Assessing ecosystem response to multiple disturbances and climate change in South Africa using ground-and satellite-based measurements and model
- Kutsch, Werner L, Falge, E M, Brümmer, Christian, Mukwashi, K, Schmullius, C, Hüttich, C, Odipo, V, Scholes, Robert J, Mudau, A, Midgley, Guy F, Stevens, N, Hickler, Thomas, Scheiter, Simon, Martens, C, Twine, Wayne, Iiyambo, T, Bradshaw, Karen L, Lück, W, Lenfers, Ulfia A, Thiel-Clemen, T
- Authors: Kutsch, Werner L , Falge, E M , Brümmer, Christian , Mukwashi, K , Schmullius, C , Hüttich, C , Odipo, V , Scholes, Robert J , Mudau, A , Midgley, Guy F , Stevens, N , Hickler, Thomas , Scheiter, Simon , Martens, C , Twine, Wayne , Iiyambo, T , Bradshaw, Karen L , Lück, W , Lenfers, Ulfia A , Thiel-Clemen, T
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/475183 , vital:77782 , xlink:href="https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/9856380"
- Description: Sub-Saharan Africa currently experiences rapidly growing human population, intrinsically tied to substantial changes in land use on shrubland, savanna and mixed woodland ecosystems due to over-exploitation. Significant conversions driving degradation, affecting fire frequency and water availability, and fueling climate change are expected to increase in the immediate future. However, measured data of greenhouse gas emissions as affected by land use change are scarce to entirely lacking from this region. The project 'Adaptive Resilience of Southern African Ecosystems' (ARS AfricaE) conducts research and develops scenarios of ecosystem development under climate change, for management support in conservation or for planning rural area development. This will be achieved by (1) creation of a network of research clusters (paired sites with natural and altered vegetation) along an aridity gradient in South Africa for ground-based micrometeorological in-situ measurements of energy and matter fluxes, (2) linking biogeochemical functions with ecosystem structure, and eco-physiological properties, (3) description of ecosystem disturbance (and recovery) in terms of ecosystem function such as carbon balance components and water use efficiency, (4) set-up of individual-based models to predict ecosystem dynamics under (post) disturbance managements, (5) combination with long-term landscape dynamic information derived from remote sensing and aerial photography, and (6) development of sustainable management strategies for disturbed ecosystems and land use change. Emphasis is given on validation (by a suite of field measurements) of estimates obtained from eddy covariance, model approaches and satellite derivations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Kutsch, Werner L , Falge, E M , Brümmer, Christian , Mukwashi, K , Schmullius, C , Hüttich, C , Odipo, V , Scholes, Robert J , Mudau, A , Midgley, Guy F , Stevens, N , Hickler, Thomas , Scheiter, Simon , Martens, C , Twine, Wayne , Iiyambo, T , Bradshaw, Karen L , Lück, W , Lenfers, Ulfia A , Thiel-Clemen, T
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/475183 , vital:77782 , xlink:href="https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/9856380"
- Description: Sub-Saharan Africa currently experiences rapidly growing human population, intrinsically tied to substantial changes in land use on shrubland, savanna and mixed woodland ecosystems due to over-exploitation. Significant conversions driving degradation, affecting fire frequency and water availability, and fueling climate change are expected to increase in the immediate future. However, measured data of greenhouse gas emissions as affected by land use change are scarce to entirely lacking from this region. The project 'Adaptive Resilience of Southern African Ecosystems' (ARS AfricaE) conducts research and develops scenarios of ecosystem development under climate change, for management support in conservation or for planning rural area development. This will be achieved by (1) creation of a network of research clusters (paired sites with natural and altered vegetation) along an aridity gradient in South Africa for ground-based micrometeorological in-situ measurements of energy and matter fluxes, (2) linking biogeochemical functions with ecosystem structure, and eco-physiological properties, (3) description of ecosystem disturbance (and recovery) in terms of ecosystem function such as carbon balance components and water use efficiency, (4) set-up of individual-based models to predict ecosystem dynamics under (post) disturbance managements, (5) combination with long-term landscape dynamic information derived from remote sensing and aerial photography, and (6) development of sustainable management strategies for disturbed ecosystems and land use change. Emphasis is given on validation (by a suite of field measurements) of estimates obtained from eddy covariance, model approaches and satellite derivations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Problem-solving ability of first year CS students: A case study and intervention
- Marais, Craig, Bradshaw, Karen L
- Authors: Marais, Craig , Bradshaw, Karen L
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/475235 , vital:77787
