Chemostratigraphy of the lowermost iron-manganese cycle of the Hotazel Formation, and implications for its primary depositional environment
- Authors: Masoabi, Ntseka Thomas
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Chemostratigraphy , Great Oxygenation Event , Manganese ores Geology South Africa Northern Cape , Banded iron formation
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/362938 , vital:65376
- Description: The giant Kalahari Manganese Field (KMF), located in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa, comprises approximately half of the world’s manganese resources, estimated at about eight billion tons at grades ranging from 20-48 wt%. The KMF is linked to a period in geological time when the Earth’s atmospheric and oceanic conditions underwent a major transition from oxygen-deficient to oxygen-enriched conditions – an event famously referred to as the Great Oxidation Event (GOE) that occurred around 2.4 Ga. The KMF deposits are hosted in Banded Iron Formation (BIF) of the Paleoproterozoic Hotazel Formation in the uppermost Transvaal Supergroup. The sedimentary Mn ores are interbedded with Hotazel BIF in the form of three alternating depositional cycles of BIF, transitional hematite lutite and laminated, carbonate-rich manganese ore. The lowermost and thickest of the three cycles is the most economically significant and has been mined for several decades on a large scale from the southernmost KMF. In this study, two drill cores from the southern KMF were inspected, logged and sampled at a high resolution of approximately half-meter interval per sample. The selected cores, namely G774, capturing the lower portion of the Hotazel Formation from the Mamatwan locality, and MP-56, capturing the corresponding portion from the Middleplaats locality, are geographically proximal to each other, with a horizontal distance of roughly 3 km separating the two of them. The G774 drill core is characterized by a conspicuously thick manganese layer covering a thickness of 50 m, with the overlying BIF reaching a total thickness of 11 m. The MP-56 drill core, on the other hand, has a relatively thinner corresponding manganese layer of 30 m in thickness, while the overlying BIF layer exhibits a thickness of 24 m. The extent of sampling up-section was constrained by an apparently coeval black shale layer which represents the chosen upper stratigraphic marker for the lower part of the Hotazel section in the broader area that is under investigation in this thesis. That way, a high resolution chemostratigraphic approach was employed to elucidate the potential factors contributing to the relative sedimentary lateral thickness variations seen across the southernmost KMF. High-resolution geochemical data were used to explore relationships and signals that might constrain relative precipitation rates for iron and manganese against detrital species, fluctuating redox conditions in the original environment of deposition, and chemostratigraphic correlation. All geochemical data (i.e., major oxides, minor and trace elements and carbonate carbon isotopes) were obtained respectively through employing X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), and Gas-source mass spectrometry. Comparative considerations made between the bulk geochemistry of the two sequences (i.e., Mamatwan and Middleplaats sections) reveal that periods of high-Mn deposition in the Hotazel Formation appear to be very Ca-carbonate rich (as indicated by high CaO, LOI and Sr concentrations). This, in turn, suggests that the Mn abundance is in the Hotazel ores is controlled mainly by the silicate phase braunite and is diluted by the deposition of Ca-carbonate through time. Bulk-rock concentration results for trace elements of the High Field Strength Element (HFSE) group (namely Zr, Hf, Y, Nb and Sc) were utilized to constrain the rates of either clastic and/or volcanic detrital inputs, as they traditionally represent refractory mineral particles of a common detrital/volcanic origin. The two chemosedimentary sequences preserve these elements in very low and thus quantitatively negligible concentrations – suggesting that the Hotazel depositional environment received very low and insignificant influx of a terrigeneous detrital component. A selection of these elements was therefore used to deduce, with caution, the relative as opposed to absolute precipitation rate of the major chemical constituents (i.e., Fe + Si vs Mn + carbonate), assuming a constant detrital flux through time. It was found that the relative abundances of Zr, Y and Nb is roughly 1.5 – 2 times as high in the BIF lithofacies relative to the Mn ones at both localities. This led to the inference that the Mn-enriched portion of the sediment must have been deposited at approximately twice the rate that the Fe-rich (BIF) portion was originally deposited. In terms of redox-sensitive elements, the elements Co and Mo seem to reveal the most valuable insights into the redox environment of primary chemical deposition. Cobalt displays a unique pattern in that its highest concentration is attained at the hematite lutite transitions (similarly with the REE in this regard), while very low and seemingly invariant concentration is exhibited within the core of the main orebodies. The same pattern seems to be reproduced to a degree by the corresponding bulk MgO component, whereby MgO abundance maxima are associated with the basal hematite lutite and the hematitic flanks of the Mn-ore zone, while the core of the Mn-rich layer attains relatively low and essentially invariant MgO concentrations. This implicates a close and direct association of Co with the hematite fraction of the rocks and a concurrent enrichment in Mn-rich carbonate (dolomite). On the other hand, Mo seems to have a direct and clear association with peak MnO2 content of the rocks, which in turn presents a high possibility of Mo having adsorbed onto primary Mn-oxyhydroxides in the water column, thus providing evidence that Mn-oxide must have acted as an important Mo sink, at least locally. Finally, the carbonate-carbon isotope results provide a useful tool that brings the two stratigraphic sections “together“, in conjunction with other correlatable chemostratigraphic parameters (e.g. Co, Mg). The results demonstrate that bulk carbon fluxes and isotopic signals in the sediments must reflect primary processes of deposition, and that correlation across two apparently disparate lithostratigraphic sections can be effected. The key finding is that, at times, manganese deposition in one part of a vii stratified basin was evidently accompanied by simultaneous BIF deposition at another, thus painting a very complex picture of massive primary chemical precipitation of Fe and Mn at the dawn of the GOE. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Geology, 2022
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Household food waste generation, disposal and minimisation in two South African towns
- Authors: Mtakati, Sinako
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Food waste South Africa Cradock , Food waste South Africa Middelburg (Eastern Cape) , Sanitary landfills Environmental aspects South Africa , Greenhouse gases Environmental aspects South Africa , Income distribution South Africa , Socio-economic status South Africa , Waste minimization South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/232159 , vital:49967
