Integrating state-space modelling and systematic conservation planning to recommend penguin-fishery management zones in Algoa Bay, South Africa
- Stockdale, Victoria, Goodall, Victoria, Clifford-Holmes, Jia
- Authors: Stockdale, Victoria , Goodall, Victoria , Clifford-Holmes, Jia
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Biodiversity conservation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Natural resource conservation , Marine ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62611 , vital:72828
- Description: Direct anthropogenic impacts on vulnerable marine ecosystems are growing and require effective conservation measures. Integrating the cost impacts of conservation interventions and optimising the spatiotemporal scale of management interventions may improve cohesion between opposing marine users. This study aimed to integrate spatial and temporal models to advise dynamic penguin-fishery management plans in Algoa Bay, off Gqeberha, South Africa, that would maximise penguin foraging success while minimising the impact on the fishing industry. Determining the foraging locations important to breeding penguins is fundamental when understanding the relationship between fisheries and prey availability. Using Global Positioning System (GPS) data gathered from feeding trips of breeding African penguins between 2012 and 2017, and a hidden Markov model, three behavioural states (foraging, commuting, transitioning) were inferred and used as conservation targets in spatial prioritisation using the prioritizr package in R. The cost to the fishery was estimated using the catch of pelagic fish by the fishing industry between 2012 and 2015 as the proxy. The energetic cost to penguins was the distance they travelled from their breeding colony. Nine prioritisation scenarios, varying in levels of conservation for penguins, spatial cohesion and costs to fisheries, were developed using all year’s combined data to explore an ‘optimal’ closure configuration. The optimal closure was determined as an area which met the targets for penguin conservation, with a low cost to the fishery, close to the breeding colony and spatially clumped. The best solution from each scenario was isolated and the solution for the conservation target of 20% foraging habitat, 10% commuting habitat and 10% transitioning habitat and a boundary penalty of 0.01 (a dimensionless value that is used to reduce spatial fragmentation – increasing the value of the parameter signals that it is important to minimise the total exposed boundary of the prioritisation by favouring solutions where units are clumped together) was chosen as the optimal closure. This configuration was used as a static closure and applied to individual fishing seasons to estimate how the cost of a static closure design to the fishery would vary between seasons. Subsequently, a dynamic closure was designed using the same optimal configuration criteria every year, and the cost to the fishing industry was compared seasonally with the cost of a static closure. The cost to fisheries of dynamic closures was consistently lower than that of a static closure and the area required to meet the penguin feeding targets was drastically reduced. While dynamic closure scenarios show promise to minimise costs to the industry while meeting penguin conservation targets, these configurations were designed retrospectively with data collected after the end of the fishery seasons. For efficient management, the closures need to be designed by using data collected at an appropriate temporal scale. For that, the critical missing dimension to this study is the addition of real-time data on pelagic fish positions, areas of fishing intensity and sites of penguin foraging to create appropriate recommendations for up-to-date fishery exclusion zones. Therefore, the priority now is to explore methods of collecting real-time data on pelagic fish abundance, feeding behaviour of penguins at sea, site and mass of pelagic fishery catch, and using these data to delineate real-time, dynamic closures, coupled with a governance and management strategy that can implement dynamic closures. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Stockdale, Victoria , Goodall, Victoria , Clifford-Holmes, Jia
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Biodiversity conservation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Natural resource conservation , Marine ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62611 , vital:72828
- Description: Direct anthropogenic impacts on vulnerable marine ecosystems are growing and require effective conservation measures. Integrating the cost impacts of conservation interventions and optimising the spatiotemporal scale of management interventions may improve cohesion between opposing marine users. This study aimed to integrate spatial and temporal models to advise dynamic penguin-fishery management plans in Algoa Bay, off Gqeberha, South Africa, that would maximise penguin foraging success while minimising the impact on the fishing industry. Determining the foraging locations important to breeding penguins is fundamental when understanding the relationship between fisheries and prey availability. Using Global Positioning System (GPS) data gathered from feeding trips of breeding African penguins between 2012 and 2017, and a hidden Markov model, three behavioural states (foraging, commuting, transitioning) were inferred and used as conservation targets in spatial prioritisation using the prioritizr package in R. The cost to the fishery was estimated using the catch of pelagic fish by the fishing industry between 2012 and 2015 as the proxy. The energetic cost to penguins was the distance they travelled from their breeding colony. Nine prioritisation scenarios, varying in levels of conservation for penguins, spatial cohesion and costs to fisheries, were developed using all year’s combined data to explore an ‘optimal’ closure configuration. The optimal closure was determined as an area which met the targets for penguin conservation, with a low cost to the fishery, close to the breeding colony and spatially clumped. The best solution from each scenario was isolated and the solution for the conservation target of 20% foraging habitat, 10% commuting habitat and 10% transitioning habitat and a boundary penalty of 0.01 (a dimensionless value that is used to reduce spatial fragmentation – increasing the value of the parameter signals that it is important to minimise the total exposed boundary of the prioritisation by favouring solutions where units are clumped together) was chosen as the optimal closure. This configuration was used as a static closure and applied to individual fishing seasons to estimate how the cost of a static closure design to the fishery would vary between seasons. Subsequently, a dynamic closure was designed using the same optimal configuration criteria every year, and the cost to the fishing industry was compared seasonally with the cost of a static closure. The cost to fisheries of dynamic closures was consistently lower than that of a static closure and the area required to meet the penguin feeding targets was drastically reduced. While dynamic closure scenarios show promise to minimise costs to the industry while meeting penguin conservation targets, these configurations were designed retrospectively with data collected after the end of the fishery seasons. For efficient management, the closures need to be designed by using data collected at an appropriate temporal scale. For that, the critical missing dimension to this study is the addition of real-time data on pelagic fish positions, areas of fishing intensity and sites of penguin foraging to create appropriate recommendations for up-to-date fishery exclusion zones. Therefore, the priority now is to explore methods of collecting real-time data on pelagic fish abundance, feeding behaviour of penguins at sea, site and mass of pelagic fishery catch, and using these data to delineate real-time, dynamic closures, coupled with a governance and management strategy that can implement dynamic closures. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Investigating the effect of peptide-functionalized gold nanoparticles on colon cancer cells
- Authors: Ramagoma, Rolivhuwa Bishop
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Colon (Anatomy) -- Cancer -- Research , Colon (Anatomy) -- Cancer -- Treatment , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62564 , vital:72824
- Description: Colon cancer like any other cancer is a condition in which cells grow uncontrollably and may even spread to other regions of the body through metastasis. Colon cancer was ranked the second leading cause of cancer related deaths worldwide in 2018. Research to advance treatment of cancer keeps advancing daily, However, a big challenge is drug-induced side effects due to toxicity against normal body cells. Therefore, the development of controlled release technologies in conjunction with targeted drug delivery may provide a more efficient and less dangerous approach to overcome the limits of traditional chemotherapy. Including the creation of nanoscale delivery vehicles capable of directing the release of chemotherapeutic drugs into cancer cells only. This study aims to investigate p14 peptide that would specifically target colorectal cancer cells and not normal body cells to develop a targeted drug delivery system using gold nanoparticles. This study serves as a pilot study of the primary aim. To achieve this, the effect of the peptide p14 and peptide functionalized gold nanoparticles (p14-AuNP) on colon cancer cells (HT-29) and normal epithelial cells (KMST-6) was determined. Firstly, gold nanoparticles were chemically synthesised and then functionalized with p14 peptide through Polyethylene glycol. Then assessment of their effect through in vitro cytotoxicity assay (MTT) and gene expression analysis (RT-qPCR) was conducted. Nanoparticles’ synthesis and functionalization was performed and confirmed: In vitro cytotoxicity through MTT assay was successfully conducted and p14-AuNP showed toxicity against colon cancer cells and lesser toxicity towards normal cells as compared to 5-Flourouracil (commercially approved drug for colon cancer treatment). Gene expression analysis revealed that apoptosis was induced in both cell lines by p14-AuNP either through upregulation of caspase 3, 7 and/or BCL2. A cell survival gene, AKT1, also had significant effect on this. CDC42 was downregulated which indicates that cell proliferation was inhibited. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Ramagoma, Rolivhuwa Bishop
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Colon (Anatomy) -- Cancer -- Research , Colon (Anatomy) -- Cancer -- Treatment , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62564 , vital:72824
- Description: Colon cancer like any other cancer is a condition in which cells grow uncontrollably and may even spread to other regions of the body through metastasis. Colon cancer was ranked the second leading cause of cancer related deaths worldwide in 2018. Research to advance treatment of cancer keeps advancing daily, However, a big challenge is drug-induced side effects due to toxicity against normal body cells. Therefore, the development of controlled release technologies in conjunction with targeted drug delivery may provide a more efficient and less dangerous approach to overcome the limits of traditional chemotherapy. Including the creation of nanoscale delivery vehicles capable of directing the release of chemotherapeutic drugs into cancer cells only. This study aims to investigate p14 peptide that would specifically target colorectal cancer cells and not normal body cells to develop a targeted drug delivery system using gold nanoparticles. This study serves as a pilot study of the primary aim. To achieve this, the effect of the peptide p14 and peptide functionalized gold nanoparticles (p14-AuNP) on colon cancer cells (HT-29) and normal epithelial cells (KMST-6) was determined. Firstly, gold nanoparticles were chemically synthesised and then functionalized with p14 peptide through Polyethylene glycol. Then assessment of their effect through in vitro cytotoxicity assay (MTT) and gene expression analysis (RT-qPCR) was conducted. Nanoparticles’ synthesis and functionalization was performed and confirmed: In vitro cytotoxicity through MTT assay was successfully conducted and p14-AuNP showed toxicity against colon cancer cells and lesser toxicity towards normal cells as compared to 5-Flourouracil (commercially approved drug for colon cancer treatment). Gene expression analysis revealed that apoptosis was induced in both cell lines by p14-AuNP either through upregulation of caspase 3, 7 and/or BCL2. A cell survival gene, AKT1, also had significant effect on this. CDC42 was downregulated which indicates that cell proliferation was inhibited. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Investigating the interannual variability of the Benguela coastal upwelling system using a ROMS numerical model from 1993-2014
- Silima, Rudzani Faith, Roagosha, Moagabo
- Authors: Silima, Rudzani Faith , Roagosha, Moagabo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Oceanography , Coasts , Marine sciences
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62586 , vital:72826
- Description: The seasonal and interannual variability of the coastal Benguela upwelling system is described using 22 years (September 1993 - December 2014) of a regional Ocean model (ROMS) output. The model-derived SSTs are evaluated against satellite SSTs (GHRSST) and biases between the datasets investigated, allowing for confidence in using the ROMS data to investigate details of spatial and temporal variability over the Benguela System. Variability of coastal SSTs are investigated together with alongshore winds (from the ERA-Interim Reanalysis product). The driver of the seasonality in upwelling in the Benguela region is the seasonal shift of the South Atlantic High pressure system, leading to an enhanced seasonal signal in the southern Benguela (with strongest upwelling favourable winds in austral spring and summer). In the northern Benguela, the seasonal signal reduces with the peak of upwelling favourable winds shifting to late winter and spring. Interannual variability is evident in the model and is investigated with respect to various modes of climate variability. Though the direct relationship of the Benguela upwelling system to large-scale climate modes such as SAM and ENSO is not clear in most places, some evidence was found for their connection. For instance, in the southernmost cell of the southern Benguela a significant positive and negative correlation exists between SST and wind respectively with ENSO during summer months. This relates to increased (decreased) winds and decreased (increased) SST during La Niña (El Niño) events. Although there was no direct correlation with either SST or alongshore wind anywhere in the Benguela system, there was some indication of its importance. A trend toward a positive SAM (i.e a more poleward position of the South Atlantic High-Pressure system) was consistent with a trend toward enhanced winds and reduced SSTs in the southernmost upwelling cell. In addition to this, there was evidence to suggest that when SAM and ENSO are out-of-phase, which occurred primarily during summer months, the wind and SST response is amplified. This seemed to be particularly true in the first 10 years of the timeseries when the anomalies were strongly alternating. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Silima, Rudzani Faith , Roagosha, Moagabo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Oceanography , Coasts , Marine sciences
