The effects of temperature and exploitation on the behaviour of red roman Chrysoblephus laticeps (Sparidae) at baited video stations
- Authors: Mataboge, Bontle Boitumelo
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Marine resources conservation South Africa Agulhas , Sparidae Effect of temperature on South Africa Agulhas , Sparidae Climatic factors South Africa Agulhas , Sparidae Effect of fishing on South Africa Agulhas , Sparidae Effect of human beings on South Africa Agulhas , Sparidae Behavior South Africa Agulhas , Overfishing South Africa Agulhas , Underwater videography in wildlife monitoring South Africa Agulhas , Red roman (Chrysoblephus laticeps)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291140 , vital:56823
- Description: Marine environments are experiencing rapidly increasing temperatures, sea levels and acidification and higher frequencies and magnitudes of extreme weather events as a result of climate change. In the Agulhas Ecoregion of South Africa, there has been an increase in the frequency and intensity of upwelling events. Upwelling events result in rapid and large decreases in water temperature which can persist for several days. Variation in water temperature is known to impact the metabolic rate of fish (which are ectotherms) and in turn their activity patterns. To promote fitness related traits, the metabolic rate of fish is maximised at a specific temperature range. Outside of this optimal temperature range, the capacity of fish to perform aerobically declines. Therefore, it is expected that an increase in upwelling may place the fish under significant physiological stress. The effects of climate change can be compounded by the effects of fisheries-induced evolution; the microevolution of a fish population due to the artificial selection of certain biological traits by fishing practices. Passive fishing gears preferentially remove large (older) and bold individuals, causing reductions in population size, genetic diversity and fecundity as well as size and age truncation and the loss of large, bold and dominant phenotypes in fish populations. These demographic changes affect the adaptive capacity of fish and exploited populations are expected to be less resilient to climate variability and long-term temperature change. The resilience of fish is largely dependent on their physiological attributes, particularly their metabolic rate. Theoretically, fish with broader aerobic scope (defined as the difference between an individual’s maximum metabolic rate and standard metabolic rate) will be more tolerant to the impacts of climate change as they have energy available for adaptation. Recent respirometry and accelerometry studies suggest that populations of the endemic southern African linefish Chrysoblephus laticeps (red roman) from inside marine protected areas (MPAs) have higher metabolic rates and broader aerobic scope compared to those found outside of MPAs, particularly at thermal extremes. As C. laticeps are highly resident it is possible that fish populations protected within well-established MPAs may be more resilient to the physiological stresses caused by upwelling if they are able to maintain their activity levels despite changing temperatures. Behaviour is a proxy that can be used to infer metabolism as behaviours have associated metabolic costs and benefits. Behaviour is also a trait that can be altered by passive fishing practices which preferentially extract more active and bold individuals. Given this context, the aim of this thesis was to determine the effects of short-term thermal variability on the population structure and behaviour of C. laticeps and whether these effects differed between protected and exploited populations. Baited remote underwater stereo-video systems (stereo-BRUVs) were used to observe C. laticeps inside two MPAs (Tsitsikamma and Goukamma) and at two exploited sites (Port Elizabeth and Cape St. Francis) over the temperature range 10-18 °C. The relative abundance, size and relevant behaviours of C. laticeps were recorded. The relative abundance (MaxN) of C. laticeps was not significantly higher inside the MPAs compared to the exploited sites. The size of C. laticeps did not vary significantly by protection level either. However, the mean size of C. laticeps was considerably smaller at Port Elizabeth compared to the three other locations. There was a notable absence of large C. laticeps size classes at Port Elizabeth. The effect of water temperature on relative abundance was only seen in the exploited areas, where temperature and abundance were positively correlated. This was not the case in the protected areas where C. laticeps abundance remained roughly consistent. Generally, the effect of temperature on all measured behaviours was consistent across protection levels. An exception was that the feeding rate at Tsitsikamma MPA was significantly higher than at Cape St. Francis at temperatures below 11.5 °C. Temperature had a significant effect on the time taken for the first individual to appear in the field of view. This time shortened with increasing temperature, regardless of protection level. This was likely a result of the metabolic constraints placed on individuals by low waters temperatures and individuals would be able to pursue the bait more readily at higher temperatures. However, there was no evidence of greater metabolic scope from the C. laticeps individuals observed in the MPAs, relative to the exploited areas. Individual size and the presence of conspecifics were also found to significantly influence behaviour. Generally, size had a positive relationship with behaviour, with larger individuals more likely to feed on the bait, chase other fish from the bait (only in the MPAs) and spend more time in the field of view. The higher displays of aggression in MPAs may be an indication of fishing practices having removed bold and dominant individuals at the exploited sites. The probability of fleeing and the feeding rates of individuals increased with increasing numbers of conspecifics, suggesting that C. laticeps behaviour is influenced by intraspecific competition. Overall, this thesis did not find strong evidence that C. laticeps from MPAs performed better than C. laticeps from exploited areas, even at low temperatures. Behavioural responses to temperature were highly variable across locations and this may be attributed to high behavioural phenotypic diversity among individuals. Environmental stressors, such as temperature changes, can illicit very different behavioural responses among individuals in a population. It is also possible that C. laticeps from the exploited areas have the same genetic predispositions to physiological stress as the individuals in the MPAs due to spillover and larval recruitment from the MPAs. Indeed, genetic studies find that all C. laticeps population in South African represent a single well-mixed genetic stock. It is likely that greater sampling effort is required to resolve the patterns in behaviour between exploited and protected populations. Nonetheless, given the influence of size on behaviour, the smaller size of C. laticeps at Port Elizabeth may be cause for concern regarding the vulnerability of future populations to ongoing climate change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Mataboge, Bontle Boitumelo
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Marine resources conservation South Africa Agulhas , Sparidae Effect of temperature on South Africa Agulhas , Sparidae Climatic factors South Africa Agulhas , Sparidae Effect of fishing on South Africa Agulhas , Sparidae Effect of human beings on South Africa Agulhas , Sparidae Behavior South Africa Agulhas , Overfishing South Africa Agulhas , Underwater videography in wildlife monitoring South Africa Agulhas , Red roman (Chrysoblephus laticeps)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291140 , vital:56823
- Description: Marine environments are experiencing rapidly increasing temperatures, sea levels and acidification and higher frequencies and magnitudes of extreme weather events as a result of climate change. In the Agulhas Ecoregion of South Africa, there has been an increase in the frequency and intensity of upwelling events. Upwelling events result in rapid and large decreases in water temperature which can persist for several days. Variation in water temperature is known to impact the metabolic rate of fish (which are ectotherms) and in turn their activity patterns. To promote fitness related traits, the metabolic rate of fish is maximised at a specific temperature range. Outside of this optimal temperature range, the capacity of fish to perform aerobically declines. Therefore, it is expected that an increase in upwelling may place the fish under significant physiological stress. The effects of climate change can be compounded by the effects of fisheries-induced evolution; the microevolution of a fish population due to the artificial selection of certain biological traits by fishing practices. Passive fishing gears preferentially remove large (older) and bold individuals, causing reductions in population size, genetic diversity and fecundity as well as size and age truncation and the loss of large, bold and dominant phenotypes in fish populations. These demographic changes affect the adaptive capacity of fish and exploited populations are expected to be less resilient to climate variability and long-term temperature change. The resilience of fish is largely dependent on their physiological attributes, particularly their metabolic rate. Theoretically, fish with broader aerobic scope (defined as the difference between an individual’s maximum metabolic rate and standard metabolic rate) will be more tolerant to the impacts of climate change as they have energy available for adaptation. Recent respirometry and accelerometry studies suggest that populations of the endemic southern African linefish Chrysoblephus laticeps (red roman) from inside marine protected areas (MPAs) have higher metabolic rates and broader aerobic scope compared to those found outside of MPAs, particularly at thermal extremes. As C. laticeps are highly resident it is possible that fish populations protected within well-established MPAs may be more resilient to the physiological stresses caused by upwelling if they are able to maintain their activity levels despite changing temperatures. Behaviour is a proxy that can be used to infer metabolism as behaviours have associated metabolic costs and benefits. Behaviour is also a trait that can be altered by passive fishing practices which preferentially extract more active and bold individuals. Given this context, the aim of this thesis was to determine the effects of short-term thermal variability on the population structure and behaviour of C. laticeps and whether these effects differed between protected and exploited populations. Baited remote underwater stereo-video systems (stereo-BRUVs) were used to observe C. laticeps inside two MPAs (Tsitsikamma and Goukamma) and at two exploited sites (Port Elizabeth and Cape St. Francis) over the temperature range 10-18 °C. The relative abundance, size and relevant behaviours of C. laticeps were recorded. The relative abundance (MaxN) of C. laticeps was not significantly higher inside the MPAs compared to the exploited sites. The size of C. laticeps did not vary significantly by protection level either. However, the mean size of C. laticeps was considerably smaller at Port Elizabeth compared to the three other locations. There was a notable absence of large C. laticeps size classes at Port Elizabeth. The effect of water temperature on relative abundance was only seen in the exploited areas, where temperature and abundance were positively correlated. This was not the case in the protected areas where C. laticeps abundance remained roughly consistent. Generally, the effect of temperature on all measured behaviours was consistent across protection levels. An exception was that the feeding rate at Tsitsikamma MPA was significantly higher than at Cape St. Francis at temperatures below 11.5 °C. Temperature had a significant effect on the time taken for the first individual to appear in the field of view. This time shortened with increasing temperature, regardless of protection level. This was likely a result of the metabolic constraints placed on individuals by low waters temperatures and individuals would be able to pursue the bait more readily at higher temperatures. However, there was no evidence of greater metabolic scope from the C. laticeps individuals observed in the MPAs, relative to the exploited areas. Individual size and the presence of conspecifics were also found to significantly influence behaviour. Generally, size had a positive relationship with behaviour, with larger individuals more likely to feed on the bait, chase other fish from the bait (only in the MPAs) and spend more time in the field of view. The higher displays of aggression in MPAs may be an indication of fishing practices having removed bold and dominant individuals at the exploited sites. The probability of fleeing and the feeding rates of individuals increased with increasing numbers of conspecifics, suggesting that C. laticeps behaviour is influenced by intraspecific competition. Overall, this thesis did not find strong evidence that C. laticeps from MPAs performed better than C. laticeps from exploited areas, even at low temperatures. Behavioural responses to temperature were highly variable across locations and this may be attributed to high behavioural phenotypic diversity among individuals. Environmental stressors, such as temperature changes, can illicit very different behavioural responses among individuals in a population. It is also possible that C. laticeps from the exploited areas have the same genetic predispositions to physiological stress as the individuals in the MPAs due to spillover and larval recruitment from the MPAs. Indeed, genetic studies find that all C. laticeps population in South African represent a single well-mixed genetic stock. It is likely that greater sampling effort is required to resolve the patterns in behaviour between exploited and protected populations. Nonetheless, given the influence of size on behaviour, the smaller size of C. laticeps at Port Elizabeth may be cause for concern regarding the vulnerability of future populations to ongoing climate change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
A conceptual IT governance framework to guide the development of interoperable health information systems
- Authors: Matshaba, Lebogang
