the potential for Albany Thicket regrowth if appropriately managed. This research contributes to a better understanding of the impacts of pineapple cultivation on the Albany Thicket Biome and provides valuable insights for land use planning and monitoring efforts. A comprehensive assessment of LULCC dynamics can be achieved by utilising remote sensing techniques, informing sustainable land management practices in the study area and beyond. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Geography, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
It's all in your head
- Namukuta, Sonia Charity Sajjabi
- Authors: Namukuta, Sonia Charity Sajjabi
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435536 , vital:73166
- Description: My thesis is a collection of short stories that delve into the multifaceted nature of death, with a specific emphasis on murder, violence, death and their profound aftermath, including themes of loss, grief, and trauma. These stories offer diverse perspectives, narrated by perpetrators, voiceless victims, and those left to pick up the shattered pieces. Additionally, some stories are seen through the eyes of those tasked with handling the bodies. Often set in unnamed locations, they delve into imaginary and fantastical worlds, while remaining grounded in recognisable situations and spaces. I draw inspiration from popular and genre fiction such as horror, crime fiction and true crime stories, but approach my writing from a psychological lens, employing stylistic experimentation to challenge readers' expectations. The power of silence is a recurring motif. Rather than focusing on unearthing facts or revealing the "truth" like crime fiction often does, my narratives delve into what isn't or at times cannot be told — the unsayable. Some of my stories explore silence inherent in violence, grief, and the inability to articulate one's experience in the face of a violent act or a life prematurely ended. Others delve into the silence of untold stories and the dark secrets of the perpetrators. By exploring these contrasting perspectives, I aim to offer a nuanced exploration of death and its aftermath. The writing styles of Stephen Graham Jones, Lydia Davis, and Kuzhali Manickavel influence my work. Lydia Davis, known for her mastery of very short, flash fiction, ranging from single sentences to a paragraph or two, inspires me with her precise observations of the human condition. Her minimalist prose, carefully selecting and arranging words and sentences, encapsulates the power of less-is-more storytelling. Manickavel creates surreal yet tangible worlds, combining idiosyncratic, intense and eerie elements with unfiltered expression. Drawing from her ability to blur the lines between the surreal and the real, I infuse my stories with a sense of disquieting authenticity. Stephen Graham Jones stands out for his ability to explore morbid themes in a compelling and unconventional manner. His experimentation with horror fiction tropes, the visceral realism of his prose, and his complex characters inspire me to capture the unsettling feeling that something dreadful has occurred without explicitly detailing the facts and intricacies. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Namukuta, Sonia Charity Sajjabi
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435536 , vital:73166
- Description: My thesis is a collection of short stories that delve into the multifaceted nature of death, with a specific emphasis on murder, violence, death and their profound aftermath, including themes of loss, grief, and trauma. These stories offer diverse perspectives, narrated by perpetrators, voiceless victims, and those left to pick up the shattered pieces. Additionally, some stories are seen through the eyes of those tasked with handling the bodies. Often set in unnamed locations, they delve into imaginary and fantastical worlds, while remaining grounded in recognisable situations and spaces. I draw inspiration from popular and genre fiction such as horror, crime fiction and true crime stories, but approach my writing from a psychological lens, employing stylistic experimentation to challenge readers' expectations. The power of silence is a recurring motif. Rather than focusing on unearthing facts or revealing the "truth" like crime fiction often does, my narratives delve into what isn't or at times cannot be told — the unsayable. Some of my stories explore silence inherent in violence, grief, and the inability to articulate one's experience in the face of a violent act or a life prematurely ended. Others delve into the silence of untold stories and the dark secrets of the perpetrators. By exploring these contrasting perspectives, I aim to offer a nuanced exploration of death and its aftermath. The writing styles of Stephen Graham Jones, Lydia Davis, and Kuzhali Manickavel influence my work. Lydia Davis, known for her mastery of very short, flash fiction, ranging from single sentences to a paragraph or two, inspires me with her precise observations of the human condition. Her minimalist prose, carefully selecting and arranging words and sentences, encapsulates the power of less-is-more storytelling. Manickavel creates surreal yet tangible worlds, combining idiosyncratic, intense and eerie elements with unfiltered expression. Drawing from her ability to blur the lines between the surreal and the real, I infuse my stories with a sense of disquieting authenticity. Stephen Graham Jones stands out for his ability to explore morbid themes in a compelling and unconventional manner. His experimentation with horror fiction tropes, the visceral realism of his prose, and his complex characters inspire me to capture the unsettling feeling that something dreadful has occurred without explicitly detailing the facts and intricacies. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Lemons or Lemonade? Examining the economic and social outcomes of engaging in the export-driven citrus value chain of South Africa for selected commercial citrus farmers and farm workers in the Raymond Mhlaba Municipal District, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sizani, Simbulele
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435553 , vital:73168
- Description: This study examines the economic and social outcomes of participating in a global citrus value chain for selected commercial farmers and farm workers in Raymond Mhlaba Municipal District in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. A global chain refers to international production sharing through cross-border trade. Multilateral organizations (and some prominent global chain scholars) that support neoliberal economic globalization perceive global chains as ideal channels of economic and social upgrading for participants, particularly those from the global South. From the abovementioned perspective, global chains enhance efficiency through inter-firm relations that promote the distribution of technology and access to capital, thus leading to economic and social upgrading in developing countries. Economic upgrading, on the one hand, can briefly be described as the movement of supplier firms from lower to higher-value activities in global chains. Social upgrading, on the other hand, is the improvement of employment conditions and outcomes of workers employed by supplier firms at the production node of global chains. This study adopts the dual theoretical framework (Global Chain Framework and Labour Process Theory) proposed by Newsome, Taylor, Bair and Rainnie (2015) in their seminal book ‘Putting Labour in its Place: Labour Process Analysis and Global Value Chains’. This dual framework is ideal because it conceptualizes the spheres of trade exchange and production, which are the primary research sites of this study. Qualitative research methods were adopted and utilized to collect and analyse data in this study. These methods were ideal for this study, as they captured the subjective accounts of the selected commercial citrus farmers and farm workers in the Raymond Mhlaba Municipal District in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The findings in this study showed that the outcomes of these selected commercial citrus farmers and farm workers in this region are variegated, meaning that, there is evidence of economic upgrading, social upgrading and social downgrading as well. Amongst farm workers in the region, only a small group of (mostly older male) farm workers enjoyed social upgrading, whilst the majority of seasonal (mostly female) farm workers experiences social downgrading. The findings in this study showed that the variegated economic and social outcomes of the selected commercial farmers and farm workers were primarily determined by their economic class and position within the citrus value chain of South Africa. These findings highlight the importance of positionality in determining the fate of participants in global chains. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Sizani, Simbulele