- Description: Food waste is becoming an important issue considering greenhouse gas emissions from landfills. However, data on the quantities of food disposed remains limited, especially for developing, countries including South Africa. Global food waste estimates suggest that households in developed countries waste more food than those in developing countries. Further, research shows that lack of food waste management impacts negatively on the global efforts to combat food waste generation. I therefore set out to present primary data relating to household food waste generation and minimisation within a South African context. The case study covers two towns in the Eastern Cape province, namely Cradock and Middelburg, with a combined population of 55 352 people. Household food waste assessment and quantification was undertaken using two methods, 1) questionnaires to explore quantities of different types of food wasted by households, and 2) kitchen scales to measure the amounts of food discarded by households. Participating households in each suburb were selected randomly. Differences in shopping and household food waste behaviour in households from different income suburbs is vital to understand as it sets an effective approach to food waste interventions that might have a positive impact in minimising food waste generation. In this thesis, differences in shopping and household food waste behaviour across households in the affluent, middle and low-income suburbs is uncovered. A questionnaire was conducted and households in the affluent suburbs purchased food more frequently and had the highest percentage of respondents that used shopping list when buying food than those in the middle and low-income suburbs. The thesis also indicates that households in the low-income suburbs were more attracted to food special offers and had a higher proportion of respondents who could not distinguish between “Use by” and “Best before” dates than those in the affluent and middle- income suburbs. The reasons to food waste generation overlap between the towns. However, between the suburbs, the respondents from households in the affluent suburbs pointed that they were mainly generating and disposing food waste because they did not think it is an issue. Excessive cooking and food expiring before being consumed were found to be the most common reasons for food waste generation and disposal among households in the low and middle-income suburbs. The times which households are likely to generate more food waste were investigated. Nonetheless, only a few households indicated that there were times that they generated and disposed more food in the bins. The most cited times in the affluent suburbs were during Christmas (54%) and in summer (41%). Festive season (65%) and traditional ceremonies (37%) were the most cited times in the middle-income suburbs, while festive season (46%) and the summer season (36%) were the most cites among households in the low- income suburbs. The dimensions of shopping and household food waste behaviour is reflected in the types and quantities of food waste generated. The results reveal that vegetables were the most wasted food type in Cradock (26%) and in Middelburg (30%), while tinned food and dairy were the least discarded food types in both study towns with no significant differences in proportions of households discarding all six food types. One of the key results is that the average self-reported and weighed food waste generated per capita per annum for the two towns was 23.40±47.20 and 202.60±128.30 kg/capita/year, respectively as compared to the estimated 6-11 kg per annum in sub-Saharan Africa and South and Southeast Asia. Between the towns, Cradock generated more food waste (5.05±2.68 kg) than those in Middleburg (3.84±2.59 kg) in the previous 48 hours. It was also evident that each household and each person in Cradock generated more food waste at breakfast and the least at lunch, while in Middelburg the highest average amount of food waste generated was observed at supper and the least at lunch. The results indicate that household size and employment status were negatively correlated to food waste generation, while wealth status and gender were positively correlated to food waste generation. Majority of households (74% in Cradock and 73% in Middelburg) had no household food waste minimisation strategies implemented. The most cited strategies in place were cooking less frequently, cooking small portions and chopping and freezing vegetables as an anti-food waste strategy. Worth noting is that the small proportion of households with strategies in place are faced with a challenge of some household members showing unwillingness to effectively implement the strategies. The results also reveal that children wasted more food than adults, particularly girls. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Environmental Science, 2022
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An investigation into the extent to which grade 12 Mechanical Technology (MT) curriculum practices relate to the Green Economy: A case study of two Eastern Cape technical high schools
- Authors: Mkaza, Mcebisi W
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Technology Study and teaching South Africa Eastern Cape , Environmental education South Africa Eastern Cape , Curriculum evaluation South Africa Eastern Cape , Teachers In-service training South Africa Eastern Cape , Mechanical Technology , Green Economy , Practice Architecture Theory
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191997 , vital:45186
- Description: South Africa’s transition towards a green economy presents opportunities to create resourceful jobs that promote sustainable living in the long term. The country’s educational sector is mandated to integrate a green economy component in curricula from primary schools to tertiary levels. However, green jobs within such an economy require green skills which are not necessarily being developed effectively through the school curriculum. This interpretive study investigated how curriculum practices in the Grade 12 Mechanical Technology (MT) stream offered by technical high schools prepare learners to participate in green economy opportunities in the Eastern Cape. Guided by Practice Architecture theory, the study analysed curriculum documents relevant to the Grade 12 MT stream. Teachers and past learners were interviewed to investigate the Cultural-Discursive, Material-Economic and Socio-Political arrangements that enable or constrain teachers in their intentions to prepare learners to participate in the green economy. Teachers’ material-economic arrangements constrained teaching and learning within the school premises. Learners did not have exposure to real-life fieldwork or job shadowing. Inflexible and restrictive socio-political arrangements in most subjects of the MT stream also constrained green economy learning opportunities. This hindered diversified learning in some subjects. The research further revealed that there is a need for updated pedagogical practices that are aligned with current educational practices. The research found that teachers had very little understanding of the green economy and broader environmental content in their subjects. Consequently, successful implementation of environmental content could not be achieved. The research highlights the importance of advocating for the inclusion of green economy content in the curriculum practices of subjects in the Mechanical Technology stream. This could begin during teacher in-service training as this could enhance teachers’ limited knowledge of environmental content. For practising teachers, workshops, seminars and possibly conferences are necessary to augment knowledge they have, including their awareness of local green economy opportunities in the Eastern Cape. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Education, 2021
