Bio-utilization of keratinous waste biomass for the production of keratinolytic proteases by Chryseobactreium aquifrigidense isolated from poultry waste dumpsite
- Authors: Bokveld, Amahle
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Keratin
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20550 , vital:46120
- Description: Keratin is an insoluble and a fibrous protein that is mostly found in feathers, animal wool, and hair, making them mechanically stable. Avian feathers are the most ubiquitously generated keratinous waste biomass from the poultry processing plants. Keratinous waste biomass valorization could produce amino acids and bioactive peptides. Hence, the bio-recycling of keratin-rich wastes bears an advantage over the chemical and thermal means. In recent times, the microbial keratinases continues to gain traction due to the litany of their potential significance in green technology. Consequently, this study assessed chicken feather degrading and keratinase production potentials of bacteria isolated from a local poultry dumpsite. Soil samples were collected from the poultry dumpsite. Bacteria were isolated using basal salt medium and screened for keratinolytic activity. The identification of potent chicken feather degrading bacterial isolates was through 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. Keratinase production efficiency of isolates on chicken feather constituted medium was optimized. Hydrolysate's amino acid compositions were quantified, and the keratinases produced was characterized. Out of 22 bacteria isolated from the soil samples, 12 showed a varying degree of proteolytic activity on skimmed milk agar. Four (4) isolates, coded as FPS-01, FPS-07, FPS-09, WDS-06, out of the 12 proteolytic strains further displayed remarkable degradation of the intact chicken feather; percentage degradation ranged from 69 percent for FPS-01 to 88 percent for FPS-09. The extracellular keratinase activity ranged from 610.91 ± 56.57 U/mL for WDS-06 and 834.55 ± 66.86 U/mL for FPS-07. Additionally, the sulfhydryl group concentration quantified from the fermentation broth was 2.22 ± 0.37 (mM), 0.22 ± 0.08 (mM), 2.27 ± 0.09 (mM), and 2.76 ± 0.79 (mM) for FPS-01, FPS-07, FPS-09 and WDS-06, respectively. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic analyses, the isolates FPS-07 and FPS-09 were identified as Chryseobacterium aquifrigidense FANN1 and Chryseobacterium aquifrigidense FANN2. Following the optimization process, the improved fermentation conditions were pH 6, inoculum side (4 percent, v/v), temperature (30 oC), and chicken feather (0.5-1.5 percent, w/v) for FANN1. FANN2 optimal fermentation conditions were pH 6, inoculum (5 percent, v/v), temperature (30 oC), and chicken feather (1.5 percent, w/v). Both bacterial isolates showed the highest extracellular keratinase production after 72 h of the fermentation time. Analysis of the hydrolysates generated from the bacteria fermentation showed a high concentration of arginine, serine, glutamic acid, glycine, proline, valine, and leucine at a respective concentration of 1.13, 1.02, 0.83, 0.94, 0.85, 0.84, and 0.86 (g/100g sample) against FANN1. Similarly, FANN2 generated hydrolysate showed high concentrations of glutamic acid, arginine, serine, aspartic acid, and glycine at this respective abundance 2.52, 1.92, 2.12, 2.25 and 1.9 (g/100g sample). Keratinases from FANN1 and FANN2 showed optimal catalytic efficiency at pH 8 and temperature between 40-50 oC. The enzyme was considerably thermostable at 40 oC and 50 oC after 120 min of preheating. Both FANN1 and FANN2 showed variable residual activity in the presence of the different metal ions. Keratinase from FANN1 recorded the following residual activity of Fe3+ (120 ± 5.06 percent), Ca2+ (100 ± 10.33 percent), Na+ (122 ± 2.95 percent), Al3+ (106 ± 10.33 percent). Likewise, FANN2 keratinase showed remarkable stability against Na+ (108 ± 13.71 percent), Ba2+ (102 ± 0.86 percent), Al3+ (105 ± 2.57 percent), and Ca2+ (96 ± 2.99 percent). Keratinase from FANN1 was catalytically activated after 60 min of pre-treatment with the following detergents, Sunlight (129 percent), Ariel (116 percent), MAQ (151 percent), and Surf (143 percent) compared to the control. FANN2 keratinase showed less stability with laundry detergents after 60 min of preincubation. FANN1 keratinase showed remarkable stability in the presence of chemical agents tested, with residual activity of 90 ± 0.18 percent, 105 ± 7.55 percent, 108 ± 4.31 percent, 123 ± 1.44 percent, 132 ± 1.26 percent, 96 ± 7.19 percent, and 101 ± 3.06 percent for DTT, hydrogen peroxide, DMSO, acetonitrile, triton X-100, tween-80, and SDS, respectively. The enzyme activity was also considerably inhibited by PMSF and EDTA, which suggested a mixed type of protease. Furthermore, keratinase from FANN2 was inhibited by EDTA, and such inhibition pattern grouped it as a metallo-type of protease. The enzyme was also stable in the presence of other chemical agents tested. Therefore, the findings suggest the isolates and their enzymes' relevance to sustainable recycling of recalcitrant keratinous wastes into high-value products with immense application potentials. The remarkable stability shown by keratinases from FANN1 and FANN2, post detergent and chemical agents pre-treatment, indicates promise for the biotechnology and industrial sector. , Thesis(MSc) (Microbiology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-02
- Authors: Bokveld, Amahle
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Keratin
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20550 , vital:46120
- Description: Keratin is an insoluble and a fibrous protein that is mostly found in feathers, animal wool, and hair, making them mechanically stable. Avian feathers are the most ubiquitously generated keratinous waste biomass from the poultry processing plants. Keratinous waste biomass valorization could produce amino acids and bioactive peptides. Hence, the bio-recycling of keratin-rich wastes bears an advantage over the chemical and thermal means. In recent times, the microbial keratinases continues to gain traction due to the litany of their potential significance in green technology. Consequently, this study assessed chicken feather degrading and keratinase production potentials of bacteria isolated from a local poultry dumpsite. Soil samples were collected from the poultry dumpsite. Bacteria were isolated using basal salt medium and screened for keratinolytic activity. The identification of potent chicken feather degrading bacterial isolates was through 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. Keratinase production efficiency of isolates on chicken feather constituted medium was optimized. Hydrolysate's amino acid compositions were quantified, and the keratinases produced was characterized. Out of 22 bacteria isolated from the soil samples, 12 showed a varying degree of proteolytic activity on skimmed milk agar. Four (4) isolates, coded as FPS-01, FPS-07, FPS-09, WDS-06, out of the 12 proteolytic strains further displayed remarkable degradation of the intact chicken feather; percentage degradation ranged from 69 percent for FPS-01 to 88 percent for FPS-09. The extracellular keratinase activity ranged from 610.91 ± 56.57 U/mL for WDS-06 and 834.55 ± 66.86 U/mL for FPS-07. Additionally, the sulfhydryl group concentration quantified from the fermentation broth was 2.22 ± 0.37 (mM), 0.22 ± 0.08 (mM), 2.27 ± 0.09 (mM), and 2.76 ± 0.79 (mM) for FPS-01, FPS-07, FPS-09 and WDS-06, respectively. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic analyses, the isolates FPS-07 and FPS-09 were identified as Chryseobacterium aquifrigidense FANN1 and Chryseobacterium aquifrigidense FANN2. Following the optimization process, the improved fermentation conditions were pH 6, inoculum side (4 percent, v/v), temperature (30 oC), and chicken feather (0.5-1.5 percent, w/v) for FANN1. FANN2 optimal fermentation conditions were pH 6, inoculum (5 percent, v/v), temperature (30 oC), and chicken feather (1.5 percent, w/v). Both bacterial isolates showed the highest extracellular keratinase production after 72 h of the fermentation time. Analysis of the hydrolysates generated from the bacteria fermentation showed a high concentration of arginine, serine, glutamic acid, glycine, proline, valine, and leucine at a respective concentration of 1.13, 1.02, 0.83, 0.94, 0.85, 0.84, and 0.86 (g/100g sample) against FANN1. Similarly, FANN2 generated hydrolysate showed high concentrations of glutamic acid, arginine, serine, aspartic acid, and glycine at this respective abundance 2.52, 1.92, 2.12, 2.25 and 1.9 (g/100g sample). Keratinases from FANN1 and FANN2 showed optimal catalytic efficiency at pH 8 and temperature between 40-50 oC. The enzyme was considerably thermostable at 40 oC and 50 oC after 120 min of preheating. Both FANN1 and FANN2 showed variable residual activity in the presence of the different metal ions. Keratinase from FANN1 recorded the following residual activity of Fe3+ (120 ± 5.06 percent), Ca2+ (100 ± 10.33 percent), Na+ (122 ± 2.95 percent), Al3+ (106 ± 10.33 percent). Likewise, FANN2 keratinase showed remarkable stability against Na+ (108 ± 13.71 percent), Ba2+ (102 ± 0.86 percent), Al3+ (105 ± 2.57 percent), and Ca2+ (96 ± 2.99 percent). Keratinase from FANN1 was catalytically activated after 60 min of pre-treatment with the following detergents, Sunlight (129 percent), Ariel (116 percent), MAQ (151 percent), and Surf (143 percent) compared to the control. FANN2 keratinase showed less stability with laundry detergents after 60 min of preincubation. FANN1 keratinase showed remarkable stability in the presence of chemical agents tested, with residual activity of 90 ± 0.18 percent, 105 ± 7.55 percent, 108 ± 4.31 percent, 123 ± 1.44 percent, 132 ± 1.26 percent, 96 ± 7.19 percent, and 101 ± 3.06 percent for DTT, hydrogen peroxide, DMSO, acetonitrile, triton X-100, tween-80, and SDS, respectively. The enzyme activity was also considerably inhibited by PMSF and EDTA, which suggested a mixed type of protease. Furthermore, keratinase from FANN2 was inhibited by EDTA, and such inhibition pattern grouped it as a metallo-type of protease. The enzyme was also stable in the presence of other chemical agents tested. Therefore, the findings suggest the isolates and their enzymes' relevance to sustainable recycling of recalcitrant keratinous wastes into high-value products with immense application potentials. The remarkable stability shown by keratinases from FANN1 and FANN2, post detergent and chemical agents pre-treatment, indicates promise for the biotechnology and industrial sector. , Thesis(MSc) (Microbiology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-02
An investigation into the effects of nano-carbons on the negative electrode morphology of lead acid batteries under high rate partial state of capacity cycling
- Authors: Bolo, Lukanyo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53324 , vital:45132
- Description: New technological developments in the field of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV’s), vehicle stop-start applications and electrical power utility devices have brought about new demands on the use of energy storage devices such as the Pb-acid battery. These applications require a new understanding and research into the material chemistry of the battery where it has to functionin a Partial State of Capacity Cycling (PSoCC) or High Rate Partial State of Capacity Cycling (HRPSoCC)duty. The Pb-acid battery is well known for its use in the automotive industry where it had worked for decades as a typical Starter, Lighting and Ignition (SLI) power source. However, the conventional Pb-acid battery is not suitable for the new types of vehicle demands and applications. When the Pb-lead acid battery is subjected to PSoCC conditions, very quickly excessive amount of non-conducting PbSO4crystals are formed on the negative plates of the battery that then drastically reduce its useful life in application. Over the years, researchers have shown that the small addition of certain carbon types to the negative plate active material (NAM) during battery manufacturing can reduce the sulfation effect thereby increasing its use the modern vehicle applications. This study investigated industrial manufactured cells that contained up to 0.5 % by weight two types of carbons in the NAM. These were compared to standard built cells in terms of their standard achievable capacities at various rates, their Cold Cranking Ability (CCA), their Dynamic Charge Acceptance (DCA) and a simplified PSoCC test. The carbons were classified as an activated carbon and a carbon nano-fiber and were included as a dry weight additive during the standard paste manufacturing process of the negative plate. Cells were built with a 9-plate configuration using standard expanded grid positive plates with a nominal rated capacity of 36 Ah. The cells were formed and subjected to a number of electrochemical tests, of which selected negative plates were then studied using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Electrochemical in-situ Atomic Force Microscopy (EC-AFM). The microscopic study was then used to try and relate the observed material characteristics of the NAM with the carbons to the electrochemical results observed when testing a built cell. , Thesis (MA) --Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Bolo, Lukanyo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53324 , vital:45132