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435553 , vital:73168
- Description: This study examines the economic and social outcomes of participating in a global citrus value chain for selected commercial farmers and farm workers in Raymond Mhlaba Municipal District in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. A global chain refers to international production sharing through cross-border trade. Multilateral organizations (and some prominent global chain scholars) that support neoliberal economic globalization perceive global chains as ideal channels of economic and social upgrading for participants, particularly those from the global South. From the abovementioned perspective, global chains enhance efficiency through inter-firm relations that promote the distribution of technology and access to capital, thus leading to economic and social upgrading in developing countries. Economic upgrading, on the one hand, can briefly be described as the movement of supplier firms from lower to higher-value activities in global chains. Social upgrading, on the other hand, is the improvement of employment conditions and outcomes of workers employed by supplier firms at the production node of global chains. This study adopts the dual theoretical framework (Global Chain Framework and Labour Process Theory) proposed by Newsome, Taylor, Bair and Rainnie (2015) in their seminal book ‘Putting Labour in its Place: Labour Process Analysis and Global Value Chains’. This dual framework is ideal because it conceptualizes the spheres of trade exchange and production, which are the primary research sites of this study. Qualitative research methods were adopted and utilized to collect and analyse data in this study. These methods were ideal for this study, as they captured the subjective accounts of the selected commercial citrus farmers and farm workers in the Raymond Mhlaba Municipal District in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The findings in this study showed that the outcomes of these selected commercial citrus farmers and farm workers in this region are variegated, meaning that, there is evidence of economic upgrading, social upgrading and social downgrading as well. Amongst farm workers in the region, only a small group of (mostly older male) farm workers enjoyed social upgrading, whilst the majority of seasonal (mostly female) farm workers experiences social downgrading. The findings in this study showed that the variegated economic and social outcomes of the selected commercial farmers and farm workers were primarily determined by their economic class and position within the citrus value chain of South Africa. These findings highlight the importance of positionality in determining the fate of participants in global chains. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Managing releases of Anagyrus vladimiri (Triapitsyn) to augment biocontrol of the citrus mealybug Planococcus citri (Risso) in South African citrus orchards
- Authors: Mommsen, Wayne Trevor
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434952 , vital:73118
- Description: In May 2019, South Korean inspectors rejected numerous grapefruit consignments from Letsitele, Hoedspruit and Onderberg in South Arica, because of live mealybug found on fruit. Growers expressed deep concern as mealybug management to a phytosanitary level was almost unattainable. Regular spray interventions for control of citrus black spot fungus, Phyllosticta citricarpa, and citrus thrips, Scirtothrips aurantii, cause repercussions in mealybug populations because they undermine the naturally occurring biocontrol complex. As part of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy, release of commercially produced parasitoids is common practice, to augment the naturally occurring beneficial insect populations. Prior knowledge of the harmful effects of insecticides on parasitoids is essential to IPM planning and the success of the biocontrol component in such a programme. Timing of augmentative releases to coincide with the phenology of citrus and the mealybug pest is also considered important for the successful establishment and control. Consequently, field trials were conducted to compare efficacy of early vs. late releases of Anagyrus vladimiri (Triapitsyn), an effective parasitoid of the citrus mealybug, Planococcus citri (Risso). Semi-field bioassays were conducted concurrently to determine the impact of various thripicides on A. vladimiri. The impact of sulfoxaflor, spinetoram, spirotetramat and prothiofos were rated harmless, as A. vladimiri mortality was lower than 25% after coming into contact with aged residues between 7 and 14 days old. October and November releases of A. vladimiri resulted in early parasitism and lowered peak-infestation of mealybug. January releases are possibly too late in grapefruit and lemon, open field, orchards, considering parasitism by A. vladimiri peaked in February. In mandarin orchards under net, percentage parasitism of 3rd instar mealybug increased a month later. Notably, at harvest, the difference in efficacy between treatments was not clear. This could be explained by high levels of natural parasitism observed in the treated and untreated orchards, which emphasises the importance of conservation biocontrol. In a second season, the proportion of hyperparasitoids captured (61%) from samples of mealybug-infested fruit was larger than the proportion of primary parasitoids, Anagyrus vladimiri, Coccidoxenoides perminutus (Girault) and Leptomastix dactylopii (Howard) (39%), which was far lower than the captures of eclosing primary parasitoids the previous season, which was 60%. The new discovery of Pseudaphycus sp. in citrus orchards in South Africa could be a key in explaining the uncontrollable levels of mealybug experienced and has drawn attention to a need for further understanding of ecological factors that influence biological control in citrus. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Mommsen, Wayne Trevor
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434952 , vital:73118
- Description: In May 2019, South Korean inspectors rejected numerous grapefruit consignments from Letsitele, Hoedspruit and Onderberg in South Arica, because of live mealybug found on fruit. Growers expressed deep concern as mealybug management to a phytosanitary level was almost unattainable. Regular spray interventions for control of citrus black spot fungus, Phyllosticta citricarpa, and citrus thrips, Scirtothrips aurantii, cause repercussions in mealybug populations because they undermine the naturally occurring biocontrol complex. As part of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy, release of commercially produced parasitoids is common practice, to augment the naturally occurring beneficial insect populations. Prior knowledge of the harmful effects of insecticides on parasitoids is essential to IPM planning and the success of the biocontrol component in such a programme. Timing of augmentative releases to coincide with the phenology of citrus and the mealybug pest is also considered important for the successful establishment and control. Consequently, field trials were conducted to compare efficacy of early vs. late releases of Anagyrus vladimiri (Triapitsyn), an effective parasitoid of the citrus mealybug, Planococcus citri (Risso). Semi-field bioassays were conducted concurrently to determine the impact of various thripicides on A. vladimiri. The impact of sulfoxaflor, spinetoram, spirotetramat and prothiofos were rated harmless, as A. vladimiri mortality was lower than 25% after coming into contact with aged residues between 7 and 14 days old. October and November releases of A. vladimiri resulted in early parasitism and lowered peak-infestation of mealybug. January releases are possibly too late in grapefruit and lemon, open field, orchards, considering parasitism by A. vladimiri peaked in February. In mandarin orchards under net, percentage parasitism of 3rd instar mealybug increased a month later. Notably, at harvest, the difference in efficacy between treatments was not clear. This could be explained by high levels of natural parasitism observed in the treated and untreated orchards, which emphasises the importance of conservation biocontrol. In a second season, the proportion of hyperparasitoids captured (61%) from samples of mealybug-infested fruit was larger than the proportion of primary parasitoids, Anagyrus vladimiri, Coccidoxenoides perminutus (Girault) and Leptomastix dactylopii (Howard) (39%), which was far lower than the captures of eclosing primary parasitoids the previous season, which was 60%. The new discovery of Pseudaphycus sp. in citrus orchards in South Africa could be a key in explaining the uncontrollable levels of mealybug experienced and has drawn attention to a need for further understanding of ecological factors that influence biological control in citrus. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
