Ureaplasma species in the placenta and histopathology associated with preterm birth
- Authors: Sprong, Kaitlin Elizabeth
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54128 , vital:46310
- Description: The Eastern Cape province is known for its high perinatal morbidity and mortality rate. Studies from other countries indicate that Ureaplasma spp. have been associated with clinical chorioamnionitis, spontaneous preterm labor and preterm premature rupture of the fetal membranes. The prevalence of Ureaplasma urealyticum, Ureaplasma parvumand Mycoplasma hominisin the placenta and its role in preterm birth is unknown in South Africa. Objectives The objectives of this study were to: (i) analyze placental histology, maternal and neonatal outcomes and clinical presentation of preterm birth, (ii) detect Ureaplasma spp. and M. hominisin the placenta from cases of preterm birth, (iii) determine antibiotic susceptibility profiles of Ureaplasma spp. isolates and investigate mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, (iv) characterize the microbial diversity in the placenta using 16S rRNA next generation sequencing and(v) review pathologies to ascertain whether there is any association between Ureaplasma spp. in the placenta and adverse maternal, obstetric and neonatal outcomes. iiiABSTRACTBackground The Eastern Cape province is known for its high perinatal morbidity and mortality rate. Studies from other countries indicate that Ureaplasmaspp. have been associated with clinical chorioamnionitis, spontaneous preterm labor and preterm premature rupture of the fetal membranes. The prevalenceof Ureaplasmaurealyticum,UreaplasmaparvumandMycoplasmahominisin the placenta andits role in preterm birth is unknown in South Africa. Objectives The objectives of this study were to: (i) analyze placental histology, maternal and neonatal outcomes and clinical presentation of preterm birth, (ii) detect Ureaplasmaspp. and M. hominisin the placenta from cases of preterm birth, (iii) determine antibiotic susceptibility profiles of Ureaplasmaspp. isolates and investigate mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, (iv) characterize the microbial diversity in the placenta using 16S rRNA next generation sequencing and(v) review pathologies to ascertain whether there is any association between Ureaplasmaspp. inthe placenta and adverse maternal, obstetric and neonatal outcomes. MethodsPlacentas were collected from patients presenting with preterm birth (n=100; 28-34 weeks gestational age) and term birth (n=20; >38 weeks) regardless of the APGAR score. Placentas were submitted for histopathology and used for detection of Ureaplasmaspp. by culture (U9 broth, MycoDuo kits;BioRad) and PCR (DNA was extracted from culture and homogenized placental tissue). Antibiotic susceptibility profiles of Ureaplasmaspp isolates were determined by the SIR Antibiogram kit (BioRad) and microbroth dilution method. Molecular mechanisms of resistance were ascertained by PCR amplification of target genes. Placentas were sent to National Health Laboratory Servicesfor routine histopathology. Next generation sequencing was performed on 16S rRNA amplicons from placental DNA for analysis of microbial diversity. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Journalsim and Media Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Sprong, Kaitlin Elizabeth
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54128 , vital:46310
- Description: The Eastern Cape province is known for its high perinatal morbidity and mortality rate. Studies from other countries indicate that Ureaplasma spp. have been associated with clinical chorioamnionitis, spontaneous preterm labor and preterm premature rupture of the fetal membranes. The prevalence of Ureaplasma urealyticum, Ureaplasma parvumand Mycoplasma hominisin the placenta and its role in preterm birth is unknown in South Africa. Objectives The objectives of this study were to: (i) analyze placental histology, maternal and neonatal outcomes and clinical presentation of preterm birth, (ii) detect Ureaplasma spp. and M. hominisin the placenta from cases of preterm birth, (iii) determine antibiotic susceptibility profiles of Ureaplasma spp. isolates and investigate mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, (iv) characterize the microbial diversity in the placenta using 16S rRNA next generation sequencing and(v) review pathologies to ascertain whether there is any association between Ureaplasma spp. in the placenta and adverse maternal, obstetric and neonatal outcomes. iiiABSTRACTBackground The Eastern Cape province is known for its high perinatal morbidity and mortality rate. Studies from other countries indicate that Ureaplasmaspp. have been associated with clinical chorioamnionitis, spontaneous preterm labor and preterm premature rupture of the fetal membranes. The prevalenceof Ureaplasmaurealyticum,UreaplasmaparvumandMycoplasmahominisin the placenta andits role in preterm birth is unknown in South Africa. Objectives The objectives of this study were to: (i) analyze placental histology, maternal and neonatal outcomes and clinical presentation of preterm birth, (ii) detect Ureaplasmaspp. and M. hominisin the placenta from cases of preterm birth, (iii) determine antibiotic susceptibility profiles of Ureaplasmaspp. isolates and investigate mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, (iv) characterize the microbial diversity in the placenta using 16S rRNA next generation sequencing and(v) review pathologies to ascertain whether there is any association between Ureaplasmaspp. inthe placenta and adverse maternal, obstetric and neonatal outcomes. MethodsPlacentas were collected from patients presenting with preterm birth (n=100; 28-34 weeks gestational age) and term birth (n=20; >38 weeks) regardless of the APGAR score. Placentas were submitted for histopathology and used for detection of Ureaplasmaspp. by culture (U9 broth, MycoDuo kits;BioRad) and PCR (DNA was extracted from culture and homogenized placental tissue). Antibiotic susceptibility profiles of Ureaplasmaspp isolates were determined by the SIR Antibiogram kit (BioRad) and microbroth dilution method. Molecular mechanisms of resistance were ascertained by PCR amplification of target genes. Placentas were sent to National Health Laboratory Servicesfor routine histopathology. Next generation sequencing was performed on 16S rRNA amplicons from placental DNA for analysis of microbial diversity. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Journalsim and Media Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
An investigating of the causes of conflict in the department of employment and labour in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Dlwati, Siphesihle
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55346 , vital:51914
- Description: The public sector in South Africa accounts for a huge amount of the public service jobs and it has been learnt that there is also a considerable amount of dysfunctional conflict that affects the public sector. The main aim of this study is to investigate the causes of conflict in the public sector, with specific reference to the department of Employment and Labour, in Port Elizabeth. The research objectives were as follows; firstly, to investigate the causes of conflict or potential conflict at the department of Employment and Labour in Port Elizabeth. Secondly, the research sought to ascertain government employees’ approach to conflict and how it affects their performance (management and subordinates) with specific reference to the department of Employment and Labour, in Port Elizabeth. Thirdly, the research also sought to come up with the recommendations with the view to address conflict or what might be causing conflict at the department of Employment and Labour in Port Elizabeth. Workplace conflict was used in this study as a conceptual framework to understand conflict in the department of Employment and Labour, in Port Elizabeth. The research has followed a qualitative approach to gather data. Using a purposive selection sampling technique, 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted with employees of the department of Employment and Labour, in Port Elizabeth. Ethical considerations were adhered to throughout the course of the study. The findings of this study have revealed that lack of consultation or lack of an inclusive or participative approach in dealing with matters is regarded as the main cause of conflict within the studied organisation. The organisations lack conflict management skills. This study can be of benefit to the organisation, in that its recommendations can assist the organisation place more attention on improving its conflict management skills, which may help reduce the negative impacts of unmanaged conflicts. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2022
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Dlwati, Siphesihle
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55346 , vital:51914
- Description: The public sector in South Africa accounts for a huge amount of the public service jobs and it has been learnt that there is also a considerable amount of dysfunctional conflict that affects the public sector. The main aim of this study is to investigate the causes of conflict in the public sector, with specific reference to the department of Employment and Labour, in Port Elizabeth. The research objectives were as follows; firstly, to investigate the causes of conflict or potential conflict at the department of Employment and Labour in Port Elizabeth. Secondly, the research sought to ascertain government employees’ approach to conflict and how it affects their performance (management and subordinates) with specific reference to the department of Employment and Labour, in Port Elizabeth. Thirdly, the research also sought to come up with the recommendations with the view to address conflict or what might be causing conflict at the department of Employment and Labour in Port Elizabeth. Workplace conflict was used in this study as a conceptual framework to understand conflict in the department of Employment and Labour, in Port Elizabeth. The research has followed a qualitative approach to gather data. Using a purposive selection sampling technique, 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted with employees of the department of Employment and Labour, in Port Elizabeth. Ethical considerations were adhered to throughout the course of the study. The findings of this study have revealed that lack of consultation or lack of an inclusive or participative approach in dealing with matters is regarded as the main cause of conflict within the studied organisation. The organisations lack conflict management skills. This study can be of benefit to the organisation, in that its recommendations can assist the organisation place more attention on improving its conflict management skills, which may help reduce the negative impacts of unmanaged conflicts. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2022
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2022-04
The application of the prevention and combating of corrupt activities act
- Authors: Landman, Johan Abraham
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Corrupt practices--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51201 , vital:43223