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Effects of elevated temperature, rainfall and soil nutrients on acacia mearnsii invasion
- Authors: Kharivha, Tshililo
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Acacia mearnsii , Acacia mearnsii Effect of high temperatures on South Africa , Acacia mearnsii Climatic factors South Africa , Plant invasions South Africa , Invasive plants , Climatic changes South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/189997 , vital:44954
- Description: Climate change is associated with the risk of plant invasion hence a better understanding of the effects of elevated temperature, precipitation and soil nutrients on dominant invasive plants is needed for effective ecological planning. This study was set out to: (i) examine how elevated temperature (±2°C increase), (ii) high (above local average) and low (below local average) precipitation, (iii) elevated soil nutrient content (increase in soil N), and (iv) a combination of the above manipulations affects germination and growth of Acacia mearnsii, a dominant invasive plant in South Africa. The study further evaluated how the above-mentioned treatments affect soil chemical properties following A. mearnsii germination and growth. The above-mentioned specific objectives were tested under manipulated greenhouse conditions over six experimental months. The results indicated that the above-mentioned climate change scenarios have the potential to facilitate germination and growth of the invasive species A. mearnsii, and this is likely to proliferate its invasion in future. Results showed that seed germination was significantly high under all climate change manipulation treatments (˃50%) with highest seed germination recorded under high rainfall treatment (64%). Plant height was significantly higher under high temperature and high rainfall treatments throughout all the experimental months, though it was lowest under high nitrogen and combined treatment with high rainfall. The numbers of branches were high under higher temperature and low rainfall treatments than under high rainfall, high nitrogen and both combined treatments of low and high rainfall. Relative to the control, plants grown under climate change scenarios increased their root lengths, but this varied across different treatments. Total dry biomass was relatively high under high temperature treatment (0,7 g). Lower plant dry biomass was observed under low and high rainfall treatments (0,4 g), high nitrogen and combined treatments with both low and high rainfall treatments (0,1 g). Concerning the effects of climate change scenarios on soil chemical properties, soil pH levels were significantly higher after A. mearnsii germination and growth than before the experiment was setup. Soil resistivity was significantly higher in climate change treatments receiving nitrogen and combined treatments of low rainfall than other treatments and the soils before experiment. Soil total P was significantly higher in all the climate change treatments after A. mearnsii germination experiment than the before experiment soils. Soils receiving high temperature, high nitrogen, and combined treatment of low rainfall had significantly higher soil total N than other treatments and the before experiment soils. Soil total C was significantly higher in soils receiving high temperature, high nitrogen, and combined treatment of low rainfall after A. mearnsii germination than other treatments and before experiment soils. The findings suggest that future climate change scenarios of increased temperature and rainfall with soil nutrients could considerably enhance growth and germination success of the invasive plant A. mearnsii. Similarly, climate change scenarios could enhance some soil nutrient properties, which in turn, is likely to give the invasive plant A. mearnsii a germination and growth advantage. These results are the first in South Africa to show that future climate changes have the potential to facilitate A. mearnsii germination and growth, making it more invasive. The findings have implications for invasive plants management, especially action for managing the plant through clearing of the plant in sensitive ecosystems (e.g. riparian systems). , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Environmental Science, 2021
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Joice Mujuru and the Zanu-PF Women’s League 1973-2014: opportunities and limits of maternal dignity (musha mukadzi) and self-preservation
- Authors: Mataruse, Sisasenkosi
- Date: 2022-04-07
- Subjects: Mujuru, Amai Joice T R (Amai Joice Teurai Ropa) , ZANU Women's League , Women and democracy Zimbabwe , Women Political activity Zimbabwe , Political leadership Zimbabwe , Sexism in political culture Zimbabwe , Patriarchy Zimbabwe , Women Zimbabwe Social conditions , Maternal dignity (musha mukadzi)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/292748 , vital:57012
- Description: The foundations of African feminisms are intertwined with the historical liberation of the African continent. Joice Mujuru’s five decades in Zimbabwean political parties are no different in showing the gendered nature of the fight against the intersectional oppressions of nation, race, class and gender. The research aimed to examine the political life of Joice Mujuru between 1973 and 2018 in various political roles and what this might mean for how women political leaders participate and make decisions as autonomous individuals within political parties in Zimbabwe. This study is a political biography of Joice Mujuru’s ideas and leadership in political parties in Zimbabwe since 1973, when she joined the Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) as a guerilla of its military wing, the Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army (ZANLA). Mujuru was the only woman in the first ZANU-PF cabinet in 1980. She served the Zimbabwean government in different cabinet positions and became the first female vice-president in 2004, until her ousting in 2014. This study is based on an interview with Mujuru, and nine interviews with one Member of Parliament, two independent political party candidates, three academics, two CSO activists, the leader of LEAD political party in Zimbabwe and personal communication with a celebrated Zimbabwean writer. The study uses the concept of “patriarchal bargain” (Kandiyoti, 1988; Makhunga, 2016) and “femocracy” (Mama, 1995b) to show that Mujuru’s participation in political parties has been shaped by compromising and negotiating a complex web of patriarchal constraints for acceptance and respect. This study shows that wifehood and motherhood, the idea of musha mukadzi (‘woman as home’), stands out as a defining factor for Mujuru in her identity formation as a political party leader and how she views the roles of other women in Zimbabwean political parties and politics. I term this political identity maternal dignity, which is a collective set of ideas of maternal respect determining women’s participation in political parties. The study shows that Mujuru uses dominant ideas of maternal dignity as a tool of self-presentation and self-preservation to survive as a political leader. Mujuru’s expulsion from ZANU-PF and her subsequent leadership in other political parties demonstrates the ways in which maternal dignity limits women from shaping alternative ideas of leadership outside of respectable womanhood. Through a political biography of Mujuru, the study reaches the conclusion that post-independence Zimbabwe offers limited space for women’s leadership, whether those women have liberation history credentials or not. The strategy of maternal dignity that Mujuru has used to navigate her political career is a “patriarchal bargain” with limited possibilities for women’s meaningful participation, and the transformation of political parties and governance in Zimbabwe. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Political and International Studies, 2022