MeerKAT observations of the Abell 141 galaxy cluster
- Authors: Stanbury, Savannah Mae
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435378 , vital:73152
- Description: This study is aimed at being an overview and investigation of the behaviour and morphology of radio quiet (RQ) active galactic nuclei (AGN) in the radio and optical/near-infrared (NIR) bands. It is hoped that a concise description of the relation that exists between accretion activity and star formation (SF) will be achieved through utilization of multiwavelength astronomy analysis. This analysis includes the processing of data acquired from the MeerKAT International GHz Tiered Extragalactic Exploration survey (MIGHTEE), the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), the Hyper Suprime Camera (HSC) mounted on the Subaru telescope and the VISTA telescope. In this thesis, several targets were observed using SALT spectroscopy, but a redshift of only one of them was obtained. Lastly, it was established that for the sample of RQ AGN studied, the AGN contribute a large fraction of the radio emission observed. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Physics and Electronics, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Stanbury, Savannah Mae
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435378 , vital:73152
- Description: This study is aimed at being an overview and investigation of the behaviour and morphology of radio quiet (RQ) active galactic nuclei (AGN) in the radio and optical/near-infrared (NIR) bands. It is hoped that a concise description of the relation that exists between accretion activity and star formation (SF) will be achieved through utilization of multiwavelength astronomy analysis. This analysis includes the processing of data acquired from the MeerKAT International GHz Tiered Extragalactic Exploration survey (MIGHTEE), the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), the Hyper Suprime Camera (HSC) mounted on the Subaru telescope and the VISTA telescope. In this thesis, several targets were observed using SALT spectroscopy, but a redshift of only one of them was obtained. Lastly, it was established that for the sample of RQ AGN studied, the AGN contribute a large fraction of the radio emission observed. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Physics and Electronics, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Paul and the soul: an analysis of the Apostle’s anthropology
- Authors: Pluke, Dylan Hay
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435506 , vital:73164
- Description: It may be no exaggeration to say that every aspect of the Apostle Paul’s thought is debated. This is certainly the case for his anthropology, which is to say his beliefs regarding the nature of the human person. There is intense debate concerning what Paul believed about the human person. This is especially so when arguing about whether or not Paul believed in a human soul. In the thesis that follows, I use a linguistic analysis of Paul’s writings as well as those of two of his putative backgrounds, to determine what he believed regarding the nature of the human soul. The results of this analysis are that, of the potential backgrounds that may have influenced the Apostle, the Jewish background into which he was born is the most pertinent, and that neither of the two words that Paul uses mean soul, in the sense of something which is immaterial and survives death. Rather, the psyche refers to one’s life, and the pneuma to the part of the person that connects one with God and which will replace the psyche and animate the person in the new age to come. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Pluke, Dylan Hay
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435506 , vital:73164
- Description: It may be no exaggeration to say that every aspect of the Apostle Paul’s thought is debated. This is certainly the case for his anthropology, which is to say his beliefs regarding the nature of the human person. There is intense debate concerning what Paul believed about the human person. This is especially so when arguing about whether or not Paul believed in a human soul. In the thesis that follows, I use a linguistic analysis of Paul’s writings as well as those of two of his putative backgrounds, to determine what he believed regarding the nature of the human soul. The results of this analysis are that, of the potential backgrounds that may have influenced the Apostle, the Jewish background into which he was born is the most pertinent, and that neither of the two words that Paul uses mean soul, in the sense of something which is immaterial and survives death. Rather, the psyche refers to one’s life, and the pneuma to the part of the person that connects one with God and which will replace the psyche and animate the person in the new age to come. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Perceptions of registered counselors’ ability to process clients’ narrated dreams during counselling
- Authors: Mpondo, Nontutuzelo
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435468 , vital:73160
- Description: Research related to South African registered counsellors (RCs) have yet to show how RCs incorporate dreamwork in their counselling sessions. Dreamwork has largely been relegated to the periphery of clinical psychological practice, posing a challenge as clients on other levels of counselling practice bring dream material to mental health practitioners often lacking confidence and competence to respond effectively to this material. Clients' discussion of dreams can be beneficial in the counselling process. However, there appears to be a gap in educational opportunities for practitioners to develop skills and competency in working with dreams. This study's objective was to contribute to the sparse research material in this area. A qualitative research approach with an exploratory design using semi-structured interviews was used to explore and understand the meaning RCs ascribed to their work with dreams and clients. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 5 participants. Social constructionism was used as a theoretical framework for understanding and interpreting the data, and the data was analysed using thematic analysis. This knowledge is geared towards providing insight into what extent university or college curriculum covered content related to dreams, dreamwork, dream theories, and dream models, and to what extent RC's training prepared them to provide essential primary psychological services related to distress arising from dreams. This research highlighted how RCs engaged and perceived their competency with dream material. This study also highlighted that RCs were interested in dreamwork training and believed it would enhance their confidence and effectiveness in working with dream material during their sessions. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Psychology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Perceptions of registered counselors’ ability to process clients’ narrated dreams during counselling
- Authors: Mpondo, Nontutuzelo
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435468 , vital:73160
- Description: Research related to South African registered counsellors (RCs) have yet to show how RCs incorporate dreamwork in their counselling sessions. Dreamwork has largely been relegated to the periphery of clinical psychological practice, posing a challenge as clients on other levels of counselling practice bring dream material to mental health practitioners often lacking confidence and competence to respond effectively to this material. Clients' discussion of dreams can be beneficial in the counselling process. However, there appears to be a gap in educational opportunities for practitioners to develop skills and competency in working with dreams. This study's objective was to contribute to the sparse research material in this area. A qualitative research approach with an exploratory design using semi-structured interviews was used to explore and understand the meaning RCs ascribed to their work with dreams and clients. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 5 participants. Social constructionism was used as a theoretical framework for understanding and interpreting the data, and the data was analysed using thematic analysis. This knowledge is geared towards providing insight into what extent university or college curriculum covered content related to dreams, dreamwork, dream theories, and dream models, and to what extent RC's training prepared them to provide essential primary psychological services related to distress arising from dreams. This research highlighted how RCs engaged and perceived their competency with dream material. This study also highlighted that RCs were interested in dreamwork training and believed it would enhance their confidence and effectiveness in working with dream material during their sessions. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Psychology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Performance evaluation of baseline-dependent window functions with several weighing functions
