Blockchain readiness for countries towards 2030- the barriers and benefits of adopting blockchain technology
- Authors: Moonsamy, Devakumaran
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Blockchains (Databases) Financial institutions -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49725 , vital:41783
- Description: This study investigates the factors of blockchain that will promote sustainable business towards the year 2030. The study provides an outlook to areas where business might be vulnerable in the event of blockchain implementation. The findings of this study were identified by means of an online questionnaire that targeted specialists in the arena of blockchain and business management. By a thematic analysis, the outcome of the study guides, precautions, and prepares organisations for what may come in the future of blockchain.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Moonsamy, Devakumaran
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Blockchains (Databases) Financial institutions -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49725 , vital:41783
- Description: This study investigates the factors of blockchain that will promote sustainable business towards the year 2030. The study provides an outlook to areas where business might be vulnerable in the event of blockchain implementation. The findings of this study were identified by means of an online questionnaire that targeted specialists in the arena of blockchain and business management. By a thematic analysis, the outcome of the study guides, precautions, and prepares organisations for what may come in the future of blockchain.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
BODIPY dyes for application in the photo-oxidation of pollutants, photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy, and nonlinear optics
- Authors: Kelechi, Lebechi Augustus
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Dyes and dyeing -- Chemistry , Fluorescent probes , Fluorescence spectroscopy
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140298 , vital:37859
- Description: The synthesis and structural characterization of a series of BODIPY dyes to analyze both the effects of halogenations at the 2,6-positions and the introduction of styryl groups at the 3,5-positions. The photophysical properties of these dyes were investigated to determine their suitability as singlet oxygen-generating photosensitiser dyes for application in photocatalytic degradation of azo dyes and in photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT). Upon halogenation, the dyes showed high to moderate singlet oxygen quantum yields. The potential utility of electrospun polystyrene (PS) nanofibres embedded with halogenated BODIPY dyes for the photocatalytic degradation of Orange G and Methyl Orange from textile industry effluents were investigated. A comparison of the singlet oxygen quantum yield of the BODIPY dyes in solution and when embedded in the PS nanofibres support demonstrates that its photosensitiser properties are maintained in the nanofibre mats. The photocatalytic degradation properties of the PS nanofibres for Orange G and Methyl Orange were determined by using a 530 nm and 660 nm light-emitting diodes. The rate of photodegradation increases with both the Orange G and Methyl Orange concentrations and follows pseudo-first-order kinetics. The PACT activities of brominated BODIPYs on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were investigated. Log reduction values of over 9 were obtained during the photoinactivation of Staphylococcus aureus. To be able to red-shift the main spectral band of the BODIPY dyes into the therapeutic window, styryl groups were introduced at the 3,5-positions through a modified Knoevenagel condensation reaction. Because the red-shifted spectral band lies above 532 nm, the second harmonic of the Nd:YAG laser, there is very minute absorption at this wavelength. One of the novel brominated BODIPY dyes was investigated for its potential utility as optical limiting materials in nonlinear optics (NLO), and the dyes demonstrated typical nonlinear absorption behaviour characterised by reverse saturable absorption (RSA) in Z-scan measurements. Excellent optical limiting parameters were obtained for third-order susceptibility and hyperpolarisability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kelechi, Lebechi Augustus
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Dyes and dyeing -- Chemistry , Fluorescent probes , Fluorescence spectroscopy
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140298 , vital:37859
- Description: The synthesis and structural characterization of a series of BODIPY dyes to analyze both the effects of halogenations at the 2,6-positions and the introduction of styryl groups at the 3,5-positions. The photophysical properties of these dyes were investigated to determine their suitability as singlet oxygen-generating photosensitiser dyes for application in photocatalytic degradation of azo dyes and in photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT). Upon halogenation, the dyes showed high to moderate singlet oxygen quantum yields. The potential utility of electrospun polystyrene (PS) nanofibres embedded with halogenated BODIPY dyes for the photocatalytic degradation of Orange G and Methyl Orange from textile industry effluents were investigated. A comparison of the singlet oxygen quantum yield of the BODIPY dyes in solution and when embedded in the PS nanofibres support demonstrates that its photosensitiser properties are maintained in the nanofibre mats. The photocatalytic degradation properties of the PS nanofibres for Orange G and Methyl Orange were determined by using a 530 nm and 660 nm light-emitting diodes. The rate of photodegradation increases with both the Orange G and Methyl Orange concentrations and follows pseudo-first-order kinetics. The PACT activities of brominated BODIPYs on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were investigated. Log reduction values of over 9 were obtained during the photoinactivation of Staphylococcus aureus. To be able to red-shift the main spectral band of the BODIPY dyes into the therapeutic window, styryl groups were introduced at the 3,5-positions through a modified Knoevenagel condensation reaction. Because the red-shifted spectral band lies above 532 nm, the second harmonic of the Nd:YAG laser, there is very minute absorption at this wavelength. One of the novel brominated BODIPY dyes was investigated for its potential utility as optical limiting materials in nonlinear optics (NLO), and the dyes demonstrated typical nonlinear absorption behaviour characterised by reverse saturable absorption (RSA) in Z-scan measurements. Excellent optical limiting parameters were obtained for third-order susceptibility and hyperpolarisability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Budget Deficits, the Savings Gap and Current Account Deficits in the Southern African Development Community
- Authors: Kopeledi, Alyssa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Budget deficits -- South Africa Accounts current
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12392 , vital:39259
- Description: This study examines the validity of the triple deficit hypothesis for a selected number of SADC countries, utilising secondary annual data for the period 1996-2018. Based on previous studies and theory, current account deficit was chosen as the dependent variable and budget deficit and the savings gap as the independent variables. The study makes use of both first generation and second-generation unit root tests to examine the time series properties of the data. The empirical results show that the data is integrated of different orders. Kao, Pedroni and Westerlund cointegration tests were carried out to examine the long-term relationship between the variables of interest. The empirical results revealed that there is a long-term relationship between current account deficit, budget deficit s and the savings gap. The long-run model under the Autoregressive Distributed Lag test revealed that, a positive and significant relationship exists between budget deficit and current account deficit at a significance level of 10% and a negative and insignificant relationship exists between savings gap and current account deficit in the long run. This suggests that an improvement in the current account balance in SADC countries requires fiscal stringency
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kopeledi, Alyssa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Budget deficits -- South Africa Accounts current
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12392 , vital:39259
- Description: This study examines the validity of the triple deficit hypothesis for a selected number of SADC countries, utilising secondary annual data for the period 1996-2018. Based on previous studies and theory, current account deficit was chosen as the dependent variable and budget deficit and the savings gap as the independent variables. The study makes use of both first generation and second-generation unit root tests to examine the time series properties of the data. The empirical results show that the data is integrated of different orders. Kao, Pedroni and Westerlund cointegration tests were carried out to examine the long-term relationship between the variables of interest. The empirical results revealed that there is a long-term relationship between current account deficit, budget deficit s and the savings gap. The long-run model under the Autoregressive Distributed Lag test revealed that, a positive and significant relationship exists between budget deficit and current account deficit at a significance level of 10% and a negative and insignificant relationship exists between savings gap and current account deficit in the long run. This suggests that an improvement in the current account balance in SADC countries requires fiscal stringency
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Building a flexible and inexpensive multi-layer switch for software-defined networks
- Authors: Magwenzi, Tinashe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Software-defined networking (Computer network technology) , Telecommunication -- Switching systems , OpenFlow (Computer network protocol) , Local area networks (Computer networks)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/142841 , vital:38122
- Description: Software-Defined Networking (SDN) is a paradigm which enables the realisation of programmable network through the separation of the control logic from the forwarding functions. This separation is a departure from the traditional architecture. Much of the work done in SDN enabled devices has concentrated on higher end, high speed networks (10s GBit/s 100s GBit/s), rather than the relatively low bandwidth links (10s MBit/s to a few GBit/s) which are seen, for example, in South Africa. As SDN is increasingly becoming more accepted, due to its advantages over the traditional networks, it has been adopted for industrial purposes such as networking in data centres and network providers. The demand for programmable networks is increasing but is limited by the ability of providers to upgrade their infrastructure. In addition, as access to the Internet has become less expensive, the use of Internet is increasing in academic institutions, NGOs, and small to medium enterprises. This thesis details a means of building and managing a small scale Software-Defined Network using commodity hardware and open source tools. Core to the SDN Network illustrated in this thesis is the prototype of a multi-layer SDN switch. The proposed device is targeted to serve lower bandwidth communication (in relation to commercially produced high speed SDN-enabled devices). The performance of the prototype multilayer switch had shown to achieve: data-rates of up to 99.998%, average latencies that are under 40µs during forwarding/switching and under 100µs during routing while using packet sizes between 64 bytes and 1518 bytes, and a jitter of less than 15µs during all tests. This research explores in detail the design, development, and management of a multi-layer switch and its placement and integration in small scale SDN network. This includes testing of Layer 2 forwarding and Layer 3 routing, OpenFlow compliance testing, the management of the switch using created SDN applications, and real life network functionality such as forwarding, routing and VLAN networking to demonstrate its real world applicability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Magwenzi, Tinashe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Software-defined networking (Computer network technology) , Telecommunication -- Switching systems , OpenFlow (Computer network protocol) , Local area networks (Computer networks)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/142841 , vital:38122