- Description: The study will address the application of the Prevention and Combatting of Corrupt Activities Act (PCCAA) and the various offences that is created by PCCAA and how the coutls apply PCCAA in corruption cases. This study will compare the crimes that was created under the repealed Corruption Act with the crimes created under PCCAA, lt will further show how the courls interpreted the application of PCCAA. The infamous case of former police commissioner, Jacki Selebi will be discussed and how the Supreme coutl of Appeal applied section 4 of PCCAA. lt will furlher explore why section 5 of PCCAA needs amendment to be able to prosecute foreign public officials under PCCAA. The PCCAA Amendment Bill is currently before parliament to amend section 5 of PCCAA. This study will further explore how corruption is dealt considering hospitality and gifts. This must be the most unnoticed form of bribery that occurs which PCCAA does not specifically clearly addresses. This will shorlly be compared to the German Penal Code. All legislation has strengths and weaknesses, including PCCAA. This study will explore those strengths and weaknesses and how they can be solved. lt will explore loopholes within PCCAA and the strategy of 'unbundling' corruption and its effects. lt has been stressed by the courts that corruption is a very serious crime and therefore the reporting thereof is impoftant. This study will discuss the reporling of corruption in terms of section 34 of PCCAA. This study will fufther show through South African case law that the courls are too lenient when sentencing individuals guilty of corruption and that the minimum sentence needs to be the starting point for sentencing offenders. The courts should not have discretion to deviate from this minimum sentence given how serious the courls express corruption to be and the devastating effects it has. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Criminal and Procedural Law, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Landman, Johan Abraham
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Corrupt practices--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51201 , vital:43223
- Description: The study will address the application of the Prevention and Combatting of Corrupt Activities Act (PCCAA) and the various offences that is created by PCCAA and how the coutls apply PCCAA in corruption cases. This study will compare the crimes that was created under the repealed Corruption Act with the crimes created under PCCAA, lt will further show how the courls interpreted the application of PCCAA. The infamous case of former police commissioner, Jacki Selebi will be discussed and how the Supreme coutl of Appeal applied section 4 of PCCAA. lt will furlher explore why section 5 of PCCAA needs amendment to be able to prosecute foreign public officials under PCCAA. The PCCAA Amendment Bill is currently before parliament to amend section 5 of PCCAA. This study will further explore how corruption is dealt considering hospitality and gifts. This must be the most unnoticed form of bribery that occurs which PCCAA does not specifically clearly addresses. This will shorlly be compared to the German Penal Code. All legislation has strengths and weaknesses, including PCCAA. This study will explore those strengths and weaknesses and how they can be solved. lt will explore loopholes within PCCAA and the strategy of 'unbundling' corruption and its effects. lt has been stressed by the courts that corruption is a very serious crime and therefore the reporting thereof is impoftant. This study will discuss the reporling of corruption in terms of section 34 of PCCAA. This study will fufther show through South African case law that the courls are too lenient when sentencing individuals guilty of corruption and that the minimum sentence needs to be the starting point for sentencing offenders. The courts should not have discretion to deviate from this minimum sentence given how serious the courls express corruption to be and the devastating effects it has. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Criminal and Procedural Law, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Score driven volatility models based on skewed-t distributions
- Authors: Janse van Rensburg, Stéfan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , GARCH Model
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52010 , vital:43425
- Description: Score driven (SD) conditional volatility models allow for rich volatility dynamics and realistic distributional assumptions. These models link the evolution of time-varying volatility to the shape of the predictive density, which often results in models that are robust against outliers. These models also allow for conditional skewness. The combination of skewness and robustness may improve in-sample fit, conditional volatility forecasts and tail-risk forecasts. Therefore, this study proposes novel SD conditional volatility models with Skewed-t distributed innovations. For some of these models, the formof skewness partially negates robustness against outliers. This result demonstrates that the formof skewness requires careful consideration in the specification of SD conditional volatility models. The study also expands upon earlier observations that the assumption of negative conditional skewness may induce a form of volatility asymmetry in SD conditional volatility models that is incompatible with the leverage effect typically observed in equity markets. A simulation experiment shows that neglected leverage, therefore, biases maximum likelihood estimates. Additionally, the study considers SD conditional volatility models that account for leverage effects and have Skewed-t distributed innovations. An empirical application to the daily Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) / Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) All Share Index returns demonstrates the utility of SD conditional volatility models with Skewed-t distributed innovations. Extensions of these models that account for leverage prove competitive with more traditional conditional volatility models in terms of in-sample fit and tail-risk forecasts. These results suggest that the models considered in this study are useful within the context of financial risk management. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Janse van Rensburg, Stéfan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , GARCH Model
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52010 , vital:43425
- Description: Score driven (SD) conditional volatility models allow for rich volatility dynamics and realistic distributional assumptions. These models link the evolution of time-varying volatility to the shape of the predictive density, which often results in models that are robust against outliers. These models also allow for conditional skewness. The combination of skewness and robustness may improve in-sample fit, conditional volatility forecasts and tail-risk forecasts. Therefore, this study proposes novel SD conditional volatility models with Skewed-t distributed innovations. For some of these models, the formof skewness partially negates robustness against outliers. This result demonstrates that the formof skewness requires careful consideration in the specification of SD conditional volatility models. The study also expands upon earlier observations that the assumption of negative conditional skewness may induce a form of volatility asymmetry in SD conditional volatility models that is incompatible with the leverage effect typically observed in equity markets. A simulation experiment shows that neglected leverage, therefore, biases maximum likelihood estimates. Additionally, the study considers SD conditional volatility models that account for leverage effects and have Skewed-t distributed innovations. An empirical application to the daily Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) / Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) All Share Index returns demonstrates the utility of SD conditional volatility models with Skewed-t distributed innovations. Extensions of these models that account for leverage prove competitive with more traditional conditional volatility models in terms of in-sample fit and tail-risk forecasts. These results suggest that the models considered in this study are useful within the context of financial risk management. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Testing alternative Pinus species and hybrids for the South African structural pole market
- Authors: Ndovela, Lisakhanya Sizo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52002 , vital:43435
- Description: According to the South African National Standards, only Pinus canariensis, Pinus pinaster and Pinus radiata are suitable to be used as structural softwood poles. Of the three Pinus species mentioned, only P. radiata is still planted in South Africa and its future and availability is uncertain. The lack of availability of structural pine poles necessitates the South African forestry industry to look at alternative softwood species to plant. The broad aim of this study was to determine whether there are alternative Pinus species or hybrids that can be planted in South Africa’s Western and Southern Cape areas that will have suitable properties to be used as a resource for structural poles. This document reports on the testing of the strength and stiffness, as well as other relevant properties, of poles from several Pinus species and Pinus hybrids. The poles were derived from thinned eight-year-old tree stands in Knysna, Western Cape. Poles were peeled, kiln dried and graded before bending tests were carried out. Species and hybrids were also assessed for differences within a tree along the length. Also, the correlation between modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE) and wood grading properties was evaluated. The results showed that there was a highly significant effect of species and log position on the mean MOR of the poles. In general, poles from the bottom of the tree had a higher mean MOR than poles from the top of the tree. There was also a highly significant effect of species and pole position on the mean MOE of poles, with poles at the top of the trees generally having higher MOE values. A very concerning finding was that the 5th percentile MOR and mean MOE values of all the species were far lower than required by SANS 10163-1 (2003). Even for the best performing species, P. radiata, the MOR 5th percentile value was less than half the required value, while the mean MOE was also 39% lower than the required mean MOE. Apart from P. radiata, the P. maximinoi performed the best of all species and hybrids since it had a statistically similar mean MOR and MOE to P. radiata. P. elliottii and the hybrid P. elliottii x caribaea had statistically significant lower MOR and MOE than P. radiata. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Ndovela, Lisakhanya Sizo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52002 , vital:43435
- Description: According to the South African National Standards, only Pinus canariensis, Pinus pinaster and Pinus radiata are suitable to be used as structural softwood poles. Of the three Pinus species mentioned, only P. radiata is still planted in South Africa and its future and availability is uncertain. The lack of availability of structural pine poles necessitates the South African forestry industry to look at alternative softwood species to plant. The broad aim of this study was to determine whether there are alternative Pinus species or hybrids that can be planted in South Africa’s Western and Southern Cape areas that will have suitable properties to be used as a resource for structural poles. This document reports on the testing of the strength and stiffness, as well as other relevant properties, of poles from several Pinus species and Pinus hybrids. The poles were derived from thinned eight-year-old tree stands in Knysna, Western Cape. Poles were peeled, kiln dried and graded before bending tests were carried out. Species and hybrids were also assessed for differences within a tree along the length. Also, the correlation between modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE) and wood grading properties was evaluated. The results showed that there was a highly significant effect of species and log position on the mean MOR of the poles. In general, poles from the bottom of the tree had a higher mean MOR than poles from the top of the tree. There was also a highly significant effect of species and pole position on the mean MOE of poles, with poles at the top of the trees generally having higher MOE values. A very concerning finding was that the 5th percentile MOR and mean MOE values of all the species were far lower than required by SANS 10163-1 (2003). Even for the best performing species, P. radiata, the MOR 5th percentile value was less than half the required value, while the mean MOE was also 39% lower than the required mean MOE. Apart from P. radiata, the P. maximinoi performed the best of all species and hybrids since it had a statistically similar mean MOR and MOE to P. radiata. P. elliottii and the hybrid P. elliottii x caribaea had statistically significant lower MOR and MOE than P. radiata. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A data-driven decision-making model for the third-party logistics industry in Africa