- Authors: Vanqa, Kamvulethu
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435850 , vital:73206
- Description: Radio interferometric data volume is exponentially increasing with the potential to cause slow processing and data storage issues for radio observations recorded at high time and frequency resolutions. This necessitates that a sort of data compression is imposed. The conventional method to compress the data is averaging across time and frequency. However, this results in amplitude loss and source distortion at the edges of the field of view. To reduce amplitude loss and source distortion, baseline-dependent window functions (BDWFs) are proposed in theliterature. BDWFs are visibility data compression methods using window functions to retainthe signals within a field of interest (FoI) and to suppress signals outside this FoI. However,BDWFs are used with window functions as discussed in the signal processing field without any optimisation. This thesis evaluates the performance of BDWFs and then proposes to use machine learning with gradient descent to optimize the window functions employed in BDWFs. Results show that the convergence of the objective function is limited due to the band-limited nature of the window functions in the Fourier space. BDWFs performance is also investigated and discussed using several weighting schemes. Results show that there exists an optimal parameter tuning (not necessarily unique) that suggests an optimal combination of BDWFs and density sampling. With this, ∼ 4 % smearing is observed within the FoI, and ∼ 80 % source suppression is achieved outside the FoI using the MeerKAT telescope at 1.4 GHz, sampled at 1 s and 184.3 kHz then averaged with BDWFs to achieve a compression factor of 4 in time and 3 in frequency. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Science, Mathematics, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Vanqa, Kamvulethu
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435850 , vital:73206
- Description: Radio interferometric data volume is exponentially increasing with the potential to cause slow processing and data storage issues for radio observations recorded at high time and frequency resolutions. This necessitates that a sort of data compression is imposed. The conventional method to compress the data is averaging across time and frequency. However, this results in amplitude loss and source distortion at the edges of the field of view. To reduce amplitude loss and source distortion, baseline-dependent window functions (BDWFs) are proposed in theliterature. BDWFs are visibility data compression methods using window functions to retainthe signals within a field of interest (FoI) and to suppress signals outside this FoI. However,BDWFs are used with window functions as discussed in the signal processing field without any optimisation. This thesis evaluates the performance of BDWFs and then proposes to use machine learning with gradient descent to optimize the window functions employed in BDWFs. Results show that the convergence of the objective function is limited due to the band-limited nature of the window functions in the Fourier space. BDWFs performance is also investigated and discussed using several weighting schemes. Results show that there exists an optimal parameter tuning (not necessarily unique) that suggests an optimal combination of BDWFs and density sampling. With this, ∼ 4 % smearing is observed within the FoI, and ∼ 80 % source suppression is achieved outside the FoI using the MeerKAT telescope at 1.4 GHz, sampled at 1 s and 184.3 kHz then averaged with BDWFs to achieve a compression factor of 4 in time and 3 in frequency. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Science, Mathematics, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Social justice implications of the language of the court judgment genre and its development in pre- and post-independence Zimbabwe
- Authors: Nemaramba, Dylan
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435605 , vital:73172
- Description: Access restricted. Expected release in 2026. , Thesis (PhD) -- Humanities, Linguistics and Applied Language Studies, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Nemaramba, Dylan
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435605 , vital:73172
- Description: Access restricted. Expected release in 2026. , Thesis (PhD) -- Humanities, Linguistics and Applied Language Studies, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
The effect of Gracilaria gracilis (Rhodophyta) on growth and behaviour of farmed abalone Haliotis midae when included in the abalone diet
- Madlala, Njabulo Praiseworth
- Authors: Madlala, Njabulo Praiseworth
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435332 , vital:73148
- Description: Abalone feed naturally on algae, but commercial abalone farms rely on formulated feed. The inclusion of algae with the formulated feed in the diet improves growth, health and feed conversion ratio (FCR). However, the kelp that is currently included in the feed is wild harvested and this resource is limited and under increasing pressure. Thus, there is a need to develop an alternative sustainable source of algae. The aim was to use Gracilaria gracilis algae (that was produced with mussel in an integrated multitrophic aquaculture system; IMTA) which was then included into abalone feeds and its influence on abalone growth, FCR and behaviour was evaluated. Sea-based G. gracilis was harvested off an existing IMTA system, manufactured into Abfeed® and fed to abalone to determine growth efficiency. Abalone (30 - 40 g abalone-1) originated from the same cohort at Whale Rock Abalone Farm (Pty) Ltd., Hermanus. Abalone were fed either: Abfeed® S34 only with no algae (G0, the control); Abfeed® with sea-based IMTA G. gracilis included in the formulated feed at 0.75 % (G0.75); 1.50 % (G1.50); 3.00 % (G3.00); 6.00 % (G6.00); and 12.00 % (G12.00) inclusion; and Abfeed® S34 with fresh-live G. gracilis (cultured at Whale Rock Abalone Farm (Pty) Ltd.; Gfresh + S34s). Abalone shell length, whole body mass and FCR were measured at a four-months interval over eight months (two growth cycles). Differences in behaviour (i.e., level of activity and feeding activity) were also monitored and comparing between treatments. There was significant difference in mean whole-body mass between treatments (RMANOVA, F(6, 29) = 3.71, p = 0.007). Abalone fed the diet with the highest inclusion of dry G. gracilis (G12.00) had a lower mean whole-body mass value (74.13 ± 2.94 g abalone-1) than abalone from all the other diets after eight months. There was a negative relationship between the condition factor and dry G. gracilis inclusion rate for the first growth cycle (y = - 0.0044x + 1.222, R2 = 0.24, p=0.009) and second-growth cycle (y = - 0.0096x + 1.2233, R2 = 0.51, p = 0.00002). Abalone receiving fresh G. gracilis were less quiescent and more alert on the first hours after food distribution (p < 0.05). The same proportion of abalone with G0, G0.75, and G6.00 G. gracilis inclusion were feeding all along the 9 hours post-feeding. This study will potentially reduce the dependence of abalone farms on wild-harvested kelp in formulated feed. This will improve their contribution to a more environmentally sustainable global production of sea food products, making them more competitive on international markets. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Madlala, Njabulo Praiseworth
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435332 , vital:73148