- Description: New technological developments in the field of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV’s), vehicle stop-start applications and electrical power utility devices have brought about new demands on the use of energy storage devices such as the Pb-acid battery. These applications require a new understanding and research into the material chemistry of the battery where it has to functionin a Partial State of Capacity Cycling (PSoCC) or High Rate Partial State of Capacity Cycling (HRPSoCC)duty. The Pb-acid battery is well known for its use in the automotive industry where it had worked for decades as a typical Starter, Lighting and Ignition (SLI) power source. However, the conventional Pb-acid battery is not suitable for the new types of vehicle demands and applications. When the Pb-lead acid battery is subjected to PSoCC conditions, very quickly excessive amount of non-conducting PbSO4crystals are formed on the negative plates of the battery that then drastically reduce its useful life in application. Over the years, researchers have shown that the small addition of certain carbon types to the negative plate active material (NAM) during battery manufacturing can reduce the sulfation effect thereby increasing its use the modern vehicle applications. This study investigated industrial manufactured cells that contained up to 0.5 % by weight two types of carbons in the NAM. These were compared to standard built cells in terms of their standard achievable capacities at various rates, their Cold Cranking Ability (CCA), their Dynamic Charge Acceptance (DCA) and a simplified PSoCC test. The carbons were classified as an activated carbon and a carbon nano-fiber and were included as a dry weight additive during the standard paste manufacturing process of the negative plate. Cells were built with a 9-plate configuration using standard expanded grid positive plates with a nominal rated capacity of 36 Ah. The cells were formed and subjected to a number of electrochemical tests, of which selected negative plates were then studied using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Electrochemical in-situ Atomic Force Microscopy (EC-AFM). The microscopic study was then used to try and relate the observed material characteristics of the NAM with the carbons to the electrochemical results observed when testing a built cell. , Thesis (MA) --Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Delays in seeking treatment for sick children in rural Malawi: A study of the utilisation of village clinics
- Bonongwe, Enock (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2819-130X)
- Authors: Bonongwe, Enock (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2819-130X)
- Date: 2011-12
- Subjects: Community Health Services , Rural Health , Health Planning
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23326 , vital:57314
- Description: The world’s highest mortality figures are found in developing countries among under-five children (Black et al., 2003:2227). Efforts in reducing childhood mortality are stifled if treatment is delayed (sought after 24 hours). The aim of this study was to find out the factors that contribute to delays in seeking treatment for sick children in a community where health services are free and accessible. From data collected using a questionnaire through face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs), the study found out the factors that contribute to delayed care. It collected data from 150 mothers who sought treatment at village clinics within 14 days prior to the survey date. Qualitative data were collected in five FGDs with old women, young women, men, youth and community leaders. The study found that out of 150 mothers, 54 percent delayed seeking treatment for sick children. Mothers who had given sick children home treatment and those who sought treatment from other providers for the same illness brought to the village clinic were more likely to delay care. FGDs revealed that most factors contributing to delayed care were to do with the health system, although beliefs and perceptions played a part. In summary, delays in seeking treatment for sick children are a product of an interplay of many factors. Overall, it was found that caregivers’ interpretation of the child’s illness influenced timeliness of care and the choice of health care provider. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2011
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011-12
- Authors: Bonongwe, Enock (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2819-130X)
- Date: 2011-12
- Subjects: Community Health Services , Rural Health , Health Planning
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23326 , vital:57314
- Description: The world’s highest mortality figures are found in developing countries among under-five children (Black et al., 2003:2227). Efforts in reducing childhood mortality are stifled if treatment is delayed (sought after 24 hours). The aim of this study was to find out the factors that contribute to delays in seeking treatment for sick children in a community where health services are free and accessible. From data collected using a questionnaire through face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs), the study found out the factors that contribute to delayed care. It collected data from 150 mothers who sought treatment at village clinics within 14 days prior to the survey date. Qualitative data were collected in five FGDs with old women, young women, men, youth and community leaders. The study found that out of 150 mothers, 54 percent delayed seeking treatment for sick children. Mothers who had given sick children home treatment and those who sought treatment from other providers for the same illness brought to the village clinic were more likely to delay care. FGDs revealed that most factors contributing to delayed care were to do with the health system, although beliefs and perceptions played a part. In summary, delays in seeking treatment for sick children are a product of an interplay of many factors. Overall, it was found that caregivers’ interpretation of the child’s illness influenced timeliness of care and the choice of health care provider. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2011
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011-12
Evaluating provisioning and cultural ecosystem services in two contracting estuaries in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Booi Siphesihle
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: estuaries -- Gqeberha , ecosystem services , Economic value added
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60982 , vital:69585
- Description: Estuaries are notable for their biodiversity, productive and invertible fisheries, and significant capacities. This study assesses the economic value of the Swartkops and Sundays estuaries in Algoa Bay, Gqeberha, to estuary users and local communities1 . The data was collected from December 2021 to April 2022, during the summer and autumn seasons. The seasons are considered peak times; however, international travel was restricted during Covid-19 level one lockdown. The study employs both the Travel Cost method and the Choice experiment method. Based on the findings, anglers and bait collectors in Swartkops Estuary sell their catches for an average of R77.41. The majority of these anglers and bait collectors earn between R0 and R1 583 per month and rely on catch and bait for a living, with the majority of participants benefiting from provisioning ecosystem service. Sundays estuary users, on the other hand, primarily use the estuary for recreational purposes. Anglers visiting Swartkops and Sundays estuaries spend R4 709 128 and R2 203 158 annually on food and beverages, fuel/transport costs, bait. This contributes R7 534 572.67 and R3 525 052.18 to the local economy in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality based on the multiplier. The study emphasizes the importance of estuary management and monitoring to preserve and protect them for future generations. The primary issue is to extract resources from the Swartkops and Sundays estuaries in a sustainable manner while also protecting them. Estuaries can help grow the economy if managed well and used in a sustainable way. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Booi Siphesihle
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: estuaries -- Gqeberha , ecosystem services , Economic value added
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60982 , vital:69585
- Description: Estuaries are notable for their biodiversity, productive and invertible fisheries, and significant capacities. This study assesses the economic value of the Swartkops and Sundays estuaries in Algoa Bay, Gqeberha, to estuary users and local communities1 . The data was collected from December 2021 to April 2022, during the summer and autumn seasons. The seasons are considered peak times; however, international travel was restricted during Covid-19 level one lockdown. The study employs both the Travel Cost method and the Choice experiment method. Based on the findings, anglers and bait collectors in Swartkops Estuary sell their catches for an average of R77.41. The majority of these anglers and bait collectors earn between R0 and R1 583 per month and rely on catch and bait for a living, with the majority of participants benefiting from provisioning ecosystem service. Sundays estuary users, on the other hand, primarily use the estuary for recreational purposes. Anglers visiting Swartkops and Sundays estuaries spend R4 709 128 and R2 203 158 annually on food and beverages, fuel/transport costs, bait. This contributes R7 534 572.67 and R3 525 052.18 to the local economy in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality based on the multiplier. The study emphasizes the importance of estuary management and monitoring to preserve and protect them for future generations. The primary issue is to extract resources from the Swartkops and Sundays estuaries in a sustainable manner while also protecting them. Estuaries can help grow the economy if managed well and used in a sustainable way. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Investment promotions within port systems: a case of the port of Ngqura, south Africa
- Authors: Booi, Nozipho
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Investment -- South Africa , Investment analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57601 , vital:58180
- Description: The primary role of ports is to provide an enabling logistical solution for within the transport sector. Ports within South Africa perform this primary role in strict accordance with the National Ports Act 12 of 2005. The liberalisation of economies from closed economies to open economies has impacted the transformation of the transport sector; sea borne trade through ports accounts for 80% of the global trade by volume and 70% by value. Open economies have increased the need for integration of economies and triggered a highly competitive market for ports globally competing for volumes or throughput. To attract volumes, ports need to have sound investment promotions strategies that are responding to market needs. Thus, the primary objective of the research study was to investigate and analyse the various factors that affect investment promotions within the port system, evaluating how these factors can be utilised by the Port of Ngqura to increase volumes and grow market share. Therefore, attention was placed on understanding the value proposition the port has to offer to potential investors to foster FDIs. The researcher employed an interpretivist qualitative research methodology to explore its research aim and objectives. Secondary data in the form of document analysis was used in this research study. The documents analysed are mainly Academic Journals, Policy Documents, Transnet Annual Reports, South African Port Regulator Reports (quarterly and annual reports), Industry Articles, and Published Books. The data collected from secondary sources was analysed through content analysis. The document analysis conducted to understand the determinants of investments at the Port of Ngqura, revealed that the regulatory framework, port costs, availability of infrastructure, connectivity to the hinterland market, safety and security, intermodal transport, and efficiency levels can influence investment promotions within the port, and the determinants can be utilised to increase the volumes at the Port of Ngqura. The research study reviewed the mentioned additional factors such as the speed in responding to enquiries, the packaging of information, the linkages to other development zones and guarantees of secure operations are also determinants that potential investors look for. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Booi, Nozipho
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Investment -- South Africa , Investment analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57601 , vital:58180
- Description: The primary role of ports is to provide an enabling logistical solution for within the transport sector. Ports within South Africa perform this primary role in strict accordance with the National Ports Act 12 of 2005. The liberalisation of economies from closed economies to open economies has impacted the transformation of the transport sector; sea borne trade through ports accounts for 80% of the global trade by volume and 70% by value. Open economies have increased the need for integration of economies and triggered a highly competitive market for ports globally competing for volumes or throughput. To attract volumes, ports need to have sound investment promotions strategies that are responding to market needs. Thus, the primary objective of the research study was to investigate and analyse the various factors that affect investment promotions within the port system, evaluating how these factors can be utilised by the Port of Ngqura to increase volumes and grow market share. Therefore, attention was placed on understanding the value proposition the port has to offer to potential investors to foster FDIs. The researcher employed an interpretivist qualitative research methodology to explore its research aim and objectives. Secondary data in the form of document analysis was used in this research study. The documents analysed are mainly Academic Journals, Policy Documents, Transnet Annual Reports, South African Port Regulator Reports (quarterly and annual reports), Industry Articles, and Published Books. The data collected from secondary sources was analysed through content analysis. The document analysis conducted to understand the determinants of investments at the Port of Ngqura, revealed that the regulatory framework, port costs, availability of infrastructure, connectivity to the hinterland market, safety and security, intermodal transport, and efficiency levels can influence investment promotions within the port, and the determinants can be utilised to increase the volumes at the Port of Ngqura. The research study reviewed the mentioned additional factors such as the speed in responding to enquiries, the packaging of information, the linkages to other development zones and guarantees of secure operations are also determinants that potential investors look for. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