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Long-term trends in fish length-at-age, catch-at-length and condition of the Namibian and South African commercially exploited species
- Authors: Iyambo, Elago Martha
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Fishery management South Africa , Fishery management Namibia , Fishes Growth , Fisheries Fishing effort , Climatic changes , Fishes Climatic factors
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/362872 , vital:65370
- Description: Fish growth rate is a flexible trait that can evolve in response to fishing or environmental change. Therefore, knowledge of fish growth rate patterns, long-term and short-term responses to fishing effort and environmental change is important for fisheries management in the Benguela. Historical and current age length keys have been used as indicators of annual fish growth in the Benguela, the growth rate study on Merluccius paradoxus demonstrated long-term changes in growth over three decades as a response to fishing. However, the fish growth rate patterns, in relation to fishing effort and environmental change patterns are still not known for the many commercially important stocks in the Benguela. The specific objectives of the project were to determine the annual variability and long-term trends, in annual mean lengths-at-age, catch-at-length and fish condition of 17 commercially exploited resources, targeted and bycatch in Namibia and South Africa in relation to environmental changes (sea surface temperature). The results showed that there was a significant decrease in mean length at age 7 for Merluccius capensis (Namibian stock), a significant decrease in mean length at ages 3 to 7 for South African M. capensis and a significant increase in mean length at ages 2 to 6 for South African M. paradoxus Fishery-induced evolution may be the reason for the increase in mean length in the early stages of hake. A regime shift was detected in the mean length at age 1 for Etrumeus whiteheadi (South African stock) caused by changes in water temperatures. A decrease in mean length of the catch was observed for Namibian M. capensis and the reason for this could have been the stock being overexploited during the years of the observed trend (1968 to 1987). Historically both the Namibian Lophius vomerinus and Helicolenus dactylopterus were bycatch of the hake fishery, therefore, the decrease in their mean length of the catch may be due to increased bycatch mortalities due to increased hake catches. The improvement in the management measures of the Jasus lalandii fishery and possible favourable oxygen fluctuation might have caused the stock to increase in mean length of the catch between 1977 and 1982. Fish condition showed a significant difference in stocks between years. Fish condition of M. capensis, M. paradoxus and T. capensis were analysed. The rest of the commercial stocks were omitted because there was limited length-weight data. For Namibian M. capensis the spawning season may have caused fish to have the best condition in 1987 and while higher temperatures in 1983 may have led to the worst condition in 1983. Higher prey availability in 1979 for Namibian M. paradoxus could have been the reason for fish with best condition being found in 1979. T. capensis had the highest condition index in 1986 when cooler summer SST prevailed that may have been more favourable for T. capensis to live in. July, September and January SSTs were significantly negatively correlated with the mean length of M. capensis at age 3. This was perhaps due to upwelling intensity and plankton productivity which increases in winter and decreases in summer. A separate study of the impacts of fishery-induced changes and density-dependence on fish growth rate, as well as the effects of other environmental variables is recommended. Since data for some species was outdated, it is suggested to update biological variables and assessment for future work. This study can be used to understand the key life history characteristics of Namibian and South African exploited resources, targeted and bycatch. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2022
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The Daily Sun subscribers
- Authors: Mahe, Xolani
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Creative writing (Higher education) South Africa , Diaries -- Authorship , Books Reviews , South African fiction (English) 21st century , Short stories, South African (English) 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/406276 , vital:70254
- Description: My thesis comprises interlinked short stories, verfabula, sketches, fragments, flash fiction, folktales, anecdotes, and the epistolary form. I write in English tinged with IsiXhosa. In terms of specific influences, the collection is strongly influenced by the experimental writing of Kathy Acker and Samuel Delany notably the uncompromising ways in which they contort formal grammar and sexuality, the defamiliarizing function of the phantasmagoria in the films of Alejandro Jodorowsky and David Lynch, the techniques of the picturesque as used by Amos Tutuola, and, importantly, narration in the present tense as deployed in Dambudzo Marechera’s House of Hunger which results in negation and subversion of the narrative depiction of the past, the present, and the future. On the stylistic level, I am strongly influenced by the haunting surrealism of Sony Labou Tansi, the eccentric meditations of Julio Cortázar, and the iconoclastic rants of Lesego Rampolokeng. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2022
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Integrating blockchain and microgrid technology to enable peer-to-peer energy trading: a business process model
- Authors: Higgs, James
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Blockchains (Databases) , Peer-to-peer architecture (Computer networks) , Electric power-plants Decentralization South Africa , Microgrids (Smart power grids) South Africa , Energy trading , Business process model
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284559 , vital:56074