- Description: Abalone feed naturally on algae, but commercial abalone farms rely on formulated feed. The inclusion of algae with the formulated feed in the diet improves growth, health and feed conversion ratio (FCR). However, the kelp that is currently included in the feed is wild harvested and this resource is limited and under increasing pressure. Thus, there is a need to develop an alternative sustainable source of algae. The aim was to use Gracilaria gracilis algae (that was produced with mussel in an integrated multitrophic aquaculture system; IMTA) which was then included into abalone feeds and its influence on abalone growth, FCR and behaviour was evaluated. Sea-based G. gracilis was harvested off an existing IMTA system, manufactured into Abfeed® and fed to abalone to determine growth efficiency. Abalone (30 - 40 g abalone-1) originated from the same cohort at Whale Rock Abalone Farm (Pty) Ltd., Hermanus. Abalone were fed either: Abfeed® S34 only with no algae (G0, the control); Abfeed® with sea-based IMTA G. gracilis included in the formulated feed at 0.75 % (G0.75); 1.50 % (G1.50); 3.00 % (G3.00); 6.00 % (G6.00); and 12.00 % (G12.00) inclusion; and Abfeed® S34 with fresh-live G. gracilis (cultured at Whale Rock Abalone Farm (Pty) Ltd.; Gfresh + S34s). Abalone shell length, whole body mass and FCR were measured at a four-months interval over eight months (two growth cycles). Differences in behaviour (i.e., level of activity and feeding activity) were also monitored and comparing between treatments. There was significant difference in mean whole-body mass between treatments (RMANOVA, F(6, 29) = 3.71, p = 0.007). Abalone fed the diet with the highest inclusion of dry G. gracilis (G12.00) had a lower mean whole-body mass value (74.13 ± 2.94 g abalone-1) than abalone from all the other diets after eight months. There was a negative relationship between the condition factor and dry G. gracilis inclusion rate for the first growth cycle (y = - 0.0044x + 1.222, R2 = 0.24, p=0.009) and second-growth cycle (y = - 0.0096x + 1.2233, R2 = 0.51, p = 0.00002). Abalone receiving fresh G. gracilis were less quiescent and more alert on the first hours after food distribution (p < 0.05). The same proportion of abalone with G0, G0.75, and G6.00 G. gracilis inclusion were feeding all along the 9 hours post-feeding. This study will potentially reduce the dependence of abalone farms on wild-harvested kelp in formulated feed. This will improve their contribution to a more environmentally sustainable global production of sea food products, making them more competitive on international markets. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
The feasibility of task-shifting prolonged exposure for Primary Care (PE-PC) for PTSD within a low resource community in the Eastern Cape
- Shabangu, Princess Noxolo Nonhlanhla
- Authors: Shabangu, Princess Noxolo Nonhlanhla
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435479 , vital:73161
- Description: Although high levels of trauma exposure potentiate an alarming prevalence of PTSD, increasing the need for trauma-focused treatment, the South African health system is unable to care for the population. The South African healthcare system contains a range of systemic and structural inefficiencies, including suboptimal care and shortages of healthcare professionals. PE-PC offers a resource-constrained mental healthcare system solution by integrating an evidence-based intervention (EBI) in primary care settings. Likewise, the present study acknowledges the ratio of mental healthcare professionals to patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). It explores task shifting to expand mental healthcare to primary care settings. The study follows qualitative healthcare design research to explore the experiences and perceptions of the two cohorts of trauma support workers (TSW) from Rhode University and the Joza community in Makhanda. The feasibility of the PE-PC intervention in Makhanda was illustrated through the data obtained from the TSWs' experiences and perceptions of the intervention's utility. The present study presents an essential contribution to the sparse research conducted on treating PTSD in LMIC with shortages in healthcare professionals. The thematic findings look at the trauma support workers (TSWs) role, including some of its challenges, to explore the feasibility of interventions. Some of the themes highlighted unpack the perceived utility of task-shifting in low-resource contexts, the limitations thereof and considerations for future research. Notwithstanding the challenges, the data from the present study indicates that PE-PC can be feasibly task-shifted in low-resource contexts such as Makhanda. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Psychology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Shabangu, Princess Noxolo Nonhlanhla
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435479 , vital:73161
- Description: Although high levels of trauma exposure potentiate an alarming prevalence of PTSD, increasing the need for trauma-focused treatment, the South African health system is unable to care for the population. The South African healthcare system contains a range of systemic and structural inefficiencies, including suboptimal care and shortages of healthcare professionals. PE-PC offers a resource-constrained mental healthcare system solution by integrating an evidence-based intervention (EBI) in primary care settings. Likewise, the present study acknowledges the ratio of mental healthcare professionals to patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). It explores task shifting to expand mental healthcare to primary care settings. The study follows qualitative healthcare design research to explore the experiences and perceptions of the two cohorts of trauma support workers (TSW) from Rhode University and the Joza community in Makhanda. The feasibility of the PE-PC intervention in Makhanda was illustrated through the data obtained from the TSWs' experiences and perceptions of the intervention's utility. The present study presents an essential contribution to the sparse research conducted on treating PTSD in LMIC with shortages in healthcare professionals. The thematic findings look at the trauma support workers (TSWs) role, including some of its challenges, to explore the feasibility of interventions. Some of the themes highlighted unpack the perceived utility of task-shifting in low-resource contexts, the limitations thereof and considerations for future research. Notwithstanding the challenges, the data from the present study indicates that PE-PC can be feasibly task-shifted in low-resource contexts such as Makhanda. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Psychology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
The mediating role of generational difference on the relationship between psychological capital, psychological empowerment, organisational support and the wellbeing of South African National Defence Force members
- Authors: Selepe, Babitsanang Annah
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435616 , vital:73173 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435616
- Description: There is a growing concern in understanding the contribution of generational difference (as a mediating variable) and factors that increase soldiers' well-being. This study aimed to determine the relationship between Psychological Capital, Psychological Empowerment and Organisational Support, and well-being. Additionally, it proposes the generational differences as a potential mediating factor among these variables. The study was guided by a positivist philosophy and quantitative research method was employed. The sample for this research consisted of 777 members from both Internal deployed within borders of Free state and those going for external deployment at De-Brug. The results show most respondents were male (78.3%) and 21.7% female. Most respondents were categorised as Gen Y (between 1981 - 1996, 67.0%), followed by Gen X (1965 - 1980, 24.8%) and Gen Z (1997 - 2012, 8.2%). Most respondents were in the SA Army, followed by SAAF and SAMHS and the SA Navy. Spearman’s Correlation and ANOVA analyses were conducted to test the relationship between the variables. The results revealed significant relationships between the variables included in the empirical model. However, Well-being does not have a statistically significant correlation with the mediation variable, generation cohort. Similarly, generation cohorts (X, Y, Z) do not significantly correlate with the predictor variables, Perceived Organisational Support, Psychological Empowerment. However, there is a statistically significant small negative correlation between generation cohort (Age) and Psychological Capital. The multiple regression analysis exhibited a significant overall model fit, indicating that 30% of the variance in employee well-being was accounted for by the predictors. Thus, this research implicates that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) would benefit from developing a culture and adopting policies as well as programmes that prioritises psychological well-being above physical prowess. For this reason, the present study is regarded as offering a potentially valuable contribution to the existing body of research in the positive psychology and reveals practical implications and applications within the military context. The study recommends that combat readiness requires prioritising mental health above physical strength. Policymakers should consider psychological factors like psychological capital and psychological 6 empowerment. Training programmes should include Psychological Capital and cognitive resilience. There should also be further research on positive psychology and troops' well-being. These factors can help improve peacekeeping and combat force readiness. Understanding generational variations' mediating effect can inform resilience and training programmes. Military organisations should cultivate confident, capable, and educated leaders to improve military proficiency. , Thesis (PhD) -- Humanities, Psychology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Selepe, Babitsanang Annah