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62586 , vital:72826
- Description: The seasonal and interannual variability of the coastal Benguela upwelling system is described using 22 years (September 1993 - December 2014) of a regional Ocean model (ROMS) output. The model-derived SSTs are evaluated against satellite SSTs (GHRSST) and biases between the datasets investigated, allowing for confidence in using the ROMS data to investigate details of spatial and temporal variability over the Benguela System. Variability of coastal SSTs are investigated together with alongshore winds (from the ERA-Interim Reanalysis product). The driver of the seasonality in upwelling in the Benguela region is the seasonal shift of the South Atlantic High pressure system, leading to an enhanced seasonal signal in the southern Benguela (with strongest upwelling favourable winds in austral spring and summer). In the northern Benguela, the seasonal signal reduces with the peak of upwelling favourable winds shifting to late winter and spring. Interannual variability is evident in the model and is investigated with respect to various modes of climate variability. Though the direct relationship of the Benguela upwelling system to large-scale climate modes such as SAM and ENSO is not clear in most places, some evidence was found for their connection. For instance, in the southernmost cell of the southern Benguela a significant positive and negative correlation exists between SST and wind respectively with ENSO during summer months. This relates to increased (decreased) winds and decreased (increased) SST during La Niña (El Niño) events. Although there was no direct correlation with either SST or alongshore wind anywhere in the Benguela system, there was some indication of its importance. A trend toward a positive SAM (i.e a more poleward position of the South Atlantic High-Pressure system) was consistent with a trend toward enhanced winds and reduced SSTs in the southernmost upwelling cell. In addition to this, there was evidence to suggest that when SAM and ENSO are out-of-phase, which occurred primarily during summer months, the wind and SST response is amplified. This seemed to be particularly true in the first 10 years of the timeseries when the anomalies were strongly alternating. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Mechanical recyclability and biodegradation of biopolymers, biopolymer blends and biocomposite in natural environmental conditions
- Authors: Nomadolo, Nomvuyo Elizabeth
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Polymers , Polymeric composites , Biopolymers
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62539 , vital:72822
- Description: The present research aimed at investigating mechanical recyclability and studying the potential biotic and abiotic degradation behaviors of biobased biodegradable polymers in different environmental conditions. The mechanical recyclability tests monitored the effect of multiple reprocessing on the mechanical, thermal, physical, chemical, and morphological properties of poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), poly (butylene succinate) (PBS), poly (lactic acid) (PLA), PBAT-PBS blend, and PBAT-thermoplastic starch (TPS) composite. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE), a conventional non-biodegradable plastic, was also monitored for comparison studies. The mechanical recyclability tests were carried out by eight melt extrusion cycles using twin-screw extrusion and injection molding processing techniques. Tensile testing, impact analysis, melt flow index test (MFI), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TGA), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques were employed to monitor the effect mechanical recycling at each melt extrusion cycle. Tensile and impact strength results showed that PBAT and PBAT-TPS biocomposite were mechanical recyclable for at least eight cycles and this was comparable to LDPE recyclability performance. In contrast, neat PBS, PLA, and PBAT-PBS blend were found to be melt extrudable only up to six cycles as the mechanical properties declined with the increase of reprocessing cycles. MFI tests suggest that molecular weight of PBAT and PBAT-TPS were not significantly affected by multiple extrusion cycles while the melt flow properties of PBS, PLA, and PBAT-PBS samples were affected from third cycle. DSC, TGA, and DMA demonstrated that PBAT and PBAT-TPS were more thermo-mechanically stable than PBS, PLA, and PBAT-PBS blend. FTIR spectroscopy results showed that the chemical structure of both PBAT and PBAT-TPS were unaffected by the multiple recycling cycles typically indicated by characteristic peak vibrations bands of C=O and C-O around 1710 cm-1 and 1046-1100 cm-1, respectively. SEM micrographs of PBS, PLA, and PBAT-PBS clearly evidenced the degradation of the biopolymers by severely fractured morphology as a result multiple reprocessing cycle.The rate of aerobic biodegradation for PBAT-PBS and PBAT-PLA blends was examined under controlled home and industrial composting using the CO2 evolution respirometric method. FTIR, DSC, TGA, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and SEM were employed to monitor the changes in the structural, chemical, thermal, and morphological characteristics of the biopolymer blends before and after biodegradation. The biodegradation tests showed that PBAT-PBS and PBAT-PLA blends exhibited higher degradation rates under industrial composting conditions than under home composting conditions. The increased intensity of hydroxyl and carbonyl absorption bands on the FTIR spectra confirmed that the biodegradation process occurred. SEM revealed that there was microbial colony formation and disintegration on the surfaces of the biopolymer blends. Moreover, abiotic degradation results suggested that thermal and hydrolytic conditions influence the degradation process than sunlight exposure. Additionally, aquatic biodegradation results showed that PBAT-PBS blend and PBAT-TPS composite undergo a higher rate of biodegradation as compared to PBAT, PBS, and PLA.The results obtained from this research work conclude that biobased biodegradable polymers can be mechanically recycled, and they are suitable for biological degradation in industrial composting, home composting and marine environment. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Nomadolo, Nomvuyo Elizabeth
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Polymers , Polymeric composites , Biopolymers
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62539 , vital:72822
- Description: The present research aimed at investigating mechanical recyclability and studying the potential biotic and abiotic degradation behaviors of biobased biodegradable polymers in different environmental conditions. The mechanical recyclability tests monitored the effect of multiple reprocessing on the mechanical, thermal, physical, chemical, and morphological properties of poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), poly (butylene succinate) (PBS), poly (lactic acid) (PLA), PBAT-PBS blend, and PBAT-thermoplastic starch (TPS) composite. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE), a conventional non-biodegradable plastic, was also monitored for comparison studies. The mechanical recyclability tests were carried out by eight melt extrusion cycles using twin-screw extrusion and injection molding processing techniques. Tensile testing, impact analysis, melt flow index test (MFI), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TGA), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques were employed to monitor the effect mechanical recycling at each melt extrusion cycle. Tensile and impact strength results showed that PBAT and PBAT-TPS biocomposite were mechanical recyclable for at least eight cycles and this was comparable to LDPE recyclability performance. In contrast, neat PBS, PLA, and PBAT-PBS blend were found to be melt extrudable only up to six cycles as the mechanical properties declined with the increase of reprocessing cycles. MFI tests suggest that molecular weight of PBAT and PBAT-TPS were not significantly affected by multiple extrusion cycles while the melt flow properties of PBS, PLA, and PBAT-PBS samples were affected from third cycle. DSC, TGA, and DMA demonstrated that PBAT and PBAT-TPS were more thermo-mechanically stable than PBS, PLA, and PBAT-PBS blend. FTIR spectroscopy results showed that the chemical structure of both PBAT and PBAT-TPS were unaffected by the multiple recycling cycles typically indicated by characteristic peak vibrations bands of C=O and C-O around 1710 cm-1 and 1046-1100 cm-1, respectively. SEM micrographs of PBS, PLA, and PBAT-PBS clearly evidenced the degradation of the biopolymers by severely fractured morphology as a result multiple reprocessing cycle.The rate of aerobic biodegradation for PBAT-PBS and PBAT-PLA blends was examined under controlled home and industrial composting using the CO2 evolution respirometric method. FTIR, DSC, TGA, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and SEM were employed to monitor the changes in the structural, chemical, thermal, and morphological characteristics of the biopolymer blends before and after biodegradation. The biodegradation tests showed that PBAT-PBS and PBAT-PLA blends exhibited higher degradation rates under industrial composting conditions than under home composting conditions. The increased intensity of hydroxyl and carbonyl absorption bands on the FTIR spectra confirmed that the biodegradation process occurred. SEM revealed that there was microbial colony formation and disintegration on the surfaces of the biopolymer blends. Moreover, abiotic degradation results suggested that thermal and hydrolytic conditions influence the degradation process than sunlight exposure. Additionally, aquatic biodegradation results showed that PBAT-PBS blend and PBAT-TPS composite undergo a higher rate of biodegradation as compared to PBAT, PBS, and PLA.The results obtained from this research work conclude that biobased biodegradable polymers can be mechanically recycled, and they are suitable for biological degradation in industrial composting, home composting and marine environment. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Spatial patterns of human-elephant conflict and elephant space-use in Liwonde National Park, Malawi
- Authors: Voges, Mignon
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Human-animal relationships , Wildlife management -- Malawi , Wildlife conservation -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62721 , vital:72933
- Description: Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) is a prevailing issue worldwide, threatening the livelihood of the affected human communities, and the persistence of wildlife populations and habitat. Human-elephant conflict (HEC) is particularly challenging, given the damage or harm these large animals can cause to human communities. Moreover, HEC threatens the safety of elephant populations as elephants can be injured or killed when people retaliate. Several studies have therefore been conducted to investigate HEC spatiotemporal patterns in order to better understand it and to develop mitigation measures. These studies predominantly used non-spatial statistics or global regressions to investigate HEC patterns and drivers. The general understanding of HEC patterns and drivers are therefore based on general predictions derived from global regressions that assume stationarity of the relationship between HEC and its drivers across the landscape. Previous studies using global regressions may therefore have missed or misidentified important drivers of the spatial patterns, making the resultant global regression models misleading. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the spatiotemporal patterns and drivers of HEC adjacent to Liwonde National Park using spatial analytical tools that account for the spatial nature of the data and the spatial variation in conflict drivers across a landscape. Using a Geographically Weighted Regression, I identified vegetation quality, season, and distance to seasonal water as drivers of HEC hotspots adjacent to Liwonde. HEC was more intense in areas with higher quality vegetation (compared to vegetation quality inside the Park) and areas that were closer to seasonal water. The relationship between HEC hotspots and these drivers varied at the patch-level and according to season. My findings suggest that HEC is more complex than the general patterns described with global regressions. The localized patterns and drivers of HEC hotspots identified, reflect trade-off between elephants securing rewards (crops), while reducing risks (encountering humans), as expected under forage optimality models. The understanding of elephant adaptation and trade-offs in human landscapes gained from my study, along with the approach I have adopted, can be applied to other HEC study sites, and help guide HEC management in Liwonde. This approach can also be applied to analysis of other forms of HWC, greatly improving HWC mitigation. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Voges, Mignon
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Human-animal relationships , Wildlife management -- Malawi , Wildlife conservation -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62721 , vital:72933
- Description: Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) is a prevailing issue worldwide, threatening the livelihood of the affected human communities, and the persistence of wildlife populations and habitat. Human-elephant conflict (HEC) is particularly challenging, given the damage or harm these large animals can cause to human communities. Moreover, HEC threatens the safety of elephant populations as elephants can be injured or killed when people retaliate. Several studies have therefore been conducted to investigate HEC spatiotemporal patterns in order to better understand it and to develop mitigation measures. These studies predominantly used non-spatial statistics or global regressions to investigate HEC patterns and drivers. The general understanding of HEC patterns and drivers are therefore based on general predictions derived from global regressions that assume stationarity of the relationship between HEC and its drivers across the landscape. Previous studies using global regressions may therefore have missed or misidentified important drivers of the spatial patterns, making the resultant global regression models misleading. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the spatiotemporal patterns and drivers of HEC adjacent to Liwonde National Park using spatial analytical tools that account for the spatial nature of the data and the spatial variation in conflict drivers across a landscape. Using a Geographically Weighted Regression, I identified vegetation quality, season, and distance to seasonal water as drivers of HEC hotspots adjacent to Liwonde. HEC was more intense in areas with higher quality vegetation (compared to vegetation quality inside the Park) and areas that were closer to seasonal water. The relationship between HEC hotspots and these drivers varied at the patch-level and according to season. My findings suggest that HEC is more complex than the general patterns described with global regressions. The localized patterns and drivers of HEC hotspots identified, reflect trade-off between elephants securing rewards (crops), while reducing risks (encountering humans), as expected under forage optimality models. The understanding of elephant adaptation and trade-offs in human landscapes gained from my study, along with the approach I have adopted, can be applied to other HEC study sites, and help guide HEC management in Liwonde. This approach can also be applied to analysis of other forms of HWC, greatly improving HWC mitigation. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Statistical analysis of hydrogeochemical data from fractured rock aquifers around Beaufort West, South Africa