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Information technology Management , Information technology Management Standards , Information technology Security measures , Medical informatics South Africa , Medical records Data processing , Internetworking (Telecommunication) , National health insurance South Africa , Design Science Research (DSR)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284570 , vital:56075
- Description: In light of changing health needs, health information systems are presented with a plethora of challenges. For instance, the rise of COVID-19 in the past year has led to the discourse on the strength of current health systems to support health needs and the readiness for the National Health Insurance in South Africa. In addition to operating in resource-constrained environments, the lack of synchrony between health information systems across health facilities led to the fragmentation of health information and diminished access to quality healthcare. This research, following the Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM) process, developed an IT governance conceptual framework (HISIG-CF), to inform the interoperability of health information systems. The HISIG-CF is developed from literature and qualitative data collected using an expert reviews method from practitioners in the healthcare sector who evaluated the constructs of the HISIG-CF. Thematic analysis and hermeneutics were used to analyse and interpret the data. The results revealed a need for more guidance to inform interoperability interventions and strengthen current health information systems. The contribution of this study is the HISIG-CF which is deemed relevant and potentially fit-for-purpose to improve health information systems interoperability within the healthcare sector in South Africa. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Department of Information Systems, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Matshaba, Lebogang
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Information technology Management , Information technology Management Standards , Information technology Security measures , Medical informatics South Africa , Medical records Data processing , Internetworking (Telecommunication) , National health insurance South Africa , Design Science Research (DSR)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284570 , vital:56075
- Description: In light of changing health needs, health information systems are presented with a plethora of challenges. For instance, the rise of COVID-19 in the past year has led to the discourse on the strength of current health systems to support health needs and the readiness for the National Health Insurance in South Africa. In addition to operating in resource-constrained environments, the lack of synchrony between health information systems across health facilities led to the fragmentation of health information and diminished access to quality healthcare. This research, following the Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM) process, developed an IT governance conceptual framework (HISIG-CF), to inform the interoperability of health information systems. The HISIG-CF is developed from literature and qualitative data collected using an expert reviews method from practitioners in the healthcare sector who evaluated the constructs of the HISIG-CF. Thematic analysis and hermeneutics were used to analyse and interpret the data. The results revealed a need for more guidance to inform interoperability interventions and strengthen current health information systems. The contribution of this study is the HISIG-CF which is deemed relevant and potentially fit-for-purpose to improve health information systems interoperability within the healthcare sector in South Africa. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Department of Information Systems, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Fabrication and characterization of ciprofloxacin loaded niosomes for transtympanic delivery
- Authors: Mhlanga, Asavela
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Drug delivery systems , Liposomes , Ciprofloxacin , Quinolone antibacterial agents , Drug carriers (Pharmacy) , Drug stability , Lamellarity , Niosomes
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/290715 , vital:56777
- Description: Ciprofloxacin (CPH) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat bone, joint, and skin infections. It is commercially available as an extended-release tablet and as a cream dosage form. CPH is a bactericidal active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) of the fluoroquinolone drug class. It inhibits deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) replication by inhibiting bacterial DNA topoisomerase and DNA gyrase enzymes. Common adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, unusual fatigue, pale skin, and may increase the risk of tendinitis, which could be a major concern. CPH is, according to the Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS), classified as a BCS class IV drug exhibiting low oral bioavailability, low solubility, and intestinal permeability. CPH was chosen as a good candidate for the study because of its stability in solutions, its low molecular weight (331.4 g/mol), and its moderate lipophilicity (log P = 0.28) [16]. The use of conventional ear drops in the ear is effective, avoids hepatic first metabolism and extensive protein binding and may reduce adverse effects as a low dose may be used to achieve a therapeutic effect. However, conventional ear drops and oral antibiotics have a long onset of action and have to be taken/applied in short intervals. For convenience and assurance of a long residence time in the ear, CPH may be delivered by using a niosomal formulation, a liquid at room temperature, to allow administration into the ear without the need to constantly apply the ear drops for long periods of time. A simple, rapid, precise, accurate, reproducible, and specific reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method using ultraviolet (UV) detection for the quantitation of CPH was developed and optimized using a central composite design (CCD). The method was validated using International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) guidelines and was found to be linear, precise, accurate, and specific for the analysis of CPH. Since the method is specific, it was used to quantify CPH in commercial and experimental formulations and monitor CPH released during in-vitro release testing. The compatibility of CPH and potential excipients was investigated during preformulation studies using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to identify and select suitable excipients for use during formulation development activities. No apparent interactions were evident between CPH, and the excipients tested. The probe sonication method was used to manufacture CPH loaded niosomes using different surfactants/surfactant combinations, and a combination of Tween® 80: sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) was found to be the best composition in terms of both entrapment efficiency and Zeta potential. The limits for the independent input variables used for the manufacture included amplitude, sonication time, and amount of cholesterol were determined. Design of experiments (DOE) was used to design the study. The input variables investigated included amplitude, amount of cholesterol, and sonication time. The output or responses monitored included Zeta potential, vesicle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and entrapment efficiency. Non-ionic surfactant systems are predominantly stabilized by steric stabilization, and there is only a minor electrostatic element from adsorbed hydroxyl ions. With the inclusion of SLS it is to be expected that Zeta potential will be a contributing factor. DOE using Box-Behnken design (BBD) and response surface methodology (RSM) in addition to Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) were used for the optimization of the formulation. The optimized formulation had a composition of 1 g cholesterol, 1 g of Tween® 80, 1 g of SLS and was prepared at an amplitude of 11.294 % with a sonication time of 3.304 minutes. The formulation exhibited zero-order release kinetics and had an average pH of 7.45. The formulation was stored at 4 ℃ and 25 ℃ and was assessed for vesicle size, entrapment efficiency, Zeta potential, colour, lamellarity, and PDI every 7 days for 4 weeks. The lead formulation stored at 4 ℃ was more stable than the formulation at 25 ℃ in terms of entrapment efficiency, PDI and vesicle size during the 4-week period. CPH loaded niosomes for transtympanic delivery in the treatment of otitis media were developed and optimized. The technology exhibits sustained release of CPH and has the potential for further development and optimization. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Mhlanga, Asavela
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Drug delivery systems , Liposomes , Ciprofloxacin , Quinolone antibacterial agents , Drug carriers (Pharmacy) , Drug stability , Lamellarity , Niosomes
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/290715 , vital:56777
- Description: Ciprofloxacin (CPH) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat bone, joint, and skin infections. It is commercially available as an extended-release tablet and as a cream dosage form. CPH is a bactericidal active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) of the fluoroquinolone drug class. It inhibits deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) replication by inhibiting bacterial DNA topoisomerase and DNA gyrase enzymes. Common adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, unusual fatigue, pale skin, and may increase the risk of tendinitis, which could be a major concern. CPH is, according to the Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS), classified as a BCS class IV drug exhibiting low oral bioavailability, low solubility, and intestinal permeability. CPH was chosen as a good candidate for the study because of its stability in solutions, its low molecular weight (331.4 g/mol), and its moderate lipophilicity (log P = 0.28) [16]. The use of conventional ear drops in the ear is effective, avoids hepatic first metabolism and extensive protein binding and may reduce adverse effects as a low dose may be used to achieve a therapeutic effect. However, conventional ear drops and oral antibiotics have a long onset of action and have to be taken/applied in short intervals. For convenience and assurance of a long residence time in the ear, CPH may be delivered by using a niosomal formulation, a liquid at room temperature, to allow administration into the ear without the need to constantly apply the ear drops for long periods of time. A simple, rapid, precise, accurate, reproducible, and specific reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method using ultraviolet (UV) detection for the quantitation of CPH was developed and optimized using a central composite design (CCD). The method was validated using International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) guidelines and was found to be linear, precise, accurate, and specific for the analysis of CPH. Since the method is specific, it was used to quantify CPH in commercial and experimental formulations and monitor CPH released during in-vitro release testing. The compatibility of CPH and potential excipients was investigated during preformulation studies using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to identify and select suitable excipients for use during formulation development activities. No apparent interactions were evident between CPH, and the excipients tested. The probe sonication method was used to manufacture CPH loaded niosomes using different surfactants/surfactant combinations, and a combination of Tween® 80: sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) was found to be the best composition in terms of both entrapment efficiency and Zeta potential. The limits for the independent input variables used for the manufacture included amplitude, sonication time, and amount of cholesterol were determined. Design of experiments (DOE) was used to design the study. The input variables investigated included amplitude, amount of cholesterol, and sonication time. The output or responses monitored included Zeta potential, vesicle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and entrapment efficiency. Non-ionic surfactant systems are predominantly stabilized by steric stabilization, and there is only a minor electrostatic element from adsorbed hydroxyl ions. With the inclusion of SLS it is to be expected that Zeta potential will be a contributing factor. DOE using Box-Behnken design (BBD) and response surface methodology (RSM) in addition to Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) were used for the optimization of the formulation. The optimized formulation had a composition of 1 g cholesterol, 1 g of Tween® 80, 1 g of SLS and was prepared at an amplitude of 11.294 % with a sonication time of 3.304 minutes. The formulation exhibited zero-order release kinetics and had an average pH of 7.45. The formulation was stored at 4 ℃ and 25 ℃ and was assessed for vesicle size, entrapment efficiency, Zeta potential, colour, lamellarity, and PDI every 7 days for 4 weeks. The lead formulation stored at 4 ℃ was more stable than the formulation at 25 ℃ in terms of entrapment efficiency, PDI and vesicle size during the 4-week period. CPH loaded niosomes for transtympanic delivery in the treatment of otitis media were developed and optimized. The technology exhibits sustained release of CPH and has the potential for further development and optimization. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
The quality of higher education and its influence on graduate employability and employer perception
- Authors: Mqingwana, Siviwe Nokulinda
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Employability , Career education , Education, Higher Aims and objectives , College graduates Employment , Universities and colleges Ratings and rankings , Labor supply Effect of education on , College graduates Vocational guidance
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284526 , vital:56071