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435616 , vital:73173 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435616
- Description: There is a growing concern in understanding the contribution of generational difference (as a mediating variable) and factors that increase soldiers' well-being. This study aimed to determine the relationship between Psychological Capital, Psychological Empowerment and Organisational Support, and well-being. Additionally, it proposes the generational differences as a potential mediating factor among these variables. The study was guided by a positivist philosophy and quantitative research method was employed. The sample for this research consisted of 777 members from both Internal deployed within borders of Free state and those going for external deployment at De-Brug. The results show most respondents were male (78.3%) and 21.7% female. Most respondents were categorised as Gen Y (between 1981 - 1996, 67.0%), followed by Gen X (1965 - 1980, 24.8%) and Gen Z (1997 - 2012, 8.2%). Most respondents were in the SA Army, followed by SAAF and SAMHS and the SA Navy. Spearman’s Correlation and ANOVA analyses were conducted to test the relationship between the variables. The results revealed significant relationships between the variables included in the empirical model. However, Well-being does not have a statistically significant correlation with the mediation variable, generation cohort. Similarly, generation cohorts (X, Y, Z) do not significantly correlate with the predictor variables, Perceived Organisational Support, Psychological Empowerment. However, there is a statistically significant small negative correlation between generation cohort (Age) and Psychological Capital. The multiple regression analysis exhibited a significant overall model fit, indicating that 30% of the variance in employee well-being was accounted for by the predictors. Thus, this research implicates that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) would benefit from developing a culture and adopting policies as well as programmes that prioritises psychological well-being above physical prowess. For this reason, the present study is regarded as offering a potentially valuable contribution to the existing body of research in the positive psychology and reveals practical implications and applications within the military context. The study recommends that combat readiness requires prioritising mental health above physical strength. Policymakers should consider psychological factors like psychological capital and psychological 6 empowerment. Training programmes should include Psychological Capital and cognitive resilience. There should also be further research on positive psychology and troops' well-being. These factors can help improve peacekeeping and combat force readiness. Understanding generational variations' mediating effect can inform resilience and training programmes. Military organisations should cultivate confident, capable, and educated leaders to improve military proficiency. , Thesis (PhD) -- Humanities, Psychology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
The use of gabions as a tool for ecological engineering
- Authors: Seath, Jessica Lauren
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434987 , vital:73121
- Description: Anthropogenic activities are centred in coastal ecosystems, including the development of harbours and/or marinas. The artificial structures used in coastal development typically has a different composition, orientation and level of complexity to that of natural ecosystems contributing to loss of biodiversity and increased incidence of invasive species. Ecological engineering research is attempting to identify different types of structures and materials that can increase species diversity and target species of conservation concern in coastal systems. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of gabions (rock filled structures) as an ecological engineering tool by comparing community structure on these structures with pre-existing seawall structures within a small harbour and marina in South Africa (Knysna Harbour). The objectives of the study were to compare the differences in; 1) fish and; 2) colonising organisms’ diversity and composition between two artificial structures. Thirteen gabion boxes were deployed in Knysna Harbour and together with corresponding seawalls, monitored quarterly over a period of 12 months (August 2020 – August 2021) to assess taxon and functional richness, diversity, abundance and composition of fish, invertebrate and algal species. Physico-chemical characteristics of the water body were also monitored quarterly. Remote underwater video systems were used to quantify MaxN (maximum number of a fish species in the frame at any one time during each set that gives an indication of relative abundance) and identify fish species. The results of the two-way crossed ANOVAs indicated that gabion habitats recruited greater numbers and more types of fish species and from more functional groups than the seawalls, especially omnivorous and carnivorous fish. Additionally, photoquadrats were used to quantify percentage cover, counts and to identify colonising taxa. The results of the two-way crossed ANOVAs indicated that gabions hosted greater numbers of species resulting in a higher overall diversity and abundance of colonising organisms than seawalls. By contrast, the seawalls supported more types of functional groups of colonising organisms than gabions, largely due to abundances of different algal species. The results from the crossed PERMANOVAs indicated that the composition of fish and colonising organisms were vastly different from one another, and that each habitat was supporting very different functional groups. Results indicate that whilst both gabions and seawalls contain several alien species, that the ratio of native to alien species is higher in gabion habitats. Additionally, this research observed that gabion structures hosted four species listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This study has highlighted that the use of gabions (with their natural increased complexity) could be important to consider for the future of urban coastal development in harbours such as in Knysna Harbour. Ecological engineering projects using gabions have the potential to be used in South Africa in projects that aim at increasing biodiversity in urban coastal environments. As well as increasing the settlement and abundance of habitat-forming ecosystem engineers to ensure the long-term stability of these ecosystems. They can be used both in the development of new costal development projects as well as in an ad-hoc fashion where they can be interspersed on seawalls in harbours. Additionally, gabions have the potential to be used in projects that target species of conservation concern such as the endangered Knysna Seahorse (Hippocampus capensis). It is, however, important to monitor the invasion by non-native species in future ecological engineering projects in South Africa as well as their potential for creating ecological traps (a situation in which an organism may be convinced to settle in a low-quality habitat) for certain species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Seath, Jessica Lauren
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434987 , vital:73121