- Authors: Berkland, James
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Groundwater -- South Africa -- Beaufort West , Hydrogeology -- South Africa -- Beaufort West , Aquifers -- South Africa -- Beaufort West
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62442 , vital:72736
- Description: Knowledge surrounding the procedures and protocols related to groundwater sampling are currently limited. In particular, the sampling of radioactive elements from fractured rock aquifers is poorly understood and in need of further research. The aim of this study is to provide a comparative insight into groundwater sampling methods used for the sampling of major and minor elements as well as trace elements within fractured rock aquifers in the immediate vicinity of Beaufort West. The influence of sampling source, seasonality, and vertical flows on sample results are observed. Furthermore, the importance of historical datasets is raised. Aims of this study were achieved by making use of historical data from numerous studies that were conducted near the Karoo town of Beaufort West. Potential profitable uranium deposits saw a great influx of research into the geology, topography, climate and hydrogeology. Synthesising data from these historical research papers has provided valuable information regarding the influences of sampling procedures on the results. A total of 695 well data samples were analysed from four studies collected from farms around Beaufort West. The importance of adequately purging a well prior to sampling cannot be stressed enough. There are minimal chemical differences between sampling boreholes and wind pumps, however there was a noticeable difference in the inter-relationships between major chemical elements. Groundwater samplers were found to be contaminated with Zinc and Copper attributed to wind pump fittings. Boreholes were also analysed to observe any changes in depth. Sodium, temperature and uranium had little to no changes with depth due to the homogenous nature of the borehole water. Principal component analysis was conducted on 159 groundwater samples comprised of 13 variables. These samples were reduced to four principal components (PC) which explained a total of 91.09% of the total variance. Factor one explained 61.99% of the total variance and was strongly associated with water-type and lithology while factor two (13.57%) shows the potential relationship between molybdenum and uranium as well as possible copper contamination as a result of wind pump and borehole fittings. Further research should be conducted by carrying out multiple sampling procedures on a selection of controlled wells to determine the best applicable sampling procedures. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Berkland, James
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Groundwater -- South Africa -- Beaufort West , Hydrogeology -- South Africa -- Beaufort West , Aquifers -- South Africa -- Beaufort West
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62442 , vital:72736
- Description: Knowledge surrounding the procedures and protocols related to groundwater sampling are currently limited. In particular, the sampling of radioactive elements from fractured rock aquifers is poorly understood and in need of further research. The aim of this study is to provide a comparative insight into groundwater sampling methods used for the sampling of major and minor elements as well as trace elements within fractured rock aquifers in the immediate vicinity of Beaufort West. The influence of sampling source, seasonality, and vertical flows on sample results are observed. Furthermore, the importance of historical datasets is raised. Aims of this study were achieved by making use of historical data from numerous studies that were conducted near the Karoo town of Beaufort West. Potential profitable uranium deposits saw a great influx of research into the geology, topography, climate and hydrogeology. Synthesising data from these historical research papers has provided valuable information regarding the influences of sampling procedures on the results. A total of 695 well data samples were analysed from four studies collected from farms around Beaufort West. The importance of adequately purging a well prior to sampling cannot be stressed enough. There are minimal chemical differences between sampling boreholes and wind pumps, however there was a noticeable difference in the inter-relationships between major chemical elements. Groundwater samplers were found to be contaminated with Zinc and Copper attributed to wind pump fittings. Boreholes were also analysed to observe any changes in depth. Sodium, temperature and uranium had little to no changes with depth due to the homogenous nature of the borehole water. Principal component analysis was conducted on 159 groundwater samples comprised of 13 variables. These samples were reduced to four principal components (PC) which explained a total of 91.09% of the total variance. Factor one explained 61.99% of the total variance and was strongly associated with water-type and lithology while factor two (13.57%) shows the potential relationship between molybdenum and uranium as well as possible copper contamination as a result of wind pump and borehole fittings. Further research should be conducted by carrying out multiple sampling procedures on a selection of controlled wells to determine the best applicable sampling procedures. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Medication adherence: a review of policy and education in South Africa
- Authors: Nyoni, Cynthia Nomagugu
- Date: 2023-10-31
- Subjects: Patient compliance South Africa , Drugs Administration Study and teaching (Higher) , Pharmacist and patient South Africa , Pharmaceutical policy South Africa , Patient education South Africa , Medication adherence
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419548 , vital:71653
- Description: Medication adherence is a patient's active and voluntary participation in following all the recommendations and instructions agreed upon with a health care provider such as a pharmacist. Adherence is a multidimensional phenomenon determined by the interplay of five factors: patient-related factors, socioeconomic factors, condition-related factors, health system-related factors, and therapy-related factors. Medication non-adherence is a problem in many countries, especially low to middle-income countries, including South Africa (SA). In low to middle-income countries, non-adherence is often worse due to insufficient health resources and inequities in access to health care. Medication adherence is a global problem and has raised the need for research and review. Many healthcare professionals, especially pharmacists, have an essential role in promoting medication adherence. This study described, explained and evaluated the policies in SA relating to the pharmacist's role in promoting medication adherence. Furthermore, it described medication adherence-related education at four universities in South Africa. The study was qualitative, and a two-phased approach was employed. In the first phase, a document analysis of the pharmacist’s role in supporting medication adherence was conducted as described in national policies and guidelines in SA. A total of 38 documents were analysed, including critical documents such as the South African Pharmacy Council Good Pharmacy Practice Manual and Associated SAPC rules (GPP) manual, National Drug Policy (NDP), Standard treatment guidelines (STGS) and Integrated Adherence Guidelines. The READ approach was used in conducting the document analysis and involved (1) preparing materials, (2) extracting data, (3) analysing data, and (4) distilling findings. The critical roles of pharmacists in medication adherence that were identified were in drug use, supply and management, dispensing, therapeutic drug monitoring, pharmacovigilance, pharmaceutical care, and special programmes like antimicrobial stewardship (AMS), multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) care and antiretroviral treatment (ARV) and chronic conditions. In the second phase, in-depth interviews were conducted with lecturers to investigate and report on the inclusion of medication adherence and the teaching thereof in the curriculum of the Bachelor of Pharmacy Degree (BPharm) in pharmacy institutions in SA. Purposive sampling was used, and seven lecturers from four different institutions participated in the interviews. The interviews were conducted via Zoom® and were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. The teaching of medication adherence in the BPharm curriculum of the respective interviewed pharmacy institutions was explored. It was found that the topic of medication adherence was integrated into all subjects throughout the curriculum and not taught as a formal course. Although medication adherence is taught in many disciplines, it is predominantly in pharmacy practice in all institutions. The teaching methods identified included lectures, case studies, workshops, tutorials, practicals, readings, tasks, assignments and videos. The perceived effectiveness of the teaching methods was explored; also the time spent teaching medication adherence and the time efficiency. Student understanding, interest and engagement with the topic were explored and determined through their assessment performance and class attendance. In conclusion, from policies, the pharmacist's role concerning adherence is indirectly integrated into many other roles. It is often not distinguishable from that of other healthcare professionals and is often implied as part of a more generic role. Pharmacy students are educated on medication adherence and the skills and knowledge required to identify, monitor and support patient adherence to therapy. However, there is scope to increase the course content on medication adherence. There is a need to identify effective strategies for preparing pharmacists to assist patients in medication adherence. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-31
- Authors: Nyoni, Cynthia Nomagugu
- Date: 2023-10-31
- Subjects: Patient compliance South Africa , Drugs Administration Study and teaching (Higher) , Pharmacist and patient South Africa , Pharmaceutical policy South Africa , Patient education South Africa , Medication adherence
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419548 , vital:71653
- Description: Medication adherence is a patient's active and voluntary participation in following all the recommendations and instructions agreed upon with a health care provider such as a pharmacist. Adherence is a multidimensional phenomenon determined by the interplay of five factors: patient-related factors, socioeconomic factors, condition-related factors, health system-related factors, and therapy-related factors. Medication non-adherence is a problem in many countries, especially low to middle-income countries, including South Africa (SA). In low to middle-income countries, non-adherence is often worse due to insufficient health resources and inequities in access to health care. Medication adherence is a global problem and has raised the need for research and review. Many healthcare professionals, especially pharmacists, have an essential role in promoting medication adherence. This study described, explained and evaluated the policies in SA relating to the pharmacist's role in promoting medication adherence. Furthermore, it described medication adherence-related education at four universities in South Africa. The study was qualitative, and a two-phased approach was employed. In the first phase, a document analysis of the pharmacist’s role in supporting medication adherence was conducted as described in national policies and guidelines in SA. A total of 38 documents were analysed, including critical documents such as the South African Pharmacy Council Good Pharmacy Practice Manual and Associated SAPC rules (GPP) manual, National Drug Policy (NDP), Standard treatment guidelines (STGS) and Integrated Adherence Guidelines. The READ approach was used in conducting the document analysis and involved (1) preparing materials, (2) extracting data, (3) analysing data, and (4) distilling findings. The critical roles of pharmacists in medication adherence that were identified were in drug use, supply and management, dispensing, therapeutic drug monitoring, pharmacovigilance, pharmaceutical care, and special programmes like antimicrobial stewardship (AMS), multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) care and antiretroviral treatment (ARV) and chronic conditions. In the second phase, in-depth interviews were conducted with lecturers to investigate and report on the inclusion of medication adherence and the teaching thereof in the curriculum of the Bachelor of Pharmacy Degree (BPharm) in pharmacy institutions in SA. Purposive sampling was used, and seven lecturers from four different institutions participated in the interviews. The interviews were conducted via Zoom® and were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. The teaching of medication adherence in the BPharm curriculum of the respective interviewed pharmacy institutions was explored. It was found that the topic of medication adherence was integrated into all subjects throughout the curriculum and not taught as a formal course. Although medication adherence is taught in many disciplines, it is predominantly in pharmacy practice in all institutions. The teaching methods identified included lectures, case studies, workshops, tutorials, practicals, readings, tasks, assignments and videos. The perceived effectiveness of the teaching methods was explored; also the time spent teaching medication adherence and the time efficiency. Student understanding, interest and engagement with the topic were explored and determined through their assessment performance and class attendance. In conclusion, from policies, the pharmacist's role concerning adherence is indirectly integrated into many other roles. It is often not distinguishable from that of other healthcare professionals and is often implied as part of a more generic role. Pharmacy students are educated on medication adherence and the skills and knowledge required to identify, monitor and support patient adherence to therapy. However, there is scope to increase the course content on medication adherence. There is a need to identify effective strategies for preparing pharmacists to assist patients in medication adherence. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-31