- Description: Software-Defined Networking (SDN) is a paradigm which enables the realisation of programmable network through the separation of the control logic from the forwarding functions. This separation is a departure from the traditional architecture. Much of the work done in SDN enabled devices has concentrated on higher end, high speed networks (10s GBit/s 100s GBit/s), rather than the relatively low bandwidth links (10s MBit/s to a few GBit/s) which are seen, for example, in South Africa. As SDN is increasingly becoming more accepted, due to its advantages over the traditional networks, it has been adopted for industrial purposes such as networking in data centres and network providers. The demand for programmable networks is increasing but is limited by the ability of providers to upgrade their infrastructure. In addition, as access to the Internet has become less expensive, the use of Internet is increasing in academic institutions, NGOs, and small to medium enterprises. This thesis details a means of building and managing a small scale Software-Defined Network using commodity hardware and open source tools. Core to the SDN Network illustrated in this thesis is the prototype of a multi-layer SDN switch. The proposed device is targeted to serve lower bandwidth communication (in relation to commercially produced high speed SDN-enabled devices). The performance of the prototype multilayer switch had shown to achieve: data-rates of up to 99.998%, average latencies that are under 40µs during forwarding/switching and under 100µs during routing while using packet sizes between 64 bytes and 1518 bytes, and a jitter of less than 15µs during all tests. This research explores in detail the design, development, and management of a multi-layer switch and its placement and integration in small scale SDN network. This includes testing of Layer 2 forwarding and Layer 3 routing, OpenFlow compliance testing, the management of the switch using created SDN applications, and real life network functionality such as forwarding, routing and VLAN networking to demonstrate its real world applicability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Centrality of religiosity as a moderator of the relationship between workplace spirituality and organisational citizenship behaviour among police officers in the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality
- Authors: Noko, Sibongile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Religion in the workplace Employees -- Religious life Organizational change
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12491 , vital:39268
- Description: The significant positive relationships between workplace spirituality and organisational citizenship behaviour, as well as between centrality of religiosity and oganisational citizenship behaviour among police officers, confirm the relevance of social exchange theory and affective events theory to police officers’ behaviour. This study confirms the applicability of Social Exchange Theory (SET) and Affective Events Theory (AET). The current study utilized the SET and AET to examine the correlation between workplace spirituality and centrality of religiosity as well as organisational citizenship behaviour among Police officers in the Raymond Mlaba Local Municipality of the Eastern Cape. There is limited previous research concerning the influence of workplace spirituality and centrality of religiosity on organisational citizenship behaviour among police officers in the South African Police Services (SAPS) Department. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted. The sample (N= 100) consist of Police officers from Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality Police stations. Data were collected through the questionnaire method and SPSS was used for data analysis. A correlational analysis coupled with a simple linear regression analysis was utilised to determine whether there existed any significant relationship with the study’s theoretical attributes. The results of the simple linear regression indicated that workplace spirituality is positively correlated with organisational citizenship behaviour; which is similar to the centrality of religiosity. The results from multiple linear regression showed that the centrality of religiosity does moderate the correlation between workplace spirituality and organisational citizenship behaviour. The results of Multiple linear regression also showed that Workplace spirituality and centrality of religiosity both account for an extensively higher proportion vi of variance in organisational citizenship behaviour than in any of the two variables. This study augments existing knowledge on workplace spirituality, the centrality of religiosity and organisational citizenship behaviour among Police officers in the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality, which has largely been ignored by previous researchers, validates certain aspects of the SET and AET. The Station Commanders or Captains should give consideration on how to make the workplace more conducive to the centrality of religiosity and workplace spirituality; so that the Police officers can increase their organisational citizenship behaviour. Strategies need to be implemented to improve managerial and coworker support for Police officers through socialization and team building activities. However, to overcome feelings of occupational stress and their effects on well-being, employers should provide adequate information on any changes in the police service that may entail excessive work demand and dangerous working conditions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Noko, Sibongile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Religion in the workplace Employees -- Religious life Organizational change
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12491 , vital:39268
- Description: The significant positive relationships between workplace spirituality and organisational citizenship behaviour, as well as between centrality of religiosity and oganisational citizenship behaviour among police officers, confirm the relevance of social exchange theory and affective events theory to police officers’ behaviour. This study confirms the applicability of Social Exchange Theory (SET) and Affective Events Theory (AET). The current study utilized the SET and AET to examine the correlation between workplace spirituality and centrality of religiosity as well as organisational citizenship behaviour among Police officers in the Raymond Mlaba Local Municipality of the Eastern Cape. There is limited previous research concerning the influence of workplace spirituality and centrality of religiosity on organisational citizenship behaviour among police officers in the South African Police Services (SAPS) Department. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted. The sample (N= 100) consist of Police officers from Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality Police stations. Data were collected through the questionnaire method and SPSS was used for data analysis. A correlational analysis coupled with a simple linear regression analysis was utilised to determine whether there existed any significant relationship with the study’s theoretical attributes. The results of the simple linear regression indicated that workplace spirituality is positively correlated with organisational citizenship behaviour; which is similar to the centrality of religiosity. The results from multiple linear regression showed that the centrality of religiosity does moderate the correlation between workplace spirituality and organisational citizenship behaviour. The results of Multiple linear regression also showed that Workplace spirituality and centrality of religiosity both account for an extensively higher proportion vi of variance in organisational citizenship behaviour than in any of the two variables. This study augments existing knowledge on workplace spirituality, the centrality of religiosity and organisational citizenship behaviour among Police officers in the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality, which has largely been ignored by previous researchers, validates certain aspects of the SET and AET. The Station Commanders or Captains should give consideration on how to make the workplace more conducive to the centrality of religiosity and workplace spirituality; so that the Police officers can increase their organisational citizenship behaviour. Strategies need to be implemented to improve managerial and coworker support for Police officers through socialization and team building activities. However, to overcome feelings of occupational stress and their effects on well-being, employers should provide adequate information on any changes in the police service that may entail excessive work demand and dangerous working conditions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Challenges experienced by educators of tourism and coping strategies
- Authors: Muller, Merilyn Elizabeth
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Tourism -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49964 , vital:41965
- Description: Education is imperative for the economy and for the employment of the youth, particularly given the high levels of youth unemployment in South Africa. The introduction of Tourism as a school subject is perceived as a gateway to employment opportunities for unemployed people and as a means to stimulate the economy of the country. Educators, especially in South African township schools, often teach in less favourable conditions and experience many challenges which require innovative solutions. This study contributes to an understanding of the challenges faced by educators teaching Tourism, especially educators teaching in township areas in the Nelson Mandela Bay district. Of particular importance is the coping strategies used by these educators to innovatively deal with these challenges. This purpose of the study was therefore to investigate the challenges experienced by educators that teach Tourism at township high schools in two Circuit Management Centres (CMC) in the Nelson Mandela Bay district in Port Elizabeth. A qualitative research design was followed with interviews as the empirical data collecting tool. The sample consisted of 16 educators teaching Tourism to Grade 11 and 12 learners at selected schools. The data collected was analysed qualitatively, using thematic analysis. The findings of this study revealed many challenges experienced by educators of Tourism at township schools in the Nelson Mandela Bay district. The key challenges for educators related to resources, learners, the system, teachers and infrastructure. The results revealed that the educators used a variety of coping techniques to deal with these challenges. The researcher makes recommendations to the different stakeholders in education to address these challenges, as well as make suggestions for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Muller, Merilyn Elizabeth
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Tourism -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49964 , vital:41965