The nature of Visual Representations of multiplication and division exercises in nine Grades 1 to 3 South African textbooks
- Authors: Booysen, Tammy Irene
- Date: 2023-03-29
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/422579 , vital:71959
- Description: Mathematics is a language that is rich in visual representations (Mudaly & Rampersad, 2010). Visual Representations assist us in developing our reasoning skills when solving a problem and our understanding of the relationships between concepts (Ozkan et al., 2018). This thesis focuses on the different visual representations (VR) in South African Foundation Phase mathematics textbooks and workbooks. Textbooks and workbooks play an important role in developing an understanding of mathematical concepts for both teachers and learners (Harries & Spooner, 2000). While teachers generally rely heavily on textbooks, they were a key resource while schools were closed due to COVID-19 lockdown regulations. The theory of Constructivism forms part of the theoretical framework for this study. Constructivism advocates that learners actively construct knowledge through experiences rather than passively receiving knowledge from the outside (Von Glaserfeld, 2001). Vygotsky believed that social interactions create experiences that facilitate the learning and meaning-making process (Vygotsky, 1978). This case study is underpinned by an interpretivist paradigm as it sought to examine the nature of VRs in three Grades 1 - 3 textbooks/workbooks. My research approach is primarily qualitative with descriptive statistics to assist in developing a more comprehensive understanding of the research questions. The study was guided by the analytic tool designed by Fotakopoulou and Spiliotopoulou (2008) which I adapted for Foundation Phase mathematics use. The framework provides insight on the type of VR, VRs relation to content, VRs relation to reality, the function of the VR and dimensionality of a VR. While the workbooks had many more VRs than textbooks, the dominant type of VR in textbooks and workbooks are images. The VRs mostly have a strong relation to content with a realistic relation to reality as they were predominantly 2D representation of a 3D object that had an exemplifying function (type b). , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-03-29
- Authors: Booysen, Tammy Irene
- Date: 2023-03-29
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/422579 , vital:71959
- Description: Mathematics is a language that is rich in visual representations (Mudaly & Rampersad, 2010). Visual Representations assist us in developing our reasoning skills when solving a problem and our understanding of the relationships between concepts (Ozkan et al., 2018). This thesis focuses on the different visual representations (VR) in South African Foundation Phase mathematics textbooks and workbooks. Textbooks and workbooks play an important role in developing an understanding of mathematical concepts for both teachers and learners (Harries & Spooner, 2000). While teachers generally rely heavily on textbooks, they were a key resource while schools were closed due to COVID-19 lockdown regulations. The theory of Constructivism forms part of the theoretical framework for this study. Constructivism advocates that learners actively construct knowledge through experiences rather than passively receiving knowledge from the outside (Von Glaserfeld, 2001). Vygotsky believed that social interactions create experiences that facilitate the learning and meaning-making process (Vygotsky, 1978). This case study is underpinned by an interpretivist paradigm as it sought to examine the nature of VRs in three Grades 1 - 3 textbooks/workbooks. My research approach is primarily qualitative with descriptive statistics to assist in developing a more comprehensive understanding of the research questions. The study was guided by the analytic tool designed by Fotakopoulou and Spiliotopoulou (2008) which I adapted for Foundation Phase mathematics use. The framework provides insight on the type of VR, VRs relation to content, VRs relation to reality, the function of the VR and dimensionality of a VR. While the workbooks had many more VRs than textbooks, the dominant type of VR in textbooks and workbooks are images. The VRs mostly have a strong relation to content with a realistic relation to reality as they were predominantly 2D representation of a 3D object that had an exemplifying function (type b). , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-03-29
Cannabidiol: extraction and purification using flow Chemistry
- Authors: Bopape, Karabo
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Supercritical fluid extraction -- South Africa , Cannabis -- Therapeutic use
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55723 , vital:53410
- Description: cannabinoids are of growing interest in research and pharmaceutical applications. Cannabidiol, which is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, has many pharmaceutical applications. The current and main source of cannabidiol and other cannabinoids is from cannabis and hemp extractions. Current extraction methods involve the use of conventional solvent extraction, which employs the use of organic solvents, in some cases along with mechanical assistance from various equipment. Alternatively, another widely used extraction method is the use of supercritical extraction fluids (SC-CO2 being the most common). An alternative method, which uses chemical synthesis to derivatize cannabidiol to form an intermediate, which is crystalline and can easily be isolated from the extract; the crystalline intermediate can then be deprotected back to pure cannabidiol. In this research, we investigated and adapted the crystallisation method (originally employed by Adams) into continuous flow. In this research, hemp extracts and oilsrich in CBD were used as the source for cannabidiol. This synthesis was adapted into microreactors to synthesise the crystalline intermediate ester product (cannabidiol-3,5-bis-benzoate) which was subsequently reacted in a saponification ester hydrolysis to convert back and isolate pure CBD using continuous flow microreactor technology. Chapter one gives a comprehensive literature review and background on cannabidiol, along with its chemistry and pharmacological benefits in addition to a brief introduction to continuous flow technology with its advantages. Chapter two details the experimental procedures utilised for both batch and continuous flow syntheses. The continuous flow synthesis and subsequent hydrolysis of the ester intermediate, which shows the improvements in comparison to batch; giving higher product recovery (63% CBD), in shorter reaction times (2.5 min for CBD bis-benzoate; 30 min for CBD) is subsequently presented. This is expanded in chapter three with detailed discussions of the results attained during the continuous flow. The concluding remarks, the impact of this study and future work are elucidated in chapter four. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Bopape, Karabo
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Supercritical fluid extraction -- South Africa , Cannabis -- Therapeutic use
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55723 , vital:53410
- Description: cannabinoids are of growing interest in research and pharmaceutical applications. Cannabidiol, which is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, has many pharmaceutical applications. The current and main source of cannabidiol and other cannabinoids is from cannabis and hemp extractions. Current extraction methods involve the use of conventional solvent extraction, which employs the use of organic solvents, in some cases along with mechanical assistance from various equipment. Alternatively, another widely used extraction method is the use of supercritical extraction fluids (SC-CO2 being the most common). An alternative method, which uses chemical synthesis to derivatize cannabidiol to form an intermediate, which is crystalline and can easily be isolated from the extract; the crystalline intermediate can then be deprotected back to pure cannabidiol. In this research, we investigated and adapted the crystallisation method (originally employed by Adams) into continuous flow. In this research, hemp extracts and oilsrich in CBD were used as the source for cannabidiol. This synthesis was adapted into microreactors to synthesise the crystalline intermediate ester product (cannabidiol-3,5-bis-benzoate) which was subsequently reacted in a saponification ester hydrolysis to convert back and isolate pure CBD using continuous flow microreactor technology. Chapter one gives a comprehensive literature review and background on cannabidiol, along with its chemistry and pharmacological benefits in addition to a brief introduction to continuous flow technology with its advantages. Chapter two details the experimental procedures utilised for both batch and continuous flow syntheses. The continuous flow synthesis and subsequent hydrolysis of the ester intermediate, which shows the improvements in comparison to batch; giving higher product recovery (63% CBD), in shorter reaction times (2.5 min for CBD bis-benzoate; 30 min for CBD) is subsequently presented. This is expanded in chapter three with detailed discussions of the results attained during the continuous flow. The concluding remarks, the impact of this study and future work are elucidated in chapter four. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
The design of a 21st century administrative headquarters for the city of Gqeberha
- Authors: Borchers, Spencer Phillip
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Municipal buildings -- South Africa -- Gqeberha -- Designs and plans , Architecture, Modern -- 20th century -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57443 , vital:57870
- Description: This treatise developed through an interest in 21st century office buildings and the impact they have on the well-being of occupants. The office of the 20th century disregarded well-being and was focused on efficiently accommodating the functions of the workplace in an effort to increase productivity. Today, many of these buildings inadequately provide for the basic biological, psychological, and social needs required for the work force of the 21 st century. The nature of the office has shifted to a more socially interactive and flexible environment which attempts to obtain productivity targets through nurturing the well-being of occupants. Research has determined that biological health can be supported through the optimization of building performance; psychological health can be supported through considering environmental psychology; and social health can be supported through instilling a robust corporate culture. This treatise takes a qualitative research approach to thoroughly interpret the informants and constraints of the site in order to design additions and alterations to the existing administrative headquarters for the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The updated facility will consolidate the administrative functions of local government into one 21st century administrative headquarters, located on the sites of three current NMBM offices in Govan Mbeki Avenue. , Thesis (MArch) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Architecture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Borchers, Spencer Phillip
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Municipal buildings -- South Africa -- Gqeberha -- Designs and plans , Architecture, Modern -- 20th century -- Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57443 , vital:57870
- Description: This treatise developed through an interest in 21st century office buildings and the impact they have on the well-being of occupants. The office of the 20th century disregarded well-being and was focused on efficiently accommodating the functions of the workplace in an effort to increase productivity. Today, many of these buildings inadequately provide for the basic biological, psychological, and social needs required for the work force of the 21 st century. The nature of the office has shifted to a more socially interactive and flexible environment which attempts to obtain productivity targets through nurturing the well-being of occupants. Research has determined that biological health can be supported through the optimization of building performance; psychological health can be supported through considering environmental psychology; and social health can be supported through instilling a robust corporate culture. This treatise takes a qualitative research approach to thoroughly interpret the informants and constraints of the site in order to design additions and alterations to the existing administrative headquarters for the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The updated facility will consolidate the administrative functions of local government into one 21st century administrative headquarters, located on the sites of three current NMBM offices in Govan Mbeki Avenue. , Thesis (MArch) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Architecture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