- Description: This study examined the quality of higher education and its influence on graduate employability and employer perception. Through determining the factors influencing graduates’ employment by employers and also the elements that induce employers in employing graduates, this was achieved. This research is rooted in a positivist perspective determining the relationship between graduate employability and a universities’ status. The main goal of this research was to examine to what extent employers are influenced by a higher education institution's perceived reputation when employing graduates. The linear regression model was used to predict the relationship between graduate employability (dependent variable) and the perceived reputation of the university by employers and citations of the university. This was achieved using quantitative methods. The quantitative database that this research relied on is Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) world university ranking. This research made use of descriptive data analysis as well as linear regression. The data set analysis showed citations of the institution had a significant negative relationship with the rate of employability (although this was a relatively weak relationship). The reputation of the institution and the number of international students enrolled do not affect the rate of employability. The analysed data set also showed that the number of citations of a university had a significant impact on the rate of employability at the 10% significance level. As such, higher education institutions need to consider including current market demand into their offerings to improve their graduate’s employability. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Mqingwana, Siviwe Nokulinda
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Employability , Career education , Education, Higher Aims and objectives , College graduates Employment , Universities and colleges Ratings and rankings , Labor supply Effect of education on , College graduates Vocational guidance
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284526 , vital:56071
- Description: This study examined the quality of higher education and its influence on graduate employability and employer perception. Through determining the factors influencing graduates’ employment by employers and also the elements that induce employers in employing graduates, this was achieved. This research is rooted in a positivist perspective determining the relationship between graduate employability and a universities’ status. The main goal of this research was to examine to what extent employers are influenced by a higher education institution's perceived reputation when employing graduates. The linear regression model was used to predict the relationship between graduate employability (dependent variable) and the perceived reputation of the university by employers and citations of the university. This was achieved using quantitative methods. The quantitative database that this research relied on is Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) world university ranking. This research made use of descriptive data analysis as well as linear regression. The data set analysis showed citations of the institution had a significant negative relationship with the rate of employability (although this was a relatively weak relationship). The reputation of the institution and the number of international students enrolled do not affect the rate of employability. The analysed data set also showed that the number of citations of a university had a significant impact on the rate of employability at the 10% significance level. As such, higher education institutions need to consider including current market demand into their offerings to improve their graduate’s employability. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
The biology and movement patterns of non-native common carp, cyprinus carpio (l) in Groenvlei, South Africa
- Authors: Mukhari, Dinah Lorraine
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Carp South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve , Introduced fishes South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve , Carp Behavior South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve , Carp South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve Growth , Carp Habitat South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve , Carp South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve Reproduction , Habitat conservation South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve , Aquatic resources conservation South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291233 , vital:56834
- Description: The common carp, Cyprinus carpio is a highly invasive fish species, first introduced into South Africa in the late nineteen century, and now widely spread throughout the country. In 1991 carp were illegally introduced to Groenvlei, within the Goukamma Nature Reserve in the Western Cape Province. Decreases in water quality and declines in biota have been attributed to the now large numbers of carp. Management measures have commenced to reduce the carp population, however these are not underpinned by science as little is known about the biology and movement patterns of resident carp. The age, growth and maturity of carp within the lake was determined using oxytetracycline hydrochloride marked asteriscus otoliths and macroscopic gonad development staging methods. The results showed that carp in Groenvlei had similar growth characteristics to the invasive populations in North America and Australia; fast growth during the first three to five years and reproductive maturity attained between the ages of two to three years, and are long lived (maximum age of 20 years old). Their growth however differed from the only other study on a South African population. Six acoustically tagged carp were manually tracked in order to report on their movement patterns and habitat use. Carp moved much greater distances in February compared to October and November, and occupied different areas of the lake. In November they were found to aggregate in backwaters which corresponds with their breeding activities. Literature on global carp control shows that whilst eradication of this fish can be achieved in small isolated waters using icthyocides and water drawdowns, in conservation priority areas such as Groenvlei where this is not possible, mechanical removal using multiple gears targeting vulnerable life stages can most efficient at controlling carp. This study identified where and when these methods could be focused to optimise control efforts. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Mukhari, Dinah Lorraine
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Carp South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve , Introduced fishes South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve , Carp Behavior South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve , Carp South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve Growth , Carp Habitat South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve , Carp South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve Reproduction , Habitat conservation South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve , Aquatic resources conservation South Africa Goukamma Nature Reserve
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291233 , vital:56834
- Description: The common carp, Cyprinus carpio is a highly invasive fish species, first introduced into South Africa in the late nineteen century, and now widely spread throughout the country. In 1991 carp were illegally introduced to Groenvlei, within the Goukamma Nature Reserve in the Western Cape Province. Decreases in water quality and declines in biota have been attributed to the now large numbers of carp. Management measures have commenced to reduce the carp population, however these are not underpinned by science as little is known about the biology and movement patterns of resident carp. The age, growth and maturity of carp within the lake was determined using oxytetracycline hydrochloride marked asteriscus otoliths and macroscopic gonad development staging methods. The results showed that carp in Groenvlei had similar growth characteristics to the invasive populations in North America and Australia; fast growth during the first three to five years and reproductive maturity attained between the ages of two to three years, and are long lived (maximum age of 20 years old). Their growth however differed from the only other study on a South African population. Six acoustically tagged carp were manually tracked in order to report on their movement patterns and habitat use. Carp moved much greater distances in February compared to October and November, and occupied different areas of the lake. In November they were found to aggregate in backwaters which corresponds with their breeding activities. Literature on global carp control shows that whilst eradication of this fish can be achieved in small isolated waters using icthyocides and water drawdowns, in conservation priority areas such as Groenvlei where this is not possible, mechanical removal using multiple gears targeting vulnerable life stages can most efficient at controlling carp. This study identified where and when these methods could be focused to optimise control efforts. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Exchange rate volatility and the returns on diversified South African investment portfolios
- Authors: Mulamu, Murendeni
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates South Africa , Rate of return , Investments , GARCH model , Regression analysis , Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284581 , vital:56076
- Description: Globalisation has made it much easier to invest in foreign countries. This creates endless options accessible to investors, including exploiting opportunities for investment in international economies. Although foreign investment portfolio diversification provides significant opportunities for financial returns, exchange rate volatility may play a prominent role when investing in foreign markets. Since the introduction of a floating exchange rate system, together with the inflation-targeting monetary policy framework in South Africa, there has been significant volatility in the exchange rate, far more than during the previous dispensations. This, however, creates a strong need to consider how the unpredictable nature of the exchange rate affects these investments. The purpose of this study is to analyse the effect of exchange rate volatility on the returns on diversified South African investment portfolios. This research examined whether there is a homogenous relationship between South African (domestic) portfolios and the internationally diversified portfolios. In addition, the study investigated the long-run relationship between the exchange rate volatility and both domestic portfolios and the internationally diversified portfolios for the period 2007-2019. To achieve these goals, a panel ARDL model was employed. This study found that exchange rate volatility does not account for a significant portion of returns on investment portfolios fluctuations. Moreover, the relationship is not homogenous because returns on domestic investment portfolios react positively to the exchange rate volatility, whereas returns international investment portfolios respond negatively/positively to the exchange rate volatility depending on whether the relationship is short or long run. This study will contribute to the existing literature, and it is important for investors intending to diversify their investment portfolios both domestically and internationally using different mutual funds in South Africa. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Mulamu, Murendeni
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates South Africa , Rate of return , Investments , GARCH model , Regression analysis , Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284581 , vital:56076
- Description: Globalisation has made it much easier to invest in foreign countries. This creates endless options accessible to investors, including exploiting opportunities for investment in international economies. Although foreign investment portfolio diversification provides significant opportunities for financial returns, exchange rate volatility may play a prominent role when investing in foreign markets. Since the introduction of a floating exchange rate system, together with the inflation-targeting monetary policy framework in South Africa, there has been significant volatility in the exchange rate, far more than during the previous dispensations. This, however, creates a strong need to consider how the unpredictable nature of the exchange rate affects these investments. The purpose of this study is to analyse the effect of exchange rate volatility on the returns on diversified South African investment portfolios. This research examined whether there is a homogenous relationship between South African (domestic) portfolios and the internationally diversified portfolios. In addition, the study investigated the long-run relationship between the exchange rate volatility and both domestic portfolios and the internationally diversified portfolios for the period 2007-2019. To achieve these goals, a panel ARDL model was employed. This study found that exchange rate volatility does not account for a significant portion of returns on investment portfolios fluctuations. Moreover, the relationship is not homogenous because returns on domestic investment portfolios react positively to the exchange rate volatility, whereas returns international investment portfolios respond negatively/positively to the exchange rate volatility depending on whether the relationship is short or long run. This study will contribute to the existing literature, and it is important for investors intending to diversify their investment portfolios both domestically and internationally using different mutual funds in South Africa. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Mediating transition to household electricity conservation through co-designing in Makhanda, South Africa
- Authors: Mutumbi, Uzziah
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Households Energy consumption South Africa Makhanda , Renewable energy sources South Africa , Consumer behavior South Africa Makhanda , Energy conservation South Africa Makhanda Citizen participation , Low-income consumers South Africa Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291262 , vital:56838