- Description: Education is imperative for the economy and for the employment of the youth, particularly given the high levels of youth unemployment in South Africa. The introduction of Tourism as a school subject is perceived as a gateway to employment opportunities for unemployed people and as a means to stimulate the economy of the country. Educators, especially in South African township schools, often teach in less favourable conditions and experience many challenges which require innovative solutions. This study contributes to an understanding of the challenges faced by educators teaching Tourism, especially educators teaching in township areas in the Nelson Mandela Bay district. Of particular importance is the coping strategies used by these educators to innovatively deal with these challenges. This purpose of the study was therefore to investigate the challenges experienced by educators that teach Tourism at township high schools in two Circuit Management Centres (CMC) in the Nelson Mandela Bay district in Port Elizabeth. A qualitative research design was followed with interviews as the empirical data collecting tool. The sample consisted of 16 educators teaching Tourism to Grade 11 and 12 learners at selected schools. The data collected was analysed qualitatively, using thematic analysis. The findings of this study revealed many challenges experienced by educators of Tourism at township schools in the Nelson Mandela Bay district. The key challenges for educators related to resources, learners, the system, teachers and infrastructure. The results revealed that the educators used a variety of coping techniques to deal with these challenges. The researcher makes recommendations to the different stakeholders in education to address these challenges, as well as make suggestions for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Challenges of electronic surveillance in combating crime and addressing developmental issues in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Dyasi, Alutha Vusisizwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Electronics in criminal investigation --South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49823 , vital:41805
- Description: Crime has been prevalent in South Africa, particularly in Port Elizabeth where violent crimes such as attempted murder, murder, sexual offences, robbery and hijacking have been reported to the South African Police Service. These violent crimes are mostly prevalent in police precincts such as Gelvandale, Bethelsdorp, Kwazakhele, New Brighton and Walmer. As a result, development in these police precincts has been affected negatively. This is highlighted by how developmental issues such as poverty and unemployment have been ubiquitous due to the manner with which crime has an effect on development. ICT companies are continuously providing solutions to crime-related challenges. The emergence of new technologies, such as CCTV surveillance cameras, drones and facial recognition software have been proven to be a solution to combating crime in some developing countries in Africa. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the challenges of electronic surveillance in combating crime and addressing developmental issues in Port Elizabeth. The study found out that the developmental issues faced by communities in Port Elizabeth include unemployment, poverty, a high crime rate, substance abuse, and a lack of resources. In addition, the study concluded that, the lack of education and skills development, gangsterism, unemployment and poverty were amongst the main causes of crime in Port Elizabeth. The study also revealed that, the SAPS does not have enough electronic surveillance devices such as CCTV cameras installed in high crime areas, thus, recommendations were made on how electronic surveillance can be used to combat crime and address developmental issues
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Dyasi, Alutha Vusisizwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Electronics in criminal investigation --South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49823 , vital:41805
- Description: Crime has been prevalent in South Africa, particularly in Port Elizabeth where violent crimes such as attempted murder, murder, sexual offences, robbery and hijacking have been reported to the South African Police Service. These violent crimes are mostly prevalent in police precincts such as Gelvandale, Bethelsdorp, Kwazakhele, New Brighton and Walmer. As a result, development in these police precincts has been affected negatively. This is highlighted by how developmental issues such as poverty and unemployment have been ubiquitous due to the manner with which crime has an effect on development. ICT companies are continuously providing solutions to crime-related challenges. The emergence of new technologies, such as CCTV surveillance cameras, drones and facial recognition software have been proven to be a solution to combating crime in some developing countries in Africa. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the challenges of electronic surveillance in combating crime and addressing developmental issues in Port Elizabeth. The study found out that the developmental issues faced by communities in Port Elizabeth include unemployment, poverty, a high crime rate, substance abuse, and a lack of resources. In addition, the study concluded that, the lack of education and skills development, gangsterism, unemployment and poverty were amongst the main causes of crime in Port Elizabeth. The study also revealed that, the SAPS does not have enough electronic surveillance devices such as CCTV cameras installed in high crime areas, thus, recommendations were made on how electronic surveillance can be used to combat crime and address developmental issues
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Change of perspectives and behaviour regarding lifestyle, with emphasis on dietary habits, in a rural community
- Authors: Barnard, Mariska
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Food habits
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46384 , vital:39565
- Description: Background: The steady increase in deaths due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in South Africa is raising concern, as 63% of all deaths worldwide are attributed to NCDs and these diseases cause 36 million deaths each year, with 80 % of incidences occurring in low-and middle-income countries. In rural communities where income is increasing, the prevalence of NCDs are increasing as well. Due to the lack of NCD prevention and treatment in rural communities, it is expected that, if health promotion strategies are not implemented and socio-economic development in South Africa continues, there will soon be an uncontrollable NCD epidemic. It has been found that dietary risks affected people’s healthirrespective of their age, gender or residential sociodemographic development and that dietary improvement might prevent one in every five deaths worldwide.Aim:The aim of this study was to determine the factors that influence the perceptions and behaviour in a rural community with a low socio-economic status regarding dietary habits and to use the knowledge to formulate an effective dietary modification strategy.Designand methodology:For this study,action research with a quantitative and qualitative component was followed.The quantitative component focuses on measureable aspects, and the qualitative component focuses on meaning. Data was collected following the standard operating procedure for anthropometry, blood pressure and blood glucose. Further methods used were questionnaires, 24-hour dietary recalls and focus group discussions. Data were analysed using Microsoft Excel, FoodFinder3 and other calculations.Sample and setting:A convenience sample (n = 16) wasused and this study was undertaken on request of the non-governmental organization, Karoo Angels and included all participants who earn an income and who do not work for themselves, that were willing to participate and living in Rietbron and Vondeling, in the Sarah BaartmanDistrict in the Eastern Cape. Results:Weight changes took place, both the crafters in the mild thinness category gained weight, one gained 3.9 kg and the other 0.5 kg. The three crafters in the normal category did not have to gain or lose weight, but all three ofthem gained an average of 3.6 kg. For the group who had to lose weight, no statistically significant weight change took place from before the intervention (76.08 ±17.67 kg) to after the intervention (75.81 ± 17.81 kg, t(10) = 0.692, p = 0.505). The maximum weight lost ivwas 3.1 kg and the maximum weight gained was 3.2 kg. Changes took place regarding BMI, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio and neck circumference. Some positively changed their BMI status.After the implementation of the intervention, there was a slight decrease in frequency of alcohol consumption, but smoking and physical activity remained mostly the same. Hypertension was the most prevalent NCD and is linked to smoking and alcohol consumption which is prevalent in this study. Fruit and vegetable consumption is low, and a slight increase in consumption was evident. A maximum dietary diversityscore of seven and minimum of two, where the mean was 3.81was found. The crafters’ diet did not meet the DASH diet recommendation,the mean energy distribution is of all macronutrients differ with ±4% and none of the participants’ mean micronutrients intake met the recommendations of the DASH diet or RDA. Factors that prevent them from reaching their goals included low income, low availability of fruit, vegetables and transport and no storage for food.Conclusion:It is important to consider the individuals’ living conditions, resources, knowledge, motivation and social group. The environment and resources available have a significant impact on the lifestyle of the individuals. Directing efforts of behaviour change to increase dietary diversity as the main objective, might be a more efficient way to change behaviour.Recommendations:Future studies should consider doing this study over a longer time period. The involvement of a psychologist would also be beneficial to assist the process of behaviour change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Barnard, Mariska
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Food habits
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46384 , vital:39565