The design of a resource centre for Pellsrus, Jeffreys Bay
- Authors: Bosch, Rickus
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Community centers --South Africa --Jeffrey's Bay -- Designs and plans , Jeffrey's Bay (South Africa) --History
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57454 , vital:57872
- Description: The South African city faces an ongoing struggle with adequate social and spatial justice. Citizens have become separated and cultures have been divided owing to the historical formation of the city and the post legislative laws. Because of the growth of cities, certain resources are difficult to access and people need to trav el vast distances and cross dangerous barriers in order to access these resources. This thesis involves the research of social and spatial justice within the South Afri can city, which has resulted in a poor quality of life and a lack of resources. More specifically this thesis aimed at creating an environment that will aid in a better quality of life through spatial and social equity by creating an active and positive space to access certain resources. The particular focus area is the rural community of Pellsrus in Jeffreys Bay. The context has been analysed to enable a sound understanding of the formation of the town, the behaviour of the town and its people, the urban conditions and the spatial structures. Research lead to a site being selected that would form an transition space connecting separated communities and resources. The design is aimed at creating a space for people to gather, gain access to the needed resourc es and act as a linkage or transition zone between certain areas of the town. The objective was to enrich the current movement systems and enhance the existing resources, ultimately resulting in the design of a trade-resource centre in Pellsrus. The architectural design is formulated as a mean of locality and community. A qualitative methodology has been implemented which incorporates various research methods such as surveys, literature reviews, primary and secondary data collection, site sketches, topographic mapping and drone footage. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Architecture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Bosch, Rickus
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Community centers --South Africa --Jeffrey's Bay -- Designs and plans , Jeffrey's Bay (South Africa) --History
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57454 , vital:57872
- Description: The South African city faces an ongoing struggle with adequate social and spatial justice. Citizens have become separated and cultures have been divided owing to the historical formation of the city and the post legislative laws. Because of the growth of cities, certain resources are difficult to access and people need to trav el vast distances and cross dangerous barriers in order to access these resources. This thesis involves the research of social and spatial justice within the South Afri can city, which has resulted in a poor quality of life and a lack of resources. More specifically this thesis aimed at creating an environment that will aid in a better quality of life through spatial and social equity by creating an active and positive space to access certain resources. The particular focus area is the rural community of Pellsrus in Jeffreys Bay. The context has been analysed to enable a sound understanding of the formation of the town, the behaviour of the town and its people, the urban conditions and the spatial structures. Research lead to a site being selected that would form an transition space connecting separated communities and resources. The design is aimed at creating a space for people to gather, gain access to the needed resourc es and act as a linkage or transition zone between certain areas of the town. The objective was to enrich the current movement systems and enhance the existing resources, ultimately resulting in the design of a trade-resource centre in Pellsrus. The architectural design is formulated as a mean of locality and community. A qualitative methodology has been implemented which incorporates various research methods such as surveys, literature reviews, primary and secondary data collection, site sketches, topographic mapping and drone footage. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Architecture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Effect of livestock management and services to ecosystems on rangeland health and resilience in the NamaKaroo
- Authors: Boshoff, Mishak
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Livestock – Management --South Africa—Karoo , Range ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60611 , vital:66017
- Description: Rangelands offer great opportunities for mutualisms between nature conservation and economic productivity if positive feedback loops can be identified and described. The effects of different livestock management practices are controversial. This research examined the effect of different grazing intensities on soil health using springtails (Collembola) and ants (Formicidae) as bioindicators, combined with soil and vegetation variables. The relationship between rangeland managers and rangeland ecosystems, particularly with regard to feedback loops between land care and economic production, was also investigated. Bioindicator samples were collected at different treatments of livestock grazing intensity and a questionnaire was submitted to 65 rangeland managers in the semi-arid Nama-Karoo biome of South Africa. In most cases we found no significant relationship between grazing intensity and Collembola and ant community composition, vegetation variables, and soil variables. The few significant relationships we found were contradictory in their implications for the effect of high intensity grazing on soil health. The results suggested that differences in livestock management are relatively unimportant for soil health, at least in semi-arid systems under conditions immediately following a drought. The questionnaire yielded results on outline of management practices, basis of management decisions, consequences of monitoring veld to inform management decisions, and indicators of successful management. Respondents characterized by higher ecological fluency focused on livestock production when making management decisions, stocked at higher densities, and monitored the rangeland ecosystem to inform their decisions. For monitoring the ecosystem, they used bioindicators such as diversity of biota, successional stage, and ecologically important functional groups. We concluded that the development of ecological knowledge in rangeland managers enables the establishment of feedback loops between ecosystem services and services to ecosystems, which are desirable for economic productivity and nature conservation. Development of relevant ecological knowledge and management techniques should be based on forums and dialogue among rangeland managers, developing distributed cognition and resilience in the community of rangeland managers. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School Natural Resource Science and Management, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Boshoff, Mishak
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Livestock – Management --South Africa—Karoo , Range ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60611 , vital:66017
- Description: Rangelands offer great opportunities for mutualisms between nature conservation and economic productivity if positive feedback loops can be identified and described. The effects of different livestock management practices are controversial. This research examined the effect of different grazing intensities on soil health using springtails (Collembola) and ants (Formicidae) as bioindicators, combined with soil and vegetation variables. The relationship between rangeland managers and rangeland ecosystems, particularly with regard to feedback loops between land care and economic production, was also investigated. Bioindicator samples were collected at different treatments of livestock grazing intensity and a questionnaire was submitted to 65 rangeland managers in the semi-arid Nama-Karoo biome of South Africa. In most cases we found no significant relationship between grazing intensity and Collembola and ant community composition, vegetation variables, and soil variables. The few significant relationships we found were contradictory in their implications for the effect of high intensity grazing on soil health. The results suggested that differences in livestock management are relatively unimportant for soil health, at least in semi-arid systems under conditions immediately following a drought. The questionnaire yielded results on outline of management practices, basis of management decisions, consequences of monitoring veld to inform management decisions, and indicators of successful management. Respondents characterized by higher ecological fluency focused on livestock production when making management decisions, stocked at higher densities, and monitored the rangeland ecosystem to inform their decisions. For monitoring the ecosystem, they used bioindicators such as diversity of biota, successional stage, and ecologically important functional groups. We concluded that the development of ecological knowledge in rangeland managers enables the establishment of feedback loops between ecosystem services and services to ecosystems, which are desirable for economic productivity and nature conservation. Development of relevant ecological knowledge and management techniques should be based on forums and dialogue among rangeland managers, developing distributed cognition and resilience in the community of rangeland managers. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School Natural Resource Science and Management, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Personal branding as a market tool
- Authors: Botha, Alylin
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Personal Branding , marketing tool
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60993 , vital:69591
- Description: Personal Branding is deemed as an unavoidable aspect of entrepreneurship and social acceptance. Individuals should establish, develop, maintain and take advantage of a Personal Brand. The benefits of a Personal Brand should be embraced and used to market themselves and highlight their uniqueness. The aim is to investigate the relationship between Professional Life, Social Media Presence, Values, Competencies, Communication as the independent variables and Personal Branding as the dependent variable. It was concluded that there are important factors that positively influence Interpersonal Personal Brand as well as Intellectual Personal Brand, which are the two components that make up Personal Brand. There is limited research on the factors that influence Personal Branding in South Africa. Through literature review, factors were identified and used to form a conceptual model. This model was tested to measure their relationship with Personal Branding. An online questionnaire was distributed to MBA students, family and friends who made up the study’s respondents. The results obtained after conducting correlation and ChiSquare tests were used to determine the relationship between the identified factors with Personal Branding. This study explores how individuals can use Personal Branding as a marketing tool. These individuals include those who want to create or further expand their current Personal Brand and use it as a marketing tool. This treatise explored the factors needed to be considered for Personal Branding a marketing tool for individuals. Personal Branding can be used at the beginning of a career, during a transition of a career or even when wanting to explore a new career. Personal Brand was initially considered the only factor. However, this study concludes that Personal Branding is made of up of two components: Interpersonal Personal Branding as well as Intellectual Personal Branding. The findings concluded that independent factors, Professional Life, Values, Competencies and Communication all have a positive significant influence on Personal Branding as a whole, as well as the components it is made up of, Interpersonal Personal Branding and Intellectual Personal Branding. The independent factor Social Media Presence positively influences Interpersonal Personal Branding only. v This study makes theoretical contributions by broadening the definition of Personal Branding. The study defines the research methodologies for Personal Branding which could be used for future studies. The Associative Network Theory in relevance to Personal Branding is explored. The practical contribution of this research includes a hypothesised model which was tested. This study should be repeated to include a bigger sample size that is more equally distributed within South Africa. Additionally, for future studies, it would be recommended to incorporate the development of Personal Branding as an independent factor to measure its effect on Personal Branding. Another recommendation for further research is to conduct research on policies, which can be put forward to assist with the managing of Personal Branding for entrepreneurs. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Botha, Alylin