- Description: Households consume up to 20% of total global electricity consumption, hence they are important role players in efforts for promoting sustainable consumption. Research on electricity-use behaviour and effectiveness of interventions is important for informing intervention strategies. However, relative to developed countries, research on this subject is lacking in developing countries, where electricity access is limited, and a substantial proportion of households are energy poor. The main goal of this study was to examine reported electricity-use behaviour and the effects of co-designed interventions on household electricity consumption in low-income households in Makhanda, South Africa, using a field-based experiment. Findings from self-reported electricity-use practices showed mixed results, with households reporting both good electricity-use behaviour (e.g., cooling down hot food before refrigeration) and wasteful actions (e.g., leaving appliances on standby). Results showed that electricity-use behaviour was influenced by socio-psychological values including universalism, benevolence, hedonism, and power. Over the intervention period, households exposed to co-designed electricity-saving interventions showed mean electricity savings of about 5.5%, while households in the Partial Treatment and Control group showed increased electricity consumption. Socio-demographic factors such as age and psychological factors (involvement and perceived behavioural control) were very important determinants of household consumption. Broadly, the findings empirically validate the impact of collective problem formulation and co-designing interventions in promoting sustainable actions. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Environmental Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Mutumbi, Uzziah
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Households Energy consumption South Africa Makhanda , Renewable energy sources South Africa , Consumer behavior South Africa Makhanda , Energy conservation South Africa Makhanda Citizen participation , Low-income consumers South Africa Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291262 , vital:56838
- Description: Households consume up to 20% of total global electricity consumption, hence they are important role players in efforts for promoting sustainable consumption. Research on electricity-use behaviour and effectiveness of interventions is important for informing intervention strategies. However, relative to developed countries, research on this subject is lacking in developing countries, where electricity access is limited, and a substantial proportion of households are energy poor. The main goal of this study was to examine reported electricity-use behaviour and the effects of co-designed interventions on household electricity consumption in low-income households in Makhanda, South Africa, using a field-based experiment. Findings from self-reported electricity-use practices showed mixed results, with households reporting both good electricity-use behaviour (e.g., cooling down hot food before refrigeration) and wasteful actions (e.g., leaving appliances on standby). Results showed that electricity-use behaviour was influenced by socio-psychological values including universalism, benevolence, hedonism, and power. Over the intervention period, households exposed to co-designed electricity-saving interventions showed mean electricity savings of about 5.5%, while households in the Partial Treatment and Control group showed increased electricity consumption. Socio-demographic factors such as age and psychological factors (involvement and perceived behavioural control) were very important determinants of household consumption. Broadly, the findings empirically validate the impact of collective problem formulation and co-designing interventions in promoting sustainable actions. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Environmental Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Protecting the right to identity against catfishing
- Authors: Ndyulo, Lisa Neliswa Latima
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Catfishing South Africa , False personation Law and legislation South Africa , Torts South Africa , Mass media and publicity South Africa , Social media Law and legislation South Africa , Identity theft Law and legislation South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/290767 , vital:56782
- Description: Catfishing is a form of impersonation occurring on social media that interferes with a person’s right to identity. It involves creating a fake profile online using another person’s images. The facets of the right to identity are image, name, and likeness, among others. Catfishing affects a person’s right to identity and human dignity. Hence, the thesis aims to determine whether the right to identity adequately protects individuals against catfishing. This thesis is a desktop analysis considering the South African legal framework related to the right to identity, including the common law, the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, and legislation. The thesis is also a comparative analysis assessing the adequacy of addressing catfishing through the right to identity. The study evaluates the right to identity’s adequacy by juxtaposing the South African legal framework with California and Oklahoma’s common law and statutory interventions. The study reveals that the right to identity protects South African social networking website users against catfishing. Like the common law right of privacy in California and Oklahoma, a person infringes the right to identity when they use another person’s identity facets to portray them in a false light, and like the statutory right of publicity in California and Oklahoma, a person infringes identity when they appropriate facets of another person’s identity for commercial gain. The infringement of the right to identity entitles a person to legal remedies, including a claim for damages, among other things. The thesis also considers principles of conflict of laws to determine the operative law in an instance where a victim resides in South Africa and the perpetrator resides in the US, or vice versa. The study recommends that developing the common law to recognise that identity can be infringed by mere appropriation not linked to a commercial purpose would be beneficial for addressing catfishing adequately in South Africa. Legal development contributes to the constitutional imperative to align the common law with society’s shifting needs and address novel legal issues, such as catfishing. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Law, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Ndyulo, Lisa Neliswa Latima
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Catfishing South Africa , False personation Law and legislation South Africa , Torts South Africa , Mass media and publicity South Africa , Social media Law and legislation South Africa , Identity theft Law and legislation South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/290767 , vital:56782
- Description: Catfishing is a form of impersonation occurring on social media that interferes with a person’s right to identity. It involves creating a fake profile online using another person’s images. The facets of the right to identity are image, name, and likeness, among others. Catfishing affects a person’s right to identity and human dignity. Hence, the thesis aims to determine whether the right to identity adequately protects individuals against catfishing. This thesis is a desktop analysis considering the South African legal framework related to the right to identity, including the common law, the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, and legislation. The thesis is also a comparative analysis assessing the adequacy of addressing catfishing through the right to identity. The study evaluates the right to identity’s adequacy by juxtaposing the South African legal framework with California and Oklahoma’s common law and statutory interventions. The study reveals that the right to identity protects South African social networking website users against catfishing. Like the common law right of privacy in California and Oklahoma, a person infringes the right to identity when they use another person’s identity facets to portray them in a false light, and like the statutory right of publicity in California and Oklahoma, a person infringes identity when they appropriate facets of another person’s identity for commercial gain. The infringement of the right to identity entitles a person to legal remedies, including a claim for damages, among other things. The thesis also considers principles of conflict of laws to determine the operative law in an instance where a victim resides in South Africa and the perpetrator resides in the US, or vice versa. The study recommends that developing the common law to recognise that identity can be infringed by mere appropriation not linked to a commercial purpose would be beneficial for addressing catfishing adequately in South Africa. Legal development contributes to the constitutional imperative to align the common law with society’s shifting needs and address novel legal issues, such as catfishing. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Law, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
A laboratory simulation investigating the impact of sunglass tint on the catching performance of cricket fielders
- Authors: Nellemann, Stacy Amanda
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Sunglasses , Cricket Physiological aspects , Cricket players , Glare , Vision , Contrast sensitivity (Vision) , Fielders (Cricket)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291281 , vital:56839
- Description: Background: Sunglasses are popularly worn by outdoor athletes such as cricketers. They are primarily worn to preserve ocular health due to the length of time exposed to the sun’s glare on the field. More recently, sunglasses are now worn for their purported performance-enhancing benefits supposedly allowing athletes to “see clearly, react faster and perform with confidence”. Fielders typically wear sunglasses, but it is rare to see the bowler or the batter wearing sunglasses although they are exposed to the same conditions. If sunglasses provide visual clarity for better reaction time, it is assumed this would also be beneficial for both batsmen and bowlers alike. It is interesting that although fielding plays a key role in the winning of a match, it has received very little research in comparison to the areas of batting and bowling. Research concerning sunglasses in the past has been concerned with its effect on ocular parameters such as colour vision and contrast sensitivity, with minimal research on their effect on performance, specifically on how different colour tints may affect performance such as catching in fielding. Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the catching performance of fielders when wearing three different colour tints of sunglasses. Methods: Thirty male cricketers currently playing for Rhodes University or country districts sides in Makhanda, South Africa, who were non-habitual sunglass wearers were recruited for this study. An optician administered a pre-screening test to ensure participants did not have any visual defects that would affect the results, determining who was eligible to continue with the research project. Twenty-five participants qualified with a further four withdrawing during the experimentation phase due to personal reasons. Eligible participants were required to complete four testing sessions on separate days thereafter in which they wore a different colour tint at each session (clear, blue, G30 and red). These tints were randomised among participants. Participants were required to catch 18 balls projected from a bowling machine in each session. The number of balls caught as well as the quality of catch was recorded. At the end of the fourth session, participants were presented with a questionnaire investigating their subjective experience of the protocol and preference for any particular colour of lens. Results: Statistically significant results were found between the different colour lenses for the ocular parameters of contrast sensitivity and stereopsis tested by the optician. The red lens was found to be the best for contrast sensitivity with the blue lens performing the worst on this test. With regard to stereopsis, the G30 lens was the worst, with the red lens performing the best. The performance measures resulted in no significant difference between the different colour lenses both concerning the total number of catches taken as well as the quality of catch taken. The same result was found irrespective of the colour of lens used in each session. Data gathered from the questionnaire regarding visual comfort and target visibility resulted in the red lens being rated statistically worse than the other three conditions. In terms of personal preference, the G30 lens was rated statistically as the best coloured lens. Conclusion: It can be concluded that objectively there is no difference in performance between the three coloured lenses. Although from an ocular perspective, the red lens was expected to perform the best in terms of catching performance, there was no difference. Subjectively there was a strong preference among the players for the G30 lens with players strongly disliking the red lens. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Nellemann, Stacy Amanda
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Sunglasses , Cricket Physiological aspects , Cricket players , Glare , Vision , Contrast sensitivity (Vision) , Fielders (Cricket)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291281 , vital:56839