- Authors: Moyo, Faith
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53875 , vital:46022
- Description: Third-party logistics (3PL) providers have continued to be key players in the supply chain network and have witnessed a growth in the usage of information technology. This growth has enhanced the volume of structured and unstructured data that is collected at a high velocity, and is of rich variety, sometimes described as “Big Data”. Leaders in the 3PL industry are constantly seeking to effectively and efficiently mature their abilities to exploit this data to gain business value through data-driven decision-making (DDDM). DDDM helps the leaders to reduce the reliance they place on observations and intuition to make crucial business decisions in a volatile business environment. The aim of this research was to develop a prescriptive model for DDDM in 3PLs. The model consists of iterative elements that prescribe guidelines to decision-makers in the 3PL industry on how to adopt DDDM. A literature review of existing theoretical frameworks and models for DDDM was conducted to determine the extent to which they contribute towards DDDM for 3PLs. The Design-Science Research Methodology (DSRM) was followed to address the aim of the research and applied to pragmatically and iteratively develop and evaluate the artefact (the model for DDDM) in the real-world context of a 3PL. The literature findings revealed that the challenges with DDDM in organisations include three main categories of challenges related to data quality, data management, vision and capabilities. Once the challenges with DDDM were established, a prescriptive model was designed and developed for DDDM in 3PLs. Qualitative data was collected from semi-structured interviews to gain an understanding of the problems and possible solutions in the real-world context of 3PLs. An As-Is Analysis in the real-world case 3PL company confirmed the challenges identified in literature, and that data is still used in the 3PL company for descriptive and diagnostic analytics to aid with the decision-making processes. This highlights that there is still room for maturity into using data for predictive and prescriptive analytics that will, in turn, improve the decision-making process. An improved second version of the model was demonstrated to the participants (the targeted users), who had the opportunity to evaluate the model. The findings revealed that the model provided clear guidelines on how to make data-driven decisions and that the feedback loop and the data culture aspects highlighted in the design were some of the important features of the model. Some improvements were suggested by participants. A field study of three data analytics tools was conducted to identify the advantages and disadvantages of each as well as to highlight the status of DDDM at the real-world case 3PL. The limitations of the second version of the model, together with the recommendations from the participants were used to inform the improved and revised third version of the model. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Moyo, Faith
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53875 , vital:46022
- Description: Third-party logistics (3PL) providers have continued to be key players in the supply chain network and have witnessed a growth in the usage of information technology. This growth has enhanced the volume of structured and unstructured data that is collected at a high velocity, and is of rich variety, sometimes described as “Big Data”. Leaders in the 3PL industry are constantly seeking to effectively and efficiently mature their abilities to exploit this data to gain business value through data-driven decision-making (DDDM). DDDM helps the leaders to reduce the reliance they place on observations and intuition to make crucial business decisions in a volatile business environment. The aim of this research was to develop a prescriptive model for DDDM in 3PLs. The model consists of iterative elements that prescribe guidelines to decision-makers in the 3PL industry on how to adopt DDDM. A literature review of existing theoretical frameworks and models for DDDM was conducted to determine the extent to which they contribute towards DDDM for 3PLs. The Design-Science Research Methodology (DSRM) was followed to address the aim of the research and applied to pragmatically and iteratively develop and evaluate the artefact (the model for DDDM) in the real-world context of a 3PL. The literature findings revealed that the challenges with DDDM in organisations include three main categories of challenges related to data quality, data management, vision and capabilities. Once the challenges with DDDM were established, a prescriptive model was designed and developed for DDDM in 3PLs. Qualitative data was collected from semi-structured interviews to gain an understanding of the problems and possible solutions in the real-world context of 3PLs. An As-Is Analysis in the real-world case 3PL company confirmed the challenges identified in literature, and that data is still used in the 3PL company for descriptive and diagnostic analytics to aid with the decision-making processes. This highlights that there is still room for maturity into using data for predictive and prescriptive analytics that will, in turn, improve the decision-making process. An improved second version of the model was demonstrated to the participants (the targeted users), who had the opportunity to evaluate the model. The findings revealed that the model provided clear guidelines on how to make data-driven decisions and that the feedback loop and the data culture aspects highlighted in the design were some of the important features of the model. Some improvements were suggested by participants. A field study of three data analytics tools was conducted to identify the advantages and disadvantages of each as well as to highlight the status of DDDM at the real-world case 3PL. The limitations of the second version of the model, together with the recommendations from the participants were used to inform the improved and revised third version of the model. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Investigating customary marriage conflict among the Ndebele speaking people in Mathula Village in Limpopo Province
- Authors: Msiza, Dina
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54504 , vital:46618
- Description: Recognition of Customary Marriages Act of 1998 in South Africa remains one of the greatest initiatives towards equality amongst spouses. However, even with the RCMA of 1998 that is set to regulate customary marriages, customary marriage conflict remains rife across various ethnic groups in South Africa. The RCMA of 1998 leaves a lot of room for interpretation by different cultures and some elements that certain ethnic groups consider as crucial in fulfilling customary marriages are excluded. So, to contribute to Conflict Studies with reference to customary marriage conflict, this study investigated customary marriage conflict among Ndebele speaking people in Mathula Village in Limpopo. The purpose of this study was to investigate the causes of customary marriage among Ndebele speaking people in Mathula Village in Limpopo. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed through content analysis, coding, and thematic analysis. During the interviews, non-participant observation was used. Purposeful sampling was used to select participants. In the final analysis, this study provides some recommendations with the view of addressing some of the challenges that were identified. Some of the recommendations include that there is a need to rethink the process of customary marriage in relation to the payment of lobola. Further, there is a need for an in-depth research going forward. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Msiza, Dina
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54504 , vital:46618
- Description: Recognition of Customary Marriages Act of 1998 in South Africa remains one of the greatest initiatives towards equality amongst spouses. However, even with the RCMA of 1998 that is set to regulate customary marriages, customary marriage conflict remains rife across various ethnic groups in South Africa. The RCMA of 1998 leaves a lot of room for interpretation by different cultures and some elements that certain ethnic groups consider as crucial in fulfilling customary marriages are excluded. So, to contribute to Conflict Studies with reference to customary marriage conflict, this study investigated customary marriage conflict among Ndebele speaking people in Mathula Village in Limpopo. The purpose of this study was to investigate the causes of customary marriage among Ndebele speaking people in Mathula Village in Limpopo. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed through content analysis, coding, and thematic analysis. During the interviews, non-participant observation was used. Purposeful sampling was used to select participants. In the final analysis, this study provides some recommendations with the view of addressing some of the challenges that were identified. Some of the recommendations include that there is a need to rethink the process of customary marriage in relation to the payment of lobola. Further, there is a need for an in-depth research going forward. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Main thesis title 2021: subtitle if needed. If no subtitle follow instructions in manual
- Authors: Mashinini, Peter Madindwa
- Date: 2015-03
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53340 , vital:45138
- Description: Ti6Al4V alloy usage is increasing due to high demand from the aerospace and automotive industries as well as the field of medical implants. Therefore, identifying the most effective joining technique is critically important to ensure that optimum life can be achieved by welded components. This is especially important for the aerospace industry where fatigue life of the welded joints is vital. This research identified two relatively new joining technologies for Titanium sheet, namely, Friction Stir Welding (FSW),a solid-state process, and Laser Beam Welding (LBW),a fusion joining process. It was therefore vitalto conduct a systematic study of these two processes and compare results to illustrate which process attributes to static and dynamic properties. This investigation was accomplished by varying the process heat input for both FSW and LBW. The main parameters used to control process heat input were rotational-and traverse speed for FSW and laser power and traverse speed for LBW. In FSW, a reaction torque was used to describe the process energy in order to achieve the plasticised material condition. Preliminary work was done to establish the influencing factors for a successful weld which included tool optimisation but process optimisation was not discussed in elaborative detail. In LBW, traverse speed was identified as the critical control parameter to ensure good weld penetration. Weld width was recorded as it showed strong correlation to heat input rates. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, Mechanical Engineering, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-03
- Authors: Mashinini, Peter Madindwa
- Date: 2015-03
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53340 , vital:45138