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Personal Branding , marketing tool
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60993 , vital:69591
- Description: Personal Branding is deemed as an unavoidable aspect of entrepreneurship and social acceptance. Individuals should establish, develop, maintain and take advantage of a Personal Brand. The benefits of a Personal Brand should be embraced and used to market themselves and highlight their uniqueness. The aim is to investigate the relationship between Professional Life, Social Media Presence, Values, Competencies, Communication as the independent variables and Personal Branding as the dependent variable. It was concluded that there are important factors that positively influence Interpersonal Personal Brand as well as Intellectual Personal Brand, which are the two components that make up Personal Brand. There is limited research on the factors that influence Personal Branding in South Africa. Through literature review, factors were identified and used to form a conceptual model. This model was tested to measure their relationship with Personal Branding. An online questionnaire was distributed to MBA students, family and friends who made up the study’s respondents. The results obtained after conducting correlation and ChiSquare tests were used to determine the relationship between the identified factors with Personal Branding. This study explores how individuals can use Personal Branding as a marketing tool. These individuals include those who want to create or further expand their current Personal Brand and use it as a marketing tool. This treatise explored the factors needed to be considered for Personal Branding a marketing tool for individuals. Personal Branding can be used at the beginning of a career, during a transition of a career or even when wanting to explore a new career. Personal Brand was initially considered the only factor. However, this study concludes that Personal Branding is made of up of two components: Interpersonal Personal Branding as well as Intellectual Personal Branding. The findings concluded that independent factors, Professional Life, Values, Competencies and Communication all have a positive significant influence on Personal Branding as a whole, as well as the components it is made up of, Interpersonal Personal Branding and Intellectual Personal Branding. The independent factor Social Media Presence positively influences Interpersonal Personal Branding only. v This study makes theoretical contributions by broadening the definition of Personal Branding. The study defines the research methodologies for Personal Branding which could be used for future studies. The Associative Network Theory in relevance to Personal Branding is explored. The practical contribution of this research includes a hypothesised model which was tested. This study should be repeated to include a bigger sample size that is more equally distributed within South Africa. Additionally, for future studies, it would be recommended to incorporate the development of Personal Branding as an independent factor to measure its effect on Personal Branding. Another recommendation for further research is to conduct research on policies, which can be put forward to assist with the managing of Personal Branding for entrepreneurs. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Consumer perceptions of human digital twins as a marketing tool
- Botha, M
- Authors: Botha, M
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Digital twins (Computer simulation) , Industry 4.0
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61004 , vital:69685
- Description: A Digital Twin is a digital representation of a physical product or entity or a “set of virtual information constructs”. To effectively represent its physical counterpart, the digital representation needs to know about its properties, rules and behaviour. In order to enable this, there is a constant flow of data between physical objects and digital representations. The data contained in the digital representation allows simulations to be conducted and learnings from these simulations enable better decision making without affecting the physical realm. Human Digital Twins duplicate a person, rather than a physical product or artifact. As Human Digital Twins hold large amounts of data about a person and are able to utilise this data to predict a person’s possible behaviour and control a person’s choices Human Digital Twins hold economic value for organisations. Human Digital Twins can be effectively used in consumer choice modelling to determine a person’s preferences and assist organisations in marketing products and alternatives to customers. Location, purchasing behaviour and online activity can be used to predict potential future customer behaviour and choices. In previous studies proposing Human Digital Twins, limited emphasis has been placed on the opinion of the people who have been twinned. There are several ethical and moral implications in creating Human Digital Twins. The perceptions of the twinning process of people have not adequately been researched. Current technology allows Human Digital Twins to be created but challenges lie with the moral and ethical complications in a person’s Digital Twin acceptance. Various factors have been identified in previous research relating to Human Digital Twins. Knowledge, Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, Trust and Technological Proficiency are factors that have an influence on a person’s Human Digital Twin acceptance. These factors were considered as independent factors of the conceptual model while user acceptance was considered the dependent factor of the proposed model. The questionnaire for this study was completed by a sample of 121 respondents, who were reached through convenience and snowball sampling. The questionnaire was primarily distributed to students at the Nelson Mandela Business School in Gqeberha, South Africa. The demographic data indicates that a high number of respondents v reside in the Eastern Cape and the majority of respondents achieved a post graduate degree. This is not necessarily an accurate description of the South African population and the sample used in future studies should be more representative of the South African population. The results indicate that the independent factors Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use and Technological Proficiency had significant positive effects on Human Digital Twin acceptance. Two of the original independent factors were split into two sub-factors as a result of the EFA. The independent factor Trust became Human Digital Twin Distrust and Trust in Companies using Human Digital Twins. The independent factor Knowledge became Knowledge about Human Digital Twins and Knowledge about the role of technology. This study based its conceptual model on the Technology Acceptance Model. The model relies on two major determinants, Perceived Usefulness and Perceived Ease of Use, to determine a user’s intention to use and accept a technology. This study added new determinants of acceptance to the original TAM, two of which was found reliable. Knowledge of Human Digital Twins and Technological Proficiency were both found to have a significant positive influence on the acceptance of Human Digital Twins. This study was one of the first to suggest a relationship between Technological Proficiency and the acceptance of a new technology. The managerial recommendations set out to bridge the gap between this study and practice. It is not uncommon for researchers to suggest corrective actions and make strategic recommendations based on the results of a study. This study provided managerial recommendations to marketers who want to employ Human Digital Twins in their strategies. This will allow marketers to test campaigns and improve on existing campaigns much quicker than before and take new products to market with testing marketing strategies at a much quicker pace. Organisations need to be cognisant of the fact that legal issues such privacy, consent, discrimination and copyright will be very important when creating Human Digital Twins. Marketers will not only be able to use information gathered by Human Digital Twins in the real world but in virtual worlds as well. , Thesis (MA) -- FFaculty of business and economic sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Botha, M
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Digital twins (Computer simulation) , Industry 4.0
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61004 , vital:69685
- Description: A Digital Twin is a digital representation of a physical product or entity or a “set of virtual information constructs”. To effectively represent its physical counterpart, the digital representation needs to know about its properties, rules and behaviour. In order to enable this, there is a constant flow of data between physical objects and digital representations. The data contained in the digital representation allows simulations to be conducted and learnings from these simulations enable better decision making without affecting the physical realm. Human Digital Twins duplicate a person, rather than a physical product or artifact. As Human Digital Twins hold large amounts of data about a person and are able to utilise this data to predict a person’s possible behaviour and control a person’s choices Human Digital Twins hold economic value for organisations. Human Digital Twins can be effectively used in consumer choice modelling to determine a person’s preferences and assist organisations in marketing products and alternatives to customers. Location, purchasing behaviour and online activity can be used to predict potential future customer behaviour and choices. In previous studies proposing Human Digital Twins, limited emphasis has been placed on the opinion of the people who have been twinned. There are several ethical and moral implications in creating Human Digital Twins. The perceptions of the twinning process of people have not adequately been researched. Current technology allows Human Digital Twins to be created but challenges lie with the moral and ethical complications in a person’s Digital Twin acceptance. Various factors have been identified in previous research relating to Human Digital Twins. Knowledge, Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, Trust and Technological Proficiency are factors that have an influence on a person’s Human Digital Twin acceptance. These factors were considered as independent factors of the conceptual model while user acceptance was considered the dependent factor of the proposed model. The questionnaire for this study was completed by a sample of 121 respondents, who were reached through convenience and snowball sampling. The questionnaire was primarily distributed to students at the Nelson Mandela Business School in Gqeberha, South Africa. The demographic data indicates that a high number of respondents v reside in the Eastern Cape and the majority of respondents achieved a post graduate degree. This is not necessarily an accurate description of the South African population and the sample used in future studies should be more representative of the South African population. The results indicate that the independent factors Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use and Technological Proficiency had significant positive effects on Human Digital Twin acceptance. Two of the original independent factors were split into two sub-factors as a result of the EFA. The independent factor Trust became Human Digital Twin Distrust and Trust in Companies using Human Digital Twins. The independent factor Knowledge became Knowledge about Human Digital Twins and Knowledge about the role of technology. This study based its conceptual model on the Technology Acceptance Model. The model relies on two major determinants, Perceived Usefulness and Perceived Ease of Use, to determine a user’s intention to use and accept a technology. This study added new determinants of acceptance to the original TAM, two of which was found reliable. Knowledge of Human Digital Twins and Technological Proficiency were both found to have a significant positive influence on the acceptance of Human Digital Twins. This study was one of the first to suggest a relationship between Technological Proficiency and the acceptance of a new technology. The managerial recommendations set out to bridge the gap between this study and practice. It is not uncommon for researchers to suggest corrective actions and make strategic recommendations based on the results of a study. This study provided managerial recommendations to marketers who want to employ Human Digital Twins in their strategies. This will allow marketers to test campaigns and improve on existing campaigns much quicker than before and take new products to market with testing marketing strategies at a much quicker pace. Organisations need to be cognisant of the fact that legal issues such privacy, consent, discrimination and copyright will be very important when creating Human Digital Twins. Marketers will not only be able to use information gathered by Human Digital Twins in the real world but in virtual worlds as well. , Thesis (MA) -- FFaculty of business and economic sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Copper dithiocarbamate complexes and copper sulfide nanoparticles : Synthesis, characterization and antifungal studies
- Botha, Nandipha Loveness https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8353-3512
- Authors: Botha, Nandipha Loveness https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8353-3512
- Date: 2015-01
- Subjects: Copper sulfide , Complex compounds , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24283 , vital:62598