- Description: Traditional centralised energy systems are coming under increasing pressure because of decarbonisation, decentralisation, and digitisation. A lack of energy security and the inability to manage bi-directional electricity flows constitute two of the biggest challenges faced by centralised systems. Furthermore, in South Africa, the country’s energy system remains monopolised with one large utility satisfying most of the country’s electricity demand. This study is motivated by the need to address energy security within such a monopolised market. To redress the problems highlighted above, this study explores how blockchain and microgrid technology can be integrated to enable decentralised energy production and trading in South Africa. As such, this study develops a fully integrated blockchain-based microgrid energy trading system model. The functional requirements of the system are presented in the form of a business process model. Amongst other benefits, an active blockchain-based microgrid energy trading system provides a means to bolster energy security for the systems’ users. A unique aspect of this study’s approach to energy trading is the utilisation of blockchain’s native tokenizing capabilities. Prosumer energy tokens are minted to create a digital currency for local peer-to-peer energy exchange. A commons-rule based approach is adopted for governing energy resources. As such, this study demonstrates that commons-based solutions provide a feasible alternative to market and profit driven trading for organizing local energy exchange. The primary deliverable of this study satisfies the request of various blockchain researchers for blockchain research to focus on holistic conceptualisations, rather than on the minutiae of blockchain technicalities. Eight core functional requirements of a blockchain energy trading system were identified prior to the construction of the process model. The functional requirements were elicited during a scoping review as a part of the secondary data collection process. Expert review was utilised to verify the functional requirements of the blockchain energy trading system. Once the experts were identified, each expert completed a questionnaire with the intention to verify the requirements. The above process constituted the expert review process for the study. Additionally, the syntactic correctness of the business process model was verified by a business process modelling expert. Weber’s Theory of Evaluation constitutes the theoretical underpinning for the evaluation of the system parts. This study contributes the first publicly accessible business process models of a blockchain-based microgrid energy trading system. This study seeks to advance the discussion of a more integrative and cross disciplinary approach concerning blockchain research, particularly as it pertains to microgrid energy trading. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Department of Information Systems, 2022
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Curriculum adjustment and adaptive leadership in two service-learning courses at Rhodes University as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic
- Authors: Khuhlane, Heide Nozuko
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) , Curriculum planning South Africa Makhanda , Rhodes University , Service learning South Africa Makhanda , Educational leadership South Africa Makhanda , Educational change South Africa Makhanda , Adaptive leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191192 , vital:45069
- Description: The COVID-19 global pandemic altered many aspects of learning. Learning through service, a component of community engagement in higher education linking academic learning and the community was no exception. Informed by Experiential Learning Theory, this study investigated the curriculum adjustment of two service-learning courses at Rhodes University and the leadership development of those who lead the courses as a consequence of COVID-19. The study’s initial goal was to highlight the position of service-learning as a component of academic learning. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic the goal was extended to understanding the impact of the pandemic not only on service-learning, but on leadership as well. Furthermore, the study sought to determine the responsiveness of service-learning policies at Rhodes University at a time of crisis. The study was designed as an interpretivist case study with four participants and one secondary participant. The study employed document analysis, individual interviews and a focus group interview to collect data. Data analysis took the form of content analysis and coding, through the lens of Experiential Learning Theory and an alternative service-based model. The study findings revealed that as a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic both service-learning courses had to be adapted to ensure successful completion. The adaptations included attention to scaffolded learning, assessment and course outcomes; in one course the service engagement aspect with the community was lost entirely to ensure the saftey of students through adherence to COVID-19 safety regulations. The study also found that the participants developed adaptive leadership competencies and skills, technological and collaboration skills as well as a heightened regard for pastoral care and social justice. However, it was evident that the pandemic revealed gaps in the conceptual understanding of service-learning in the context of the two courses, a need for responsive policy, and practical strategies to implement those policies in smaller units in the institution. The study thus recommends an alternative service-based model approach to service-learning, increased policy responsiveness to issues posed by the ‘new normal’ to support adaptive leadership development, re-defining of the university-community partnership and the identification of opportunities for innovation and collaboration intra-departmentally through service-learning. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Education, 2021
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Climate change and small-scale farmer livelihood adaptation in rural border communities in Southern Africa: A case study of Ezondweni Village in Mchinji, Malawi
- Authors: Simango, Kennedy Khuzwayo
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Farms, Small Malawi Mchinji , Climatic changes Economic aspects Malawi Mchinji , Climatic changes Risk management Malawi Mchinji , Crops and climate Malawi Mchinji , Sustainable agriculture Malawi Mchinji , Farmers Social networks Malawi Mchinji , Farm income Malawi Mchinji
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190008 , vital:44955
- Description: Southern Africa is a region increasingly experiencing the detrimental effects of climate change and variability. The rural areas in particular face unprecedented climate change-induced challenges in relation to small-scale farmers being able to pursue household-based livelihoods, and these farmers seek ways of adapting to climate change and variability in doing so. Some rural communities exist along territorial borders and their attempts at adapting to climate change entails cross-border networks and activities. In this context, this thesis examines small-scale farmer adaptation to climate change and variability in the small village of Ezondweni in Malawi near the Zambian border. Analytically, the study draws upon the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework as well as social network theory and the theory of reflexive agency put forward by Margaret Archer. A qualitative research design entailed informal interviews with a small number of Ezondweni villagers, focusing on their perceptions of climate change and their practices of climate change adaptation. The study demonstrates the diverse activities pursued by villagers, both within Malawi and beyond, in seeking to maintain household-based livelihoods, as well as the significance of mutually-supportive social networks which facilitate these livelihood processes. , Thesis (MSocSci) -- Faculty of Humanities, Social Science, 2021
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Design, synthesis, characterization and evaluation of Chitosan-based hydrogel for controlled drug delivery system
- Authors: Safari, Justin Bazibuhe
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Chitosan , Drug delivery systems , Drugs Controlled release , Tenofovir , Colloids , Hepatitis B Chemotherapy , Hydrogel