- Description: Anthropogenic activities are centred in coastal ecosystems, including the development of harbours and/or marinas. The artificial structures used in coastal development typically has a different composition, orientation and level of complexity to that of natural ecosystems contributing to loss of biodiversity and increased incidence of invasive species. Ecological engineering research is attempting to identify different types of structures and materials that can increase species diversity and target species of conservation concern in coastal systems. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of gabions (rock filled structures) as an ecological engineering tool by comparing community structure on these structures with pre-existing seawall structures within a small harbour and marina in South Africa (Knysna Harbour). The objectives of the study were to compare the differences in; 1) fish and; 2) colonising organisms’ diversity and composition between two artificial structures. Thirteen gabion boxes were deployed in Knysna Harbour and together with corresponding seawalls, monitored quarterly over a period of 12 months (August 2020 – August 2021) to assess taxon and functional richness, diversity, abundance and composition of fish, invertebrate and algal species. Physico-chemical characteristics of the water body were also monitored quarterly. Remote underwater video systems were used to quantify MaxN (maximum number of a fish species in the frame at any one time during each set that gives an indication of relative abundance) and identify fish species. The results of the two-way crossed ANOVAs indicated that gabion habitats recruited greater numbers and more types of fish species and from more functional groups than the seawalls, especially omnivorous and carnivorous fish. Additionally, photoquadrats were used to quantify percentage cover, counts and to identify colonising taxa. The results of the two-way crossed ANOVAs indicated that gabions hosted greater numbers of species resulting in a higher overall diversity and abundance of colonising organisms than seawalls. By contrast, the seawalls supported more types of functional groups of colonising organisms than gabions, largely due to abundances of different algal species. The results from the crossed PERMANOVAs indicated that the composition of fish and colonising organisms were vastly different from one another, and that each habitat was supporting very different functional groups. Results indicate that whilst both gabions and seawalls contain several alien species, that the ratio of native to alien species is higher in gabion habitats. Additionally, this research observed that gabion structures hosted four species listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This study has highlighted that the use of gabions (with their natural increased complexity) could be important to consider for the future of urban coastal development in harbours such as in Knysna Harbour. Ecological engineering projects using gabions have the potential to be used in South Africa in projects that aim at increasing biodiversity in urban coastal environments. As well as increasing the settlement and abundance of habitat-forming ecosystem engineers to ensure the long-term stability of these ecosystems. They can be used both in the development of new costal development projects as well as in an ad-hoc fashion where they can be interspersed on seawalls in harbours. Additionally, gabions have the potential to be used in projects that target species of conservation concern such as the endangered Knysna Seahorse (Hippocampus capensis). It is, however, important to monitor the invasion by non-native species in future ecological engineering projects in South Africa as well as their potential for creating ecological traps (a situation in which an organism may be convinced to settle in a low-quality habitat) for certain species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Towards an artificial intelligence-based agent for characterising the organisation of primes
- Authors: Oyetunji, Nicole Armlade
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435389 , vital:73153
- Description: Machine learning has experienced significant growth in recent decades, driven by advancements in computational power and data storage. One of the applications of machine learning is in the field of number theory. Prime numbers hold significant importance in mathematics and its applications, for example in cryptography, owing to their distinct properties. Therefore, it is crucial to efficiently obtain the complete list of primes below a given threshold, with low relatively computational cost. This study extensively explores a deterministic scheme, proposed by Hawing and Okouma (2016), that is centered around Consecutive Composite Odd Numbers, showing the link between these numbers and prime numbers by examining their internal structure. The main objective of this dissertation is to develop two main artificial intelligence agents capable of learning and recognizing patterns within a list of consecutive composite odd numbers. To achieve this, the mathematical foundations of the deterministic scheme are used to generate a dataset of consecutive composite odd numbers. This dataset is further transformed into a dataset of differences to simplify the prediction problem. A literature review is conducted which encompasses research from the domains of machine learning and deep learning. Two main machine learning algorithms are implemented along with their variations, Long Short-Term Memory Networks and Error Correction Neural Networks. These models are trained independently on two separate but related datasets, the dataset of consecutive composite odd numbers and the dataset of differences between those numbers. The evaluation of these models includes relevant metrics, for example, Root Mean Square Error, Mean Absolute Percentage Error, Theil U coefficient, and Directional Accuracy. Through a comparative analysis, the study identifies the top-performing 3 models, with a particular emphasis on accuracy and computational efficiency. The results indicate that the LSTM model, when trained on difference data and coupled with exponential smoothing, displays superior performance as the most accurate model overall. It achieves a RMSE of 0.08, which significantly outperforms the dataset’s standard deviation of 0.42. This model exceeds the performance of basic estimator models, implying that a data-driven approach utilizing machine learning techniques can provide valuable insights in the field of number theory. The second best model, the ECNN trained on difference data combined with exponential smoothing, achieves an RMSE of 0.28. However, it is worth mentioning that this model is the most computationally efficient, being 32 times faster than the LSTM model. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Mathematics, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Oyetunji, Nicole Armlade
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435389 , vital:73153
- Description: Machine learning has experienced significant growth in recent decades, driven by advancements in computational power and data storage. One of the applications of machine learning is in the field of number theory. Prime numbers hold significant importance in mathematics and its applications, for example in cryptography, owing to their distinct properties. Therefore, it is crucial to efficiently obtain the complete list of primes below a given threshold, with low relatively computational cost. This study extensively explores a deterministic scheme, proposed by Hawing and Okouma (2016), that is centered around Consecutive Composite Odd Numbers, showing the link between these numbers and prime numbers by examining their internal structure. The main objective of this dissertation is to develop two main artificial intelligence agents capable of learning and recognizing patterns within a list of consecutive composite odd numbers. To achieve this, the mathematical foundations of the deterministic scheme are used to generate a dataset of consecutive composite odd numbers. This dataset is further transformed into a dataset of differences to simplify the prediction problem. A literature review is conducted which encompasses research from the domains of machine learning and deep learning. Two main machine learning algorithms are implemented along with their variations, Long Short-Term Memory Networks and Error Correction Neural Networks. These models are trained independently on two separate but related datasets, the dataset of consecutive composite odd numbers and the dataset of differences between those numbers. The evaluation of these models includes relevant metrics, for example, Root Mean Square Error, Mean Absolute Percentage Error, Theil U coefficient, and Directional Accuracy. Through a comparative analysis, the study identifies the top-performing 3 models, with a particular emphasis on accuracy and computational efficiency. The results indicate that the LSTM model, when trained on difference data and coupled with exponential smoothing, displays superior performance as the most accurate model overall. It achieves a RMSE of 0.08, which significantly outperforms the dataset’s standard deviation of 0.42. This model exceeds the performance of basic estimator models, implying that a data-driven approach utilizing machine learning techniques can provide valuable insights in the field of number theory. The second best model, the ECNN trained on difference data combined with exponential smoothing, achieves an RMSE of 0.28. However, it is worth mentioning that this model is the most computationally efficient, being 32 times faster than the LSTM model. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Mathematics, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