A case study of role conflict experienced by middle management during organizational change
- Authors: Sepeng, Mugabe
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Role conflict , Change management , Middle managers , Middle management , ISO 9001 Standard Implementation of
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419189 , vital:71624
- Description: This research investigation is based on continuous improvement changes arising from - and related to - ISO 9001 implementation at Sundays River Citrus Company (SRCC), which is one of the biggest packers, marketers, and exporters of citrus fruit in South Africa. The Board of SRCC adopted ISO 9001 to ensure organizational efficiency and sustainability while improving quality control, customer service, teamwork and leadership. However, research indicates not all organizations that have Implemented ISO 9001 realize the intended benefits. While no research was available on the citrus agriculture industry, research in the tourism industry indicates that not only did some companies not realize the expected benefits, but also incurred substantial investment costs. It is estimated that approximately thirty to ninety percent of change initiatives fail to meet their objectives, and research studies also indicate that middle managers play a critical role that can influence the outcomes of a change project. However, Balogun (2003) indicates that middle managers play a complex role and are exposed to role conflict, which can influence the outcomes of change initiatives. In this context, this research study aimed to investigate the role conflicts experienced by middle managers during the process of an ISO 9001 continuous improvement change. The study draws on role theory, applying it to their management of change. The following role conflict types were investigated: (1) intra-sender conflict, (2) inter-sender role conflict, (3) inter-role conflict, (4) role ambiguity and (5) role strain. The research approach is qualitative, and has adopted a post-positivist paradigm, utilizing a deductive qualitative method. The study adopted a case study approach. Data was gathered mainly from interviews and supported by organizational documents. Semi structured interviews were conducted with questions formulated through the use of the coding manual (See Appendix C) to ensure alignment of data collection with the research propositions derived from literature. A deductive thematic analysis method was used to analyze the interview data. The research findings confirmed that during continuous improvement change, as middle managers strived to satisfy the incompatible expectations of role senders (mainly senior and junior managers), they experienced the five role conflict types. The study findings also indicate that middle managers experience conflicts due to the incompatible expectations of other role senders such as quality and marketing departments. The findings suggest that middle managers are managing these conflicts, but notes that they do require some assistance and support from senior management. The study concludes with managerial and research recommendations. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Sepeng, Mugabe
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Role conflict , Change management , Middle managers , Middle management , ISO 9001 Standard Implementation of
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419189 , vital:71624
- Description: This research investigation is based on continuous improvement changes arising from - and related to - ISO 9001 implementation at Sundays River Citrus Company (SRCC), which is one of the biggest packers, marketers, and exporters of citrus fruit in South Africa. The Board of SRCC adopted ISO 9001 to ensure organizational efficiency and sustainability while improving quality control, customer service, teamwork and leadership. However, research indicates not all organizations that have Implemented ISO 9001 realize the intended benefits. While no research was available on the citrus agriculture industry, research in the tourism industry indicates that not only did some companies not realize the expected benefits, but also incurred substantial investment costs. It is estimated that approximately thirty to ninety percent of change initiatives fail to meet their objectives, and research studies also indicate that middle managers play a critical role that can influence the outcomes of a change project. However, Balogun (2003) indicates that middle managers play a complex role and are exposed to role conflict, which can influence the outcomes of change initiatives. In this context, this research study aimed to investigate the role conflicts experienced by middle managers during the process of an ISO 9001 continuous improvement change. The study draws on role theory, applying it to their management of change. The following role conflict types were investigated: (1) intra-sender conflict, (2) inter-sender role conflict, (3) inter-role conflict, (4) role ambiguity and (5) role strain. The research approach is qualitative, and has adopted a post-positivist paradigm, utilizing a deductive qualitative method. The study adopted a case study approach. Data was gathered mainly from interviews and supported by organizational documents. Semi structured interviews were conducted with questions formulated through the use of the coding manual (See Appendix C) to ensure alignment of data collection with the research propositions derived from literature. A deductive thematic analysis method was used to analyze the interview data. The research findings confirmed that during continuous improvement change, as middle managers strived to satisfy the incompatible expectations of role senders (mainly senior and junior managers), they experienced the five role conflict types. The study findings also indicate that middle managers experience conflicts due to the incompatible expectations of other role senders such as quality and marketing departments. The findings suggest that middle managers are managing these conflicts, but notes that they do require some assistance and support from senior management. The study concludes with managerial and research recommendations. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
A distributed approach to leadership in an academic department in a South African university: an exploratory case study
- Authors: Haufiku, Kenneth David
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Universities and colleges Administration , Education, Higher South Africa , Distributed leadership , College department heads South Africa , School management and organization South Africa , Group decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419748 , vital:71672
- Description: The Head of Department (HOD) position at a university has traditionally been viewed as an individual construct. However, due to the demanding nature of such a position, it is not sought-after, as it remains exclusive and unappealing to many academics. Moreover, it is a position that does not encourage inclusive leadership. Tension and role ambiguity are known to arise between the scholarly project on the one hand and management and administrative matters on the other. To address challenges associated with this singular leadership position, an academic department at a South African university adopted a distributed leadership approach in their department as a research experiment. My study was based on this research experiment. I designed this research as an exploratory case study, guided by a socio-cultural conceptualisation of distributed leadership that included a leader-plus and a practice aspect, defined as a product of the interactions of school leaders, followers and their situation. This qualitative case study aimed to describe and explain how a distributed leadership approach was understood and practised in an academic department. It also investigated the enablements and constraints of the approach. Data were generated through document analysis, observation, and individual and focus group interviews. The participants in this study included the departmental leadership team and the department’s academic and administrative staff. Unfortunately, my study took place during the global COVID-19 pandemic and national lockdowns. I had no choice but to adapt my data generation methods due to lockdown restrictions. As a result, most data generation was done via online communication. The study used inductive and abductive analysis to make the data meaningful to the reader. The findings revealed that different participants had different ideas about distributed leadership. Distributed leadership was understood as a socio-cultural practice rather than an individual practice with multiple leaders in relational practice. In addition, this approach was understood as a way of developing and sharing expertise by encouraging teamwork, collegiality and collective decision-making which aligns with the notion of democratic decision-making which creates a platform for the enablement of leadership in others. The study further explored how distributed leadership was practised. The findings were that the HOD position, usually a one-person role, was reconceptualised as a HOD team comprised of three academics and the departmental administrator. The HOD team divided the work among themselves, and this was done according to each individual’s expertise. In addition, leadership within the academic department was not limited to the HOD team but stretched across the department; thus, multiple leaders were evident. Therefore, based on the data, this study discovered that a distributed approach values leadership expertise in others. Consequently, it can be used to promote an inclusive environment in which any organisation member can lead. Inclusivity in the decision-making process was also regarded as a strong practice in the academic department. As a result, this study contends that those in formal positions can develop leadership in others through a distributed leadership approach. Through that, lecturer leadership was enacted through formal faculty and university structures and informally as and when the situation required it. The enablements of this departmental leadership approach included the structural innovation of the Friday check-in as well as the buddy system. These two innovations provided the space for collegiality and the development of voice and leadership. The consultative nature of the HOD team was also viewed as an enablement. Certain factors constrained the distributed leadership approach, one of which was the tension between the hierarchical structure of the university and the more horizontal, distributed leadership approach being piloted in the academic department. In addition to that, another constraint was also very real with the transition to Zoom as an online teaching, learning and supervision platform as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. The final constraint was experienced concerning the department’s history, as it was within a historically White university in South Africa. The effects of this history impacted the departmental culture and, as we know from the literature, institutional culture is extremely difficult to change. Finally, the study concluded that conceptualising distributed leadership as a sociocultural practice with leader-plus and practice aspects provides descriptive language and a solid theoretical and analytical framework for a distributed leadership study. The study makes an important knowledge contribution in the African Higher Education context as limited research has been carried out in this area. Furthermore, in terms of practice, my study serves as a stimulus for leadership discussions that are beneficial to everyone involved in educational institutions as they promote a level of leadership reflexivity, currently absent in many institutions. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Secondary and Post-School Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Haufiku, Kenneth David
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Universities and colleges Administration , Education, Higher South Africa , Distributed leadership , College department heads South Africa , School management and organization South Africa , Group decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419748 , vital:71672
- Description: The Head of Department (HOD) position at a university has traditionally been viewed as an individual construct. However, due to the demanding nature of such a position, it is not sought-after, as it remains exclusive and unappealing to many academics. Moreover, it is a position that does not encourage inclusive leadership. Tension and role ambiguity are known to arise between the scholarly project on the one hand and management and administrative matters on the other. To address challenges associated with this singular leadership position, an academic department at a South African university adopted a distributed leadership approach in their department as a research experiment. My study was based on this research experiment. I designed this research as an exploratory case study, guided by a socio-cultural conceptualisation of distributed leadership that included a leader-plus and a practice aspect, defined as a product of the interactions of school leaders, followers and their situation. This qualitative case study aimed to describe and explain how a distributed leadership approach was understood and practised in an academic department. It also investigated the enablements and constraints of the approach. Data were generated through document analysis, observation, and individual and focus group interviews. The participants in this study included the departmental leadership team and the department’s academic and administrative staff. Unfortunately, my study took place during the global COVID-19 pandemic and national lockdowns. I had no choice but to adapt my data generation methods due to lockdown restrictions. As a result, most data generation was done via online communication. The study used inductive and abductive analysis to make the data meaningful to the reader. The findings revealed that different participants had different ideas about distributed leadership. Distributed leadership was understood as a socio-cultural practice rather than an individual practice with multiple leaders in relational practice. In addition, this approach was understood as a way of developing and sharing expertise by encouraging teamwork, collegiality and collective decision-making which aligns with the notion of democratic decision-making which creates a platform for the enablement of leadership in others. The study further explored how distributed leadership was practised. The findings were that the HOD position, usually a one-person role, was reconceptualised as a HOD team comprised of three academics and the departmental administrator. The HOD team divided the work among themselves, and this was done according to each individual’s expertise. In addition, leadership within the academic department was not limited to the HOD team but stretched across the department; thus, multiple leaders were evident. Therefore, based on the data, this study discovered that a distributed approach values leadership expertise in others. Consequently, it can be used to promote an inclusive environment in which any organisation member can lead. Inclusivity in the decision-making process was also regarded as a strong practice in the academic department. As a result, this study contends that those in formal positions can develop leadership in others through a distributed leadership approach. Through that, lecturer leadership was enacted through formal faculty and university structures and informally as and when the situation required it. The enablements of this departmental leadership approach included the structural innovation of the Friday check-in as well as the buddy system. These two innovations provided the space for collegiality and the development of voice and leadership. The consultative nature of the HOD team was also viewed as an enablement. Certain factors constrained the distributed leadership approach, one of which was the tension between the hierarchical structure of the university and the more horizontal, distributed leadership approach being piloted in the academic department. In addition to that, another constraint was also very real with the transition to Zoom as an online teaching, learning and supervision platform as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. The final constraint was experienced concerning the department’s history, as it was within a historically White university in South Africa. The effects of this history impacted the departmental culture and, as we know from the literature, institutional culture is extremely difficult to change. Finally, the study concluded that conceptualising distributed leadership as a sociocultural practice with leader-plus and practice aspects provides descriptive language and a solid theoretical and analytical framework for a distributed leadership study. The study makes an important knowledge contribution in the African Higher Education context as limited research has been carried out in this area. Furthermore, in terms of practice, my study serves as a stimulus for leadership discussions that are beneficial to everyone involved in educational institutions as they promote a level of leadership reflexivity, currently absent in many institutions. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Secondary and Post-School Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
A second skin: investigating the role of dress in identity formation
- Featherstone, Juanito Romario
- Authors: Featherstone, Juanito Romario
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Identity (Psychology) in art , Clothing and dress in art , Clothing and dress Social aspects , Clothing and dress Psychological aspects , Self South Africa Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425322 , vital:72229
- Description: This thesis is a secondary component to an artistic practice-led process and as such, is guided by my own artistic practice in that way. In this body of work, I use myself as the main character or protagonist for the artworks that I have created. However, both the thesis and the exhibition also respond to social issues of identity beyond the personal and examines the construction of identity in a South African, and more specifically Makhanda context, as that is the larger context in which I am situated. The work itself is inspired by memories and experiences of feeling uncomfortable in my own (first) skin, and how I found that comfort in my second skin (dress). My professional art practice and my thesis are based on the concept of clothes as a second skin for human beings, specifically observing the ways in which we utilise dress to construct and express our identities. As such, this thesis is an attempt at understanding the relationship between clothes and the body through the lens of identity politics. Through the topics and artworks discussed in visual and textual analysis, this thesis intends to unpack the properties of dress as a complex medium individuals can utilise as a tool to construct their identity. This is partially achieved through the exploration of my own personal experiences of dress and of the spaces that shaped and mediated the construction of identity. Lastly, it is an attempt to understand the experiences of dress in parallel to the experience of the body/self, which consists of the world within and the one outside. , Thesis (MFA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Fine Art, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Featherstone, Juanito Romario
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Identity (Psychology) in art , Clothing and dress in art , Clothing and dress Social aspects , Clothing and dress Psychological aspects , Self South Africa Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425322 , vital:72229
- Description: This thesis is a secondary component to an artistic practice-led process and as such, is guided by my own artistic practice in that way. In this body of work, I use myself as the main character or protagonist for the artworks that I have created. However, both the thesis and the exhibition also respond to social issues of identity beyond the personal and examines the construction of identity in a South African, and more specifically Makhanda context, as that is the larger context in which I am situated. The work itself is inspired by memories and experiences of feeling uncomfortable in my own (first) skin, and how I found that comfort in my second skin (dress). My professional art practice and my thesis are based on the concept of clothes as a second skin for human beings, specifically observing the ways in which we utilise dress to construct and express our identities. As such, this thesis is an attempt at understanding the relationship between clothes and the body through the lens of identity politics. Through the topics and artworks discussed in visual and textual analysis, this thesis intends to unpack the properties of dress as a complex medium individuals can utilise as a tool to construct their identity. This is partially achieved through the exploration of my own personal experiences of dress and of the spaces that shaped and mediated the construction of identity. Lastly, it is an attempt to understand the experiences of dress in parallel to the experience of the body/self, which consists of the world within and the one outside. , Thesis (MFA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Fine Art, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
A study on visual inspection of citrus sorters in a packhouse in the Eastern Cape of South Africa
- Authors: Maher, Christopher Richard
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424256 , vital:72137
- Description: Background and Purpose. The South African citrus industry is a major global producer of citrus as well as the second largest exporter of citrus fruit in the world. This industry provides employment to an estimated 112 000 workers in South Africa and is vital in providing economic opportunities to communities such as those in the Sunday’s River Valley in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa due to the low employment and education levels within this province. Citrus sorting is a visual inspection task that requires workers to sustain attention and remain vigilant for the duration of a working shift. Their role in the packhouse is to ensure that no defective products are packed for export or the local market and that the fruit meets the customers’ expectations. Since the demands of sorting citrus are poorly understood, this study attempted to assess the effect that sorting citrus has on vigilance performance as well as attempt to quantify perceived workload while taking into account different contextual factors that affect perceptions of this working task. Methods. This study was conducted within a citrus packhouse in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The sample was comprised of individuals employed by the packhouse as citrus sorters. In addition to a recruitment and information session, testing was conducted at three intervals during a working shift on four consecutive days. Each time, indicators of vigilance, such as correct responses, sensitivity, reaction time, false alarms and misses, were collected during a 5-minute computerised version of the Mackworth Clock-test, while perceived workload was assessed with the NASA-TLX scale, and sleepiness was recording using the WITS Sleepiness Scale. Furthermore, an open-ended question was asked to further understand factors affecting the ability of participants to concentrate during their task of sorting. Results. 18 participants consented to participate in this study. 16 of these individuals identified as female with an average age of 30 years (± 7). 83% of participants were of Black African descent and were isiXhosa speakers, while 17% of participants were of Coloured descent and Afrikaans speakers. This study found that performance, as measured by the percentage of correct responses, sensitivity and reaction time on the 5-minute long Mackworth Clock Test was not significantly affected as time-on-task for sorting citrus increased during a working shift, neither did performance on the vigilance test change as days of the week proceeded. However, ‘misses’ during the vigilance test were found to significantly decrease over the course of a working shift, thus contradicting the expected outcomes of this study. Perceived workload of sorting citrus, as well as perceived sleepiness, significantly increased with time-on-task during the course of a working shift. The major contributions for this increase in perceived workload while sorting citrus were derived from the Mental Demand and Physical Demand sub-scale for the NASA-TLX. However, responses from the open-ended question indicated that participants generally enjoyed their work, although there were factors, such as the nature of fruit and social set-up of work, that negatively affected this perception. Discussion. The results from this study contradicted the researcher’s expectations. It was anticipated that measures of correct responses and sensitivity would decrease and misses, and reaction time would increase with time-on-task for sorting citrus, yet vigilance indicators from the Mackworth Clock Test generally indicated no change in vigilance, and, according to “misses” even improved with time-on-task. A likely explanation for this is that the use of a 5-minute Mackworth Clock-test was unsuitable in this context, or rather, the time of this test was not long enough to induce a ‘vigilance decrement’. Furthermore, in order to administer this vigilance test, participants were taken off the production line and led to a testing room which most likely increased their levels of arousal, thus affecting performance on the vigilance test. However, even though perceived sleepiness was found to significantly increase over the course of a working shift, these data correlated poorly with the vigilance results, thus contradicting the expected outcomes of the study. Mental demand significantly increased, possibly due to the demand of attentional informational processing required for sorting, as well as various environmental factors present within the packhouse. Physical demand, too, significantly increased as workers were required to remain standing throughout their working task as well as to make use of their upper extremities to remove defective fruit. Correlation analyses showed significantly weak correlation for Mackworth Clock Test variables and sleepiness ratings to all other variables. NASA-TLX variables, however, generally showed significantly moderate correlations with one another. Conclusion. It remains unclear how vigilance changes and sustained attention while sorting citrus, since the experiment did not show changes in performance. This is largely attributed to the methodological set-up which could have increased arousal and therefore affected vigilance. It is recommended that future studies research vigilance and sustained attention during the sorting itself, rather than attempting to infer vigilance results from a computerised vigilance test. Perceived workload of sorting, however, increased over the course of a working shift due to significant increases in perceptions of the physical and mental demands of sorting. Future studies should address concerns relating to the physical demand of sorting. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to compare responses of day and night shift sorters to further understand how the relationship between these variables may change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Maher, Christopher Richard
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424256 , vital:72137
- Description: Background and Purpose. The South African citrus industry is a major global producer of citrus as well as the second largest exporter of citrus fruit in the world. This industry provides employment to an estimated 112 000 workers in South Africa and is vital in providing economic opportunities to communities such as those in the Sunday’s River Valley in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa due to the low employment and education levels within this province. Citrus sorting is a visual inspection task that requires workers to sustain attention and remain vigilant for the duration of a working shift. Their role in the packhouse is to ensure that no defective products are packed for export or the local market and that the fruit meets the customers’ expectations. Since the demands of sorting citrus are poorly understood, this study attempted to assess the effect that sorting citrus has on vigilance performance as well as attempt to quantify perceived workload while taking into account different contextual factors that affect perceptions of this working task. Methods. This study was conducted within a citrus packhouse in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The sample was comprised of individuals employed by the packhouse as citrus sorters. In addition to a recruitment and information session, testing was conducted at three intervals during a working shift on four consecutive days. Each time, indicators of vigilance, such as correct responses, sensitivity, reaction time, false alarms and misses, were collected during a 5-minute computerised version of the Mackworth Clock-test, while perceived workload was assessed with the NASA-TLX scale, and sleepiness was recording using the WITS Sleepiness Scale. Furthermore, an open-ended question was asked to further understand factors affecting the ability of participants to concentrate during their task of sorting. Results. 18 participants consented to participate in this study. 16 of these individuals identified as female with an average age of 30 years (± 7). 