- Description: This paper reports the findings of computational thinking research undertaken to develop problem-solving skills in first year computer science students. Through the use of pre-and post-tests, statistical results are presented showing the definite acquisition of problem-solving skills by the students after completing the introductory first year computer science course. These skills are argued to be both innate in some students and acquired in others. By identifying the component skills required and presenting a step-by-step approach to teaching problem solving, this research aims to provide a method for actively instilling these skills in learners who lack them.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Marais, Craig , Bradshaw, Karen L
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/475235 , vital:77787
- Description: This paper reports the findings of computational thinking research undertaken to develop problem-solving skills in first year computer science students. Through the use of pre-and post-tests, statistical results are presented showing the definite acquisition of problem-solving skills by the students after completing the introductory first year computer science course. These skills are argued to be both innate in some students and acquired in others. By identifying the component skills required and presenting a step-by-step approach to teaching problem solving, this research aims to provide a method for actively instilling these skills in learners who lack them.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Service learning based environmental health promotion activities for pharmacy students: educating young on the safe disposal of medicines and used sharps
- Srinivas, Sunitha C, Paphitis, Sharli, Ncomanzi, A.S, Tandlich, Roman, Bradshaw, Karen L
- Authors: Srinivas, Sunitha C , Paphitis, Sharli , Ncomanzi, A.S , Tandlich, Roman , Bradshaw, Karen L
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/475255 , vital:77788
- Description: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a service-learning based environmental health promotion exhibit in raising awareness of safe disposal of medicines and used sharps during the 2014 National Science Festival in South Africa. The study design utilised a computer-based quiz, an information poster, an interactive model and a take-home information leaflet on the safe disposal of medicines and used sharps which were developed by students and staff in the faculty of pharmacy at Rhodes University. Predominantly school students attended the exhibit and took part in a quiz. 413 participants took part in the environmental health promotion activity, with 91% of the participating learners attending schools in the Eastern Cape Province. significant improvement (p is less than 0.001). Moreover, the results show significant gender differences for both the pre- and post-intervention mean scores. The environmental health promotion project was successful in raising awareness of the safe and appropriate disposal of medicines and used sharps by highlighting the dangers associated with their incorrect disposal, both to the environment and eventually to humans. Similar continuous health promotion activities are essential for sustainable effectiveness in the transformation of individual and communal actions in South Africa for the safe disposal of medicines and used sharps.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Srinivas, Sunitha C , Paphitis, Sharli , Ncomanzi, A.S , Tandlich, Roman , Bradshaw, Karen L
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/475255 , vital:77788
- Description: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a service-learning based environmental health promotion exhibit in raising awareness of safe disposal of medicines and used sharps during the 2014 National Science Festival in South Africa. The study design utilised a computer-based quiz, an information poster, an interactive model and a take-home information leaflet on the safe disposal of medicines and used sharps which were developed by students and staff in the faculty of pharmacy at Rhodes University. Predominantly school students attended the exhibit and took part in a quiz. 413 participants took part in the environmental health promotion activity, with 91% of the participating learners attending schools in the Eastern Cape Province. significant improvement (p is less than 0.001). Moreover, the results show significant gender differences for both the pre- and post-intervention mean scores. The environmental health promotion project was successful in raising awareness of the safe and appropriate disposal of medicines and used sharps by highlighting the dangers associated with their incorrect disposal, both to the environment and eventually to humans. Similar continuous health promotion activities are essential for sustainable effectiveness in the transformation of individual and communal actions in South Africa for the safe disposal of medicines and used sharps.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
SPACES Project ARS AfricaE–Adaptive Resilience of Southern African ecosystems
- Falge, E M, Brümmer, Christian, Schmullius, Christiane, Hüttich, C, Scholes, Robert J, Midgley, Guy F, Hickler, Thomas, Scheiter, Simon, Twine, Wayne, Bradshaw, Karen L, Lück, W, Lenfers, Ulfia A, Thiel-Clemen, T, Mafukute, Mukelabai, Kutsch, Werner L