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/232182 , vital:49969
- Description: Hepatitis B infection is a deadly infectious disease caused by the hepatitis B virus and is responsible for many deaths every year worldwide. Despite medication and vaccines against hepatitis B infection, it still presents high morbidity and mortality among populations. This is partly due to factors such as a long medication period of the existing treatments, resulting in poor patient compliance and leading to treatment failure. In addition, this situation can be responsible for the observed emerging drug resistance. Hence, novel drugs and drug delivery systems are needed to tackle this matter. Many strategies have been used to develop long-acting drug delivery systems treatment for several infectious diseases. Hydrogel drug delivery systems have shown interesting results as controlled drug delivery systems for several drugs. Therefore, the present study aimed to develop chitosan grafted poly (acrylamide-co-acrylic acid) hydrogel and apply it as a pH-sensitive controlled delivery system of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF). TDF is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor used as first-line treatment of hepatitis B chronic infection and in the treatment of other viral infections. The free-radical polymerization method was utilized to modify chitosan by grafting acrylamide and acrylic acid and using N, N’-methylene bisacrylamide as the crosslinking agent to prepare the hydrogel, followed by an optimization of parameters that could affect the swelling capacity. The prepared chitosan-g-poly(acrylamide-co-acrylic acid) hydrogel was characterized using Fourier Transmission Infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and was evaluated for cytotoxicity using a HeLa cell assay. TDF was used as a drug model, it was loaded by the swelling equilibrium method, following by the investigation of the release profile of TDF-loaded hydrogel at pH 1.2 and 7.4. A successful synthesis of chitosan grafted poly(acrylamide-co-acrylic acid) hydrogel was confirmed by Fourier Transmission Infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray Diffraction Spectroscopy (XRD), Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Optimization results showed that the ratio of monomers impacted the swelling ratio of the hydrogel and both the concentration of the crosslinking agent, and the reaction initiator also affected the swelling ratio. The synthesized hydrogels were sensitive to pH and ionic strength. Hydrogel swelling was lower in acidic solutions and higher in neutral and basic solutions and decreased with the increasing ionic strength. Furthermore, SEM results revealed that hydrogel have a rough and fibrous surface structure with numerous pores. Cytotoxicity studies demonstrated that the hydrogel was non-cytotoxic at 50 μg/ml against HeLa cells which suggested a good biocompatibility of the material. TDF was loaded and released from the hydrogels and showed an encapsulation efficiency and drug loading percentage ranging from 81-96% and 8-10%, respectively. TDF release profile was found to be low in buffer solution of pH 1.2 (in the range of 5-10%) and much higher (38-53%) at pH 7.4 within 96 hours. TDF maintained its chemical integrity after release and the hydrogels can therefore be proposed as a new controlled-release drug delivery system for hepatitis B treatment. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2022
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Academic distress & disordered eating in students
- Authors: Du Toit, Mae
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/192626 , vital:45244
- Description: University students are at risk for reduced mental wellbeing, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, and among the most common problems experienced are academic distress and eating concerns. Through a stress-coping model lens, a link between academic distress and disordered eating in student populations appears possible but has not previously been explored. The present study examines this relationship in a South African undergraduate sample. Data were collected during the Covid-19 pandemic using a cross-sectional, correlational survey design and the Counseling Center Assessment of Psychological Symptoms (CCAPS). The results of a multiple regression analysis indicate that academic distress most strongly predicts eating concerns, followed by the demographic variables of female gender and black racial identification. This novel finding suggests that academic institutions should consider the broader academic environment as point of intervention for the prevention and treatment of disordered eating in students. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Psychology, 2021
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A discourse analysis of media representation of women political leaders in Uganda
- Authors: Kemirembe, Grace
- Date: 2023-03-30
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/408908 , vital:70536
- Description: This study is a qualitative desktop research project. The study employed a Feminist Critical Discourse Analysis to analyse and unpack the discursive ways in which female politicians are discussed and talked about in Ugandan online media. This study was a response to the realisation that online media portrayals of female politicians in Uganda remain largely unexplored. Additionally, the study discovered that the Daily Monitor and The Observer, the two newspapers that this thesis researched, often employ gender stereotypes and sexist coverage of female politicians in Uganda using personalisation, trivialisation and demonisation frames. The study illustrates that these misogynistic frames are intended to diminish women’s importance in the political sphere. Moreover, women who do not conform to the gender stereotypes are portrayed as social deviants. This work concludes that one of the challenges faced by women politicians in Uganda, and in Africa as a whole, is how to exploit online media’s productive capacity while, at the same time, resisting its use as an instrument that undermines them. Given the limited scope of the study using only two media organisations, future studies on media representation of female politicians could expand the range to include print and visual sources to provide generalisable results. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Political and International Studies, 2023
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Ecological infrastructure importance for drought mitigation in rural South African catchments: the Cacadu Catchment case example
- Authors: Xoxo, Beauten Sinetemba
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Sustainable Development Goals , Water security South Africa , Remote sensing , Watershed restoration South Africa , Restoration ecology South Africa , Ecosystem services South Africa , SDG 15.3.1
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191203 , vital:45070