83% of participants were of Black African descent and were isiXhosa speakers, while 17% of participants were of Coloured descent and Afrikaans speakers. This study found that performance, as measured by the percentage of correct responses, sensitivity and reaction time on the 5-minute long Mackworth Clock Test was not significantly affected as time-on-task for sorting citrus increased during a working shift, neither did performance on the vigilance test change as days of the week proceeded. However, ‘misses’ during the vigilance test were found to significantly decrease over the course of a working shift, thus contradicting the expected outcomes of this study. Perceived workload of sorting citrus, as well as perceived sleepiness, significantly increased with time-on-task during the course of a working shift. The major contributions for this increase in perceived workload while sorting citrus were derived from the Mental Demand and Physical Demand sub-scale for the NASA-TLX. However, responses from the open-ended question indicated that participants generally enjoyed their work, although there were factors, such as the nature of fruit and social set-up of work, that negatively affected this perception. Discussion. The results from this study contradicted the researcher’s expectations. It was anticipated that measures of correct responses and sensitivity would decrease and misses, and reaction time would increase with time-on-task for sorting citrus, yet vigilance indicators from the Mackworth Clock Test generally indicated no change in vigilance, and, according to “misses” even improved with time-on-task. A likely explanation for this is that the use of a 5-minute Mackworth Clock-test was unsuitable in this context, or rather, the time of this test was not long enough to induce a ‘vigilance decrement’. Furthermore, in order to administer this vigilance test, participants were taken off the production line and led to a testing room which most likely increased their levels of arousal, thus affecting performance on the vigilance test. However, even though perceived sleepiness was found to significantly increase over the course of a working shift, these data correlated poorly with the vigilance results, thus contradicting the expected outcomes of the study. Mental demand significantly increased, possibly due to the demand of attentional informational processing required for sorting, as well as various environmental factors present within the packhouse. Physical demand, too, significantly increased as workers were required to remain standing throughout their working task as well as to make use of their upper extremities to remove defective fruit. Correlation analyses showed significantly weak correlation for Mackworth Clock Test variables and sleepiness ratings to all other variables. NASA-TLX variables, however, generally showed significantly moderate correlations with one another. Conclusion. It remains unclear how vigilance changes and sustained attention while sorting citrus, since the experiment did not show changes in performance. This is largely attributed to the methodological set-up which could have increased arousal and therefore affected vigilance. It is recommended that future studies research vigilance and sustained attention during the sorting itself, rather than attempting to infer vigilance results from a computerised vigilance test. Perceived workload of sorting, however, increased over the course of a working shift due to significant increases in perceptions of the physical and mental demands of sorting. Future studies should address concerns relating to the physical demand of sorting. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to compare responses of day and night shift sorters to further understand how the relationship between these variables may change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
African linguistic phenomenology as illustrated through the Setswana language
- Authors: Modisakeng, Lemogang
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425089 , vital:72208
- Description: Embargoed. Expected release date 2025. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Philosophy, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Modisakeng, Lemogang
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425089 , vital:72208
- Description: Embargoed. Expected release date 2025. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Philosophy, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
An exploration into how Grade 3 Foundation Phase teachers implement differentiated instructional practices in their mathematics classrooms
- Authors: Jack, Nomzamo Bridget
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424057 , vital:72120
- Description: Today’s teaching space is more diverse than before. As a result, differentiated instruction is considered helpful in supporting learner diversity. This teaching approach considers socio-cultural, multiple intelligences, and learning styles also termed learning preferences of learners. It is against this view that I wanted to investigate the implementation of differentiated instruction teaching practices in the Foundation Phase. This study explored differentiated teaching strategies and procedures in mathematics teaching, and I observed four Grade 3 teachers. The theoretical framework underlying this study was the theory of practice architectures. This study is located within an interpretivist paradigm within which I employed a case study research design. The collection of the data sets was through observations and semi-structured interviews. For an analysis of observations, I used a deductive approach. On the other hand, for the semi-structured interviews, I use an inductive approach to discover patterns and themes that I applied during the data analysis process. The validation process was done by giving interview transcripts and a summary of discussions to respondents to verify their responses and check for any misinterpretations. Rich data sets were analysed concerning the research questions, which were as follows: What are the current differentiated instruction teaching practices used by Grade 3 Mathematics teachers? How can the teachers’ differentiated instruction teaching practices be understood in terms of doings, sayings and relatings? How are differentiated instruction teaching practices made visible through the lens of the Theory of Practice Architecture? The findings from the study revealed that the use of learners’ everyday language influences their understanding of mathematics terminology. The study discovered that learners were more comfortable using English to make sense of mathematics terms instead of using isiXhosa, the Language of Learning and Teaching in the Foundation Phase. Additionally, linking learning to learners’ everyday English language enabled them to learn mathematics terms in a relaxed and non-threatening situation, while isiXhosa seemed to constrain learning. Further, the findings revealed that teachers were unclear about differentiated instruction. That was evident when they did not know the elements of differentiated instruction. Thus, the study recommends that teachers need to be supported through workshops to enable them to enact differentiated instruction in their teaching. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Secondary and Post-School Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Jack, Nomzamo Bridget
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424057 , vital:72120
- Description: Today’s teaching space is more diverse than before. As a result, differentiated instruction is considered helpful in supporting learner diversity. This teaching approach considers socio-cultural, multiple intelligences, and learning styles also termed learning preferences of learners. It is against this view that I wanted to investigate the implementation of differentiated instruction teaching practices in the Foundation Phase. This study explored differentiated teaching strategies and procedures in mathematics teaching, and I observed four Grade 3 teachers. The theoretical framework underlying this study was the theory of practice architectures. This study is located within an interpretivist paradigm within which I employed a case study research design. The collection of the data sets was through observations and semi-structured interviews. For an analysis of observations, I used a deductive approach. On the other hand, for the semi-structured interviews, I use an inductive approach to discover patterns and themes that I applied during the data analysis process. The validation process was done by giving interview transcripts and a summary of discussions to respondents to verify their responses and check for any misinterpretations. Rich data sets were analysed concerning the research questions, which were as follows: What are the current differentiated instruction teaching practices used by Grade 3 Mathematics teachers? How can the teachers’ differentiated instruction teaching practices be understood in terms of doings, sayings and relatings? How are differentiated instruction teaching practices made visible through the lens of the Theory of Practice Architecture? The findings from the study revealed that the use of learners’ everyday language influences their understanding of mathematics terminology. The study discovered that learners were more comfortable using English to make sense of mathematics terms instead of using isiXhosa, the Language of Learning and Teaching in the Foundation Phase. Additionally, linking learning to learners’ everyday English language enabled them to learn mathematics terms in a relaxed and non-threatening situation, while isiXhosa seemed to constrain learning. Further, the findings revealed that teachers were unclear about differentiated instruction. That was evident when they did not know the elements of differentiated instruction. Thus, the study recommends that teachers need to be supported through workshops to enable them to enact differentiated instruction in their teaching. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Secondary and Post-School Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
An exploration of Black women’s motivations for pursuing sociology at Rhodes University
- Authors: Vezi, Indiphile Siyanda
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425220 , vital:72220
- Description: Enbargoed. Expected release date 2025. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Vezi, Indiphile Siyanda
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425220 , vital:72220
- Description: Enbargoed. Expected release date 2025. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
An interpretive phenomenological analysis of the funerary ritual crises caused by COVID-19 restrictions, and the pursuit of spirituality as a coping strategy amongst amaZulu living in the Midlands area of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Authors: Sibisi, Ntokozo Penelope
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/431498 , vital:72780
- Description: In 2020, South Africa faced a significant challenge as it grappled with approximately 500,000 COVID-19 infections, which accounted for over half of all reported cases across Africa. Living through a global pandemic such as COVID-19 had a dramatic and transformative impact on the arena of death for many South Africans, not only because of the number of deaths that have occurred globally due to COVID-19, but also how the bereaved living honour the dead. This study delves into a previously underreported facet of the pandemic's impact, focusing on the experiences of bereaved AmaZulu people who encountered profound disruptions in funerary rituals due to COVID-19 restrictions. The research aims to shed light on how spirituality may mitigate the challenges posed by these ritual constraints, drawing parallels with other ethnographies which have highlighted the importance of spirituality among the AmaZulu people of the Midlands in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. This study employed a mixed method approach in generating quantitative and qualitative data. Data from 101 participants who responded to an online questionnaire were analysed using STATA. Additionally, ethnographic data with 9 participants, purposively sampled from the larger sample, was analysed using an Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach, which ensured that their lived experiences of bereavement took centre stage. The findings of this study illuminate the regret experienced by participants who adapted to [government] bureaucratically-imposed funerals and medical care, revealing potential implications for future pandemic responses. This research underscores the significance of customary funerary rituals, urging compassionate public health responses that acknowledge their role amid mass deaths. It also highlights the interplay between spirituality, religion, and rituals, showcasing how these elements form an intricate web in the AmaZulu community. This study contributes to the broader understanding of death and COVID-19 in South Africa, where racial disparities in COVID-19 deaths have come to the forefront. It addresses the enduring trauma within Black communities and explores how the absence of funerary rituals can strain the psychological, emotional, and spiritual fabric of the bereaved. , Thesis (MSocSci) -- Faculty of Humanities, Athropology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Sibisi, Ntokozo Penelope
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/431498 , vital:72780
- Description: In 2020, South Africa faced a significant challenge as it grappled with approximately 500,000 COVID-19 infections, which accounted for over half of all reported cases across Africa. Living through a global pandemic such as COVID-19 had a dramatic and transformative impact on the arena of death for many South Africans, not only because of the number of deaths that have occurred globally due to COVID-19, but also how the bereaved living honour the dead. This study delves into a previously underreported facet of the pandemic's impact, focusing on the experiences of bereaved AmaZulu people who encountered profound disruptions in funerary rituals due to COVID-19 restrictions. The research aims to shed light on how spirituality may mitigate the challenges posed by these ritual constraints, drawing parallels with other ethnographies which have highlighted the importance of spirituality among the AmaZulu people of the Midlands in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. This study employed a mixed method approach in generating quantitative and qualitative data. Data from 101 participants who responded to an online questionnaire were analysed using STATA. Additionally, ethnographic data with 9 participants, purposively sampled from the larger sample, was analysed using an Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach, which ensured that their lived experiences of bereavement took centre stage. The findings of this study illuminate the regret experienced by participants who adapted to [government] bureaucratically-imposed funerals and medical care, revealing potential implications for future pandemic responses. This research underscores the significance of customary funerary rituals, urging compassionate public health responses that acknowledge their role amid mass deaths. It also highlights the interplay between spirituality, religion, and rituals, showcasing how these elements form an intricate web in the AmaZulu community. This study contributes to the broader understanding of death and COVID-19 in South Africa, where racial disparities in COVID-19 deaths have come to the forefront. It addresses the enduring trauma within Black communities and explores how the absence of funerary rituals can strain the psychological, emotional, and spiritual fabric of the bereaved. , Thesis (MSocSci) -- Faculty of Humanities, Athropology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
An investigation into fatigue prevalence amongst citrus packhouse sorters in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa
- Authors: Robinson, Harry Jack
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424312 , vital:72142
- Description: Background: South Africa is the second most influential exporter of citrus fruits internationally and holds a pivotal role in economic revenue for the country. Rural areas, such as the Sundays River Valley in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, contribute to the country’s citrus production. Many women depend on citrus packhouses for employment as citrus sorters. As humans perceive certain defects in citrus fruits more accurately than machines, these sorters must identify and manually remove any fruit that does not conform with export requirements. Citrus sorters are exposed to numerous physical and cognitive stressors during the task while faced with organizational challenges, such as shift work and long working hours. Therefore, the potential for fatigue development is anticipated. Given the multifactorial nature of fatigue and the negative consequences it may have on workers, it also has the potential to impede the accuracy of the sorting performance. Stringent disciplinary action for the entire South African citrus industry may be of consequence if nonconforming or pest-infested fruit is missed by citrus sorters and exported to foreign countries. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of fatigue among citrus sorters in a citrus packhouse in the Sundays River Valley of the Eastern Cape throughout a citrus harvesting season and to identify factors that may contribute towards fatigue development. Methods: The research design utilized a crosssectional, two-part approach that applied mixed methods. Part one was administered once-off, incorporating demographic, work-, and non-work-related questions. Part two was a self-developed repeated measures assessment comprising close-ended contextual questions, the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale, and the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale. Environmental and work output data were also recorded. Results: Citrus sorters (n= 35) recorded a mean MFIS score of 39.35 throughout the harvest season, which was above the prescribed fatigue threshold (38). However, there was no significant difference in fatigue ratings over time (p= 0.122). Day shift workers exceeded the fatigue threshold for the entire season compared to night shift workers, who only exceeded it in the last two weeks. The physical, cognitive, and psychosocial subscales found no significant difference in fatigue scores, although physical fatigue recorded the highest scores across all weeks and displayed a significant difference over time. Overall, participants, on average, perceived to be “neither sleepy nor alert” over the season. However, eight participants (22%) recorded sleepiness scores ii exceeding the excessive sleepiness threshold of seven. Educational levels, health status, work-pace, and the number of family dependents significantly contributed to fatigue development, albeit a weak correlation. Discussion: Sorters were perceived to be fatigued from week three till the end of the study; however, there was no variation in fatigue scores over time. An accumulation of physical fatigue over time was revealed where prolonged standing, repetitive work, and irregular working postures may have contributed. Night shift workers did not receive the recommended hours of sleep (7-8 hours); hence, they registered greater sleepiness scores over the season than day shift workers. Environmental and work output recordings did not prove to have a significant influence on fatigue development, and neither did work experience or physical exercise. Conclusion: An amalgamation of numerous contributing factors within the work situation, private situation, and the individual influenced the development of fatigue, where there was no primary causal factor. Future studies should consider recording the accuracy of the sorting performance to acquire rich, objective data. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Robinson, Harry Jack
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424312 , vital:72142
- Description: Background: South Africa is the second most influential exporter of citrus fruits internationally and holds a pivotal role in economic revenue for the country. Rural areas, such as the Sundays River Valley in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, contribute to the country’s citrus production. Many women depend on citrus packhouses for employment as citrus sorters. As humans perceive certain defects in citrus fruits more accurately than machines, these sorters must identify and manually remove any fruit that does not conform with export requirements. Citrus sorters are exposed to numerous physical and cognitive stressors during the task while faced with organizational challenges, such as shift work and long working hours. Therefore, the potential for fatigue development is anticipated. Given the multifactorial nature of fatigue and the negative consequences it may have on workers, it also has the potential to impede the accuracy of the sorting performance. Stringent disciplinary action for the entire South African citrus industry may be of consequence if nonconforming or pest-infested fruit is missed by citrus sorters and exported to foreign countries. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of fatigue among citrus sorters in a citrus packhouse in the Sundays River Valley of the Eastern Cape throughout a citrus harvesting season and to identify factors that may contribute towards fatigue development. Methods: The research design utilized a crosssectional, two-part approach that applied mixed methods. Part one was administered once-off, incorporating demographic, work-, and non-work-related questions. Part two was a self-developed repeated measures assessment comprising close-ended contextual questions, the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale, and the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale. Environmental and work output data were also recorded. Results: Citrus sorters (n= 35) recorded a mean MFIS score of 39.35 throughout the harvest season, which was above the prescribed fatigue threshold (38). However, there was no significant difference in fatigue ratings over time (p= 0.122). Day shift workers exceeded the fatigue threshold for the entire season compared to night shift workers, who only exceeded it in the last two weeks. The physical, cognitive, and psychosocial subscales found no significant difference in fatigue scores, although physical fatigue recorded the highest scores across all weeks and displayed a significant difference over time. Overall, participants, on average, perceived to be “neither sleepy nor alert” over the season. However, eight participants (22%) recorded sleepiness scores ii exceeding the excessive sleepiness threshold of seven. Educational levels, health status, work-pace, and the number of family dependents significantly contributed to fatigue development, albeit a weak correlation. Discussion: Sorters were perceived to be fatigued from week three till the end of the study; however, there was no variation in fatigue scores over time. An accumulation of physical fatigue over time was revealed where prolonged standing, repetitive work, and irregular working postures may have contributed. Night shift workers did not receive the recommended hours of sleep (7-8 hours); hence, they registered greater sleepiness scores over the season than day shift workers. Environmental and work output recordings did not prove to have a significant influence on fatigue development, and neither did work experience or physical exercise. Conclusion: An amalgamation of numerous contributing factors within the work situation, private situation, and the individual influenced the development of fatigue, where there was no primary causal factor. Future studies should consider recording the accuracy of the sorting performance to acquire rich, objective data. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
Analysing equity and ethical dimensions of water governance challenges in the lower section of the upper Vaal River catchment, Gauteng, South Africa
- Authors: Tavengwa, Noleen Shamiso
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424199 , vital:72132
- Description: Poor water governance practices have been identified as one of the root causes of water problems confronting the South African water sector. This is evident in the lower section of the Upper Vaal River Catchment, where ineffective implementation of the regulatory measures has resulted in multiple incidents of illegal discharge of effluent from municipal wastewater treatment works, industrial and mining activities. Pollution and deterioration of water quality is a major challenge in the catchment; the Vaal River is severely polluted beyond acceptable standards and impacts negatively on other water users who have legitimate rights to the water resources. Pollution not only affects human activities and use, but also has negative impacts on ecological health and functionality. Poor water governance practices raise ethical implications for the rights to water for both social and ecological components. Although many water governance challenges in South Africa have implications that border on values and ethics, the relationship between these concepts has hardly been explored. In order to contribute towards filling this gap, this study explores water governance challenges and their ethical implications, and then analyse the equity dimensions of key water challenges among institutional actors in the lower section of the Upper Vaal WMA, Gauteng. The study uses a qualitative research approach which involves several methods of data collection: document analysis, workshops, focus group discussions, key informant interviews and participant observation. The data collected were analysed using thematic analysis, and then applied an ethical framework to distil ethical implications of the identified water governance challenges. There are five water governance challenges that were identified, which are i) failure in the implementation of water legislation and regulations, ii) ineffective leadership and management, iii) cooperative governance and poor accountability, iv) decentralisation and ineffective participation, and v) finance, infrastructure, and technical capacity. The deterioration of water quality and pollution due to ineffective implementation of the regulatory system has ethical implications towards protection of the ecological system and sustainable management of the water resources for the present and future generation. Ineffective implementation of the regulatory measure also raises the issue of distributive equity between different water users and between current and future users. These implications are critical particularly when viewed from the perspective of systemic-relational ethical approach which posit that in social-ecological systems, all components ought to be treated with equal regards, and their inherent worth respected in order to maintain the unity of the SES. The idea of equal regards to the inherent worth of the component implies due respect, in ways that do not undermine the integrity of the entire system. The challenges identified in the system suggest that i) the right of the ecological system to water is undermined due to anthropogenic activities, which may in the long term undermine the functionality of the entire SES; ii) the right of the margined to access to water of the right quality is also undermined, and pollution costs is externalised. These are matters of ethics that thus deserved attention in policy and management considerations. The study analysed equity dimensions (distributive and procedural), targeting the key institutional water users (i.e., mines, industries, agriculture, municipalities, and the wastewater treatment works) in the lower section of the Upper Vaal River Catchment as equity candidates due to their activities that significantly impact the environment and the water resources. The cost of pollution caused by mining activities, industrial activities and the wastewater treatment works is externalised to other users who are not responsible for the pollution. In this regard study identified key drivers that raise concerns linked to distributive equity, which are ) pollution and water quality deterioration, ii) the legacies of mining activities, and iii) poor infrastructure maintenance, vandalism, and theft. Identifying these key drivers of distributive equity concerns is critical in ensuring that the water governance processes are designed in a way that stakeholders and actors reliant on water resources within the catchment have equitable and fair access without the effects of externalised costs from other actors. The identified water governance challenges in the catchment all borders on ethics, thus an ethical framework is crucial in tackling water related problems. The principles of ethics can be used as guidelines to decision-making process for the management and governance of water resources in South Africa. Therefore, implementing and incorporating principles of the systemic-relational ethics into policy making and water resources management will yield sustainable, efficient, and equitable use and management of water resources. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Institute for Water Research, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Tavengwa, Noleen Shamiso
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424199 , vital:72132