- Description: Background: The steady increase in deaths due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in South Africa is raising concern, as 63% of all deaths worldwide are attributed to NCDs and these diseases cause 36 million deaths each year, with 80 % of incidences occurring in low-and middle-income countries. In rural communities where income is increasing, the prevalence of NCDs are increasing as well. Due to the lack of NCD prevention and treatment in rural communities, it is expected that, if health promotion strategies are not implemented and socio-economic development in South Africa continues, there will soon be an uncontrollable NCD epidemic. It has been found that dietary risks affected people’s healthirrespective of their age, gender or residential sociodemographic development and that dietary improvement might prevent one in every five deaths worldwide.Aim:The aim of this study was to determine the factors that influence the perceptions and behaviour in a rural community with a low socio-economic status regarding dietary habits and to use the knowledge to formulate an effective dietary modification strategy.Designand methodology:For this study,action research with a quantitative and qualitative component was followed.The quantitative component focuses on measureable aspects, and the qualitative component focuses on meaning. Data was collected following the standard operating procedure for anthropometry, blood pressure and blood glucose. Further methods used were questionnaires, 24-hour dietary recalls and focus group discussions. Data were analysed using Microsoft Excel, FoodFinder3 and other calculations.Sample and setting:A convenience sample (n = 16) wasused and this study was undertaken on request of the non-governmental organization, Karoo Angels and included all participants who earn an income and who do not work for themselves, that were willing to participate and living in Rietbron and Vondeling, in the Sarah BaartmanDistrict in the Eastern Cape. Results:Weight changes took place, both the crafters in the mild thinness category gained weight, one gained 3.9 kg and the other 0.5 kg. The three crafters in the normal category did not have to gain or lose weight, but all three ofthem gained an average of 3.6 kg. For the group who had to lose weight, no statistically significant weight change took place from before the intervention (76.08 ±17.67 kg) to after the intervention (75.81 ± 17.81 kg, t(10) = 0.692, p = 0.505). The maximum weight lost ivwas 3.1 kg and the maximum weight gained was 3.2 kg. Changes took place regarding BMI, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio and neck circumference. Some positively changed their BMI status.After the implementation of the intervention, there was a slight decrease in frequency of alcohol consumption, but smoking and physical activity remained mostly the same. Hypertension was the most prevalent NCD and is linked to smoking and alcohol consumption which is prevalent in this study. Fruit and vegetable consumption is low, and a slight increase in consumption was evident. A maximum dietary diversityscore of seven and minimum of two, where the mean was 3.81was found. The crafters’ diet did not meet the DASH diet recommendation,the mean energy distribution is of all macronutrients differ with ±4% and none of the participants’ mean micronutrients intake met the recommendations of the DASH diet or RDA. Factors that prevent them from reaching their goals included low income, low availability of fruit, vegetables and transport and no storage for food.Conclusion:It is important to consider the individuals’ living conditions, resources, knowledge, motivation and social group. The environment and resources available have a significant impact on the lifestyle of the individuals. Directing efforts of behaviour change to increase dietary diversity as the main objective, might be a more efficient way to change behaviour.Recommendations:Future studies should consider doing this study over a longer time period. The involvement of a psychologist would also be beneficial to assist the process of behaviour change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Chasing Eden: Margaret Atwood’s MaddAddam trilogy and the value of reading in a technological age
- Authors: Bosman, Zoë June
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Atwood, Margaret, 1939- MaddAddam trilogy , Speculative fiction -- History and criticism , Capitalism in literature , Dystopias in literature , Science fiction -- History and criticism , Technology in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/145796 , vital:38467
- Description: This thesis is focussed on Margaret Atwood’s MaddAddam trilogy: Oryx and Crake (2003) The Year of the Flood (2009) and MaddAddam (2013). Detailing Atwood’s own specifications as to why these texts should be categorised as works of speculative fiction, the thesis examines how this literary genre, and Atwood’s MaddAddam trilogy in particular, is uniquely capable of encouraging readers to interrogate critically the socio-economic, environmental, and ethical problems to which she, and the contemporary reader, bear witness in the present technological age. With reference to Atwood’s essays and critical writings, Darko Suvin’s Metamorphoses of Science Fiction, and Wolfgang Iser’s The Act of Reading, this project explores the value of reading speculative fiction and details how Atwood has constructed the fictional, yet plausible, possible future world of her trilogy by extrapolating our current scientific capabilities, environmental challenges, and political configurations to their logical conclusions. It explores the close relationship that exists between the near-future world of Atwood’s texts and the contemporary context from which she has drawn her subject matter, and argues that the trilogy demonstrates graphically the long-term consequences of capitalism, sustainability, and the doctrine of human exceptionalism, which this project, following Yuval Harari, defines as orthodox guiding narratives: fictions that humanity has created, and which structure our perception of reality and guide our behaviour. The project maintains that Atwood’s trilogy presents the reader with a hypothetical future that looks towards and beyond the end of contemporary technological society in order to urge her reader to imagine, and actualize, alternatives to the scenarios that these texts depict. The most significant question Atwood’s texts ask is whether contemporary technological society is willing and able to transform in order to avert the ecological apocalypse that is the logical conclusion to the Anthropocene?
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Bosman, Zoë June
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Atwood, Margaret, 1939- MaddAddam trilogy , Speculative fiction -- History and criticism , Capitalism in literature , Dystopias in literature , Science fiction -- History and criticism , Technology in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/145796 , vital:38467
- Description: This thesis is focussed on Margaret Atwood’s MaddAddam trilogy: Oryx and Crake (2003) The Year of the Flood (2009) and MaddAddam (2013). Detailing Atwood’s own specifications as to why these texts should be categorised as works of speculative fiction, the thesis examines how this literary genre, and Atwood’s MaddAddam trilogy in particular, is uniquely capable of encouraging readers to interrogate critically the socio-economic, environmental, and ethical problems to which she, and the contemporary reader, bear witness in the present technological age. With reference to Atwood’s essays and critical writings, Darko Suvin’s Metamorphoses of Science Fiction, and Wolfgang Iser’s The Act of Reading, this project explores the value of reading speculative fiction and details how Atwood has constructed the fictional, yet plausible, possible future world of her trilogy by extrapolating our current scientific capabilities, environmental challenges, and political configurations to their logical conclusions. It explores the close relationship that exists between the near-future world of Atwood’s texts and the contemporary context from which she has drawn her subject matter, and argues that the trilogy demonstrates graphically the long-term consequences of capitalism, sustainability, and the doctrine of human exceptionalism, which this project, following Yuval Harari, defines as orthodox guiding narratives: fictions that humanity has created, and which structure our perception of reality and guide our behaviour. The project maintains that Atwood’s trilogy presents the reader with a hypothetical future that looks towards and beyond the end of contemporary technological society in order to urge her reader to imagine, and actualize, alternatives to the scenarios that these texts depict. The most significant question Atwood’s texts ask is whether contemporary technological society is willing and able to transform in order to avert the ecological apocalypse that is the logical conclusion to the Anthropocene?
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Chinatown
- Authors: Kamfer, Ronelda S.
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Afrikaans poetry -- 21st century
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/142375 , vital:38074
- Description: Creative work portfolio.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kamfer, Ronelda S.
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Afrikaans poetry -- 21st century
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/142375 , vital:38074
- Description: Creative work portfolio.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Chirema Chine Mazano Chinotamba Chakazendama Madziro
- Authors: Mapondera, Wallen
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Art, Zimbabwean , Art -- Economic aspects -- Zimbabwe , Artists -- Zimbabwe , Takadiwa, Moffet , Nyandoro, Gareth , Clottey, Serge Attiku , Mapondera, Wallen -- Exhibitions
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MFA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/147457 , vital:38638
- Description: This mini-thesis has developed as a practice-based supporting document to the exhibition Chirema Chine Mazano Chinotamba Chakazendama Madziro. The exhibition responds to how people become innovative in finding alternative means of survival and staying relevant in an economically depressed country. Zimbabwe is often the first country that comes to mind when people talk about hyperinflation; the situation was and still is intolerable, but somehow its citizens find means to pull through. Unemployment and poverty are the main causes of physical and mental problems for an individual. With this thesis, I highlight the innovations employed by Zimbabweans as a way of keeping themselves busy. I approach this through analysing the Zimbabwean general public’s creative reactions, and by tracing Zimbabwean visual artists’ use of found objects as a reaction to the country’s economic hardships. As people have been pushed to find alternative ways of survival, Zimbabwean artists in particular also shifted from using conventional art materials due to their unavailability. They began to redefine what art material is by employing objects in their artworks that previously had a non-art function. As such, there is a growing need to recognise, classify and document the shifts and establish platforms to generate growth of these innovations. In this minithesis I discuss my own practice, and I analyse the works of Moffat Takadiwa, Gareth Nyandoro and Serge Attiku Clottey.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mapondera, Wallen
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Art, Zimbabwean , Art -- Economic aspects -- Zimbabwe , Artists -- Zimbabwe , Takadiwa, Moffet , Nyandoro, Gareth , Clottey, Serge Attiku , Mapondera, Wallen -- Exhibitions
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MFA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/147457 , vital:38638
- Description: This mini-thesis has developed as a practice-based supporting document to the exhibition Chirema Chine Mazano Chinotamba Chakazendama Madziro. The exhibition responds to how people become innovative in finding alternative means of survival and staying relevant in an economically depressed country. Zimbabwe is often the first country that comes to mind when people talk about hyperinflation; the situation was and still is intolerable, but somehow its citizens find means to pull through. Unemployment and poverty are the main causes of physical and mental problems for an individual. With this thesis, I highlight the innovations employed by Zimbabweans as a way of keeping themselves busy. I approach this through analysing the Zimbabwean general public’s creative reactions, and by tracing Zimbabwean visual artists’ use of found objects as a reaction to the country’s economic hardships. As people have been pushed to find alternative ways of survival, Zimbabwean artists in particular also shifted from using conventional art materials due to their unavailability. They began to redefine what art material is by employing objects in their artworks that previously had a non-art function. As such, there is a growing need to recognise, classify and document the shifts and establish platforms to generate growth of these innovations. In this minithesis I discuss my own practice, and I analyse the works of Moffat Takadiwa, Gareth Nyandoro and Serge Attiku Clottey.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Choreographies of protest performance as recruitment to activism and the movement of perception during the 2015 re-emergence of student activism at Rhodes University