- Description: Ti6Al4V alloy usage is increasing due to high demand from the aerospace and automotive industries as well as the field of medical implants. Therefore, identifying the most effective joining technique is critically important to ensure that optimum life can be achieved by welded components. This is especially important for the aerospace industry where fatigue life of the welded joints is vital. This research identified two relatively new joining technologies for Titanium sheet, namely, Friction Stir Welding (FSW),a solid-state process, and Laser Beam Welding (LBW),a fusion joining process. It was therefore vitalto conduct a systematic study of these two processes and compare results to illustrate which process attributes to static and dynamic properties. This investigation was accomplished by varying the process heat input for both FSW and LBW. The main parameters used to control process heat input were rotational-and traverse speed for FSW and laser power and traverse speed for LBW. In FSW, a reaction torque was used to describe the process energy in order to achieve the plasticised material condition. Preliminary work was done to establish the influencing factors for a successful weld which included tool optimisation but process optimisation was not discussed in elaborative detail. In LBW, traverse speed was identified as the critical control parameter to ensure good weld penetration. Weld width was recorded as it showed strong correlation to heat input rates. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, Mechanical Engineering, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-03
South Africa’s auto industry trade elasticity to economic performance in BRICS countries
- Authors: Siswana, Babalwa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52980 , vital:44901
- Description: South Africa’s automotive industry is a vital element in the country’s economy. This sector has been a strategically important sector in South Africa, and it is imperative to ensure not only the sustainability of the automotive sector in the country, but also the continued growth of the industry. This study addressed the determinants of South Africa’s automotive exports to BRICS countries. The main aim of the study is to examine South Africa’s automotive industry trade elasticity to economic performance in BRICS countries. An econometric assessment was done using different estimation techniques, namely Dynamic Panel Data General Method of Moments (GMM) on annual data from 2000 to 2016, quantile regression for the same period, and ANOVA analysis. This study used eight endogenous variables in explaining determinants of South African automotive export to BRICS countries. The results from the GMM technique suggested that only four variables out of eight variables were statistically significant, namely, automotive exports lagged once, corporate tax, research and development (R&D), and real exchange rates. Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), trade openness, and R&D all reduced automotive exports in South Africa. Quantile regression provided difference compared to the GMM dynamic panel data analysis. In the panel data analysis, corporate tax was positive, while in the quantile regression only Brazil’s corporate tax had a positive effect on South African automotive exports. FDI results in panel data GMM results were the same as quantile, while other variables results were not consistence with the dynamic panel data GMM results. The ANOVA results suggested that significant differences between BRICS countries impact on South Africa’s automotive exports. The findings indicate that South African automotive exports to BRICS have been proven to be elastic in four variables., namely, automotive exports lagged once, corporate tax, research and development (R&D), and real exchange rates. The South African automotive industry implemented policies such as the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP) and the Automotive Production and Development Programme (APDP); however, these policies failed to realise the targets set by the v industry. On the policies regarding automotive exports in South Africa, it is equally important to pay attention to corporate tax in South Africa as well as in other BRICS countries. BRICS economies lack policy synchronisation, hence the adverse impact on South African automotive exports. South Africa’s BRICS counterparts are knowledge-driven economies. Developing a strong human base is required in the sector. In addition, there is a need for BRICS countries to have a free trade agreement (FTA) to enhance trade amongst member states. Having free trade could help to make BRICS economic integration more meaningful to BRICS countries and the region. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Siswana, Babalwa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52980 , vital:44901
- Description: South Africa’s automotive industry is a vital element in the country’s economy. This sector has been a strategically important sector in South Africa, and it is imperative to ensure not only the sustainability of the automotive sector in the country, but also the continued growth of the industry. This study addressed the determinants of South Africa’s automotive exports to BRICS countries. The main aim of the study is to examine South Africa’s automotive industry trade elasticity to economic performance in BRICS countries. An econometric assessment was done using different estimation techniques, namely Dynamic Panel Data General Method of Moments (GMM) on annual data from 2000 to 2016, quantile regression for the same period, and ANOVA analysis. This study used eight endogenous variables in explaining determinants of South African automotive export to BRICS countries. The results from the GMM technique suggested that only four variables out of eight variables were statistically significant, namely, automotive exports lagged once, corporate tax, research and development (R&D), and real exchange rates. Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), trade openness, and R&D all reduced automotive exports in South Africa. Quantile regression provided difference compared to the GMM dynamic panel data analysis. In the panel data analysis, corporate tax was positive, while in the quantile regression only Brazil’s corporate tax had a positive effect on South African automotive exports. FDI results in panel data GMM results were the same as quantile, while other variables results were not consistence with the dynamic panel data GMM results. The ANOVA results suggested that significant differences between BRICS countries impact on South Africa’s automotive exports. The findings indicate that South African automotive exports to BRICS have been proven to be elastic in four variables., namely, automotive exports lagged once, corporate tax, research and development (R&D), and real exchange rates. The South African automotive industry implemented policies such as the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP) and the Automotive Production and Development Programme (APDP); however, these policies failed to realise the targets set by the v industry. On the policies regarding automotive exports in South Africa, it is equally important to pay attention to corporate tax in South Africa as well as in other BRICS countries. BRICS economies lack policy synchronisation, hence the adverse impact on South African automotive exports. South Africa’s BRICS counterparts are knowledge-driven economies. Developing a strong human base is required in the sector. In addition, there is a need for BRICS countries to have a free trade agreement (FTA) to enhance trade amongst member states. Having free trade could help to make BRICS economic integration more meaningful to BRICS countries and the region. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The decision to stay or go: study of generation y chartered accountants in South Africa
- Authors: Hluyo, Fungai
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53031 , vital:44878
- Description: Having deduced from literature that millennials have a very high employee turnover, the purpose of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of what factors would make millennial Chartered Accountants in South Africa, or (CA)s, stay with or leave organisations. This is a case study within a qualitative research paradigm and followed an interpretivistic approach. A purposeful sampling technique was used in selecting a sample of seven millennial CAs for data collection. The sample constituted millennials who had changed jobs at least once in the past five years as these fell within the scope of this study. Semistructured interviews were conducted virtually using an interview guide as a data collecting instrument. Data saturation was reached after the interview of the sixth participant. The interview process provided a good blance of subjective views, opinions, emotions, and values of all participants. Having transcribed the interview transcripts, a manually detailed coding process was completed. Eight main emerging themes were identified which ultimately provided responses to the research questions. The data analysis revealed that millennial CA(SA)s prioritise, and in fact, demand flexibility coupled with a work-life balance. They expect their employers to understand and be supportive of these expectations. Other important retaining factors for this cohort of employees include, amongst others; training and development opportunities, growth, diversity, obtaining performance feedback, and coaching. An important issue that participants highlighted is the importance of ethics at work and or ethical leadership. The researcher could not probe more into this due to time constraints. This is recommended for further research. Having interviewed only six participants, this relatively small number poses a limitation to this study as these findings cannot be generalised to apply to all millennial CAs in South Africa. The data collected however, provided useful recommendations to employers looking for ways to retain millennial Chartered Accountants. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Hluyo, Fungai
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53031 , vital:44878
- Description: Having deduced from literature that millennials have a very high employee turnover, the purpose of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of what factors would make millennial Chartered Accountants in South Africa, or (CA)s, stay with or leave organisations. This is a case study within a qualitative research paradigm and followed an interpretivistic approach. A purposeful sampling technique was used in selecting a sample of seven millennial CAs for data collection. The sample constituted millennials who had changed jobs at least once in the past five years as these fell within the scope of this study. Semistructured interviews were conducted virtually using an interview guide as a data collecting instrument. Data saturation was reached after the interview of the sixth participant. The interview process provided a good blance of subjective views, opinions, emotions, and values of all participants. Having transcribed the interview transcripts, a manually detailed coding process was completed. Eight main emerging themes were identified which ultimately provided responses to the research questions. The data analysis revealed that millennial CA(SA)s prioritise, and in fact, demand flexibility coupled with a work-life balance. They expect their employers to understand and be supportive of these expectations. Other important retaining factors for this cohort of employees include, amongst others; training and development opportunities, growth, diversity, obtaining performance feedback, and coaching. An important issue that participants highlighted is the importance of ethics at work and or ethical leadership. The researcher could not probe more into this due to time constraints. This is recommended for further research. Having interviewed only six participants, this relatively small number poses a limitation to this study as these findings cannot be generalised to apply to all millennial CAs in South Africa. The data collected however, provided useful recommendations to employers looking for ways to retain millennial Chartered Accountants. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The use of photography to visualise abstracted narratives of emotions associated with trauma