- Description: Background: Sunglasses are popularly worn by outdoor athletes such as cricketers. They are primarily worn to preserve ocular health due to the length of time exposed to the sun’s glare on the field. More recently, sunglasses are now worn for their purported performance-enhancing benefits supposedly allowing athletes to “see clearly, react faster and perform with confidence”. Fielders typically wear sunglasses, but it is rare to see the bowler or the batter wearing sunglasses although they are exposed to the same conditions. If sunglasses provide visual clarity for better reaction time, it is assumed this would also be beneficial for both batsmen and bowlers alike. It is interesting that although fielding plays a key role in the winning of a match, it has received very little research in comparison to the areas of batting and bowling. Research concerning sunglasses in the past has been concerned with its effect on ocular parameters such as colour vision and contrast sensitivity, with minimal research on their effect on performance, specifically on how different colour tints may affect performance such as catching in fielding. Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the catching performance of fielders when wearing three different colour tints of sunglasses. Methods: Thirty male cricketers currently playing for Rhodes University or country districts sides in Makhanda, South Africa, who were non-habitual sunglass wearers were recruited for this study. An optician administered a pre-screening test to ensure participants did not have any visual defects that would affect the results, determining who was eligible to continue with the research project. Twenty-five participants qualified with a further four withdrawing during the experimentation phase due to personal reasons. Eligible participants were required to complete four testing sessions on separate days thereafter in which they wore a different colour tint at each session (clear, blue, G30 and red). These tints were randomised among participants. Participants were required to catch 18 balls projected from a bowling machine in each session. The number of balls caught as well as the quality of catch was recorded. At the end of the fourth session, participants were presented with a questionnaire investigating their subjective experience of the protocol and preference for any particular colour of lens. Results: Statistically significant results were found between the different colour lenses for the ocular parameters of contrast sensitivity and stereopsis tested by the optician. The red lens was found to be the best for contrast sensitivity with the blue lens performing the worst on this test. With regard to stereopsis, the G30 lens was the worst, with the red lens performing the best. The performance measures resulted in no significant difference between the different colour lenses both concerning the total number of catches taken as well as the quality of catch taken. The same result was found irrespective of the colour of lens used in each session. Data gathered from the questionnaire regarding visual comfort and target visibility resulted in the red lens being rated statistically worse than the other three conditions. In terms of personal preference, the G30 lens was rated statistically as the best coloured lens. Conclusion: It can be concluded that objectively there is no difference in performance between the three coloured lenses. Although from an ocular perspective, the red lens was expected to perform the best in terms of catching performance, there was no difference. Subjectively there was a strong preference among the players for the G30 lens with players strongly disliking the red lens. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Rainwater and alternative potable water microbial water quality and DRM implications in Makana Local Municipality
- Authors: Nhokodi, Tererai
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/232227 , vital:49973
- Description: Thesis (MSc (Pharm)) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Nhokodi, Tererai
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/232227 , vital:49973
- Description: Thesis (MSc (Pharm)) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Antimalarial activity of quinoline thiosemicarbazones: synthesis and antiplasmodial evaluation
- Nqeno, Lukhanyiso Khanyisile
- Authors: Nqeno, Lukhanyiso Khanyisile
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Antimalarials , Quinoline , Thiosemicarbazones , Malaria Chemotherapy , Plasmodium falciparum , Malaria Africa, Sub-Saharan , Iron chelates Therapeutic use
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291292 , vital:56841
- Description: Africa is one of the regions that is most affected by malaria, as 90% of all malaria deaths occur in sub-saharan Africa. Malaria is a life threatening disease responsible for an estimated 800000 deaths each year, the majority of these deaths occurred in children under the age of five. The disease is a mosquito-borne, and it is transmitted to humans by the female Anopheles mosquito. The parasite responsible for this disease belong to the Plasmodium genus with Plasmodium falciparum causing the most severe cases of the disease in humans. The most widely available anti-malarials were designed to specifically target the pathogenic blood stage in humans, however, in order to completely eradicate malaria there is a need for the development of medicines that not only target the pathogenic blood stage of the parasite but also block parasite transmission and eliminate asymptomatic and cryptic hepatic forms of the parasite. Iron chelators have recently gained importance as potent antimalarials, to cause infection nearly all protozoa obtain growth essential iron from their hosts. Iron is required for the development of the parasite. Deprivation of utilizable iron by chelation is a proficient approach to arrest parasite growth and associated infection. Thiosemicarbazones are known iron chelating agents by bonding through the sulfur and azomethine nitrogen atoms. This study is aimed at the identification of thiosemicarbazone based derivatives as possible antimalarial agents. Due to their iron chelation abilities there has been increasing interest in the investigation of thiosemicarbazones as possible antimalarials. During the course of this project, several thiosemicarbazone derivatives were synthesized and their structure confirmed using routine analytical techniques (NMR, FTIR, and HRMS). The synthesized compounds were evaluated in vitro against the chloroquine sensitive strain (3D7) of P. falciparum for antimarial activity. The compounds were also evaluated agsinst Hela cells for overt cytotoxicity. The compounds generally showed poor antimalarial activity. One compound (LKN11) was identified to possess intrinsic and moderate antimalarial activity of 6.6 μM. The compounds were generally not cytotoxic against Hela cell at concentrations of up to 20 μM, with only compound LKN10 showing modest cytotoxic activity of 9.5 μM. This research went on to identify two thiosemicarbazone based derivatives which had a significant effect on HeLa and pLDH cells. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Nqeno, Lukhanyiso Khanyisile
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Antimalarials , Quinoline , Thiosemicarbazones , Malaria Chemotherapy , Plasmodium falciparum , Malaria Africa, Sub-Saharan , Iron chelates Therapeutic use
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291292 , vital:56841
- Description: Africa is one of the regions that is most affected by malaria, as 90% of all malaria deaths occur in sub-saharan Africa. Malaria is a life threatening disease responsible for an estimated 800000 deaths each year, the majority of these deaths occurred in children under the age of five. The disease is a mosquito-borne, and it is transmitted to humans by the female Anopheles mosquito. The parasite responsible for this disease belong to the Plasmodium genus with Plasmodium falciparum causing the most severe cases of the disease in humans. The most widely available anti-malarials were designed to specifically target the pathogenic blood stage in humans, however, in order to completely eradicate malaria there is a need for the development of medicines that not only target the pathogenic blood stage of the parasite but also block parasite transmission and eliminate asymptomatic and cryptic hepatic forms of the parasite. Iron chelators have recently gained importance as potent antimalarials, to cause infection nearly all protozoa obtain growth essential iron from their hosts. Iron is required for the development of the parasite. Deprivation of utilizable iron by chelation is a proficient approach to arrest parasite growth and associated infection. Thiosemicarbazones are known iron chelating agents by bonding through the sulfur and azomethine nitrogen atoms. This study is aimed at the identification of thiosemicarbazone based derivatives as possible antimalarial agents. Due to their iron chelation abilities there has been increasing interest in the investigation of thiosemicarbazones as possible antimalarials. During the course of this project, several thiosemicarbazone derivatives were synthesized and their structure confirmed using routine analytical techniques (NMR, FTIR, and HRMS). The synthesized compounds were evaluated in vitro against the chloroquine sensitive strain (3D7) of P. falciparum for antimarial activity. The compounds were also evaluated agsinst Hela cells for overt cytotoxicity. The compounds generally showed poor antimalarial activity. One compound (LKN11) was identified to possess intrinsic and moderate antimalarial activity of 6.6 μM. The compounds were generally not cytotoxic against Hela cell at concentrations of up to 20 μM, with only compound LKN10 showing modest cytotoxic activity of 9.5 μM. This research went on to identify two thiosemicarbazone based derivatives which had a significant effect on HeLa and pLDH cells. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
A retrospective study of antimicrobial prescribing practices in paediatric patients at the Mahalapye District Hospital, Central Botswana
- Authors: Nyawera, Angella
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Anti-infective agents Botswana Mahalapye , Drug resistance , Pediatrics Botswana Mahalapye , Pediatrics Formulae, receipts, prescriptions , Drugs Prescribing Moral and ethical aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/290682 , vital:56774
- Description: Background: The development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been linked to the increased and irrational use of antimicrobial medicines. The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial prescribing practices in the paediatric medical ward at Mahalapye District Hospital (MDH) in Botswana and to determine whether antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) measures were being implemented at the hospital. Methods A cross-sectional, descriptive, mixed methods, observational approach was taken in this study. The study site was the paediatric medical ward (PMW) at MDH. Information about the antimicrobials prescribed for paediatric patients from January 2018 to December 2018 was collected from patients’ information files and compared to national antimicrobial prescribing guidelines to determine prescribers’ adherence. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with members of staff at MDH to determine whether antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) measures were adopted at the hospital. Results A total of 278 patients were included in this study, 12 of these were admitted twice during the study period. In total 290 admissions were analysed, with 659 antimicrobial medicines prescribed. The most common diagnoses were pneumonia (36.9%), acute gastroenteritis (20.7%), upper respiratory tract infections (3.4%), and bronchiolitis (3.1%). The most prescribed antimicrobials were ampicillin (21.4%), gentamicin (21.2%), and cefotaxime (8.3%). Adherence to guidelines was relatively good, with 82.7% of antimicrobials prescribed for the patients in the study having been prescribed in compliance with the national prescribing guidelines. The semi-structured interviews highlighted the fact that staff knew about AMS and AMR in general, however awareness of an AMS committee at MDH varied. The AMS committee was a multidisciplinary committee, which was a subcommittee of the Drugs and Therapeutics Committee (DTC). Discussion and Conclusion The results suggest that adherence to prescribing guidelines was relatively high compared to other paediatric antimicrobial utilisation studies in African countries. Prescribing of antimicrobial medicines was consistent with other African countries. The long period of time that it takes for microbiological test results to become available means that most prescribers rely on empirical prescribing. The antimicrobial committee is a multidisciplinary committee with defined roles for its members, consistent with international guidelines for implementing an AMS committee at a hospital. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Nyawera, Angella
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Anti-infective agents Botswana Mahalapye , Drug resistance , Pediatrics Botswana Mahalapye , Pediatrics Formulae, receipts, prescriptions , Drugs Prescribing Moral and ethical aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/290682 , vital:56774
- Description: Background: The development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been linked to the increased and irrational use of antimicrobial medicines. The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial prescribing practices in the paediatric medical ward at Mahalapye District Hospital (MDH) in Botswana and to determine whether antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) measures were being implemented at the hospital. Methods A cross-sectional, descriptive, mixed methods, observational approach was taken in this study. The study site was the paediatric medical ward (PMW) at MDH. Information about the antimicrobials prescribed for paediatric patients from January 2018 to December 2018 was collected from patients’ information files and compared to national antimicrobial prescribing guidelines to determine prescribers’ adherence. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with members of staff at MDH to determine whether antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) measures were adopted at the hospital. Results A total of 278 patients were included in this study, 12 of these were admitted twice during the study period. In total 290 admissions were analysed, with 659 antimicrobial medicines prescribed. The most common diagnoses were pneumonia (36.9%), acute gastroenteritis (20.7%), upper respiratory tract infections (3.4%), and bronchiolitis (3.1%). The most prescribed antimicrobials were ampicillin (21.4%), gentamicin (21.2%), and cefotaxime (8.3%). Adherence to guidelines was relatively good, with 82.7% of antimicrobials prescribed for the patients in the study having been prescribed in compliance with the national prescribing guidelines. The semi-structured interviews highlighted the fact that staff knew about AMS and AMR in general, however awareness of an AMS committee at MDH varied. The AMS committee was a multidisciplinary committee, which was a subcommittee of the Drugs and Therapeutics Committee (DTC). Discussion and Conclusion The results suggest that adherence to prescribing guidelines was relatively high compared to other paediatric antimicrobial utilisation studies in African countries. Prescribing of antimicrobial medicines was consistent with other African countries. The long period of time that it takes for microbiological test results to become available means that most prescribers rely on empirical prescribing. The antimicrobial committee is a multidisciplinary committee with defined roles for its members, consistent with international guidelines for implementing an AMS committee at a hospital. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Pharmacists’ attitudes and perception of using pictograms as a communication tool in practice