- Authors: Qoza, Phiwokazi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: College students -- Political activity -- South Africa , Student protesters -- South Africa , Student movements -- South Africa , Higher education and state -- South Africa , Performance art -- Political aspects -- South Africa , Protest songs -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/141692 , vital:37997
- Description: It has been argued that individuals participate in activism due to an identification with the preferences and interests of an emerging group of actors or in solidarity with a pre-existing network that has resorted to a number of protest repertoires in order to make claims or demands. Additionally, an emerging instance of protest is often linked to an image of previous protest events through the employment of a combination of master frames which function as discursive articulation of the encounter in familiar terms, creating a frame resonance which recruits adherents and constituents. To understand why some bystanders to protest transcended to actors in protest and the development of frames within a protest cycle, a performance ethnography is employed to observe and analyse choreographies of protest which took place at an institution of higher education in South Africa during the 2015 re-emergence of wide-spread student activism. It is found that in encountering an atmosphere of protest there emerged a relation of feeling, referred to as “feeling the vibe or atmosphere”, which those who became protest performers resolved in ways which increased their capacity to act in favour of co-constituting that atmosphere. During the encounter between the bystander body and the atmosphere of protest, non-linear somatic communication, characterised by active and passive gestures and postures, occurred through which protest performers developed contact and connection with other bodies as a result of the displacement of space. This thesis suggests that participation in activism can be about going with the flow of movement in an uncertain and ambiguous moment and is not limited to an identification with the pre-existing organization of preferences and interests as a frame of resonance emerges to signify somatic communication which differentiated bodies in the duration of protest performance. Therefore, this thesis uses the theory of affect to situate student activism in-between the politics of performance and the performance of politics whereupon the rhythm of song creates an opening for the kinaesthetic to create form from spontaneous movement of the body as an event of the movement of perception and the perception of movement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Qoza, Phiwokazi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: College students -- Political activity -- South Africa , Student protesters -- South Africa , Student movements -- South Africa , Higher education and state -- South Africa , Performance art -- Political aspects -- South Africa , Protest songs -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/141692 , vital:37997
- Description: It has been argued that individuals participate in activism due to an identification with the preferences and interests of an emerging group of actors or in solidarity with a pre-existing network that has resorted to a number of protest repertoires in order to make claims or demands. Additionally, an emerging instance of protest is often linked to an image of previous protest events through the employment of a combination of master frames which function as discursive articulation of the encounter in familiar terms, creating a frame resonance which recruits adherents and constituents. To understand why some bystanders to protest transcended to actors in protest and the development of frames within a protest cycle, a performance ethnography is employed to observe and analyse choreographies of protest which took place at an institution of higher education in South Africa during the 2015 re-emergence of wide-spread student activism. It is found that in encountering an atmosphere of protest there emerged a relation of feeling, referred to as “feeling the vibe or atmosphere”, which those who became protest performers resolved in ways which increased their capacity to act in favour of co-constituting that atmosphere. During the encounter between the bystander body and the atmosphere of protest, non-linear somatic communication, characterised by active and passive gestures and postures, occurred through which protest performers developed contact and connection with other bodies as a result of the displacement of space. This thesis suggests that participation in activism can be about going with the flow of movement in an uncertain and ambiguous moment and is not limited to an identification with the pre-existing organization of preferences and interests as a frame of resonance emerges to signify somatic communication which differentiated bodies in the duration of protest performance. Therefore, this thesis uses the theory of affect to situate student activism in-between the politics of performance and the performance of politics whereupon the rhythm of song creates an opening for the kinaesthetic to create form from spontaneous movement of the body as an event of the movement of perception and the perception of movement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Cloud computing for competitive advantage: A case of rural SMEs in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Mpongwana , Mbongo Mhlanga
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Cloud computing -- Economic aspects , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50415 , vital:42166
- Description: The emergence of new ICTs over the past decades has had a substantial impact on commerce and to societies in general. However, the high costs and the relevant skills and expertise that are associated with the implementation and maintenance of the latest ICTs impedes SMEs from taking full advantage of their use. The introduction and adoption of cloud computing has addressed some of these challenges for SMEs. Despite this, SMEs in rural South Africa have not fully adopted or realized the advantages of cloud computing, which could be owing to a number of factors.The aim of this study was to explore how rural SMEs in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa can leverage on the capabilities of cloud computing for competitive advantage. The study adopted an interpretivist, quantitative approach to identifying the enablers and barriers of cloud computing adoption. The research population was defined as all the SMEs that operate outside of Buffalo City and Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipalities. Convenience and snowball sampling techniques were used as non-probability sampling methods. Data was collected from the participants using a structured self-administered online questionnaire. The Technology-Organization-Environment framework was used as a basis in formulating the research theoretical framework, focusing on technological, organizational and environmental elements that could potentially influence adoption of cloud computing by rural SMEs. Microsoft Power BI was used to present demographic information as well as descriptive statistics for the factors included in the proposed research model. IBM SPSS 22 was used for correlation and linear regression analysis. The review of related literature revealed that access to markets, access to finance, inadequate public infrastructure and lack of skilled resources are some of the major challenges that rural SMEs face. This study found seven of the statistically examined factors to be significant predictors of cloud adoption by rural Eastern Cape SMEs. These are market demand, use of online-based marketing, having formal business plans, reliable electricity, awareness of SaaS, use of basic Internet-based services such as email and websites as well as Internet costs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mpongwana , Mbongo Mhlanga
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Cloud computing -- Economic aspects , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50415 , vital:42166
- Description: The emergence of new ICTs over the past decades has had a substantial impact on commerce and to societies in general. However, the high costs and the relevant skills and expertise that are associated with the implementation and maintenance of the latest ICTs impedes SMEs from taking full advantage of their use. The introduction and adoption of cloud computing has addressed some of these challenges for SMEs. Despite this, SMEs in rural South Africa have not fully adopted or realized the advantages of cloud computing, which could be owing to a number of factors.The aim of this study was to explore how rural SMEs in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa can leverage on the capabilities of cloud computing for competitive advantage. The study adopted an interpretivist, quantitative approach to identifying the enablers and barriers of cloud computing adoption. The research population was defined as all the SMEs that operate outside of Buffalo City and Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipalities. Convenience and snowball sampling techniques were used as non-probability sampling methods. Data was collected from the participants using a structured self-administered online questionnaire. The Technology-Organization-Environment framework was used as a basis in formulating the research theoretical framework, focusing on technological, organizational and environmental elements that could potentially influence adoption of cloud computing by rural SMEs. Microsoft Power BI was used to present demographic information as well as descriptive statistics for the factors included in the proposed research model. IBM SPSS 22 was used for correlation and linear regression analysis. The review of related literature revealed that access to markets, access to finance, inadequate public infrastructure and lack of skilled resources are some of the major challenges that rural SMEs face. This study found seven of the statistically examined factors to be significant predictors of cloud adoption by rural Eastern Cape SMEs. These are market demand, use of online-based marketing, having formal business plans, reliable electricity, awareness of SaaS, use of basic Internet-based services such as email and websites as well as Internet costs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Coherent detection of data and timing signals over optical fiber for telescope networks
- Authors: Nfanyana, Ketshabile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Fiber optics , Very large array telescopes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49226 , vital:41612