- Authors: Warner, Lauren
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54585 , vital:46726
- Description: The purpose of this qualitative research study is to comment on the use of photography to visualise abstracted narratives of the emotions associated with trauma. This is a practicebased study developed on the interweaving of theoretical and practical output. The practical output produced a photographic body of work which argues in favour of an abstracted narrative for the visualisation of trauma by engaging with visualised emotions associated with trauma. The theoretical output of the study relates to three visual themes: firstly, the direct or actual moment of trauma; secondly, the triggering of the traumatic experience and lastly, the abstracted narrative of emotions associated with trauma. Photographing a traumatic event freezes a moment in which the subjects are continually engaging in the traumatic experience. Sontag (2003: 93) asserts that this type of direct photographic representation should be discouraged for fear of aestheticising pain and desensitising the viewer to horror. The study aims not to visualise actual traumatic events, but rather to engage with abstracted narratives of emotions associated with trauma experienced or felt, both directly and indirectly. This is achieved by firstly, providing a context on how the role of photography dealing with trauma has evolved to move beyond the depiction of an actual traumatic experience. Secondly, Gillian Rose’s (2016) Visual Methodologies Framework is introduced and photographers Roger Ballen’s Cut Loose (2015) and Jo Ractliffe’s 1999 work entitled Vlakplaas: 2 June 1999 (Drive-by Shooting) analysed as visual expressions of trauma. Similarly, photographers Robert Frank’s 1978 work entitled Sick of goodby’s and Manuela Thames’s 2019 work entitled Trauma are analysed to reflect on the use of abstracted narratives as they comment on personal traumatic experiences. Lastly, the body of work produced in the practice-based output of the study, Public Places: Private Spaces, are analysed as a vehicle through which emotions are associated with trauma. These traumatic experiences are visually expressed using abstracted images in triptych narratives. This study contributes to the current body of knowledge by critically addressing ways of thinking about the visualisation of trauma. This provides insight into the topic of trauma and the various ways in which it could be visualised without depicting the actual trauma (with the potential of continuously wounding or replaying trauma) and instead engaging with the visualised traumatic experience as an abstracted narrative within a South African context. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Visual and Performing Arts, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Warner, Lauren
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54585 , vital:46726
- Description: The purpose of this qualitative research study is to comment on the use of photography to visualise abstracted narratives of the emotions associated with trauma. This is a practicebased study developed on the interweaving of theoretical and practical output. The practical output produced a photographic body of work which argues in favour of an abstracted narrative for the visualisation of trauma by engaging with visualised emotions associated with trauma. The theoretical output of the study relates to three visual themes: firstly, the direct or actual moment of trauma; secondly, the triggering of the traumatic experience and lastly, the abstracted narrative of emotions associated with trauma. Photographing a traumatic event freezes a moment in which the subjects are continually engaging in the traumatic experience. Sontag (2003: 93) asserts that this type of direct photographic representation should be discouraged for fear of aestheticising pain and desensitising the viewer to horror. The study aims not to visualise actual traumatic events, but rather to engage with abstracted narratives of emotions associated with trauma experienced or felt, both directly and indirectly. This is achieved by firstly, providing a context on how the role of photography dealing with trauma has evolved to move beyond the depiction of an actual traumatic experience. Secondly, Gillian Rose’s (2016) Visual Methodologies Framework is introduced and photographers Roger Ballen’s Cut Loose (2015) and Jo Ractliffe’s 1999 work entitled Vlakplaas: 2 June 1999 (Drive-by Shooting) analysed as visual expressions of trauma. Similarly, photographers Robert Frank’s 1978 work entitled Sick of goodby’s and Manuela Thames’s 2019 work entitled Trauma are analysed to reflect on the use of abstracted narratives as they comment on personal traumatic experiences. Lastly, the body of work produced in the practice-based output of the study, Public Places: Private Spaces, are analysed as a vehicle through which emotions are associated with trauma. These traumatic experiences are visually expressed using abstracted images in triptych narratives. This study contributes to the current body of knowledge by critically addressing ways of thinking about the visualisation of trauma. This provides insight into the topic of trauma and the various ways in which it could be visualised without depicting the actual trauma (with the potential of continuously wounding or replaying trauma) and instead engaging with the visualised traumatic experience as an abstracted narrative within a South African context. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Visual and Performing Arts, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Effect of fire severity on Afrotemperate forest tree survival
- Authors: Giddey, Brandon Louis
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55385 , vital:51988
- Description: Weather patterns have changed globally with increased fire danger weather conditions, along with poor management and fire suppression, likely contributing to the increase in prevalence of large wildfires. Ecosystems such as temperate broadleaved forests, where fire is limited by climatic conditions, are particularly at risk of altered fire regimes related to climate change. It is thus important to monitor the effects of fire in these ecosystems. Satellite remote sensing is a cost-effective way to assess spatial variability of fire effects on a landscape scale and has become an increasingly used tool for studying fire severity. In the southern Cape of South Africa during October-November 2018, a large wildfire burnt patches of Southern Cape Afrotemperate Forest (hereafter ‘Afrotemperate forest’). This provided an opportunity to investigate the accuracy of a satellite index for fire severity and the effect of fire on Afrotemperate forest survival. The first objective was to verify through field observations the accuracy of the differenced Normalised Burn Ratio (dNBR) as an index of fire severity derived from Sentinel 2 images in Afrotemperate forest. The second objective was to investigate the effect of fire severity and tree size on the post-fire survival of Afrotemperate forest tree species. For the first objective, stem fire severity, estimated from observed damage to the main stem, was recorded for 1 648 trees in 87 plots and linear regression used to test whether the observed measure of fire severity was related to dNBR. For the second objective, stem fire severity and tree survival 19-24 months post-fire were recorded for 40 species and 1 378 trees in 88 plots. Trees were considered to have survived if they resprouted from the main stem or had green foliage in the canopy. The survival response was assessed in relation to stem fire severity and tree size for all trees collectively and for 10 species (with sample size > 40) individually, using logistic regression. A strong linear relationship between dNBR and stem fire severity (r2 = 0.69, p < 0.001) confirmed the accuracy of dNBR as a measure of fire severity in Afrotemperate forest. In the fire investigated, 4 628 ha of Afrotemperate forest burnt of which 67% burnt at low severity, 21% at medium severity and 12% at high severity. The dNBR values associated with fire severity categories were comparable between Afrotemperate and North American forests, suggesting that dNBR values are relatively standard across forest types. Information on the distribution of fire severity facilitates investigation of further questions regarding past and future fire regimes and the fire ecology of Afrotemperate forest. The post-fire survival rate of Afrotemperate forest trees was 45% which is comparable to that in coniferous forests of North America but lower than that in temperate forests of Australia and Portugal and the neighbouring dune thicket which shares several species with Afrotemperate forest. Fire severity had a significant negative effect on survival and tree size a significant positive effect. Total variance explained by the model (for species collectively) was 40.8%, of which fire severity and tree size combined explained 13.2%, and species as random factor, 27.6%. Respective tree species showed differential survival responses – four species showed high survival (> 60% of individuals), while five species showed low survival (< 40%). This study was the first post-fire assessment of the resprouting ability of Afrotemperate forest trees and a third of the trees surveyed (for species collectively) resprouted from the stem. This suggested that resprouting from the stem is a primary means of post-fire recovery in Afrotemperate forest trees, in contrast with previous assertions that several common canopy species, including Podocarpus latifolius, Afrocarpus falcatus, Scutia myrtina, Scolopia mundii and Rapanea melanophloeos, are unable to resprout. Varying resilience to fire among species supports previous suggestions that fire affects species’ composition and diversity in these forests and calls for careful management of fire regimes in the face of global change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2022
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Giddey, Brandon Louis
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55385 , vital:51988
- Description: Weather patterns have changed globally with increased fire danger weather conditions, along with poor management and fire suppression, likely contributing to the increase in prevalence of large wildfires. Ecosystems such as temperate broadleaved forests, where fire is limited by climatic conditions, are particularly at risk of altered fire regimes related to climate change. It is thus important to monitor the effects of fire in these ecosystems. Satellite remote sensing is a cost-effective way to assess spatial variability of fire effects on a landscape scale and has become an increasingly used tool for studying fire severity. In the southern Cape of South Africa during October-November 2018, a large wildfire burnt patches of Southern Cape Afrotemperate Forest (hereafter ‘Afrotemperate forest’). This provided an opportunity to investigate the accuracy of a satellite index for fire severity and the effect of fire on Afrotemperate forest survival. The first objective was to verify through field observations the accuracy of the differenced Normalised Burn Ratio (dNBR) as an index of fire severity derived from Sentinel 2 images in Afrotemperate forest. The second objective was to investigate the effect of fire severity and tree size on the post-fire survival of Afrotemperate forest tree species. For the first objective, stem fire severity, estimated from observed damage to the main stem, was recorded for 1 648 trees in 87 plots and linear regression used to test whether the observed measure of fire severity was related to dNBR. For the second objective, stem fire severity and tree survival 19-24 months post-fire were recorded for 40 species and 1 378 trees in 88 plots. Trees were considered to have survived if they resprouted from the main stem or had green foliage in the canopy. The survival response was assessed in relation to stem fire severity and tree size for all trees collectively and for 10 species (with sample size > 40) individually, using logistic regression. A strong linear relationship between dNBR and stem fire severity (r2 = 0.69, p < 0.001) confirmed the accuracy of dNBR as a measure of fire severity in Afrotemperate forest. In the fire investigated, 4 628 ha of Afrotemperate forest burnt of which 67% burnt at low severity, 21% at medium severity and 12% at high severity. The dNBR values associated with fire severity categories were comparable between Afrotemperate and North American forests, suggesting that dNBR values are relatively standard across forest types. Information on the distribution of fire severity facilitates investigation of further questions regarding past and future fire regimes and the fire ecology of Afrotemperate forest. The post-fire survival rate of Afrotemperate forest trees was 45% which is comparable to that in coniferous forests of North America but lower than that in temperate forests of Australia and Portugal and the neighbouring dune thicket which shares several species with Afrotemperate forest. Fire severity had a significant negative effect on survival and tree size a significant positive effect. Total variance explained by the model (for species collectively) was 40.8%, of which fire severity and tree size combined explained 13.2%, and species as random factor, 27.6%. Respective tree species showed differential survival responses – four species showed high survival (> 60% of individuals), while five species showed low survival (< 40%). This study was the first post-fire assessment of the resprouting ability of Afrotemperate forest trees and a third of the trees surveyed (for species collectively) resprouted from the stem. This suggested that resprouting from the stem is a primary means of post-fire recovery in Afrotemperate forest trees, in contrast with previous assertions that several common canopy species, including Podocarpus latifolius, Afrocarpus falcatus, Scutia myrtina, Scolopia mundii and Rapanea melanophloeos, are unable to resprout. Varying resilience to fire among species supports previous suggestions that fire affects species’ composition and diversity in these forests and calls for careful management of fire regimes in the face of global change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2022
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2022-04
An assessment of different methods for measuring mammal diversity in two Southern African arid ecosystems.
- Authors: Burt, Chloe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Biodiversity -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52338 , vital:43591
- Description: A current critical environmental problem is the loss of biodiversity. To allow for adaptive management and effective conservation interventions, reliable data needs to be readily available and effectively collected. To gather reliable data, the most appropriate method must be used. The aim of this thesis was to compare the effectiveness and efficiency of different mammal diversity sampling techniques, including discussing specificities and complementarity of each. I also assessed the limitation of methods in terms of the influence of species traits on detectability. I used standard mammal field methods such as block transects, camera traps, track plates, spotlight surveys, mist nets, acoustic surveys, and live traps for a wide range of mammal taxa, and also included the use of local knowledge in the comparison. I assessed the cost-efficiency of each method by determining the cost per species. The efficiency of each method was assessed by observing when the species accumulation curve reached an asymptote. The effectiveness was determined by the species richness and the taxonomic groups the method detected. My results indicated that block transects were the most efficient and effective method to assess species richness. However, a combination of methods allowed for a more comprehensive survey and my results indicate that block transects and live traps were the best combination. It is important to note, not only the effectiveness and efficiency of methods be assessed, but also their limitations. I therefore also assessed the influence of species traits on the detectability of five methods. The species traits that I tested were body size, diet, activity, and if they lived in groups. On both study areas, body size was the main trait that influenced detectability with most field methods. Diet and activity had varying influence on detectability depending on the method. Group living did not significantly influence detectability. Based on my results, I provide guidelines for choosing the most appropriate survey method for targeted studies on mammals in arid ecosystems as well as guidelines for choosing the most appropriate methods for a terrestrial mammal inventory. Survey methods selection and guidelines provided here can allow for effective monitoring and therefore effective and adaptive management and having reliable and repeatable outcomes from surveys. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Burt, Chloe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Biodiversity -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52338 , vital:43591
- Description: A current critical environmental problem is the loss of biodiversity. To allow for adaptive management and effective conservation interventions, reliable data needs to be readily available and effectively collected. To gather reliable data, the most appropriate method must be used. The aim of this thesis was to compare the effectiveness and efficiency of different mammal diversity sampling techniques, including discussing specificities and complementarity of each. I also assessed the limitation of methods in terms of the influence of species traits on detectability. I used standard mammal field methods such as block transects, camera traps, track plates, spotlight surveys, mist nets, acoustic surveys, and live traps for a wide range of mammal taxa, and also included the use of local knowledge in the comparison. I assessed the cost-efficiency of each method by determining the cost per species. The efficiency of each method was assessed by observing when the species accumulation curve reached an asymptote. The effectiveness was determined by the species richness and the taxonomic groups the method detected. My results indicated that block transects were the most efficient and effective method to assess species richness. However, a combination of methods allowed for a more comprehensive survey and my results indicate that block transects and live traps were the best combination. It is important to note, not only the effectiveness and efficiency of methods be assessed, but also their limitations. I therefore also assessed the influence of species traits on the detectability of five methods. The species traits that I tested were body size, diet, activity, and if they lived in groups. On both study areas, body size was the main trait that influenced detectability with most field methods. Diet and activity had varying influence on detectability depending on the method. Group living did not significantly influence detectability. Based on my results, I provide guidelines for choosing the most appropriate survey method for targeted studies on mammals in arid ecosystems as well as guidelines for choosing the most appropriate methods for a terrestrial mammal inventory. Survey methods selection and guidelines provided here can allow for effective monitoring and therefore effective and adaptive management and having reliable and repeatable outcomes from surveys. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The impact of talent management on profitability at Business Connexion
- Authors: Mbulawa, Xolani
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53337 , vital:45139
- Description: Human resource is seen as one of the key organisational factors for business success. The latest focus in the business arena has been how talent can be optimised to improve business success. When one reflects and looks back from the 1940s to the 1980s, it is clear that HR was not seen as a business unit that could impact profitability. It is clear in the literature that from the 1900s HR has evolved to being a business partner and a catalyst to improving financial performance within organisations. This has predominately been driven by HR ensuring the attraction and retention of high potential employees who can contribute to profits. The study’s focal point is whether talent management components impact profitability. The selected talent management components for this study are namely talent strategy, talent recruitment, talent development, performance management, talent retention, and succession planning. A strong belief exist that poor implementation of talent management components impedes on companies reaching optimum profit levels. It is for this reason that this study will argue the importance of talent management components as a strategic obligation in the current competitive war for talent. Business reality demands that companies should ensure having current and future talent needs addressed if they want to stay competitive. The war for talent has led to companies fighting for high potential talent, not only through remuneration packages ,but taking into account other talent management components that encompasses aspects such as work-life balance, better performance management linked to rewards and incentives , challenging work, succession planning etc. The researcher took a view to have this study done within BCX who is an employer of the researcher. The hypothesis utilised is the application of talent management components as an approach and process to facilitate profitability within BCX. Research shows that most companies are taking talent management very serious and are fully aware of its impact to productivity and profitability. Businesses in the service industry identified that implementing talent management processes and approaches is vital to competitive edge and profitability. However many companies are still struggling to reach the real understanding of what it meant by talent management. The research data indicates that most respondents are fully aware of the importance of these components. However at BCX, either they are unaware, uncertain on some of the talent components within the company and are unsure of the existence of these components and their impact to profitability. The literature reviewed in chapter two deliberates talent management components assessed in the questionnaire as imperative in contributing to profitability. Business Connexion does not implement these components to the extent of success. However some of the components are well implemented and managed such as performance management. Managers at Business Connexion to some extent have conflicting views of how the company is implementing these components and on their impact to profitability. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-11
- Authors: Mbulawa, Xolani
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53337 , vital:45139