- Description: Six dithiocarbamate ligands were synthesized from anisidine, aniline, ethyl aniline, butyl amine, morpholine and piperidine and used to synthesize homoleptic copper(II) dithiocarbamate complexes. The ligands and their corresponding complexes were characterized by conductivity measurement, FTIR and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The ligands were further characterized using NMR spectroscopy. The electronic spectra of the complexes showed that the coordination geometries around the Cu2+ ion is four coordinate square planar. FTIR spectroscopic studies indicated that the dithiocarbamate ligands are bidentately coordinated to the copper ion through the sulfur atoms with the C-S stretching frequencies changing from two peaks in the ligands to single sharp peaks in the corresponding metal complexes. The complexes were used as single source precursors to synthesize copper sulfide nanoparticles. All the six complexes were thermolysed at 180 oC to prepare copper sulfide nanoparticles and three of them were further thermolysed at 120 oC to study the effects of temperature on size and shape of the nanoparticles. All the nanoparticles were characterized with UV-Vis, PL, XRD, TEM, SEM and EDX. The optical properties of the as-prepared CuS nanoparticles showed that they are quantum confined with absorption band edges that are blue shifted compared to bulk CuS and all the as-prepared CuS nanoparticles showed narrow emission curves. The XRD diffraction patterns were indexed to the hexagonal covellite CuS crystalline phase with estimated particle sizes of 15.8-23.24 nm. These sizes are significantly different from the values, 3.02-98.94 nm obtained from TEM studies. The TEM images also showed nanoparticles with varied shapes with some agglomerations. SEM micrographs showed that the morphologies of the nanoparticles are mostly smooth surfaces and EDX spectra analyses confirmed the formation of the nanoparticles. Thermolysis of three of the complexes at 120 oC confirmed that temperature do affect the optical and structural properties of the CuS nanoparticles. Only three complexes soluble in DMSO were screened for their antimicrobial activity. Three complexes C1, C4 and C5 were screened against four fungi organisms, namely: Candida rugosa, Candida neoformans, Candida albicans and Trychophyton mucoides. All the compounds were promising as shown by the minimum inhibitory concentrations determined. C5 was the most active compound against all the organisms. They were also screened against four bacteria organisms and they were all active but not as they were against fungi organisms. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-01
- Authors: Botha, Nandipha Loveness https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8353-3512
- Date: 2015-01
- Subjects: Copper sulfide , Complex compounds , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24283 , vital:62598
- Description: Six dithiocarbamate ligands were synthesized from anisidine, aniline, ethyl aniline, butyl amine, morpholine and piperidine and used to synthesize homoleptic copper(II) dithiocarbamate complexes. The ligands and their corresponding complexes were characterized by conductivity measurement, FTIR and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The ligands were further characterized using NMR spectroscopy. The electronic spectra of the complexes showed that the coordination geometries around the Cu2+ ion is four coordinate square planar. FTIR spectroscopic studies indicated that the dithiocarbamate ligands are bidentately coordinated to the copper ion through the sulfur atoms with the C-S stretching frequencies changing from two peaks in the ligands to single sharp peaks in the corresponding metal complexes. The complexes were used as single source precursors to synthesize copper sulfide nanoparticles. All the six complexes were thermolysed at 180 oC to prepare copper sulfide nanoparticles and three of them were further thermolysed at 120 oC to study the effects of temperature on size and shape of the nanoparticles. All the nanoparticles were characterized with UV-Vis, PL, XRD, TEM, SEM and EDX. The optical properties of the as-prepared CuS nanoparticles showed that they are quantum confined with absorption band edges that are blue shifted compared to bulk CuS and all the as-prepared CuS nanoparticles showed narrow emission curves. The XRD diffraction patterns were indexed to the hexagonal covellite CuS crystalline phase with estimated particle sizes of 15.8-23.24 nm. These sizes are significantly different from the values, 3.02-98.94 nm obtained from TEM studies. The TEM images also showed nanoparticles with varied shapes with some agglomerations. SEM micrographs showed that the morphologies of the nanoparticles are mostly smooth surfaces and EDX spectra analyses confirmed the formation of the nanoparticles. Thermolysis of three of the complexes at 120 oC confirmed that temperature do affect the optical and structural properties of the CuS nanoparticles. Only three complexes soluble in DMSO were screened for their antimicrobial activity. Three complexes C1, C4 and C5 were screened against four fungi organisms, namely: Candida rugosa, Candida neoformans, Candida albicans and Trychophyton mucoides. All the compounds were promising as shown by the minimum inhibitory concentrations determined. C5 was the most active compound against all the organisms. They were also screened against four bacteria organisms and they were all active but not as they were against fungi organisms. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-01
The readiness for the 4th industrial revolution by SARS towards 2030
- Authors: Botha, Reneé Chrystal
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: South African Revenue Service , Technological innovations -- Economic aspects , Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50966 , vital:43176
- Description: The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is an autonomous agent that was established to collect taxes on behalf of the state. This mandate is shared across countries where the common thread of revenue collection agencies is that they all need to collect revenue, want participants within the system to act responsibly, the process to be fair and to act within the boundaries of legislation. It has become increasingly challenging for revenue collection agencies across the world to ensure tax compliance and ensure optimal revenue collection when unemployment rates are high, and the economy continues to struggle. It is a shared objective between revenue collection agencies to optimise revenue collection initiative and to narrow the tax gap. The technological advances in all sectors have grown at an exponential rate within a very short period. The WEF (2018) emphasised that the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) brings with it an era of unprecedented innovation, technical change and global connectivity. Technology has become the key driver in assisting SARS to achieve its objectives to inform taxpayers of their responsibilities, make it easy for them to comply and ensure compliance to the tax laws. The primary objective of the research study is to investigate the possible factors that could influence the future state of revenue services, develop a series of alternative scenarios, and provide the preferred future of the South African Revenue Services towards 2030. The Six Pillars of futures studies provide a theory of futures thinking that links method and tools, that is developed through praxis (Inayatullah, 2012). The Causal Layered Analysis (CLA) was the preferred research tool used in this study to deepen the future analysis. Emphasis was placed on scenario planning and the creation of alternative futures for the South African Revenue Services towards 2030. The drivers of change that impacted the economy were identified and how it can be utilised to close the tax gap. SARS has been a victim of seizure where the destabilising of corporate governance and efficiency was the core objective. It is therefore important to understand the past and present to enable better planning. This paper aims to better understand the disruptors to industry and the opportunity to improve efficiency and effectiveness using technology associated with the 4IR. SARS has great potential in being globally competitive with other countries, if government, stakeholders and SARS leadership have a shared vision of what the future revenue services will look like, what its capabilities will be and resource availability to ensure this vision is realized. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Botha, Reneé Chrystal
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: South African Revenue Service , Technological innovations -- Economic aspects , Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50966 , vital:43176
- Description: The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is an autonomous agent that was established to collect taxes on behalf of the state. This mandate is shared across countries where the common thread of revenue collection agencies is that they all need to collect revenue, want participants within the system to act responsibly, the process to be fair and to act within the boundaries of legislation. It has become increasingly challenging for revenue collection agencies across the world to ensure tax compliance and ensure optimal revenue collection when unemployment rates are high, and the economy continues to struggle. It is a shared objective between revenue collection agencies to optimise revenue collection initiative and to narrow the tax gap. The technological advances in all sectors have grown at an exponential rate within a very short period. The WEF (2018) emphasised that the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) brings with it an era of unprecedented innovation, technical change and global connectivity. Technology has become the key driver in assisting SARS to achieve its objectives to inform taxpayers of their responsibilities, make it easy for them to comply and ensure compliance to the tax laws. The primary objective of the research study is to investigate the possible factors that could influence the future state of revenue services, develop a series of alternative scenarios, and provide the preferred future of the South African Revenue Services towards 2030. The Six Pillars of futures studies provide a theory of futures thinking that links method and tools, that is developed through praxis (Inayatullah, 2012). The Causal Layered Analysis (CLA) was the preferred research tool used in this study to deepen the future analysis. Emphasis was placed on scenario planning and the creation of alternative futures for the South African Revenue Services towards 2030. The drivers of change that impacted the economy were identified and how it can be utilised to close the tax gap. SARS has been a victim of seizure where the destabilising of corporate governance and efficiency was the core objective. It is therefore important to understand the past and present to enable better planning. This paper aims to better understand the disruptors to industry and the opportunity to improve efficiency and effectiveness using technology associated with the 4IR. SARS has great potential in being globally competitive with other countries, if government, stakeholders and SARS leadership have a shared vision of what the future revenue services will look like, what its capabilities will be and resource availability to ensure this vision is realized. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The role of constructions of race in student's talk of (NON) participation in the activities of students political organisations
- Authors: Botha, Ryan
- Date: 2010-12
- Subjects: South African Students' Organisation. , Students -- Political activity -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27451 , vital:67329
- Description: South Africa has undergone widespread social, economic and political reconstruction since the inception of democracy in 1994. Underpinning these changes are available discourses on race that individuals use in constructing their identities. This article is an analysis of discourses on race emerging in the talk of white students accounting for (non)participation in the activities of the student political organisations (SPO’s) at the University of Fort Hare in East London. The argument here is that white students consistently assign racialized identities to SPO’s on campus by invoking deeply entrenched racially binarized discourses. These racialized discursive formations are available within South Africa’s contemporary linguistic landscape as well as its colonial past. In their talk, the participants in this study conflated SPO led structures and functions with ‘otherized’ conceptions of ‘blackness’. This confluence that white students create between SPO’s as well as terms that are shorthand for ‘blackness’ results in a distancing from and denigration of SPO’s and, more malignly, ’blackness’. It appears that whites use these problematic and racialized constructions of self and the ‘other’ to justify their non-participation in student politics on campus. This article explores the political implications of white students fixing identity in this manner. Hook’s (2010) notion of ‘white woundedness’ is brought into the discussion as a useful point of departure for rethinking ‘white’ identities in South Africa. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2010
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010-12
- Authors: Botha, Ryan
- Date: 2010-12
- Subjects: South African Students' Organisation. , Students -- Political activity -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27451 , vital:67329