- Authors: Okeyo, Sam Juma
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Picture-writing South Africa , Communication in public health South Africa , Pharmacists South Africa Attitudes , Health literacy South Africa , Patient education South Africa , Structural equation modeling , Theory of planned behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/290693 , vital:56775
- Description: Pictograms, when used in conjunction with verbal and written information, are known to be effective in improving comprehension and recall of medicines information and in supporting communication between healthcare professionals and patients. However, pictograms are seldom used in routine pharmacy practice, and little is known about pharmacists’ opinions of pictograms and their intention to possibly incorporate pictograms into routine practice. This study aimed to investigate pharmacists’ opinions relating to pictograms as a communication tool, and, by applying the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), to explore their intention to use pictograms in pharmacy practice as well as the barriers to their use. The quantitative study design involved a two-phase approach. Phase 1 was a descriptive, cross-sectional online national survey of pharmacists. The 70-item, four-section survey was primarily based on the constructs of TPB, which included attitude, intention, subjective norm, and perceived behavioural control. The last survey section recruited pharmacists for a follow-up Phase 2 survey. Following a pilot study, the survey was emailed to all pharmacists registered with the South African Pharmacy Council. Descriptive statistics for survey items were generated. Pearson correlation investigated the correlation between participant characteristics, familiarity with pictograms and use of pictograms in practice. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) determined if there was a significant relationship between attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control with intention to use pictograms. A total of 426 pharmacists responded to the Phase 1 survey. Most pharmacists were familiar with the term ‘pictogram’; however, over three-quarters of pharmacists had never observed pictograms being routinely used in a pharmacy setting. When presented with pictograms designed for a low health literate population, most pharmacists thought the design and overall look of the pictograms would be easy for most patients in South Africa to understand (71.6 ± 24.0). Two-thirds of pharmacists (65.0 ± 30.6), felt that pictograms should be used for all patient populations. More than 85% of pharmacists agreed that pictograms should be used for dosage instructions, auxiliary or additional information, warnings, and storage instructions. However, fewer (58-68%) felt that indication, side effects and risk communication information should be accompanied by pictograms. Pharmacists demonstrated positive attitudes towards using pictograms in practice (mean = 4.2 ± 0.9; range: 1 - 5), while perceived behavioural control (mean = 3.0 ± 1.2; range: 1 - 5), subjective norm (mean = 3.8 ± 1.0; range 1 - 5) and intention (mean = 3.3 ± 1.0; range 1 - 5) were all neutral. Attitude (β = -0.25, p < 0.117), however, was not a significant predictor of intention while perceived behavioural control (β = -0.83, p < 0.000) presented with a significant negative correlation with intention. Subjective norm (β = 0.57, p <0.000) was the strongest predictor of intention. Scale reliability ranged from 0.770 to 0.865 for the TPB constructs. Phase 2 aimed to expand on, and further investigate Phase 1 findings relating to current and intended pharmacist behaviour and opinions concerning pictogram usage. As Phase 2 looked to investigate issues in greater depth, questions included open-ended response options. The survey link was emailed to all pharmacists who had voluntarily offered to participate in Phase 2. Frequency data for all questions were generated, and content analysis was undertaken for the free-response comments offered by pharmacists. A total of 35 pharmacists responded to the Phase 2 survey. Most pharmacists who routinely used pictograms initiated their use with support from pharmacists’ colleagues (8/12) and their supervisor/manager (6/7). Pharmacists who stated their intention to use pictograms anticipated receiving support from their pharmacists' colleagues (18/23) and manager/supervisor (15/23). All 12 pharmacists who were routinely using pictograms reported a positive effect on patient communication, with almost all having encountered no negative aspects of using pictograms (11/12). Almost all pharmacists intending to use pictograms could foresee benefits from their use (22/23). Misinterpretation of pictograms was a prevalent barrier common to both pharmacists routinely using pictograms and to those intending to use pictograms. Increased workload was regarded as a prevalent barrier only by pharmacists intending to use pictograms. This study was the first national study of pharmacists to investigate their opinion of pictograms and their use and to adopt a theoretical approach to consider pharmacist intention to use pictograms in routine pharmacy practice. Pharmacists generally expressed positive attitudes to pictograms but showed inadequate understanding of pictogram use. Pharmacists using pictograms reported the positive effect of pictograms on their patient communication, whereas those planning to use pictograms could foresee the benefits of using pictograms despite regarding increased workload as a barrier. As the strongest predictor of intention was subjective norm, this construct should therefore be targeted to motivate pharmacists to adopt the use of pictograms. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Okeyo, Sam Juma
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Picture-writing South Africa , Communication in public health South Africa , Pharmacists South Africa Attitudes , Health literacy South Africa , Patient education South Africa , Structural equation modeling , Theory of planned behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/290693 , vital:56775
- Description: Pictograms, when used in conjunction with verbal and written information, are known to be effective in improving comprehension and recall of medicines information and in supporting communication between healthcare professionals and patients. However, pictograms are seldom used in routine pharmacy practice, and little is known about pharmacists’ opinions of pictograms and their intention to possibly incorporate pictograms into routine practice. This study aimed to investigate pharmacists’ opinions relating to pictograms as a communication tool, and, by applying the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), to explore their intention to use pictograms in pharmacy practice as well as the barriers to their use. The quantitative study design involved a two-phase approach. Phase 1 was a descriptive, cross-sectional online national survey of pharmacists. The 70-item, four-section survey was primarily based on the constructs of TPB, which included attitude, intention, subjective norm, and perceived behavioural control. The last survey section recruited pharmacists for a follow-up Phase 2 survey. Following a pilot study, the survey was emailed to all pharmacists registered with the South African Pharmacy Council. Descriptive statistics for survey items were generated. Pearson correlation investigated the correlation between participant characteristics, familiarity with pictograms and use of pictograms in practice. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) determined if there was a significant relationship between attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control with intention to use pictograms. A total of 426 pharmacists responded to the Phase 1 survey. Most pharmacists were familiar with the term ‘pictogram’; however, over three-quarters of pharmacists had never observed pictograms being routinely used in a pharmacy setting. When presented with pictograms designed for a low health literate population, most pharmacists thought the design and overall look of the pictograms would be easy for most patients in South Africa to understand (71.6 ± 24.0). Two-thirds of pharmacists (65.0 ± 30.6), felt that pictograms should be used for all patient populations. More than 85% of pharmacists agreed that pictograms should be used for dosage instructions, auxiliary or additional information, warnings, and storage instructions. However, fewer (58-68%) felt that indication, side effects and risk communication information should be accompanied by pictograms. Pharmacists demonstrated positive attitudes towards using pictograms in practice (mean = 4.2 ± 0.9; range: 1 - 5), while perceived behavioural control (mean = 3.0 ± 1.2; range: 1 - 5), subjective norm (mean = 3.8 ± 1.0; range 1 - 5) and intention (mean = 3.3 ± 1.0; range 1 - 5) were all neutral. Attitude (β = -0.25, p < 0.117), however, was not a significant predictor of intention while perceived behavioural control (β = -0.83, p < 0.000) presented with a significant negative correlation with intention. Subjective norm (β = 0.57, p <0.000) was the strongest predictor of intention. Scale reliability ranged from 0.770 to 0.865 for the TPB constructs. Phase 2 aimed to expand on, and further investigate Phase 1 findings relating to current and intended pharmacist behaviour and opinions concerning pictogram usage. As Phase 2 looked to investigate issues in greater depth, questions included open-ended response options. The survey link was emailed to all pharmacists who had voluntarily offered to participate in Phase 2. Frequency data for all questions were generated, and content analysis was undertaken for the free-response comments offered by pharmacists. A total of 35 pharmacists responded to the Phase 2 survey. Most pharmacists who routinely used pictograms initiated their use with support from pharmacists’ colleagues (8/12) and their supervisor/manager (6/7). Pharmacists who stated their intention to use pictograms anticipated receiving support from their pharmacists' colleagues (18/23) and manager/supervisor (15/23). All 12 pharmacists who were routinely using pictograms reported a positive effect on patient communication, with almost all having encountered no negative aspects of using pictograms (11/12). Almost all pharmacists intending to use pictograms could foresee benefits from their use (22/23). Misinterpretation of pictograms was a prevalent barrier common to both pharmacists routinely using pictograms and to those intending to use pictograms. Increased workload was regarded as a prevalent barrier only by pharmacists intending to use pictograms. This study was the first national study of pharmacists to investigate their opinion of pictograms and their use and to adopt a theoretical approach to consider pharmacist intention to use pictograms in routine pharmacy practice. Pharmacists generally expressed positive attitudes to pictograms but showed inadequate understanding of pictogram use. Pharmacists using pictograms reported the positive effect of pictograms on their patient communication, whereas those planning to use pictograms could foresee the benefits of using pictograms despite regarding increased workload as a barrier. As the strongest predictor of intention was subjective norm, this construct should therefore be targeted to motivate pharmacists to adopt the use of pictograms. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Transfer pricing: an analysis of legislation in the southern African Customs Union
- Authors: Patel, Nabil Ahmed
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Transfer pricing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/241482 , vital:50943
- Description: Transfer pricing is defined as the setting of the price for goods sold and services rendered between related entities. For example, if a subsidiary company sells goods or renders services to its holding company or a sister company, the price charged is referred to as the transfer price. Transfer pricing can be used to manipulate profits and facilitate tax evasion. Therefore, it is important that countries enact transfer pricing legislation to prevent this. The United Nations (UN) and Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guideline documents form the basis for most global legislation and conventions dealing with transfer pricing. The over-arching goal of this research was to investigate whether transfer pricing legislation in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) aligns between SACU countries and with the OECD Guidelines and the UN Manual. The research applied a legal interpretive doctrinal research methodology and a qualitative research method. The data comprised primary legislation in the SACU countries, transfer pricing guidelines issued by revenue authorities in the SACU, OECD Guidelines, the UN Manual and journal articles. It was found in this study that certain aspects of transfer pricing legislation in the SACU are not fully aligned to each other and to the OECD Guidelines and the UN Manual. This study proposed recommendations to improve transfer pricing legislation in the SACU. These improvements include the introduction of transfer pricing legislation in Eswatini and Lesotho, and updating transfer pricing legislation in Namibia and South Africa in terms of the latest versions of the OECD Guidelines and the UN Manual. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Patel, Nabil Ahmed
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Transfer pricing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/241482 , vital:50943
- Description: Transfer pricing is defined as the setting of the price for goods sold and services rendered between related entities. For example, if a subsidiary company sells goods or renders services to its holding company or a sister company, the price charged is referred to as the transfer price. Transfer pricing can be used to manipulate profits and facilitate tax evasion. Therefore, it is important that countries enact transfer pricing legislation to prevent this. The United Nations (UN) and Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guideline documents form the basis for most global legislation and conventions dealing with transfer pricing. The over-arching goal of this research was to investigate whether transfer pricing legislation in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) aligns between SACU countries and with the OECD Guidelines and the UN Manual. The research applied a legal interpretive doctrinal research methodology and a qualitative research method. The data comprised primary legislation in the SACU countries, transfer pricing guidelines issued by revenue authorities in the SACU, OECD Guidelines, the UN Manual and journal articles. It was found in this study that certain aspects of transfer pricing legislation in the SACU are not fully aligned to each other and to the OECD Guidelines and the UN Manual. This study proposed recommendations to improve transfer pricing legislation in the SACU. These improvements include the introduction of transfer pricing legislation in Eswatini and Lesotho, and updating transfer pricing legislation in Namibia and South Africa in terms of the latest versions of the OECD Guidelines and the UN Manual. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