- Authors: Falge, E M , Brümmer, Christian , Schmullius, Christiane , Hüttich, C , Scholes, Robert J , Midgley, Guy F , Hickler, Thomas , Scheiter, Simon , Twine, Wayne , Bradshaw, Karen L , Lück, W , Lenfers, Ulfia A , Thiel-Clemen, T , Mafukute, Mukelabai , Kutsch, Werner L
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/475274 , vital:77791
- Description: Nowadays, many semi-arid ecosystems are affected by at least two different kinds of disturbances: land use (change) and climate change. Based on this, it can be hypothesized that even very resilient ecosystems may not return to their initial state after disturbance, but will rather adapt to a new steady-state. We name this phenomenon "Adaptive Resilience of Ecosystems" and use it as base for the research concept of ARS AfricaE. This project wants to go beyond older approaches that only describe structural changes in savannas and their drivers. It employs functional aspects, such as the investigation of biogeochemical cycles, but also targets a deeper understanding of the functional consequences of ecosystem changes caused by multiple disturbances, and defines "degradation" as a sustained loss in the broad set of ecosystem services, i.e. a decrease in natural capital. To achieve this goal, the project will • create a network of research clusters (with natural and altered vegetation) along an aridity gradient in the Greater Karoo, Kruger National Park in South Africa, and Kataba Forest Reserve in Zambia • link biogeochemical functions with ecosystem structure, diversity of species and eco-physiological properties • describe ecosystem disturbance (and recovery) in terms of ecosystem function such as carbon balance components and water use efficiency • build an individual-based model to predict ecosystem dynamics under (post) disturbance managements • combine this model with long-term landscape dynamic information derived from remote sensing and aerial photography • develop sustainable management strategies for disturbed ecosystems and land use change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Falge, E M , Brümmer, Christian , Schmullius, Christiane , Hüttich, C , Scholes, Robert J , Midgley, Guy F , Hickler, Thomas , Scheiter, Simon , Twine, Wayne , Bradshaw, Karen L , Lück, W , Lenfers, Ulfia A , Thiel-Clemen, T , Mafukute, Mukelabai , Kutsch, Werner L
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/475274 , vital:77791
- Description: Nowadays, many semi-arid ecosystems are affected by at least two different kinds of disturbances: land use (change) and climate change. Based on this, it can be hypothesized that even very resilient ecosystems may not return to their initial state after disturbance, but will rather adapt to a new steady-state. We name this phenomenon "Adaptive Resilience of Ecosystems" and use it as base for the research concept of ARS AfricaE. This project wants to go beyond older approaches that only describe structural changes in savannas and their drivers. It employs functional aspects, such as the investigation of biogeochemical cycles, but also targets a deeper understanding of the functional consequences of ecosystem changes caused by multiple disturbances, and defines "degradation" as a sustained loss in the broad set of ecosystem services, i.e. a decrease in natural capital. To achieve this goal, the project will • create a network of research clusters (with natural and altered vegetation) along an aridity gradient in the Greater Karoo, Kruger National Park in South Africa, and Kataba Forest Reserve in Zambia • link biogeochemical functions with ecosystem structure, diversity of species and eco-physiological properties • describe ecosystem disturbance (and recovery) in terms of ecosystem function such as carbon balance components and water use efficiency • build an individual-based model to predict ecosystem dynamics under (post) disturbance managements • combine this model with long-term landscape dynamic information derived from remote sensing and aerial photography • develop sustainable management strategies for disturbed ecosystems and land use change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The current state of digital forensic practitioners in South Africa
- Jordaan, Jason, Bradshaw, Karen L
- Authors: Jordaan, Jason , Bradshaw, Karen L
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/475285 , vital:77792 , ISBN 9781479977550 , https://doi.org/10.1109/ISSA.2015.7335068
- Description: Recent high profile court trials around the world, including South Africa, have highlighted the importance of forensic science evidence in court. They have also show what can happen when forensic science is handled poorly in court leading to incorrect convictions or acquittals. Most often the problems have been linked to the qualifications, training, competency and experience of the forensic practitioners who examined and analysed the evidence. With digital forensics being recognised as a forensics science and criminal trials such as Casey Anthony and Julia Amero dominated by errors in the digital forensics process attributed to the examiners, it is crucial to understand what the current situation is in South Africa with regards local digital forensic practitioners, so as to identify any strengths or shortcomings which could impact on digital evidence in a court of law. The research focused on understanding the academic qualifications, digital forensics training, competency, and experience of South African digital forensic practitioners. General trends were identified through the research showing that South African digital forensic practitioners often lacked the necessary academic qualifications, training, competency and experience required of a digital forensics practitioner, raising concerns about the quality of digital forensics practice in South Africa. When contrasted against international standards, the research identified areas of improvement, and suggested potential remedial actions to address the situation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Jordaan, Jason , Bradshaw, Karen L