- Description: South Africa has undergone widespread social, economic and political reconstruction since the inception of democracy in 1994. Underpinning these changes are available discourses on race that individuals use in constructing their identities. This article is an analysis of discourses on race emerging in the talk of white students accounting for (non)participation in the activities of the student political organisations (SPO’s) at the University of Fort Hare in East London. The argument here is that white students consistently assign racialized identities to SPO’s on campus by invoking deeply entrenched racially binarized discourses. These racialized discursive formations are available within South Africa’s contemporary linguistic landscape as well as its colonial past. In their talk, the participants in this study conflated SPO led structures and functions with ‘otherized’ conceptions of ‘blackness’. This confluence that white students create between SPO’s as well as terms that are shorthand for ‘blackness’ results in a distancing from and denigration of SPO’s and, more malignly, ’blackness’. It appears that whites use these problematic and racialized constructions of self and the ‘other’ to justify their non-participation in student politics on campus. This article explores the political implications of white students fixing identity in this manner. Hook’s (2010) notion of ‘white woundedness’ is brought into the discussion as a useful point of departure for rethinking ‘white’ identities in South Africa. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2010
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010-12
Influence of a saline test environment on the Fatigue properties of laser metal deposition Ti-6al-4v specimens
- Authors: Botha, Sheldyn Jaye
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Metal organic chemical vapor deposition , Salines
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59203 , vital:60304
- Description: This study investigated the effects of the position of extraction and a corrosive environment on the fatigue properties of Ti-6Al-4V Laser Metal Deposition (LMD) specimens. Additive manufacturing (AM) processes allow for a reduction in manufacturing time, whilst constructing complex geometries. AM induces a complex thermal history which influences the microstructure in the material (1). The microstructure affects the fatigue properties where a finer microstructure is more favourable for increasing the fatigue life (2). Fatigue failure is one of the main modes of failure during a material’s service life (3). Thus, it is imperative to investigate the material’s fatigue behaviour. Major parameters of the LMD process were investigated, allowing bulk LMD coupons to be manufactured, from which fatigue specimens were extracted at three different heights. Static properties were attained through tensile testing and a Vickers Micro-Hardness evaluation. These properties allowed for calculating benchmark stresses that were utilised for fatigue testing. The biocompatibility of Ti-6Al-4V makes it desirable for medical implants – the core influence of this study. An implant is constantly subjected to a corrosive saline environment, introducing a corrosive mechanism of failure, known to decrease the life of a material. A rotary bending fatigue platform was utilised as it allowed for modifications to introduce a corrosive saline environment through means of a saline dosing system. Literature reports a higher possibility of corrosion fatigue occurring under rotary bending fatigue conditions for Ti alloy specimens (4,5). The fatigue data indicated no significant effect on the fatigue properties was evident when comparing the position of extraction, attributed to the interrupted build strategy utilised for manufacturing the bulk coupons. The specimens displayed a shift in fatigue life when subjected to a corrosive saline environment. Upon analysis, there was little variation in the microstructures at each position of extraction, attributed to the interrupted build strategy. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Botha, Sheldyn Jaye
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Metal organic chemical vapor deposition , Salines
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59203 , vital:60304
- Description: This study investigated the effects of the position of extraction and a corrosive environment on the fatigue properties of Ti-6Al-4V Laser Metal Deposition (LMD) specimens. Additive manufacturing (AM) processes allow for a reduction in manufacturing time, whilst constructing complex geometries. AM induces a complex thermal history which influences the microstructure in the material (1). The microstructure affects the fatigue properties where a finer microstructure is more favourable for increasing the fatigue life (2). Fatigue failure is one of the main modes of failure during a material’s service life (3). Thus, it is imperative to investigate the material’s fatigue behaviour. Major parameters of the LMD process were investigated, allowing bulk LMD coupons to be manufactured, from which fatigue specimens were extracted at three different heights. Static properties were attained through tensile testing and a Vickers Micro-Hardness evaluation. These properties allowed for calculating benchmark stresses that were utilised for fatigue testing. The biocompatibility of Ti-6Al-4V makes it desirable for medical implants – the core influence of this study. An implant is constantly subjected to a corrosive saline environment, introducing a corrosive mechanism of failure, known to decrease the life of a material. A rotary bending fatigue platform was utilised as it allowed for modifications to introduce a corrosive saline environment through means of a saline dosing system. Literature reports a higher possibility of corrosion fatigue occurring under rotary bending fatigue conditions for Ti alloy specimens (4,5). The fatigue data indicated no significant effect on the fatigue properties was evident when comparing the position of extraction, attributed to the interrupted build strategy utilised for manufacturing the bulk coupons. The specimens displayed a shift in fatigue life when subjected to a corrosive saline environment. Upon analysis, there was little variation in the microstructures at each position of extraction, attributed to the interrupted build strategy. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The novobiocin-induced turnover of fibronectin via low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 alters matrix morphology with physiological consequences on cell growth and migration
- Authors: Boёl, Natasha Marie-Eraine
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/114778 , vital:34034 , 10.21504/10962/114778
- Description: Fibronectin (FN), an extracellular matrix protein, is secreted as a soluble dimer which is assembled into an insoluble extracellular matrix. The dynamics of FN matrix assembly and degradation play a large role in cell migration and invasion thereby contributing to the metastatic potential of cancer cells. Previous studies have shown the direct binding of Heat Shock Protein 90 kDa (Hsp90) and FN in vitro, and that inhibition of Hsp90 with novobiocin (NOV) caused internalisation of the FN matrix. Low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) is a ubiquitous receptor known to bind both Hsp90 and FN. Using an LRP1 expressing Hs578T breast cancer cell line and an isogenic mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) model system of differential LRP1 expression we demonstrate that LRP1 is involved in turnover of FN in response to C-terminal Hsp90 inhibition. The first objective of this study was to identify the mechanism of NOV-induced LRP1-mediated FN turnover. Our data show that NOV-mediated FN turnover via LRP1 did not require the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which play an important role in processing and degradation of the extracellular matrix and FN. In addition, the levels of the main FN receptor responsible for its extracellular assembly, β1-integrin, did not change in response to NOV. LRP1 is known to undergo regulated intramembrane proteolysis (RIP) which generates smaller fragments that may translocate to the nucleus and modulate gene transcription. Using inhibitors of LRP1 cleavage and nuclear fractionation we determined that LRP1 processing was not required for the NOV-induced FN response suggesting that a mechanism unrelated to LRP1 RIP is involved. A possible mechanism may be in altered Hsp90-LRP1 cell signalling as we observed disruption of the FN-Hsp90-LRP1 complex at the cell surface in NOV treated cells. How this affects downstream eHsp90-LRP1 signalling is still to be determined but may be related to a significant increase in phospho-AKT and loss of phospho-ERK upon NOV-treatment; two key signalling proteins involved in FN matrix regulation and which are downstream of LRP1 signalling. The second objective of this study was to determine the physiological consequences associated with FN turnover in response to NOV treatment. Using migration assays we demonstrated that levels of insoluble matrix-associated FN and FN concentration are not solely responsible for migratory capacity of cells on decellularized extracellular matrices, but rather that structural composition and integrity of the matrix plays a bigger role. Using confocal and scanning electron microscopy, we identified NOV treated matrices to be flatter, less mature and contain thicker, rope-like FN fibrils to which cells adhered better but were generally less proliferative. Comparatively, cells adhered less to the more mature and 3-dimensional untreated matrices but exhibited increased spreading and cell growth, which may in part be due to the thinner fibrils and web-like matrix. In summary, this study substantiates the role of LRP1 in NOV-mediated FN turnover, and provides new insights into the possible mechanisms of the Hsp90-LRP1 mediated loss of FN matrix. This is the first study to demonstrate some of the functional consequences related to FN turnover by NOV at the ECM level. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2020
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Boёl, Natasha Marie-Eraine
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/114778 , vital:34034 , 10.21504/10962/114778
- Description: Fibronectin (FN), an extracellular matrix protein, is secreted as a soluble dimer which is assembled into an insoluble extracellular matrix. The dynamics of FN matrix assembly and degradation play a large role in cell migration and invasion thereby contributing to the metastatic potential of cancer cells. Previous studies have shown the direct binding of Heat Shock Protein 90 kDa (Hsp90) and FN in vitro, and that inhibition of Hsp90 with novobiocin (NOV) caused internalisation of the FN matrix. Low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) is a ubiquitous receptor known to bind both Hsp90 and FN. Using an LRP1 expressing Hs578T breast cancer cell line and an isogenic mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) model system of differential LRP1 expression we demonstrate that LRP1 is involved in turnover of FN in response to C-terminal Hsp90 inhibition. The first objective of this study was to identify the mechanism of NOV-induced LRP1-mediated FN turnover. Our data show that NOV-mediated FN turnover via LRP1 did not require the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which play an important role in processing and degradation of the extracellular matrix and FN. In addition, the levels of the main FN receptor responsible for its extracellular assembly, β1-integrin, did not change in response to NOV. LRP1 is known to undergo regulated intramembrane proteolysis (RIP) which generates smaller fragments that may translocate to the nucleus and modulate gene transcription. Using inhibitors of LRP1 cleavage and nuclear fractionation we determined that LRP1 processing was not required for the NOV-induced FN response suggesting that a mechanism unrelated to LRP1 RIP is involved. A possible mechanism may be in altered Hsp90-LRP1 cell signalling as we observed disruption of the FN-Hsp90-LRP1 complex at the cell surface in NOV treated cells. How this affects downstream eHsp90-LRP1 signalling is still to be determined but may be related to a significant increase in phospho-AKT and loss of phospho-ERK upon NOV-treatment; two key signalling proteins involved in FN matrix regulation and which are downstream of LRP1 signalling. The second objective of this study was to determine the physiological consequences associated with FN turnover in response to NOV treatment. Using migration assays we demonstrated that levels of insoluble matrix-associated FN and FN concentration are not solely responsible for migratory capacity of cells on decellularized extracellular matrices, but rather that structural composition and integrity of the matrix plays a bigger role. Using confocal and scanning electron microscopy, we identified NOV treated matrices to be flatter, less mature and contain thicker, rope-like FN fibrils to which cells adhered better but were generally less proliferative. Comparatively, cells adhered less to the more mature and 3-dimensional untreated matrices but exhibited increased spreading and cell growth, which may in part be due to the thinner fibrils and web-like matrix. In summary, this study substantiates the role of LRP1 in NOV-mediated FN turnover, and provides new insights into the possible mechanisms of the Hsp90-LRP1 mediated loss of FN matrix. This is the first study to demonstrate some of the functional consequences related to FN turnover by NOV at the ECM level. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2020
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
An African language in the public sphere – the use of isiZulu on Yilungelo Lakho online platforms
- Authors: Bramdeo, Aasra