A critical analysis of the factors influencing knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses in South Africa
- Authors: Sha, Shafeek
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434817 , vital:73107 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434817
- Description: Access restricted. The expected release date is 2025. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Sha, Shafeek
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434817 , vital:73107 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434817
- Description: Access restricted. The expected release date is 2025. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
An exploratory study of leadership and organisational change through the lens of organisational behaviour: a secondary school in Makhanda
- Authors: Yedwa, Sesonasipho
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434595 , vital:73088
- Description: Access restricted. Expected release in 2025. , Thesis (MSocSci) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Yedwa, Sesonasipho
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434595 , vital:73088
- Description: Access restricted. Expected release in 2025. , Thesis (MSocSci) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
Dictionaries as pedagogic tools: a case study of selected schools in Makhanda, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Wababa, Zola Richman
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434651 , vital:73093 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434656
- Description: The importance of dictionaries in society has been confirmed in relevant literature while their specific role in education is underlined by several studies focused on the use of dictionaries in teaching and learning. This study focuses on mother-tongue or first language (L1) isiXhosa learners and their use of dictionaries across subjects in the Intermediate Phase of primary schooling. The research sought to examine how dictionaries are used in teaching and learning and how they could be used more effectively in the teaching and learning processes, with a focus on isiXhosa L1 learners in the Makhanda area of the Sarah Baartman District of education, Eastern Cape. The general aim of this study was to improve the process and practice of using and producing Language for General Purpose (LGP) and Language for Specific Purpose (LSP) dictionaries across subjects. The study also sought to contribute to improving the functional value and user-friendliness of teaching support materials, such as dictionaries. The Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) policy document states that dictionaries are essential in teaching and learning of both language and content subjects. In relation to language subjects, the CAPS is explicit about the use of dictionaries in the acquisition of vocabulary, meaning, spelling, pronunciation, and grammar, among other types of information that are integral in language attainment and learning. Nonetheless, the CAPS document does not clearly articulate the use of dictionaries in content subjects. The study draws on two branches of lexicography – namely, dictionary user research and dictionary criticism – to examine the extent to which dictionaries are problem-solving tools which assist users to meet their cognitive and communicative needs. Thus, the study seeks to influence policy and practice of the use of dictionaries as teaching and learning resource materials that could help teachers and learners better understand key concepts across subjects. A mixed-method approach was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data using a variety of data collection instruments, viz., observation schedules, questionnaires, and interviews. The study found that although teachers were aware of dictionaries, they did not use them as a resource in teaching. Furthermore, teachers lacked skills in the use of dictionaries, therefore, they were not able to effectively integrate dictionaries in their lessons. The research also found that learners had little awareness of dictionaries and did not fully understand their role in language acquisition or content. Lastly, the study offered some insights on how dictionaries could be integrated in teaching and learning, and how their use could address some communicative and cognitive problems faced by non-mother tongue English speakers in a context where English dominates teaching and learning at the expense of learners’ L1. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Wababa, Zola Richman
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434651 , vital:73093 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434656
- Description: The importance of dictionaries in society has been confirmed in relevant literature while their specific role in education is underlined by several studies focused on the use of dictionaries in teaching and learning. This study focuses on mother-tongue or first language (L1) isiXhosa learners and their use of dictionaries across subjects in the Intermediate Phase of primary schooling. The research sought to examine how dictionaries are used in teaching and learning and how they could be used more effectively in the teaching and learning processes, with a focus on isiXhosa L1 learners in the Makhanda area of the Sarah Baartman District of education, Eastern Cape. The general aim of this study was to improve the process and practice of using and producing Language for General Purpose (LGP) and Language for Specific Purpose (LSP) dictionaries across subjects. The study also sought to contribute to improving the functional value and user-friendliness of teaching support materials, such as dictionaries. The Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) policy document states that dictionaries are essential in teaching and learning of both language and content subjects. In relation to language subjects, the CAPS is explicit about the use of dictionaries in the acquisition of vocabulary, meaning, spelling, pronunciation, and grammar, among other types of information that are integral in language attainment and learning. Nonetheless, the CAPS document does not clearly articulate the use of dictionaries in content subjects. The study draws on two branches of lexicography – namely, dictionary user research and dictionary criticism – to examine the extent to which dictionaries are problem-solving tools which assist users to meet their cognitive and communicative needs. Thus, the study seeks to influence policy and practice of the use of dictionaries as teaching and learning resource materials that could help teachers and learners better understand key concepts across subjects. A mixed-method approach was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data using a variety of data collection instruments, viz., observation schedules, questionnaires, and interviews. The study found that although teachers were aware of dictionaries, they did not use them as a resource in teaching. Furthermore, teachers lacked skills in the use of dictionaries, therefore, they were not able to effectively integrate dictionaries in their lessons. The research also found that learners had little awareness of dictionaries and did not fully understand their role in language acquisition or content. Lastly, the study offered some insights on how dictionaries could be integrated in teaching and learning, and how their use could address some communicative and cognitive problems faced by non-mother tongue English speakers in a context where English dominates teaching and learning at the expense of learners’ L1. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03