- Description: Telescope networks are increasingly being developed with networks such as the SKA telescope demanding the use of high-end technology to be incorporated. These networks require accurate clock signals to be transported to antennas as well as massive data to be transported from individual parabolic array antennas to a central computer for data analysis. To achieve this, optical fiber technology forms the backbone of these networks, proving high speed transmission and required bandwidth. For a distributed telescope network, coherent detection technology serves as the ideal optical fiber technology candidate for transport of information to a correlator. Use of this technology constitutes too many benefits. Sensitivity of the system is improved, and advanced modulation formats can be employed thereby improving spectral efficiency. Furthermore, coherent detection allows for digital signal processing algorithms to be employed for equalization of transmission impairments such as chromatic dispersion (CD), polarization mode dispersion (PMD), phase noise and nonlinear effects in the electrical domain. CD equalization is performed in the time or frequency domain using digital filters which suppress the fibers dispersion effectively. PMD equalization is usually performed in the time domain through the use of adaptive filters which employ algorithms such as least mean squares (LMS) and constant modulus algorithm (CMA). These algorithms further equalize residual CD. In mitigation of phase noise (carrier phase recovery), feed-forward and feedback carrier phase algorithms are used. Fiber nonlinearities and other impairments are compensated using the digital backpropagation algorithm which solves for the Manakov equation and nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE). Distribution of stable clock signals to individual antennas is an important aspect of telescope networks. Clock signals are used to drive the digitizers and time stamping of received antenna information. These clock signals can be distributed using coherent detection technology by phase modulating the clock so as to provide inherent phase modulation robustness to noise through the fiber. In this thesis, we present coherent detection of non-return-to-zero pseudorandom binary sequence (PRBS-7) using binary phase shift keying (BPSK) through 26.6 km non-zero dispersion shifted fiber (NZDSF) at 10 Gbps. Digital signal processing for equalization of CD and PMD was performed offline using MATLAB software. For residual CD and PMD equalization, the LMS algorithm was used. The performance of the system, bit error rate (BER), was compared with that of an intensity modulated on-off keying (OOK) signal at the same bit rate. Basing on receiver sensitivity performance of OOK at 10-9 bit error rate, BPSK achieved superior performance with receiver sensitivity improvements of 18.37 dB and 13.89 dB attained for back-to-back and transmission over fiber, respectively. Phase modulation transmission of a 4 GHz clock signal was also conducted. Frequency instability, Allan variance and phase noise, of phase modulated clock was compared with that of intensity modulated clock. Moreover, we present an all optical clock generation scheme using frequency heterodyning technique. Allan variance values in the range of 10-10 were attained. The frequency instability of this clock generation scheme was quantified using the spectrum analyzer method. Furthermore, an all-photonic technique for data latency tracking of 5G networks over optical fiber is presented. The technique is spectrally efficient and is able to track latency down to the nano second timescale.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Nfanyana, Ketshabile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Fiber optics , Very large array telescopes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49226 , vital:41612
- Description: Telescope networks are increasingly being developed with networks such as the SKA telescope demanding the use of high-end technology to be incorporated. These networks require accurate clock signals to be transported to antennas as well as massive data to be transported from individual parabolic array antennas to a central computer for data analysis. To achieve this, optical fiber technology forms the backbone of these networks, proving high speed transmission and required bandwidth. For a distributed telescope network, coherent detection technology serves as the ideal optical fiber technology candidate for transport of information to a correlator. Use of this technology constitutes too many benefits. Sensitivity of the system is improved, and advanced modulation formats can be employed thereby improving spectral efficiency. Furthermore, coherent detection allows for digital signal processing algorithms to be employed for equalization of transmission impairments such as chromatic dispersion (CD), polarization mode dispersion (PMD), phase noise and nonlinear effects in the electrical domain. CD equalization is performed in the time or frequency domain using digital filters which suppress the fibers dispersion effectively. PMD equalization is usually performed in the time domain through the use of adaptive filters which employ algorithms such as least mean squares (LMS) and constant modulus algorithm (CMA). These algorithms further equalize residual CD. In mitigation of phase noise (carrier phase recovery), feed-forward and feedback carrier phase algorithms are used. Fiber nonlinearities and other impairments are compensated using the digital backpropagation algorithm which solves for the Manakov equation and nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE). Distribution of stable clock signals to individual antennas is an important aspect of telescope networks. Clock signals are used to drive the digitizers and time stamping of received antenna information. These clock signals can be distributed using coherent detection technology by phase modulating the clock so as to provide inherent phase modulation robustness to noise through the fiber. In this thesis, we present coherent detection of non-return-to-zero pseudorandom binary sequence (PRBS-7) using binary phase shift keying (BPSK) through 26.6 km non-zero dispersion shifted fiber (NZDSF) at 10 Gbps. Digital signal processing for equalization of CD and PMD was performed offline using MATLAB software. For residual CD and PMD equalization, the LMS algorithm was used. The performance of the system, bit error rate (BER), was compared with that of an intensity modulated on-off keying (OOK) signal at the same bit rate. Basing on receiver sensitivity performance of OOK at 10-9 bit error rate, BPSK achieved superior performance with receiver sensitivity improvements of 18.37 dB and 13.89 dB attained for back-to-back and transmission over fiber, respectively. Phase modulation transmission of a 4 GHz clock signal was also conducted. Frequency instability, Allan variance and phase noise, of phase modulated clock was compared with that of intensity modulated clock. Moreover, we present an all optical clock generation scheme using frequency heterodyning technique. Allan variance values in the range of 10-10 were attained. The frequency instability of this clock generation scheme was quantified using the spectrum analyzer method. Furthermore, an all-photonic technique for data latency tracking of 5G networks over optical fiber is presented. The technique is spectrally efficient and is able to track latency down to the nano second timescale.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Combination ecosystem green engineering and early life history processes to enhance the intertidal biodiversity in the Port of East London
- Authors: Mafanya, Sandisiwer
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Biotic communities -- South Africa -- East London , Perna -- Ecology --South Africa -- South Africa-- East London , Mexilhao mussel -- Ecology -- South Africa -- East London , Habitat (Ecology) -- Modification -- South Africa -- East London , Benthic animals -- Effect of habitat modification on -- South Africa -- East London , Harbors -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/166376 , vital:41357
- Description: Marine coastal ecosystems are highly impacted by anthropogenic activities, including the development of, and practices within, harbours and/or ports. Artificial structures associated with harbours have a different chemical composition, texture and orientation than that of the natural benthic habitats they have replaced, and are therefore not generally favourable for the settlement and occurrence of indigenous species. Attempts are being made to identify what structures and materials can be used to aid in the rehabilitation of native species within harbours. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of utilising environmentally-friendly artificial structures (tiles) with varying complexity (crevices and ridges with different depths) with ecological engineers (the indigenous bivalve Perna perna), on the associated benthic biodiversity within an international port in South Africa (Port of East London). The objectives of the study were to test the effects of artificial habitat complexity and the presence of bivalves on 1) the growth, mortality and biomass of a selected model species of ecosystem engineer (P. perna), and 2) the associated intertidal biodiversity. Tiles seeded with bivalves (P. perna) were deployed at two sites in the Port of East London and monitored monthly over a period of 12 months (November 2016-October 2017) to assess survival, growth and associated biodiversity. Environmental variables were also measured every month. The results of the three-way repeated measures ANOVAs indicated that tile treatment (especially high complexity of 2.5 and 5 cm) had an effect on the diversity of mobile species, length, height and biomass of the bivalves used as model ecosystem engineer, indicating the potentials for protection from wave dislodgement and refuge provision. Treatment (especially flat tiles) also had an effect on sessile/sedentary species diversity, indicating the greater proportion of space provided by these non-complex tiles. In addition, month had an effect on the mortality, height and biomass of the bivalves. Mortality was highest in October 2017, while the growth in height and biomass of P. perna were largest in January and October 2017 respectively. The use of artificial tiles also had a positive effect on the survival, growth, and biomass of bivalves (especially the length, weight and dry weight in 2.5 cm and 5 cm complexity). Additionally, this research investigated patterns of settlement and recruitment of the local bivalve population (P. perna) in the Port of East London and adjacent natural coastline to understand the early life history temporal and spatial dynamics of this model ecosystem engineer species. Settlement and recruitment were assessed every month by deploying and replacing artificial collectors for a total period of 19 months (November 2016-May 2018). The results of the two-way ANOVAs indicated that month and site (port vs natural) had an effect on settlement and recruitment of bivalves. Settlement and recruitment of bivalves were highest in July 2017 (port) and March 2018 (natural rocky shore). This study has highlighted that the use of artificial concrete tiles with increased complexity, as well as the investigation of the early stages of mussel populations could be important to consider in a framework of rehabilitation of urban coastal environments such as the Port of East London. Ecological engineering (in terms of increased complexity and heterogeneity) has indeed the potentials to be incorporated in South African programmes aiming at improving natural biodiversity in coastal urban environments. Nonetheless, the spatio-temporal variability of early driver of mussel populations (settlement and recruitment) is also an important feature to be closely monitored if biodiversity in South African coastal armouring is to be enhanced effectively and in the long term.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mafanya, Sandisiwer
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Biotic communities -- South Africa -- East London , Perna -- Ecology --South Africa -- South Africa-- East London , Mexilhao mussel -- Ecology -- South Africa -- East London , Habitat (Ecology) -- Modification -- South Africa -- East London , Benthic animals -- Effect of habitat modification on -- South Africa -- East London , Harbors -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/166376 , vital:41357