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Zulu language , News Web sites South Africa , South African Broadcasting Corporation , Facebook (Firm) , Social media and journalism South Africa , Public sphere South Africa , Mass media and language South Africa , Yilungelo Lakho
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/405919 , vital:70219
- Description: The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is mandated as the public broadcaster to provide news content in all South Africa’s official languages. While this has been a challenge on traditional broadcast platforms, online resources, such as social media pages, present an opportunity for the SABC to support the creation and sharing of content in African languages. With relatively little national news and current affairs content available online in indigenous languages, this study investigates the way that SABC News online offerings in the isiZulu language have the potential to contribute to public debates in terms of Habermas’ concept of a public sphere and its adaptation to the online domain, taking into consideration scholarly critiques of its suitability in the African context. The SABC News Current Affairs programme Yilungelo Lakho serves as a case study to examine the potential for the SABC to share African-language news content online. The programme is broadcast primarily in the Nguni languages, and the online audience on Facebook often choose to respond in isiZulu or other African languages. Semi-structured indepth interviews were conducted with three members of the production team and three contributors to the Facebook page. A textual analysis of Facebook posts across 13 episodes, with a total of 497 comments from 306 online contributors highlights the manner in which online interaction promotes or hampers the inclusion of isiZulu speakers in SABC News and Current Affairs discussions, rational deliberation on the SABC Current Affairs programme, and fragmentation and overlap across different online platforms. While multilingual interactions on the Yilungelo Lakho Facebook page make for complex curation, the findings suggest the need for African language content to support public discussions and point to an opportunity for the public broadcaster to fulfil its mandate. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Journalism and Media Studies, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10-14
- Authors: Bramdeo, Aasra
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Zulu language , News Web sites South Africa , South African Broadcasting Corporation , Facebook (Firm) , Social media and journalism South Africa , Public sphere South Africa , Mass media and language South Africa , Yilungelo Lakho
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/405919 , vital:70219
- Description: The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is mandated as the public broadcaster to provide news content in all South Africa’s official languages. While this has been a challenge on traditional broadcast platforms, online resources, such as social media pages, present an opportunity for the SABC to support the creation and sharing of content in African languages. With relatively little national news and current affairs content available online in indigenous languages, this study investigates the way that SABC News online offerings in the isiZulu language have the potential to contribute to public debates in terms of Habermas’ concept of a public sphere and its adaptation to the online domain, taking into consideration scholarly critiques of its suitability in the African context. The SABC News Current Affairs programme Yilungelo Lakho serves as a case study to examine the potential for the SABC to share African-language news content online. The programme is broadcast primarily in the Nguni languages, and the online audience on Facebook often choose to respond in isiZulu or other African languages. Semi-structured indepth interviews were conducted with three members of the production team and three contributors to the Facebook page. A textual analysis of Facebook posts across 13 episodes, with a total of 497 comments from 306 online contributors highlights the manner in which online interaction promotes or hampers the inclusion of isiZulu speakers in SABC News and Current Affairs discussions, rational deliberation on the SABC Current Affairs programme, and fragmentation and overlap across different online platforms. While multilingual interactions on the Yilungelo Lakho Facebook page make for complex curation, the findings suggest the need for African language content to support public discussions and point to an opportunity for the public broadcaster to fulfil its mandate. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Journalism and Media Studies, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10-14
The role and impact of trade unions on service delivery in Lukhanji Municipality (Eastern Cape)
- Authors: Brown, Gregory Simon
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Municipal services , Labor unions , Service industries workers -- Labor unions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26537 , vital:65578
- Description: The role and impact of trade unions on service delivery is such a pertinent question to research given the times our young democracy goes through. This was an inevitable piece of study to undertake especially from the point of view to examine which form and philosophy of unionism suits the public sector best. The wildcat strikes and unprotected industrial action that grip municipalities at 10 o’clock early in the day needs deeper thinking and new ground-breaking solutions. Very fundamental questions have to be examined to determine the extent of control SAMWU as a union have over the strategic management environment of the local sphere of state. Lukhanji municipality, given its strategic location happened to host many regional offices of all COSATU affiliated unions happens to be an inconvenient choice of the nucleus of radical trade unionism in Queenstown fall victim and the study examines that. Subsequently to that the municipality fell victim to rigid and radical forms of trade union operations that has strangled it to the point of it losing its character and role of a developmentalist institution in the communities it served. The study also highlights the severe service delivery backlogs in both former Transkei Ezibeleni and Ciskei Whittlesea and how transformation and integration of these two areas have been neglected as shown by the socio-economic profile. The study in the last Chapter makes particular recommendations on how the Strategic Management environment and corporate principles should be prioritised for Performance Management to be introduced and routinely implemented. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Brown, Gregory Simon
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Municipal services , Labor unions , Service industries workers -- Labor unions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26537 , vital:65578
- Description: The role and impact of trade unions on service delivery is such a pertinent question to research given the times our young democracy goes through. This was an inevitable piece of study to undertake especially from the point of view to examine which form and philosophy of unionism suits the public sector best. The wildcat strikes and unprotected industrial action that grip municipalities at 10 o’clock early in the day needs deeper thinking and new ground-breaking solutions. Very fundamental questions have to be examined to determine the extent of control SAMWU as a union have over the strategic management environment of the local sphere of state. Lukhanji municipality, given its strategic location happened to host many regional offices of all COSATU affiliated unions happens to be an inconvenient choice of the nucleus of radical trade unionism in Queenstown fall victim and the study examines that. Subsequently to that the municipality fell victim to rigid and radical forms of trade union operations that has strangled it to the point of it losing its character and role of a developmentalist institution in the communities it served. The study also highlights the severe service delivery backlogs in both former Transkei Ezibeleni and Ciskei Whittlesea and how transformation and integration of these two areas have been neglected as shown by the socio-economic profile. The study in the last Chapter makes particular recommendations on how the Strategic Management environment and corporate principles should be prioritised for Performance Management to be introduced and routinely implemented. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
A causal analysis to investigate low production efficiency in the tyre manufacturing industry in South Africa
- Authors: Bruinders, Bramwill Bertram
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Industrial efficiency , Production management , Lean manufacturing -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50977 , vital:43177
- Description: The evolution of tyre manufacturing in South Africa went back to the early 1930s and matured technologically, becoming automated in the 1960s. The tyre industry in South Africa is worth approximately R30bn per annum and is one of the major supporting industries for domestic vehicle manufacturers. The local industry manufactures only 11 million tyres but can manufacture 18 million tyres per annum. The tyre industry thus plays a crucial role in South Africa’s economic development. Consumers are opting to buy cheaper imported tyres even though tyres are essential purchases. Therefore, the major tyre manufacturers must compete against an estimated 200 importers of various brands, most from China and Japan. The excess local capacity and increasing volume of imports put the local tyre manufacturers under severe pressure to grow their market share, reduce operational cost and achieve economies of scale. The study’s general objective was to conduct a root cause analysis of South African tyre manufacturers’ underlying issues resulting in low production efficiencies. This study used critical manufacturing principles such as traceability, knowledge of lean principles, lean implementation challenges, Total Quality Management, organisational buy-in, waste and rework and maintenance planning that constitute tools of lean practices. These principles provided an opportunity to adopt efficient manufacturing practices in tyre manufacturing companies and help organisations identify improvement areas. A questionnaire was developed and distributed electronically to 93 respondents employed in the tyre manufacturing industry in South Africa. The study addressed product traceability, investigated the quality measures in place, and examined the influence of the workforce’s attitude and morale on productivity, and determined management’s influence on decision-making. The key findings indicated that traceability, lean implementation challenges and organisational buy-in played a significant role in improving production efficiency. Recommendations were made to management to ensure that they lead by example and enhance these key constructs to foster their growth. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration , 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Bruinders, Bramwill Bertram
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Industrial efficiency , Production management , Lean manufacturing -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50977 , vital:43177
- Description: The evolution of tyre manufacturing in South Africa went back to the early 1930s and matured technologically, becoming automated in the 1960s. The tyre industry in South Africa is worth approximately R30bn per annum and is one of the major supporting industries for domestic vehicle manufacturers. The local industry manufactures only 11 million tyres but can manufacture 18 million tyres per annum. The tyre industry thus plays a crucial role in South Africa’s economic development. Consumers are opting to buy cheaper imported tyres even though tyres are essential purchases. Therefore, the major tyre manufacturers must compete against an estimated 200 importers of various brands, most from China and Japan. The excess local capacity and increasing volume of imports put the local tyre manufacturers under severe pressure to grow their market share, reduce operational cost and achieve economies of scale. The study’s general objective was to conduct a root cause analysis of South African tyre manufacturers’ underlying issues resulting in low production efficiencies. This study used critical manufacturing principles such as traceability, knowledge of lean principles, lean implementation challenges, Total Quality Management, organisational buy-in, waste and rework and maintenance planning that constitute tools of lean practices. These principles provided an opportunity to adopt efficient manufacturing practices in tyre manufacturing companies and help organisations identify improvement areas. A questionnaire was developed and distributed electronically to 93 respondents employed in the tyre manufacturing industry in South Africa. The study addressed product traceability, investigated the quality measures in place, and examined the influence of the workforce’s attitude and morale on productivity, and determined management’s influence on decision-making. The key findings indicated that traceability, lean implementation challenges and organisational buy-in played a significant role in improving production efficiency. Recommendations were made to management to ensure that they lead by example and enhance these key constructs to foster their growth. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration , 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04