The geology, mineralogy, structure and economic aspects of the pegmatite-hosted Swanson Tantalum Deposit, Tantalite Valley area, southern Namibia
- Authors: Pepler, Laubser
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Pegmatites South Africa Pofadder (Region) , Tantalum South Africa Pofadder (Region) , Geology South Africa Pofadder (Region) , Mineralogy South Africa Pofadder (Region) , Pegmatites South Africa Pofadder (Region) Structure , Pegmatites Economic aspects South Africa Pofadder (Region) , Pofadder Shear Zone , Tantalite Valley Complex , Orange River Pegmatite Belt , Lower Fish River/Onseepkans Thrust Zone
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291303 , vital:56843
- Description: This study presents the geology, mineralogy, structure, and economic aspects of the recently explored Swanson Tantalum Deposit occurring within the Namaqua Sector of the Namaqua Natal Metamorphic Province, Tantalite Valley area, southern Namibia. It is an LCT-type pegmatite hosted (microlitetantalite- tapiolite ± spodumene – lepidolite - zinnwaldite) tantalum deposit forming part of a highly localised sill-and-dyke swarm comprised of 15 shallow dipping and significantly mineralised pegmatites. This deposit forms part of the western portions of the regionally developed∼ 1040 – 950 Ma Orange River Pegmatite Belt (ORPB) which was locally emplaced syn-tectonically into competent host rocks in the core zone of the late-stage crustal scale transcurrent dextral, ductile to brittle-ductile D4 Marshall Rocks – Pofadder Shear Zone (MRPSZ), where it crosscuts the rocks of the D2 Lower Fish River - Onseepkans Thrust Zone (LFROTZ). A JORC Maiden Mineral Resource of 1.2 Mt @ 412 ppm Ta2O5 + 76 ppm Nb2O5 + 0.29 wt. % Li2O (with an applied cut-off grade of 236 ppm Ta2O5 and a minimum thickness of 1 m) has recently been estimated for the deposit. The deposit is currently being advanced to feasibility stage with the aim of outlining economic Mineral Reserves. It currently hosts a globally significant and market-relevant “high grade – low tonnage” tantalum Mineral Resource. Recent litho-structural mapping of this deposit has shown that its structural setting encompasses a locally developed lower strain extensional quadrant associated with the mega-scale shear zone bound competent mantle porphyroclast: the mafic-ultramafic Tantalite Valley Complex (TVC), or TVC megaclast. A succession of syn-D4 MRPSZ-hosted granitic melts comprising earlier leucogranite intrusions and later mineralised pegmatites of the Swanson Tantalum Deposit have variably utilised this extensional structure. The earlier leucogranites have clearly exploited mylonitic foliations associated with the development of core zone of the MRPSZ, while the mineralised pegmatites have utilised later-stage shallow-dipping Riedel fractures developed within more competent host rock. The tantalum tenor of pegmatites comprising the Swanson Tantalum Deposit is clearly structurally controlled, with tantalum tenor increasing from NW towards the SE over relatively short distances, toward the TVC megaclast. Although highly speculative without robust geochronological and petrographic investigation, field observations from this study highlights that the host rocks to the Swanson Tantalum Deposit, namely the mottled hybrid metagabbro (HMG), usually described as being syn-D2 in age (∼ 1200 – 1100 Ma), may possibly be syn-D4 in age (∼ 1040 – 950 Ma). If this is proven to be true, it may represent the earliest syn-D4 melt known for the MRPSZ. The Swanson Tantalum Deposit area therefore represents a prime area for studying and potentially constraining the upper and lower age limits of the MRPSZ. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Geology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Pepler, Laubser
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Pegmatites South Africa Pofadder (Region) , Tantalum South Africa Pofadder (Region) , Geology South Africa Pofadder (Region) , Mineralogy South Africa Pofadder (Region) , Pegmatites South Africa Pofadder (Region) Structure , Pegmatites Economic aspects South Africa Pofadder (Region) , Pofadder Shear Zone , Tantalite Valley Complex , Orange River Pegmatite Belt , Lower Fish River/Onseepkans Thrust Zone
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/291303 , vital:56843
- Description: This study presents the geology, mineralogy, structure, and economic aspects of the recently explored Swanson Tantalum Deposit occurring within the Namaqua Sector of the Namaqua Natal Metamorphic Province, Tantalite Valley area, southern Namibia. It is an LCT-type pegmatite hosted (microlitetantalite- tapiolite ± spodumene – lepidolite - zinnwaldite) tantalum deposit forming part of a highly localised sill-and-dyke swarm comprised of 15 shallow dipping and significantly mineralised pegmatites. This deposit forms part of the western portions of the regionally developed∼ 1040 – 950 Ma Orange River Pegmatite Belt (ORPB) which was locally emplaced syn-tectonically into competent host rocks in the core zone of the late-stage crustal scale transcurrent dextral, ductile to brittle-ductile D4 Marshall Rocks – Pofadder Shear Zone (MRPSZ), where it crosscuts the rocks of the D2 Lower Fish River - Onseepkans Thrust Zone (LFROTZ). A JORC Maiden Mineral Resource of 1.2 Mt @ 412 ppm Ta2O5 + 76 ppm Nb2O5 + 0.29 wt. % Li2O (with an applied cut-off grade of 236 ppm Ta2O5 and a minimum thickness of 1 m) has recently been estimated for the deposit. The deposit is currently being advanced to feasibility stage with the aim of outlining economic Mineral Reserves. It currently hosts a globally significant and market-relevant “high grade – low tonnage” tantalum Mineral Resource. Recent litho-structural mapping of this deposit has shown that its structural setting encompasses a locally developed lower strain extensional quadrant associated with the mega-scale shear zone bound competent mantle porphyroclast: the mafic-ultramafic Tantalite Valley Complex (TVC), or TVC megaclast. A succession of syn-D4 MRPSZ-hosted granitic melts comprising earlier leucogranite intrusions and later mineralised pegmatites of the Swanson Tantalum Deposit have variably utilised this extensional structure. The earlier leucogranites have clearly exploited mylonitic foliations associated with the development of core zone of the MRPSZ, while the mineralised pegmatites have utilised later-stage shallow-dipping Riedel fractures developed within more competent host rock. The tantalum tenor of pegmatites comprising the Swanson Tantalum Deposit is clearly structurally controlled, with tantalum tenor increasing from NW towards the SE over relatively short distances, toward the TVC megaclast. Although highly speculative without robust geochronological and petrographic investigation, field observations from this study highlights that the host rocks to the Swanson Tantalum Deposit, namely the mottled hybrid metagabbro (HMG), usually described as being syn-D2 in age (∼ 1200 – 1100 Ma), may possibly be syn-D4 in age (∼ 1040 – 950 Ma). If this is proven to be true, it may represent the earliest syn-D4 melt known for the MRPSZ. The Swanson Tantalum Deposit area therefore represents a prime area for studying and potentially constraining the upper and lower age limits of the MRPSZ. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Geology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Bond market integration in the Common Monetary Area (CMA)
- Ramoriting, Retšelisitsoe Silvia
- Authors: Ramoriting, Retšelisitsoe Silvia
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Globalization , Globalization Economic aspects , Bond market , Rand area , Africa, Southern Economic integration , Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284592 , vital:56077
- Description: The study reviews the phenomenon of financial integration. During the late 1980s and 1990s, financial market integration around the world increased due to globalisation of investments and the need for higher returns and international risk diversification. The increase was accompanied by a significant increase in private capital flows into developing countries from developed countries. The main goal of the study is to examine bond market integration in the common monetary area The study therefore investigates the co-movement of government bond returns within the CMA using data from Eswatini, Namibia, and South Africa. The study attempts to find the short-run and long-run relationship of these government bond returns using the ARDL cointegration technique. The study uses daily data of 10-year government bond yields spanning from August 2014 to September 2019. The empirical results reveal that there exists a short-run and long-run relationship between South Africa and Eswatini. Between South Africa and Namibia, there only exist a short-run relationship. Just like the previously mentioned studies, the short-run relationship is a result of policy convergence. The lack of long-run relationship between South and Namibia was due to poor institutional developments and limited investment opportunities. In this case, policy measures (or reforms) and a review of the union are necessary to increase integration of these bond markets. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Ramoriting, Retšelisitsoe Silvia
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Globalization , Globalization Economic aspects , Bond market , Rand area , Africa, Southern Economic integration , Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284592 , vital:56077
- Description: The study reviews the phenomenon of financial integration. During the late 1980s and 1990s, financial market integration around the world increased due to globalisation of investments and the need for higher returns and international risk diversification. The increase was accompanied by a significant increase in private capital flows into developing countries from developed countries. The main goal of the study is to examine bond market integration in the common monetary area The study therefore investigates the co-movement of government bond returns within the CMA using data from Eswatini, Namibia, and South Africa. The study attempts to find the short-run and long-run relationship of these government bond returns using the ARDL cointegration technique. The study uses daily data of 10-year government bond yields spanning from August 2014 to September 2019. The empirical results reveal that there exists a short-run and long-run relationship between South Africa and Eswatini. Between South Africa and Namibia, there only exist a short-run relationship. Just like the previously mentioned studies, the short-run relationship is a result of policy convergence. The lack of long-run relationship between South and Namibia was due to poor institutional developments and limited investment opportunities. In this case, policy measures (or reforms) and a review of the union are necessary to increase integration of these bond markets. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Assessing the density and distribution of spotted hyaenas (Crocuta crocuta) in Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Authors: Roberts, Peter Jean
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Spotted hyena Home range South Africa Hluhluwe Game Reserve , Spotted hyena Habitat South Africa Hluhluwe Game Reserve , Animal population density South Africa Hluhluwe Game Reserve , Scouting cameras , Home range (Animal geography) , Spatially-explicit mark recapture (SECR)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/292681 , vital:57006
- Description: Protected areas are becoming increasingly isolated refugia for large carnivores and are critical for their survival. Spotted hyaenas (Crocuta crocuta) have, for centuries, been ‘managed’ as problem causing animals and their conservation has been largely overlooked. To preserve a population, it is paramount to understand its distribution and abundance through reliable and cost-effective monitoring techniques. My study estimated the density of spotted hyaenas and their use of space in Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park (HiP), South Africa. I compared camera trap by-catch data and call-up surveys between 2013–2018 to assess spotted hyaena densities. The camera trap data estimated an average of 16.72 (SD: ±2.22) hyaenas per 100 km2 between 2013–2018, with an annual estimated high of 19.01 in 2018 and a low of 12.77 in 2015. The call-up surveys consistently produced lower estimates than those obtained from the camera trap data. These results highlight the importance of calibrating the response probability factor for call-up surveys to maintain precision. The space use of spotted hyaenas was analysed using the photo-capture data obtained during the same six-year period, to produce individual 100% Minimum Convex Polygon’s (MCPs). Seven clan territories were identified from individual female home ranges that overlapped by more than 66% of their MCPs. Territory sizes were similar to historical estimates for the park, with averages of 13.96 (SD: ±6.48) km2 in Hluhluwe and 34.61 (SD: ±23.87) km2 in iMfolozi. My study successfully used by-catch camera data to calculate annual density estimates and investigate the spatial use patterns for spotted hyaenas in HiP. I demonstrate that this approach is cost-effective and reliable for calculating density estimates. Conservation practitioners should take heed of the advancements in technology and analytical capacity now available to them to improve monitoring efforts. My study specifically calls for collaborative efforts to use existing camera trap data to improve regional estimates and population trends of spotted hyaenas across their range. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Roberts, Peter Jean