- Description: Water scarcity is recognised as one of the significant challenges facing many countries, including South Africa. The threat of water scarcity is exacerbated by the coupled impacts of climate and anthropogenic drivers. Ongoing droughts and continued land cover change and degradation influence the ability of catchments to partition rainwater runoff, thereby affecting streamflow returns. However, quantifying land degradation accurately remains a challenge. This thesis used the theoretical lens of investing in ecological infrastructure to improve the drought mitigation function in rural catchments. This theoretical framework allows for a social-ecological systems approach to understand and facilitate science-based strategies for promoting ecosystem recovery. Specifically, this study aimed to explore the role and benefit of ecological infrastructure for improving drought mitigation, and consequently, water security for rural communities. Thus, this study sought to assess the consequences of human actions to catchment health status using the 15th Sustainable Development Goal indicator for the proportion of degraded land over the total land area as a surrogate. Secondly, hydrological modelling was used to describe how different land covers influence catchment hydrology, which related to how ecological infrastructure enables drought risk-reduction for mitigation regulation. Finally, this study developed a spatial prioritisation plan for restoration to improve drought mitigation for four focal ecological infrastructure (EI) categories (i.e. wetlands, riparian margins, abandoned agricultural fields and grasslands). The focal EI categories were selected for their importance in delivering water-related ecosystem services when sustainably managed. Chapter 1 sets the scene (i.e. provides the study background) and Chapter 2 provides a review of the literature. In Chapter 3, the recently released global GIS toolbox (TRENDS.EARTH) was used for tracking land change and for assessing the SDG 15.3.1 degradation indicator of i.e. Cacadu catchment over 15 years at a 300 m resolution. The results showed a declining trend in biomass productivity within the Cacadu catchment led to moderate degradation, with 16.79% of the total landscape degraded, which was determined by the pugin using the one-out, all-out rule. The incidence of degradation was detected in middle reaches of the catchment (i.e. S10F-J), while some improvement was detected in upper reaches (S10A-C) and lower reaches (S10J). In Chapter 4, a GIS-based Analytic Hierarchical Process (AHP) based on community stakeholder priorities, open-access spatial datasets and expert opinions, was used to identify EI focal areas that are best suitable for restoration to increase the drought mitigation capacity of the Cacadu catchment. The collected datasets provided three broad criteria (ecosystem health, water provision and social benefit) for establishing the AHP model using 12 spatial attributes. Prioritisation results show that up to 89% of the Cacadu catchment is suitable for restoration to improve drought mitigation. Catchments S10B-D, and S10F, S10G and S10J were highly prioritised while S10A, S10E and S10H received low priority, due to improving environmental conditions and low hydrological potential. Areas that were prioritised with consideration for local livelihoods overlap the areas for drought mitigation and form a network of villages from the middle to lower catchment reaches. Prioritised restoration areas with a consideration of societal benefit made up 0.56% of wetlands, 4.27% of riparian margins, 92.06% of abandoned croplands, and 51.86% of grasslands. Chapter 5 reports on use of the Pitman groundwater model to help understand the influence of land modification on catchment hydrology, and highlight the role of restoration interventions. The Cacadu catchment is ungauged, therefore the neighbouring Indwe catchment was used for parameter transfer through a spatial regionalisation technique. Results suggest that degradation increases surface runoff and aggravates recharge reduction, thereby reducing streamflow during low flow periods. In areas where there is natural land cover recovery, the Pitman Model simulated similar dry season streamflow to the natural land cover. Combining the outcomes from the three assessments allowed the study to highlight the role and benefits of ecological infrastructure in terms of drought mitigation. Study findings were interpreted to make recommendations for the role and benefit of ecological infrastructure for drought mitigation at a landscape scale and tertiary catchment level, within the context of available management options. The results support the notion that multiple science data sources can promote investments in ecological infrastructure. However, better spatial and temporal resolution datasets at a national level are still needed to improve the accuracy of studies such as the one outlined in this thesis. The study recommends adopting better ecosystem protection approaches and collaborative governance at multiple levels to reduce the vulnerability of rural communities to drought impacts. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Institute for Water Research, 2021
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Retrospective
- Authors: Pillay, Previn
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Creative writing (Higher education) South Africa , South African poetry (English) 21st century , Identity (Philosophical concept) in literature , Grandmothers in literature , Families in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191636 , vital:45128
- Description: My thesis is a collection of poems, divided into 4 sections. The first section draws on my experiences and background as an Indian South African, presenting a portrait of a KwaZulu-Natal Indian community, infused with the lingo of the streets. It also delves into my background by sharing real stories from my childhood and youth. The second section is about my grandmother, who is an influential character on my writing and a source for many unique stories. The third section is a brief look at my recent past and the fourth section is a sharing of my life and what is most important to me. My collection is a timeline of my life and the events which have shaped me. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2021
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Self-reports on the effectiveness of psychotherapy with therapists-in-training: an 18-month follow-up study at a psychology training clinic
- Authors: Angus, Catherine Clare
- Date: 1993
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/193069 , vital:45295
- Description: The purpose of this study is to ascertain whether the clients who make use of the services of the Psychology Clinic at Rhodes University perceive the masters students being trained at the Clinic as providing adequate psychotherapy. Using a sample of 18 clients, who underwent psychotherapy at the Rhodes Psychology Clinic during 1990, a follow-up study was conducted to ascertain the perceived success of that psychotherapy. Those variables most pertinent to the outcome of psychotherapy are examined. The study uses both qualitative and quantitative methodology and shows that, overall, 89% of the clients who participated in this study perceived the psychotherapy at the Rhodes Psychology Clinic to be satisfactory. The study also highlights those factors which were perceived to be negative in the psychotherapeutic equation and it is hoped that the findings can be beneficial in planning more efficient services for the Clinic in the future. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Psychology, 1993
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Queer as Africa: Representations of queer lives in selected Nigerian, Kenyan, and South African literature and film
- Authors: Wilson, Jon Stephen Edward