- Description: Poor water governance practices have been identified as one of the root causes of water problems confronting the South African water sector. This is evident in the lower section of the Upper Vaal River Catchment, where ineffective implementation of the regulatory measures has resulted in multiple incidents of illegal discharge of effluent from municipal wastewater treatment works, industrial and mining activities. Pollution and deterioration of water quality is a major challenge in the catchment; the Vaal River is severely polluted beyond acceptable standards and impacts negatively on other water users who have legitimate rights to the water resources. Pollution not only affects human activities and use, but also has negative impacts on ecological health and functionality. Poor water governance practices raise ethical implications for the rights to water for both social and ecological components. Although many water governance challenges in South Africa have implications that border on values and ethics, the relationship between these concepts has hardly been explored. In order to contribute towards filling this gap, this study explores water governance challenges and their ethical implications, and then analyse the equity dimensions of key water challenges among institutional actors in the lower section of the Upper Vaal WMA, Gauteng. The study uses a qualitative research approach which involves several methods of data collection: document analysis, workshops, focus group discussions, key informant interviews and participant observation. The data collected were analysed using thematic analysis, and then applied an ethical framework to distil ethical implications of the identified water governance challenges. There are five water governance challenges that were identified, which are i) failure in the implementation of water legislation and regulations, ii) ineffective leadership and management, iii) cooperative governance and poor accountability, iv) decentralisation and ineffective participation, and v) finance, infrastructure, and technical capacity. The deterioration of water quality and pollution due to ineffective implementation of the regulatory system has ethical implications towards protection of the ecological system and sustainable management of the water resources for the present and future generation. Ineffective implementation of the regulatory measure also raises the issue of distributive equity between different water users and between current and future users. These implications are critical particularly when viewed from the perspective of systemic-relational ethical approach which posit that in social-ecological systems, all components ought to be treated with equal regards, and their inherent worth respected in order to maintain the unity of the SES. The idea of equal regards to the inherent worth of the component implies due respect, in ways that do not undermine the integrity of the entire system. The challenges identified in the system suggest that i) the right of the ecological system to water is undermined due to anthropogenic activities, which may in the long term undermine the functionality of the entire SES; ii) the right of the margined to access to water of the right quality is also undermined, and pollution costs is externalised. These are matters of ethics that thus deserved attention in policy and management considerations. The study analysed equity dimensions (distributive and procedural), targeting the key institutional water users (i.e., mines, industries, agriculture, municipalities, and the wastewater treatment works) in the lower section of the Upper Vaal River Catchment as equity candidates due to their activities that significantly impact the environment and the water resources. The cost of pollution caused by mining activities, industrial activities and the wastewater treatment works is externalised to other users who are not responsible for the pollution. In this regard study identified key drivers that raise concerns linked to distributive equity, which are ) pollution and water quality deterioration, ii) the legacies of mining activities, and iii) poor infrastructure maintenance, vandalism, and theft. Identifying these key drivers of distributive equity concerns is critical in ensuring that the water governance processes are designed in a way that stakeholders and actors reliant on water resources within the catchment have equitable and fair access without the effects of externalised costs from other actors. The identified water governance challenges in the catchment all borders on ethics, thus an ethical framework is crucial in tackling water related problems. The principles of ethics can be used as guidelines to decision-making process for the management and governance of water resources in South Africa. Therefore, implementing and incorporating principles of the systemic-relational ethics into policy making and water resources management will yield sustainable, efficient, and equitable use and management of water resources. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Institute for Water Research, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
Application of in vitro release testing (IVRT) to assess “sameness”/differences of topical clotrimazole formulations
- Wellington, Hannah Margaret Mary
- Authors: Wellington, Hannah Margaret Mary
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419599 , vital:71658
- Description: Embargoed. Possible release date early 2025 pending publications. , Thesis (MSC Pharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Wellington, Hannah Margaret Mary
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419599 , vital:71658
- Description: Embargoed. Possible release date early 2025 pending publications. , Thesis (MSC Pharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
Application of web design techniques and best practices in implementing web development, maintenance and enhancement of RUBi websites and web application systems
- Authors: Tshabalalala, Thulani
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424688 , vital:72175
- Description: The popularity of the web has seen various fields, such as the sciences taking advantage of this resource to further their scientific endeavours. This has seen science groups moving into developing websites and web applications, and such a group is the Research Unit in Bioinformative (RUBi). With the use of the web, the development and maintenance of whatever web-related tools become inevitable, given the continuous changes in the web space. This continuous evolution of web development and maintenance will come with techniques, principles and standards which will not only enable faster development of web entities but also ensure that modern hardware, fulfilment of the requirements to use such hardware and modern concepts are incorporated into forming web tools that enable such progression. Furthermore, introducing the previously mentioned progress of the web becomes an essential part of its development and maintenance. This paper did implement the processes of progressing the web using the technique of documentation and version control systems. The web development for the COVIDRUG website was done for the Covidrug-Africa Consortium (COVIDRUG) using the Django webdevelopment framework. The RUBi website and the MDM-Task we band the Job Management System (JMS) web applications were maintained for the maintenance aspect. Archives brought value regarding the traceability it provides of the various web-related aspects. The development showed a website’s potential value, particularly for research groups. The maintenance carried out showed how different techniques and approaches could be used in different maintenance prospects to achieve set objectives. The development and maintenance resulted in websites and web applications that have the features stated in their respective maintenance plans. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Tshabalalala, Thulani
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424688 , vital:72175
- Description: The popularity of the web has seen various fields, such as the sciences taking advantage of this resource to further their scientific endeavours. This has seen science groups moving into developing websites and web applications, and such a group is the Research Unit in Bioinformative (RUBi). With the use of the web, the development and maintenance of whatever web-related tools become inevitable, given the continuous changes in the web space. This continuous evolution of web development and maintenance will come with techniques, principles and standards which will not only enable faster development of web entities but also ensure that modern hardware, fulfilment of the requirements to use such hardware and modern concepts are incorporated into forming web tools that enable such progression. Furthermore, introducing the previously mentioned progress of the web becomes an essential part of its development and maintenance. This paper did implement the processes of progressing the web using the technique of documentation and version control systems. The web development for the COVIDRUG website was done for the Covidrug-Africa Consortium (COVIDRUG) using the Django webdevelopment framework. The RUBi website and the MDM-Task we band the Job Management System (JMS) web applications were maintained for the maintenance aspect. Archives brought value regarding the traceability it provides of the various web-related aspects. The development showed a website’s potential value, particularly for research groups. The maintenance carried out showed how different techniques and approaches could be used in different maintenance prospects to achieve set objectives. The development and maintenance resulted in websites and web applications that have the features stated in their respective maintenance plans. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
Applying human factors and ergonomics system analysis methods to the V5-NRS Cessna 441 Conquest II aviation accident
- Authors: Fischer, Jordan Daena
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424245 , vital:72136
- Description: Intro: Accidents are complex in nature with multiple contributing factors. The way in which accidents are investigated is important and using system-based analysis tools assists in understanding and mapping these contributing factors to learn from them. There has been an increase in the number of accidents that have occurred within the general aviation industry in South Africa and while accident investigations have been undertaken, these have not included the application of system-based analysis tools. This led to a collaboration between Rhodes University and the Accident and Incident Investigations Division (AIID) of the South African Civil Aviation Authority where it was agreed that two systems-based analysis tools will be applied to a previously investigated accident that occurred in 2015. Aims: The first aim of this thesis was to identify if, through the implementation of these systems-based tools, the systemic contributory factors could be determined using the existing report by the AIID. The second aim of this thesis was to identify if, using the two systems-based tools, the actors and levels involved in the accident could be identified and the third aim was to identify if the implementation of these tools generates the same or different recommendations to that of the AIID. Methods: The two systems-based analysis tools applied were AcciMap and Causal Analysis using Systems Theory (CAST). These tools were applied to the V5-NRS Cessna 441 Conquest II accident report which captured the details of how the aircraft flew into the Tygerberg mountain on its descent into the Cape Town International Airport in August 2015. Results: Through the application of these two systems-based analysis tools the major contributing factors elucidated throughout this analysis were: visual and lighting conditions, pilot experience, training, lack of terrain warning equipment, fatigue, inadequate oversight, and inadequate risk management. In line with these findings, the analysis revealed various actors across various levels (the crew; South African Air Traffic Control, the SACAA, WestAir (the operator) and the Namibian Civil Aviation Authority Through the elucidation of these factors at various levels, 14 to 15 different recommendations were generated which was more than the one recommendation that was generated by the AIID. Discussion: Even when applied to an existing report, both the CAST and Accimap tools were able to bring to light the systemic contributing factors to this accident and importantly, highlight the role that various actors and levels within the system had in this unfortunate event. Consistent with previous literature, most of the contributing factors were found at the lowest level (the crew in this case) and fewer, but key factors were identified at higher levels (management and regulator level). Importantly, the application of the systems tools facilitated a systematic and systemic analysis of this accident, which allowed for the generation of recommendations at all levels, not just at the operator level. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the benefits and importance behind implementing a systems-based analysis method to an accident as these tools generate more useful recommendations which allows for important lessons to be learned following accidents, with the intention of re-designing systems to prevent them from happening again. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Fischer, Jordan Daena
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424245 , vital:72136
- Description: Intro: Accidents are complex in nature with multiple contributing factors. The way in which accidents are investigated is important and using system-based analysis tools assists in understanding and mapping these contributing factors to learn from them. There has been an increase in the number of accidents that have occurred within the general aviation industry in South Africa and while accident investigations have been undertaken, these have not included the application of system-based analysis tools. This led to a collaboration between Rhodes University and the Accident and Incident Investigations Division (AIID) of the South African Civil Aviation Authority where it was agreed that two systems-based analysis tools will be applied to a previously investigated accident that occurred in 2015. Aims: The first aim of this thesis was to identify if, through the implementation of these systems-based tools, the systemic contributory factors could be determined using the existing report by the AIID. The second aim of this thesis was to identify if, using the two systems-based tools, the actors and levels involved in the accident could be identified and the third aim was to identify if the implementation of these tools generates the same or different recommendations to that of the AIID. Methods: The two systems-based analysis tools applied were AcciMap and Causal Analysis using Systems Theory (CAST). These tools were applied to the V5-NRS Cessna 441 Conquest II accident report which captured the details of how the aircraft flew into the Tygerberg mountain on its descent into the Cape Town International Airport in August 2015. Results: Through the application of these two systems-based analysis tools the major contributing factors elucidated throughout this analysis were: visual and lighting conditions, pilot experience, training, lack of terrain warning equipment, fatigue, inadequate oversight, and inadequate risk management. In line with these findings, the analysis revealed various actors across various levels (the crew; South African Air Traffic Control, the SACAA, WestAir (the operator) and the Namibian Civil Aviation Authority Through the elucidation of these factors at various levels, 14 to 15 different recommendations were generated which was more than the one recommendation that was generated by the AIID. Discussion: Even when applied to an existing report, both the CAST and Accimap tools were able to bring to light the systemic contributing factors to this accident and importantly, highlight the role that various actors and levels within the system had in this unfortunate event. Consistent with previous literature, most of the contributing factors were found at the lowest level (the crew in this case) and fewer, but key factors were identified at higher levels (management and regulator level). Importantly, the application of the systems tools facilitated a systematic and systemic analysis of this accident, which allowed for the generation of recommendations at all levels, not just at the operator level. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the benefits and importance behind implementing a systems-based analysis method to an accident as these tools generate more useful recommendations which allows for important lessons to be learned following accidents, with the intention of re-designing systems to prevent them from happening again. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13