- Description: Marine coastal ecosystems are highly impacted by anthropogenic activities, including the development of, and practices within, harbours and/or ports. Artificial structures associated with harbours have a different chemical composition, texture and orientation than that of the natural benthic habitats they have replaced, and are therefore not generally favourable for the settlement and occurrence of indigenous species. Attempts are being made to identify what structures and materials can be used to aid in the rehabilitation of native species within harbours. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of utilising environmentally-friendly artificial structures (tiles) with varying complexity (crevices and ridges with different depths) with ecological engineers (the indigenous bivalve Perna perna), on the associated benthic biodiversity within an international port in South Africa (Port of East London). The objectives of the study were to test the effects of artificial habitat complexity and the presence of bivalves on 1) the growth, mortality and biomass of a selected model species of ecosystem engineer (P. perna), and 2) the associated intertidal biodiversity. Tiles seeded with bivalves (P. perna) were deployed at two sites in the Port of East London and monitored monthly over a period of 12 months (November 2016-October 2017) to assess survival, growth and associated biodiversity. Environmental variables were also measured every month. The results of the three-way repeated measures ANOVAs indicated that tile treatment (especially high complexity of 2.5 and 5 cm) had an effect on the diversity of mobile species, length, height and biomass of the bivalves used as model ecosystem engineer, indicating the potentials for protection from wave dislodgement and refuge provision. Treatment (especially flat tiles) also had an effect on sessile/sedentary species diversity, indicating the greater proportion of space provided by these non-complex tiles. In addition, month had an effect on the mortality, height and biomass of the bivalves. Mortality was highest in October 2017, while the growth in height and biomass of P. perna were largest in January and October 2017 respectively. The use of artificial tiles also had a positive effect on the survival, growth, and biomass of bivalves (especially the length, weight and dry weight in 2.5 cm and 5 cm complexity). Additionally, this research investigated patterns of settlement and recruitment of the local bivalve population (P. perna) in the Port of East London and adjacent natural coastline to understand the early life history temporal and spatial dynamics of this model ecosystem engineer species. Settlement and recruitment were assessed every month by deploying and replacing artificial collectors for a total period of 19 months (November 2016-May 2018). The results of the two-way ANOVAs indicated that month and site (port vs natural) had an effect on settlement and recruitment of bivalves. Settlement and recruitment of bivalves were highest in July 2017 (port) and March 2018 (natural rocky shore). This study has highlighted that the use of artificial concrete tiles with increased complexity, as well as the investigation of the early stages of mussel populations could be important to consider in a framework of rehabilitation of urban coastal environments such as the Port of East London. Ecological engineering (in terms of increased complexity and heterogeneity) has indeed the potentials to be incorporated in South African programmes aiming at improving natural biodiversity in coastal urban environments. Nonetheless, the spatio-temporal variability of early driver of mussel populations (settlement and recruitment) is also an important feature to be closely monitored if biodiversity in South African coastal armouring is to be enhanced effectively and in the long term.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Combining DNA barcoding and morphology to identify larval fishes from the nearshore environment off the south-east coast of South Africa
- Authors: Somana, Zinzi Sinazo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Fishes -- Larvae -- South Africa -- Identification , Fishes -- Genetics -- Research -- Technique , Fishes -- South Africa -- Classification , Genetic markers
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/144605 , vital:38362
- Description: The early life history stages of most marine fish species are undescribed. The problem is, most of these fishes have pelagic larvae which are minute, delicate forms. Linking the larval stage to an adult counterpart is extremely challenging as larvae are morphologically different from the adults. Historically, larval fish identification relied solely on distinguishing morphological characteristics and meristic measurements, which has resulted in taxonomic confusion and misidentification. The introduction of the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) barcoding technique as an alternative approach has been successful in positively identifying larval fishes. The correct identification of larval specimens is the key to a better understanding of larval ecology, which underpins the success of any adult fish population. This study aimed to positively identify larval fishes of the south-east coast of South Africa using morphological characteristics and DNA barcoding. Larval and eggs specimens for this study were collected from the shallow nearshore waters of the south-east coast of South Africa. A total of 177 larval specimens were used for morphological analysis. Body shape, gut shape, pigmentation and morphometric measurements (such as body depth, preanal length and total body length) were used to identify each specimen to the family level. In addition, a fragment of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene (COI) was adopted for sequencing to identify larval fish specimens and fish eggs. Sequences generated from this study were compared to those in the Barcode of Life Database (BOLD). When there were no close matches to a sequence, the GenBank nucleic acid sequence database, maintained by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), was used as an alternative. A total of 18 different families were identified through morphology. Seventy-seven of the 177 larval specimens were not subjected to morphological identification due to physical damage. The majority of larvae identified using morphological characteristics belonged to either the Sparidae, Tripterygiidae or Gobiesocidae fish families. Through DNA barcoding, 12 fish families, 16 genera and 18 different species were identified. Ten DNA barcodes (categorised as ‘no match’) from 10 different larval specimens were not identified through any of the online databases. Therefore, the 2% threshold value was used to identify members of the same species. The K2P genetic distance relationships were calculated among the no match sequences and downloaded probability matches from NCBI. This resulted in two unknown specimens assigned to the Blenniidae and Gobiidae. All other taxa were identified to species level, except specimens representing the Gobiidae and Tripterygiidae families. Based on the K2P genetic distances Gobiidae representatives were categorised as members of the Caffrogobius genus. Twenty-eight barcodes represented specimens from the Tripterygiidae. DNA barcode data from COI was analysed using the standard phylogenetic procedures in MEGA6 to examine relationships and differentiation among sequences. These could not be identified to the lowest taxonomic rank due to limited sequence data to compare them with. The sequence data from these specimens gave different results in the two online databases. BOLD results were to family level (Tripterygiidae) and NCBI to the species level (Clinidae: Pavoclinus profundus). Results in this study confirmed the efficiency of the DNA barcoding technique in species level identification of fish larvae. The evidence from genetic barcodes of the Tripterygiidae specimens, supported by morphological characteristics, suggests the need for thorough research to identify the individuals to the species level. The fact that this study identified taxonomically problematic Gobiidae and Tripterygiidae specimens suggests that studies similar to this may highlight additional diversity and help to resolve the taxonomy of other species in these families. However, the lack of reference sequence data from the adult specimens, and especially those with cryptic diversity, were both shortcomings for the positive identification of larvae. With that being said, it shows the necessity for more research to be conducted on barcoding of larvae in general as to accommodate all kinds of species from biodiversity to economic perspectives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Somana, Zinzi Sinazo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Fishes -- Larvae -- South Africa -- Identification , Fishes -- Genetics -- Research -- Technique , Fishes -- South Africa -- Classification , Genetic markers
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/144605 , vital:38362
- Description: The early life history stages of most marine fish species are undescribed. The problem is, most of these fishes have pelagic larvae which are minute, delicate forms. Linking the larval stage to an adult counterpart is extremely challenging as larvae are morphologically different from the adults. Historically, larval fish identification relied solely on distinguishing morphological characteristics and meristic measurements, which has resulted in taxonomic confusion and misidentification. The introduction of the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) barcoding technique as an alternative approach has been successful in positively identifying larval fishes. The correct identification of larval specimens is the key to a better understanding of larval ecology, which underpins the success of any adult fish population. This study aimed to positively identify larval fishes of the south-east coast of South Africa using morphological characteristics and DNA barcoding. Larval and eggs specimens for this study were collected from the shallow nearshore waters of the south-east coast of South Africa. A total of 177 larval specimens were used for morphological analysis. Body shape, gut shape, pigmentation and morphometric measurements (such as body depth, preanal length and total body length) were used to identify each specimen to the family level. In addition, a fragment of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene (COI) was adopted for sequencing to identify larval fish specimens and fish eggs. Sequences generated from this study were compared to those in the Barcode of Life Database (BOLD). When there were no close matches to a sequence, the GenBank nucleic acid sequence database, maintained by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), was used as an alternative. A total of 18 different families were identified through morphology. Seventy-seven of the 177 larval specimens were not subjected to morphological identification due to physical damage. The majority of larvae identified using morphological characteristics belonged to either the Sparidae, Tripterygiidae or Gobiesocidae fish families. Through DNA barcoding, 12 fish families, 16 genera and 18 different species were identified. Ten DNA barcodes (categorised as ‘no match’) from 10 different larval specimens were not identified through any of the online databases. Therefore, the 2% threshold value was used to identify members of the same species. The K2P genetic distance relationships were calculated among the no match sequences and downloaded probability matches from NCBI. This resulted in two unknown specimens assigned to the Blenniidae and Gobiidae. All other taxa were identified to species level, except specimens representing the Gobiidae and Tripterygiidae families. Based on the K2P genetic distances Gobiidae representatives were categorised as members of the Caffrogobius genus. Twenty-eight barcodes represented specimens from the Tripterygiidae. DNA barcode data from COI was analysed using the standard phylogenetic procedures in MEGA6 to examine relationships and differentiation among sequences. These could not be identified to the lowest taxonomic rank due to limited sequence data to compare them with. The sequence data from these specimens gave different results in the two online databases. BOLD results were to family level (Tripterygiidae) and NCBI to the species level (Clinidae: Pavoclinus profundus). Results in this study confirmed the efficiency of the DNA barcoding technique in species level identification of fish larvae. The evidence from genetic barcodes of the Tripterygiidae specimens, supported by morphological characteristics, suggests the need for thorough research to identify the individuals to the species level. The fact that this study identified taxonomically problematic Gobiidae and Tripterygiidae specimens suggests that studies similar to this may highlight additional diversity and help to resolve the taxonomy of other species in these families. However, the lack of reference sequence data from the adult specimens, and especially those with cryptic diversity, were both shortcomings for the positive identification of larvae. With that being said, it shows the necessity for more research to be conducted on barcoding of larvae in general as to accommodate all kinds of species from biodiversity to economic perspectives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Come listen quickly