- Description: Human resource is seen as one of the key organisational factors for business success. The latest focus in the business arena has been how talent can be optimised to improve business success. When one reflects and looks back from the 1940s to the 1980s, it is clear that HR was not seen as a business unit that could impact profitability. It is clear in the literature that from the 1900s HR has evolved to being a business partner and a catalyst to improving financial performance within organisations. This has predominately been driven by HR ensuring the attraction and retention of high potential employees who can contribute to profits. The study’s focal point is whether talent management components impact profitability. The selected talent management components for this study are namely talent strategy, talent recruitment, talent development, performance management, talent retention, and succession planning. A strong belief exist that poor implementation of talent management components impedes on companies reaching optimum profit levels. It is for this reason that this study will argue the importance of talent management components as a strategic obligation in the current competitive war for talent. Business reality demands that companies should ensure having current and future talent needs addressed if they want to stay competitive. The war for talent has led to companies fighting for high potential talent, not only through remuneration packages ,but taking into account other talent management components that encompasses aspects such as work-life balance, better performance management linked to rewards and incentives , challenging work, succession planning etc. The researcher took a view to have this study done within BCX who is an employer of the researcher. The hypothesis utilised is the application of talent management components as an approach and process to facilitate profitability within BCX. Research shows that most companies are taking talent management very serious and are fully aware of its impact to productivity and profitability. Businesses in the service industry identified that implementing talent management processes and approaches is vital to competitive edge and profitability. However many companies are still struggling to reach the real understanding of what it meant by talent management. The research data indicates that most respondents are fully aware of the importance of these components. However at BCX, either they are unaware, uncertain on some of the talent components within the company and are unsure of the existence of these components and their impact to profitability. The literature reviewed in chapter two deliberates talent management components assessed in the questionnaire as imperative in contributing to profitability. Business Connexion does not implement these components to the extent of success. However some of the components are well implemented and managed such as performance management. Managers at Business Connexion to some extent have conflicting views of how the company is implementing these components and on their impact to profitability. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-11
Improving customer service through the marketing-logistic interface for automotive suppliers in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mkumatela, Yolisa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52955 , vital:44865
- Description: The primary purpose of this study was to investigate if the marketing-log-istics interface can improve customer service for automotive suppliers in the Eastern Cape. The rationale was that the poor service delivery by automotive suppliers can negatively affect the customer service levels, which can lead to dissatisfied customers and thus decrease the firm's profits while improved customer service levels may benefit the supplier, as customers may seek the best service from the supplier in terms of the right price, good quality, on time delivery, correct order quantities, and the correct delivery location for orders. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mkumatela, Yolisa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52955 , vital:44865
- Description: The primary purpose of this study was to investigate if the marketing-log-istics interface can improve customer service for automotive suppliers in the Eastern Cape. The rationale was that the poor service delivery by automotive suppliers can negatively affect the customer service levels, which can lead to dissatisfied customers and thus decrease the firm's profits while improved customer service levels may benefit the supplier, as customers may seek the best service from the supplier in terms of the right price, good quality, on time delivery, correct order quantities, and the correct delivery location for orders. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Psychological capital and burnout in the financial service sector
- Authors: Muller, Nadia
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52990 , vital:44872
- Description: The purpose of this research study was to determine the relationship between PsyCap and burnout in a service-related working environment that is somewhat unexplored, including the non-banking financial services sector. To achieve this purpose, a correlational research design was employed and the convenience, non-probability sampling method was utilised as the technique for sourcing participants. Data was collected by way of an online survey comprising of the PCQ-24, OLBI and a Biographical Section, which was distributed among 380 non-banking employees in the sample company, and a final sample size of N=88 was achieved. The two psychometric instruments utilised were both proven to be valid and reliable, thus increasing the credibility of the data obtained. The raw data was processed and analysed through statistical calculations, performed by a qualified Statistician, and included descriptive and inferential statistics in the form of cronbach’s alpha coefficients, pearsons correlations, t-tests, ANOVA’s, and linear regression for the data interpretation. The results revealed that there was a negative, statistically significant relationship between PsyCap and burnout, and that PsyCap explained 18% of the variance in burnout scores amongst the sample. In addition, statistically significant differences were found between burnout, disengagement, and position, as well as between PsyCap and some of its dimensions with gender, educational level, position, and department in terms of the demographic variables. The researcher has considered the ethical principles of autonomy, confidentiality, anonymity, and ownership of the data throughout the research process, and the research paper was submitted for assessment and ethical approval before commencement of this study. The primary aim of this research study was achieved in that a significant and negative correlation between PsyCap and burnout was revealed. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Muller, Nadia
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52990 , vital:44872
- Description: The purpose of this research study was to determine the relationship between PsyCap and burnout in a service-related working environment that is somewhat unexplored, including the non-banking financial services sector. To achieve this purpose, a correlational research design was employed and the convenience, non-probability sampling method was utilised as the technique for sourcing participants. Data was collected by way of an online survey comprising of the PCQ-24, OLBI and a Biographical Section, which was distributed among 380 non-banking employees in the sample company, and a final sample size of N=88 was achieved. The two psychometric instruments utilised were both proven to be valid and reliable, thus increasing the credibility of the data obtained. The raw data was processed and analysed through statistical calculations, performed by a qualified Statistician, and included descriptive and inferential statistics in the form of cronbach’s alpha coefficients, pearsons correlations, t-tests, ANOVA’s, and linear regression for the data interpretation. The results revealed that there was a negative, statistically significant relationship between PsyCap and burnout, and that PsyCap explained 18% of the variance in burnout scores amongst the sample. In addition, statistically significant differences were found between burnout, disengagement, and position, as well as between PsyCap and some of its dimensions with gender, educational level, position, and department in terms of the demographic variables. The researcher has considered the ethical principles of autonomy, confidentiality, anonymity, and ownership of the data throughout the research process, and the research paper was submitted for assessment and ethical approval before commencement of this study. The primary aim of this research study was achieved in that a significant and negative correlation between PsyCap and burnout was revealed. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Deep neural networks for robot vision in evolutionary robotics
- Authors: Watt, Nathan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Neural networks (Computer science)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52100 , vital:43448
- Description: Advances in electronics manufacturing have made robots and their sensors cheaper and more accessible. Robots can have a variety of sensors, such as touch sensors, distance sensors and cameras. A robot’s controller is the software which interprets its sensors and determines how the robot will behave. The difficulty in programming robot controllers increases with complex robots and complicated tasks, forming a barrier to deploying robots for real-world applications. Robot controllers can be automatically created with Evolutionary Robotics (ER). ER makes use of an Evolutionary Algorithm (EA) to evolve controllers to complete a particular task. Instead of manually programming controllers, an EA can evolve controllers when provided with the robot’s task. ER has been used to evolve controllers for many different kinds of robots with a variety of sensors, however the use of robots with on-board camera sensors has been limited. The nature of EAs makes evolving a controller for a camera-equipped robot particularly difficult. There are two main challenges which complicate the evolution of vision-based controllers. First, every image from a camera contains a large amount of information, and a controller needs many parameters to receive that information, however it is difficult to evolve controllers with such a large number of parameters using EAs. Second, during the process of evolution, it is necessary to evaluate the fitness of many candidate controllers. This is typically done in simulation, however creating a simulator for a camera sensor is a tedious and timeconsuming task, as building a photo-realistic simulated environment requires handcrafted 3-dimensional models, textures and lighting. Two techniques have been used in previous experiments to overcome the challenges associated with evolving vision-based controllers. Either the controller was provided with extremely low-resolution images, or a task-specific algorithm was used to preprocess the images, only providing the necessary information to the controller. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Authors: Watt, Nathan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Neural networks (Computer science)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52100 , vital:43448
- Description: Advances in electronics manufacturing have made robots and their sensors cheaper and more accessible. Robots can have a variety of sensors, such as touch sensors, distance sensors and cameras. A robot’s controller is the software which interprets its sensors and determines how the robot will behave. The difficulty in programming robot controllers increases with complex robots and complicated tasks, forming a barrier to deploying robots for real-world applications. Robot controllers can be automatically created with Evolutionary Robotics (ER). ER makes use of an Evolutionary Algorithm (EA) to evolve controllers to complete a particular task. Instead of manually programming controllers, an EA can evolve controllers when provided with the robot’s task. ER has been used to evolve controllers for many different kinds of robots with a variety of sensors, however the use of robots with on-board camera sensors has been limited. The nature of EAs makes evolving a controller for a camera-equipped robot particularly difficult. There are two main challenges which complicate the evolution of vision-based controllers. First, every image from a camera contains a large amount of information, and a controller needs many parameters to receive that information, however it is difficult to evolve controllers with such a large number of parameters using EAs. Second, during the process of evolution, it is necessary to evaluate the fitness of many candidate controllers. This is typically done in simulation, however creating a simulator for a camera sensor is a tedious and timeconsuming task, as building a photo-realistic simulated environment requires handcrafted 3-dimensional models, textures and lighting. Two techniques have been used in previous experiments to overcome the challenges associated with evolving vision-based controllers. Either the controller was provided with extremely low-resolution images, or a task-specific algorithm was used to preprocess the images, only providing the necessary information to the controller. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