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Africans in literature , Africans in motion pictures , Homosexuality in literature , Homosexuality in motion pictures , Sexual minorities in literature , Sexual minorities in motion pictures , African literature History and criticism , Motion pictures, African History and criticism , Sexual minorities South Africa Public opinion , Sexual minorities Kenya Public opinion , Sexual minorities Nigeria Public opinion , Sexual minorities South Africa Social conditions , Sexual minorities Kenya Social conditions , Sexual minorities Nigeria Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/187428 , vital:44651
- Description: This thesis contests the notion that nonnormative sexualities are ‘un-African’ by examining a range of representations of queer African lives on film and in literature, produced by Africans for Africans, as a means to interrogate the role played by the interconnected histories of colonialism, religion, and the policing of queer intimacy, specifically in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. Through a close reading of a selection of texts from these three countries, this thesis takes a cultural-historical approach to exploring the complex struggles engaged in by queer people in Africa to protections under the law, and to represent themselves in literary and cinematic narratives. The first chapter is focused on the Kenyan film Rafiki (2018), directed by Wanuri Kahiu, which tells the story of queer love between two young Kenyan women who face the vehement condemnation of their relationship from their homophobic community. The film was banned in Kenya, but the director was granted a temporary injunction by Kenya’s high court in order for it to be screened in Nairobi. This made Rafiki the first queer film ever to be screened in Kenya, and viable for an Academy Award nomination. The second chapter focuses on the bold assertion of a queer African identity through the short story collections Queer Africa: New and Collected Fiction (2013) and Queer Africa 2: New Stories (2017). Written by various authors from the African continent, and compiled and edited by Karen Martin and Makhosazana Xaba, both collections offer a wide variety of fictional narratives focused on queer experiences in Africa. The second chapter has a focus on stories from Kenyan and Nigerian authors and explores notions of home, queer belonging, and visibility. The third chapter presents a close reading of the South African film Inxeba (2017), also known as The Wound, directed by John Trengove and adapted by Trengove and Thando Mgqolozana from Mgqolozana’s novel, A Man Who Is Not A Man (2009). The film depicts the traditional Xhosa initiation ritual, ulwaluko, and is set in the rural Eastern Cape. Inxeba is an important case study in the history of queer representation in Africa, as the film hit a nerve with many, interrogating what South Africans believe about culture, traditions, masculinity, and the right of artists to represent sacred ritual in art. This thesis pays attention to the historical entanglements between homophobia, imperialism, and Christianity – relationships that continue to affect the experiences of queer people in Africa and attitudes towards them and interrogates why queer individuals are still being left out of efforts towards creating a new normal in postcolonial Africa. This thesis suggests that increased visibility is a key aspect of queer activism in Africa – through the act of representation, sharing lived experiences, and telling queer stories. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Literary Studies in English, 2021
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Contextualising job satisfaction amongst lowest paid support staff in a Higher Education institution
- Authors: Madito, Gotlannamang Moloiesi Boipelo
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/405984 , vital:70225
- Description: Thesis embargoed. To be relased in 2024. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Psychology, 2022
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Pessimism and the secular problem of evil
- Authors: Ruiters, Siphamandla
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Good and evil , Pessimism , Optimism , Secularism , Quality of life
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190111 , vital:44964
- Description: How should we respond to the prevalence of ubiquitous evil? In this thesis, I present two responses to the secular problem of evil. The secular problem of evil exists because we want to live good lives, but we are all existentially vulnerable to evil. Consequently, we can think of various ways in which evil's existence poses a problem for us. When faced with such evil, I distinguish two responses that we may adopt, namely, optimistic or pessimistic responses to the secular problem of evil. These responses may be understood as stances that we may adopt about the relative evil and goodness in the world. Once I have made a thorough evaluation of the discussion around the secular problem of evil and the responses, I will suggest that pessimism is an appealing and appropriate response that we should adopt. To achieve the aims of this thesis, I will first clarify the kind of evil at stake in this thesis and then explain how philosophers have historically responded to this problem. Secondly, I will focus on the contemporary discussion on the secular problem of evil and show the responses are optimistic responses. Finally, I will provide a case against optimism and then show why pessimism is the most appealing and appropriate response. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Philosophy, 2021
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Potential running related injury contributors in South African long-distance runners
- Authors: Jäger, Chloë Rose Laubscher
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Running injuries South Africa , Long-distance running South Africa , Running Physiological aspects , Running shoes , Biomechanics , Chi-square test , Fisher exact test
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/290943 , vital:56801
- Description: Running related injuries (RRIs) are a common problem among long-distance runners, with injury rates ranging from 19.4% to 79.3%. Many studies have been done, investigating possible contributors to RRIs however, very few studies have investigated RRIs in South African long-distance runners, a population which may differ from previously studied populations. The current study aimed to build a descriptive profile of South African long-distance runners, as well as to determine associated factors that may contribute to RRIs. In order to do this, a cross-sectional, retrospective study design was employed using a questionnaire which was mostly electronically distributed. The sample consisted of 378 long-distance runners from each province in South Africa (SA). Using the Chi-square analysis and Fisher exact tests, significant associations were established (p<0.05). The current study found that certain RRI variables were associated with specific aspects of the participants’ personal characteristics and demographics, training characteristics, running experience, footwear, and cross training activities. Footwear and training characteristics produced the largest number of significant RRI associations. The findings of the current study could assist future research on RRIs in South African long-distance runners, by informing researchers of potential areas where more in-depth research is needed. In the long term, researchers may be able to narrow down the main contributors to RRI, possibly decreasing RRI rates in the unique population of South African long-distance runners. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2022
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