- Authors: Gouws, Leigh-Anne
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/141559 , vital:37985
- Description: Creative work portfolio.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Gouws, Leigh-Anne
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/141559 , vital:37985
- Description: Creative work portfolio.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Commonplaces
- Authors: Orsmond, Joseph Granger
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/144061 , vital:38307
- Description: My thesis is a collection of short to medium length poems. All of the subject matter is sustained by reflections, anecdotes or stories. The pieces in the collection are concerned with experiences linked to the seemingly ordinary and mundane. In this regard, I am inspired by how Alan Ziegler (in “Tales of Teaching” and Love at First Sight) and Raymond Carver (All of Us: The collected Poems) find stories in subject matter which is so commonplace, that it is often ignored creatively. Likewise, the lyricism and modes of expression of William Carlos Williams, Federico García Lorca and Luis Cernuda have informed how I write and structure my poetry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Orsmond, Joseph Granger
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/144061 , vital:38307
- Description: My thesis is a collection of short to medium length poems. All of the subject matter is sustained by reflections, anecdotes or stories. The pieces in the collection are concerned with experiences linked to the seemingly ordinary and mundane. In this regard, I am inspired by how Alan Ziegler (in “Tales of Teaching” and Love at First Sight) and Raymond Carver (All of Us: The collected Poems) find stories in subject matter which is so commonplace, that it is often ignored creatively. Likewise, the lyricism and modes of expression of William Carlos Williams, Federico García Lorca and Luis Cernuda have informed how I write and structure my poetry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Community-driven solid waste management initiatives in Missionvale
- Authors: Kwava, Eunice
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Factory and trade waste
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MDS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48709 , vital:41064
- Description: Solid waste management is particularly challenging in poor communities where socio-economic issues take precedence over keeping a clean environment. This study explores the effectiveness of community-driven waste management strategies that are implemented in Missionvale, a poverty-stricken township that forms part of the Nelson Mandela Metropole, located in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the sustainability of the community-driven waste management practices in the township. This was premised on the understanding that having the community at the centre of waste management is important and community initiatives coupled with support from key stakeholders, yields the desired outcome: sustainable waste management. The objectives of the study were: (i) to understand what happens to the solid waste generated in Missionvale; (ii) to assess the effects of the waste and its disposal (or lack thereof) in Missionvale; (iii) to identify the challenges faced by the public in implementing waste management initiatives for sustainable development; and (iv) to establish the waste management practices in Missionvale and their effectiveness. The study found that whilst waste management is a secondary, less important issue to community respondents who are struggling with more pressing socio-economic hurdles, there are nevertheless efforts from informal waste pickers, local businesses, non-governmental entities and some individual community members to keep their environment clean. This occurs against the backdrop of the municipality’s failure in its task to provide consistent waste collection and disposal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kwava, Eunice
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Factory and trade waste
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MDS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48709 , vital:41064
- Description: Solid waste management is particularly challenging in poor communities where socio-economic issues take precedence over keeping a clean environment. This study explores the effectiveness of community-driven waste management strategies that are implemented in Missionvale, a poverty-stricken township that forms part of the Nelson Mandela Metropole, located in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the sustainability of the community-driven waste management practices in the township. This was premised on the understanding that having the community at the centre of waste management is important and community initiatives coupled with support from key stakeholders, yields the desired outcome: sustainable waste management. The objectives of the study were: (i) to understand what happens to the solid waste generated in Missionvale; (ii) to assess the effects of the waste and its disposal (or lack thereof) in Missionvale; (iii) to identify the challenges faced by the public in implementing waste management initiatives for sustainable development; and (iv) to establish the waste management practices in Missionvale and their effectiveness. The study found that whilst waste management is a secondary, less important issue to community respondents who are struggling with more pressing socio-economic hurdles, there are nevertheless efforts from informal waste pickers, local businesses, non-governmental entities and some individual community members to keep their environment clean. This occurs against the backdrop of the municipality’s failure in its task to provide consistent waste collection and disposal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Compliance with good distribution practice guidelines for cold chain products among pharmaceutical wholesalers in South Africa
- Authors: Masebe, Zandisile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Pharmaceutical industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46390 , vital:39581
- Description: Background: The South African pharmaceutical cold chain distribution industry is highly regulated. Cold chain pharmaceutical products require storage in a cold room, in a temperature-controlled environment between (2°C-8°C) and the cold chain must be maintained at all times throughout the distribution process. The incorrect handling, storage, transport and distribution of cold chain products may reduce the potency and therapeutic effectiveness of the product which in turn may result in treatment failure. The research was aimed at determining the level of compliance to current Good Distribution Practice guidelines for cold chain products among pharmaceutical wholesalers and distributors in South Africa. Methodology: The study made use of quantitative research techniques. A purpose designed online questionnaire was used as a data collection tool from the study participants. The judgmental sampling technique was used in this study as it was found to be the most appropriate method for the research question. Phase one of the study was to conduct a pilot study at two Port Elizabeth pharmaceutical wholesalers. The data was analysed using Microsoft Excel®, chi-square test for goodness of fit and content analysis. The data was further analysed using a descriptive and inferential statistics approach to determine the level of compliance to regulatory guidelines for cold chain products.Results:The results obtained from the empirical study revealed that less than 50% of the study respondents indicated compliance to the factors listed in the regulatory guidelines for cold chain products distribution.These factors include cold chain monitoring, alternative power sources, validation of cold chain boxes and route transport validation.Conclusion:The wholesale pharmaceutical industry is experiencing challenges to comply with factors necessary to ensure compliance with GDP guidelines for cold chain products. Through the study it was proven that there is evidence of commitment by the industry to implement the GWP and GPP amendment guidelines, despite less than 50% of the respondents reporting compliance to the guidelines. Recommendations were provided to improve the level of compliance to guidelines for cold chain products by pharmaceutical wholesalers in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Masebe, Zandisile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Pharmaceutical industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPharm
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46390 , vital:39581
- Description: Background: The South African pharmaceutical cold chain distribution industry is highly regulated. Cold chain pharmaceutical products require storage in a cold room, in a temperature-controlled environment between (2°C-8°C) and the cold chain must be maintained at all times throughout the distribution process. The incorrect handling, storage, transport and distribution of cold chain products may reduce the potency and therapeutic effectiveness of the product which in turn may result in treatment failure. The research was aimed at determining the level of compliance to current Good Distribution Practice guidelines for cold chain products among pharmaceutical wholesalers and distributors in South Africa. Methodology: The study made use of quantitative research techniques. A purpose designed online questionnaire was used as a data collection tool from the study participants. The judgmental sampling technique was used in this study as it was found to be the most appropriate method for the research question. Phase one of the study was to conduct a pilot study at two Port Elizabeth pharmaceutical wholesalers. The data was analysed using Microsoft Excel®, chi-square test for goodness of fit and content analysis. The data was further analysed using a descriptive and inferential statistics approach to determine the level of compliance to regulatory guidelines for cold chain products.Results:The results obtained from the empirical study revealed that less than 50% of the study respondents indicated compliance to the factors listed in the regulatory guidelines for cold chain products distribution.These factors include cold chain monitoring, alternative power sources, validation of cold chain boxes and route transport validation.Conclusion:The wholesale pharmaceutical industry is experiencing challenges to comply with factors necessary to ensure compliance with GDP guidelines for cold chain products. Through the study it was proven that there is evidence of commitment by the industry to implement the GWP and GPP amendment guidelines, despite less than 50% of the respondents reporting compliance to the guidelines. Recommendations were provided to improve the level of compliance to guidelines for cold chain products by pharmaceutical wholesalers in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020