The use of ambient seismic noise to investigate internal changes in a tailings storage facility and to image the subsurface geology in the Cradock area of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Kunjwa, Thulisile
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53642 , vital:45690
- Description: Passive seismic interferometry is a process by which ambient noise data recorded at different seismic stations can be cross-correlated to estimate Green's functions. In the past, both surface waves and body waves have successfully been extracted by cross-correlation of ambient noise data on both regional and global scales. Recent advancements in ambient seismic noise techniques have the potential to provide new methods for subsurface imaging and monitoring. The ambient noise data processing procedure divides into four principal phases: (1) single station data preparation, (2) cross-correlation and temporal stacking, (3) measurement of dispersion curves and (4) inversion of dispersion curves to obtain 1-D shear wave profiles and computation of 2-D shear wave velocity cross-section. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether ambient seismic noise can be used to image and detect internal changes within a mine tailings dam wall and to image the subsurface geology of part of the Eastern Cape Karoo near Cradock. In the first experiment, the investigation consisted of continuous ambient noise data recordings over a period of 3 days with 20 three-component short period geophones. The geophones were deployed over a survey wall of roughly 100 m in length at the Harmony Gold mine tailings dam in Welkom. In the second experiment, the investigation consisted of data recordings over a period of 35 days. The geophones were deployed in Cradock. The first phase of the data processing procedure included de-trending, de-meaning and band-pass filtering the data. This was done to ensure that any long period trends associated with instrument glitches are removed from the data. A spectrogram was then computed to view the spectrum of frequencies in the signal and to check if the filter that was designed was able to cut off the unwanted frequencies. The horizontal and vertical components of the ambient noise data were cross-correlated and picked between sensor pairs to create surface wave dispersion curves. Subsequently, the dispersion curves were inverted to estimate the shear wave velocity of the dam wall and subsurface as a function of depth. The computed cross sections of shear wave velocity indicated a low-velocity zone between 2 and 10 m below the surface on the dam wall, this suggested that the phreatic surface is much closer to surface in this area. In the second experiment, the interpolated shear wave velocity profiles indicated that there is a layer of low velocity zone between depths 250 to 300 m below the surface. The cross-correlations were also used to compute group velocity maps from periods 1.5 seconds to 30 seconds. The group velocity maps showed various high and low velocity anomalies. The high velocity zones observed on the eastern section of the map were interpreted as evidence of dolerite intrusions. The low velocity zones observed in the western and southern sections of the map interpreted as Karoo sediments that belong to the Adelaide Subgroup which is dominated by mudstones. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Department of Geosciences (Geology and Geography), 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Kunjwa, Thulisile
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53642 , vital:45690
- Description: Passive seismic interferometry is a process by which ambient noise data recorded at different seismic stations can be cross-correlated to estimate Green's functions. In the past, both surface waves and body waves have successfully been extracted by cross-correlation of ambient noise data on both regional and global scales. Recent advancements in ambient seismic noise techniques have the potential to provide new methods for subsurface imaging and monitoring. The ambient noise data processing procedure divides into four principal phases: (1) single station data preparation, (2) cross-correlation and temporal stacking, (3) measurement of dispersion curves and (4) inversion of dispersion curves to obtain 1-D shear wave profiles and computation of 2-D shear wave velocity cross-section. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether ambient seismic noise can be used to image and detect internal changes within a mine tailings dam wall and to image the subsurface geology of part of the Eastern Cape Karoo near Cradock. In the first experiment, the investigation consisted of continuous ambient noise data recordings over a period of 3 days with 20 three-component short period geophones. The geophones were deployed over a survey wall of roughly 100 m in length at the Harmony Gold mine tailings dam in Welkom. In the second experiment, the investigation consisted of data recordings over a period of 35 days. The geophones were deployed in Cradock. The first phase of the data processing procedure included de-trending, de-meaning and band-pass filtering the data. This was done to ensure that any long period trends associated with instrument glitches are removed from the data. A spectrogram was then computed to view the spectrum of frequencies in the signal and to check if the filter that was designed was able to cut off the unwanted frequencies. The horizontal and vertical components of the ambient noise data were cross-correlated and picked between sensor pairs to create surface wave dispersion curves. Subsequently, the dispersion curves were inverted to estimate the shear wave velocity of the dam wall and subsurface as a function of depth. The computed cross sections of shear wave velocity indicated a low-velocity zone between 2 and 10 m below the surface on the dam wall, this suggested that the phreatic surface is much closer to surface in this area. In the second experiment, the interpolated shear wave velocity profiles indicated that there is a layer of low velocity zone between depths 250 to 300 m below the surface. The cross-correlations were also used to compute group velocity maps from periods 1.5 seconds to 30 seconds. The group velocity maps showed various high and low velocity anomalies. The high velocity zones observed on the eastern section of the map were interpreted as evidence of dolerite intrusions. The low velocity zones observed in the western and southern sections of the map interpreted as Karoo sediments that belong to the Adelaide Subgroup which is dominated by mudstones. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Department of Geosciences (Geology and Geography), 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
A Functional Data Analysis approach to understand patterns imbedded within various data types
- Authors: Mangisa, Siphumlile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Data mining
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52091 , vital:43426
- Description: The thesis investigates the use of the novel Functional Data Analysis (FDA) methods in tackling various data types. Strong motivation is provided for the use of interesting opportunities offered by FDA to analyse not only economic data, but generally, data from any domain. The use of these methods is illustrated using three unique self-contained case-studies from econometrics. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mangisa, Siphumlile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Data mining
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52091 , vital:43426
- Description: The thesis investigates the use of the novel Functional Data Analysis (FDA) methods in tackling various data types. Strong motivation is provided for the use of interesting opportunities offered by FDA to analyse not only economic data, but generally, data from any domain. The use of these methods is illustrated using three unique self-contained case-studies from econometrics. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Administrative justice and the implementation of the reconstruction and development program in Berlin Town, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Makie, Fundiswa
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54460 , vital:46577
- Description: Housing delivery in South Africa is a crucial and topical issue affecting many citizens. The primary objective of the study was to determine the role of administrative justice in the implementation of the Reconstructive and Development Programme (RDP) in Berlin Town, in the province of the Eastern Cape in South Africa. In addition, the aim of this study was to explore the challenges of RDP housing in the study area, as a way of probing whether housing needs were being met. The study was conducted using a qualitative research methodology in gathering data from Berlin Town residents, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality staff and Berlin Town councillors. The data analysis revealed that respondents affirmed the importance of administrative justice and the effective implementation of the RDP with regard to housing. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher recommends that the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality prioritise the full implementation of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) in dealing with the housing backlog and challenges in Berlin Town. Moreover, the findings of this study revealed that it is possible to highlight specific recommendations that can be used by various other local municipalities. Thus, the research study showed that efficient local municipal operations have a direct impact on the delivery of RDP houses. Relating to ethical considerations, the researcher ensured that all the requirements for credible research were met throughout the study. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Makie, Fundiswa
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54460 , vital:46577
- Description: Housing delivery in South Africa is a crucial and topical issue affecting many citizens. The primary objective of the study was to determine the role of administrative justice in the implementation of the Reconstructive and Development Programme (RDP) in Berlin Town, in the province of the Eastern Cape in South Africa. In addition, the aim of this study was to explore the challenges of RDP housing in the study area, as a way of probing whether housing needs were being met. The study was conducted using a qualitative research methodology in gathering data from Berlin Town residents, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality staff and Berlin Town councillors. The data analysis revealed that respondents affirmed the importance of administrative justice and the effective implementation of the RDP with regard to housing. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher recommends that the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality prioritise the full implementation of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) in dealing with the housing backlog and challenges in Berlin Town. Moreover, the findings of this study revealed that it is possible to highlight specific recommendations that can be used by various other local municipalities. Thus, the research study showed that efficient local municipal operations have a direct impact on the delivery of RDP houses. Relating to ethical considerations, the researcher ensured that all the requirements for credible research were met throughout the study. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12