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/475285 , vital:77792 , ISBN 9781479977550 , https://doi.org/10.1109/ISSA.2015.7335068
- Description: Recent high profile court trials around the world, including South Africa, have highlighted the importance of forensic science evidence in court. They have also show what can happen when forensic science is handled poorly in court leading to incorrect convictions or acquittals. Most often the problems have been linked to the qualifications, training, competency and experience of the forensic practitioners who examined and analysed the evidence. With digital forensics being recognised as a forensics science and criminal trials such as Casey Anthony and Julia Amero dominated by errors in the digital forensics process attributed to the examiners, it is crucial to understand what the current situation is in South Africa with regards local digital forensic practitioners, so as to identify any strengths or shortcomings which could impact on digital evidence in a court of law. The research focused on understanding the academic qualifications, digital forensics training, competency, and experience of South African digital forensic practitioners. General trends were identified through the research showing that South African digital forensic practitioners often lacked the necessary academic qualifications, training, competency and experience required of a digital forensics practitioner, raising concerns about the quality of digital forensics practice in South Africa. When contrasted against international standards, the research identified areas of improvement, and suggested potential remedial actions to address the situation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Towards an Extensible Generic Agent-Based Simulator for Mammals
- Carse, Stephen, Bradshaw, Karen L
- Authors: Carse, Stephen , Bradshaw, Karen L
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/475296 , vital:77793 , xlink:href="https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/9856380"
- Description: Modelling tools are widely used by national parks, both within South Africa and in countries around the world. The modelling of animal behaviour, particularly in South Africa and other African countries, is well established. These models, however, tend to be developed with one particular application and species in mind and are not reusable in other scenarios, requiring further development work for the addition of another species. This paper presents an approach towards developing an agent-based generic system that simulates a range of mammal behaviours by building a set of core behaviours that can be parameterised according to the needs of each species. The system uses XML notation for the definition of a species and provides a GUI tool that produces the XML required to simulate a species and set up the initial animals present in the simulation. Various feedback tools allow the simulation to be examined and analysed in detail to ascertain the success of the simulation of the mammal behaviours and those behaviours' adaptation to various different species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Carse, Stephen , Bradshaw, Karen L
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/475296 , vital:77793 , xlink:href="https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/9856380"
- Description: Modelling tools are widely used by national parks, both within South Africa and in countries around the world. The modelling of animal behaviour, particularly in South Africa and other African countries, is well established. These models, however, tend to be developed with one particular application and species in mind and are not reusable in other scenarios, requiring further development work for the addition of another species. This paper presents an approach towards developing an agent-based generic system that simulates a range of mammal behaviours by building a set of core behaviours that can be parameterised according to the needs of each species. The system uses XML notation for the definition of a species and provides a GUI tool that produces the XML required to simulate a species and set up the initial animals present in the simulation. Various feedback tools allow the simulation to be examined and analysed in detail to ascertain the success of the simulation of the mammal behaviours and those behaviours' adaptation to various different species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
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