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Spotted hyena Home range South Africa Hluhluwe Game Reserve , Spotted hyena Habitat South Africa Hluhluwe Game Reserve , Animal population density South Africa Hluhluwe Game Reserve , Scouting cameras , Home range (Animal geography) , Spatially-explicit mark recapture (SECR)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/292681 , vital:57006
- Description: Protected areas are becoming increasingly isolated refugia for large carnivores and are critical for their survival. Spotted hyaenas (Crocuta crocuta) have, for centuries, been ‘managed’ as problem causing animals and their conservation has been largely overlooked. To preserve a population, it is paramount to understand its distribution and abundance through reliable and cost-effective monitoring techniques. My study estimated the density of spotted hyaenas and their use of space in Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park (HiP), South Africa. I compared camera trap by-catch data and call-up surveys between 2013–2018 to assess spotted hyaena densities. The camera trap data estimated an average of 16.72 (SD: ±2.22) hyaenas per 100 km2 between 2013–2018, with an annual estimated high of 19.01 in 2018 and a low of 12.77 in 2015. The call-up surveys consistently produced lower estimates than those obtained from the camera trap data. These results highlight the importance of calibrating the response probability factor for call-up surveys to maintain precision. The space use of spotted hyaenas was analysed using the photo-capture data obtained during the same six-year period, to produce individual 100% Minimum Convex Polygon’s (MCPs). Seven clan territories were identified from individual female home ranges that overlapped by more than 66% of their MCPs. Territory sizes were similar to historical estimates for the park, with averages of 13.96 (SD: ±6.48) km2 in Hluhluwe and 34.61 (SD: ±23.87) km2 in iMfolozi. My study successfully used by-catch camera data to calculate annual density estimates and investigate the spatial use patterns for spotted hyaenas in HiP. I demonstrate that this approach is cost-effective and reliable for calculating density estimates. Conservation practitioners should take heed of the advancements in technology and analytical capacity now available to them to improve monitoring efforts. My study specifically calls for collaborative efforts to use existing camera trap data to improve regional estimates and population trends of spotted hyaenas across their range. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Effects of hydraulic fracking fluid on soil microbial composition and diversity
- Authors: Sianyuka, Nicolette
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/232366 , vital:49985
- Description: Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Sianyuka, Nicolette
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/232366 , vital:49985
- Description: Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
The role of a national system of innovation in facilitating development in South Africa from a comparative BRICS perspective
- Authors: Sibhukwana, Andiswa
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: BRIC countries , Technological innovations Economic aspects South Africa , Economic development South Africa , Economics Mathematical models , Neoclassical school of economics , South Africa Economic conditions , South Africa Economic policy , National systems of innovation
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284616 , vital:56079
- Description: The aim of the dissertation was to investigate whether the adoption of a national system of innovation has helped facilitate development in South Africa from a comparative BRICS perspective. South Africa has an expanding focus on science and technology, as per the Science and Technology White Paper (1996). There appeared to be innovation that had left out much of the citizenry. There continued to be poverty, inequality, and joblessness. The study aimed to understand how the NSI approach could be used to foster inclusive and transformative development. The study used a mixed-methods approach. The qualitative aspect of the research focused on an innovation and public policy study which assessed the various policies and initiatives implemented in each of the BRICS countries to drive innovation and foster development. The qualitative aspect of the study found that the innovation paradigm required governments to adopt a more holistic approach to public policy design and analysis. The quantitative aspect of the research focused on a trend, correlation, and regression analysis. The trend analysis revealed that China and Brazil increased their allocation of resources towards R&D compared to the other countries. Brazil is regarded as a social investment state, while China is a developmental state: this means the state plays an extraordinarily strong coordinative and financing role in the NSI. On the other hand, the correlation matrix for South Africa revealed a statistically significant positive linear association between various NSI indicators and human development. This suggested that the innovation benefits are trickling down to the general citizenry. In essence the study articulated key elements of the understanding of current and potential impacts of technological change in productivity and growth, employment and inequality that can be used for policy making. , Thesis (MEcon) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Sibhukwana, Andiswa
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: BRIC countries , Technological innovations Economic aspects South Africa , Economic development South Africa , Economics Mathematical models , Neoclassical school of economics , South Africa Economic conditions , South Africa Economic policy , National systems of innovation
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284616 , vital:56079
- Description: The aim of the dissertation was to investigate whether the adoption of a national system of innovation has helped facilitate development in South Africa from a comparative BRICS perspective. South Africa has an expanding focus on science and technology, as per the Science and Technology White Paper (1996). There appeared to be innovation that had left out much of the citizenry. There continued to be poverty, inequality, and joblessness. The study aimed to understand how the NSI approach could be used to foster inclusive and transformative development. The study used a mixed-methods approach. The qualitative aspect of the research focused on an innovation and public policy study which assessed the various policies and initiatives implemented in each of the BRICS countries to drive innovation and foster development. The qualitative aspect of the study found that the innovation paradigm required governments to adopt a more holistic approach to public policy design and analysis. The quantitative aspect of the research focused on a trend, correlation, and regression analysis. The trend analysis revealed that China and Brazil increased their allocation of resources towards R&D compared to the other countries. Brazil is regarded as a social investment state, while China is a developmental state: this means the state plays an extraordinarily strong coordinative and financing role in the NSI. On the other hand, the correlation matrix for South Africa revealed a statistically significant positive linear association between various NSI indicators and human development. This suggested that the innovation benefits are trickling down to the general citizenry. In essence the study articulated key elements of the understanding of current and potential impacts of technological change in productivity and growth, employment and inequality that can be used for policy making. , Thesis (MEcon) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Motives and barriers to the implementation of renewable energy sources in South African tertiary institutions
- Authors: Sibindi, Siyangiso
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources South Africa , Education, Higher South Africa , Education, Higher Environmental aspects South Africa , Environmental responsibility South Africa , Climate change mitigation South Africa , Sustainable development South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284537 , vital:56072
- Description: Organisations face major challenges to address the exploitation of non-renewable resources and consider management considerations for dealing with climate change. Organisations have been pushed to play a part in their carbon footprints and in curbing climate change. Among these organisations are tertiary institutions that can greatly impact environmental sustainability and address carbon dioxide emissions by embarking on renewable energy technologies. Tertiary institutions play a major role in society by the provision of skilled labour and personnel that are equipped to deal with a range of advancements and challenges. The sustainability of these tertiary institutions has thus been called into question due to the impact they can bring to societies. This research thus aims to identify the motives and barriers to renewable energy adoption in tertiary education institutions. To do this, a literature review was conducted to identify possible motives and barriers to renewable energy adoption. These were then compiled into a questionnaire that was sent to respondents of three different institutions. Respondents were then requested to give feedback on each of the motives and barriers. The respondents were also asked general questions found in literature that addressed the adoption of renewable energy technologies in tertiary institutions. The data was collected using the designed questionnaires. The respondents were able to articulate their perceived barriers and motives to the implementation of renewable energy technologies in tertiary institutions. Data analysis was done using thematic analysis. The results showed that the barriers in the implementation of renewable energy technologies in tertiary institutions were: ‘Cost to Install’, ‘Transition Process’ and ‘Government Policies’. The motives on why educational institutions need to embark on renewable energy projects were found to be ‘Energy Independence’, ‘Cleaner Source of Energy’ and ‘Reduction in Carbon Emissions’. The cost of renewable energy technologies, the process of moving from the Eskom grid, and renewable energy policies that are ambiguous were some factors that were highlighted by respondents on why it is challenging to adopt renewable energies in tertiary institutions. On the other hand, the effects of load shedding currently being experienced in the country and the migration to cleaner sources of energy that cause less harm to the environment, are some of the drivers noted by respondents on why tertiary institutions need to embark on renewable energy technologies. More emphasis needs to be put by stakeholders on tertiary institutions to migrate to cleaner sources of energy, and policies need to be put in place in order to promote institutions to adopt these types of energies. Governments and other role-players need to be visible at all times in addressing energy challenges in tertiary institutions in the wake of the recent load-shedding concerns that have been crippling South Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Sibindi, Siyangiso
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources South Africa , Education, Higher South Africa , Education, Higher Environmental aspects South Africa , Environmental responsibility South Africa , Climate change mitigation South Africa , Sustainable development South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284537 , vital:56072
- Description: Organisations face major challenges to address the exploitation of non-renewable resources and consider management considerations for dealing with climate change. Organisations have been pushed to play a part in their carbon footprints and in curbing climate change. Among these organisations are tertiary institutions that can greatly impact environmental sustainability and address carbon dioxide emissions by embarking on renewable energy technologies. Tertiary institutions play a major role in society by the provision of skilled labour and personnel that are equipped to deal with a range of advancements and challenges. The sustainability of these tertiary institutions has thus been called into question due to the impact they can bring to societies. This research thus aims to identify the motives and barriers to renewable energy adoption in tertiary education institutions. To do this, a literature review was conducted to identify possible motives and barriers to renewable energy adoption. These were then compiled into a questionnaire that was sent to respondents of three different institutions. Respondents were then requested to give feedback on each of the motives and barriers. The respondents were also asked general questions found in literature that addressed the adoption of renewable energy technologies in tertiary institutions. The data was collected using the designed questionnaires. The respondents were able to articulate their perceived barriers and motives to the implementation of renewable energy technologies in tertiary institutions. Data analysis was done using thematic analysis. The results showed that the barriers in the implementation of renewable energy technologies in tertiary institutions were: ‘Cost to Install’, ‘Transition Process’ and ‘Government Policies’. The motives on why educational institutions need to embark on renewable energy projects were found to be ‘Energy Independence’, ‘Cleaner Source of Energy’ and ‘Reduction in Carbon Emissions’. The cost of renewable energy technologies, the process of moving from the Eskom grid, and renewable energy policies that are ambiguous were some factors that were highlighted by respondents on why it is challenging to adopt renewable energies in tertiary institutions. On the other hand, the effects of load shedding currently being experienced in the country and the migration to cleaner sources of energy that cause less harm to the environment, are some of the drivers noted by respondents on why tertiary institutions need to embark on renewable energy technologies. More emphasis needs to be put by stakeholders on tertiary institutions to migrate to cleaner sources of energy, and policies need to be put in place in order to promote institutions to adopt these types of energies. Governments and other role-players need to be visible at all times in addressing energy challenges in tertiary institutions in the wake of the recent load-shedding concerns that have been crippling South Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06