Encroaching species are stronger anisohydric “water spenders” under elevated CO2 conditions: implications for savanna seedling establishment rates
- Authors: Reynolds, Liam Macleod
- Date: 2024-10-11
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/465091 , vital:76572
- Description: Plant water transport systems play a fundamental role in the productivity and survival of terrestrial plants due to the vascular architecture placing a physical limit on metabolic function. Savannas have high variability in rainfall, leading multiple studies to suggest that plant water-use strategies are key mechanisms affecting seedling establishment rates. Many savannas are seeing a directional shift towards an increase in the abundance of certain woody species through a process known as bush encroachment, which has been largely attributed to the fertilising effect of rising atmospheric [CO2] on C3 trees. These species are classified as encroachers. While there have been multiple studies investigating changes in the physiology of savanna species under elevated CO2 (eCO2), few have examined how climate and eCO2 affects the fundamental water-use strategies in the seedling stage, a crucial demographic bottleneck. Here, this research provides valuable insights into the mechanisms behind bush encroachment in the context of eCO2 using results from a pot experiment at the Rhodes University Elevated CO2 facility and a field experiment. All species showed water use strategies characteristic of anisohydric “water-spenders”, however, the vulnerability to embolism and rates of water-use were different between encroachers and non-encroachers. Encroachers are better at taking advantage of water pulses, particularly under eCO2 and grass competition. This comes at the cost of higher xylem vulnerability during drought, leading to reductions in conductance when exposed to heavy water stress. The response of the photosynthetic parameters mirrored this, with encroaching species had higher rates of photosynthesis and photosystem II quantum yield than non-encroachers under the well-watered treatments. Field experiments revealed that small trees are particularly vulnerable to drought stress, when compared to medium and large trees. The outcomes of this complex response will largely depend on the extent of changes to biotic and abiotic factors across spatial and temporal zones caused by climate change. This research highlights potential hydraulic mechanisms contributing to the increase in bush encroachment, as well as providing important insights into the determinant factors that make a savanna species capable of encroachment. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Botany, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-10-11
- Authors: Reynolds, Liam Macleod
- Date: 2024-10-11
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/465091 , vital:76572
- Description: Plant water transport systems play a fundamental role in the productivity and survival of terrestrial plants due to the vascular architecture placing a physical limit on metabolic function. Savannas have high variability in rainfall, leading multiple studies to suggest that plant water-use strategies are key mechanisms affecting seedling establishment rates. Many savannas are seeing a directional shift towards an increase in the abundance of certain woody species through a process known as bush encroachment, which has been largely attributed to the fertilising effect of rising atmospheric [CO2] on C3 trees. These species are classified as encroachers. While there have been multiple studies investigating changes in the physiology of savanna species under elevated CO2 (eCO2), few have examined how climate and eCO2 affects the fundamental water-use strategies in the seedling stage, a crucial demographic bottleneck. Here, this research provides valuable insights into the mechanisms behind bush encroachment in the context of eCO2 using results from a pot experiment at the Rhodes University Elevated CO2 facility and a field experiment. All species showed water use strategies characteristic of anisohydric “water-spenders”, however, the vulnerability to embolism and rates of water-use were different between encroachers and non-encroachers. Encroachers are better at taking advantage of water pulses, particularly under eCO2 and grass competition. This comes at the cost of higher xylem vulnerability during drought, leading to reductions in conductance when exposed to heavy water stress. The response of the photosynthetic parameters mirrored this, with encroaching species had higher rates of photosynthesis and photosystem II quantum yield than non-encroachers under the well-watered treatments. Field experiments revealed that small trees are particularly vulnerable to drought stress, when compared to medium and large trees. The outcomes of this complex response will largely depend on the extent of changes to biotic and abiotic factors across spatial and temporal zones caused by climate change. This research highlights potential hydraulic mechanisms contributing to the increase in bush encroachment, as well as providing important insights into the determinant factors that make a savanna species capable of encroachment. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Botany, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-10-11
SolarKAT: a solar imaging pipeline for MeerKAT
- Samboco, Victória da Graça Gilberto
- Authors: Samboco, Victória da Graça Gilberto
- Date: 2024-10-11
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/465102 , vital:76573
- Description: Solar interference poses a significant challenge in radio interferometric observations, particularly with the increasing sensitivity of modern new-generation telescopes. This thesis presents the SolarKAT pipeline, a novel approach designed to mitigate solar interference in MeerKAT observations. The pipeline incorporates a series of steps, including self-calibration (second generation calibration or 2GC), precise determination of the Sun’s position, phase centre adjustments, creation of region-based masks, deconvolution, prediction, solar model subtraction, and peeling. We applied the SolarKAT pipeline to three datasets that feature the Sun in different conditions (frequency band and angular distance from the Sun to the telescope pointing position). These observations were obtained from three MeerKAT telescope surveys: ThunderKAT, MIGHTEE and LADUMA. We compared the visual images, peak fluxes, flux density, RMS and pixel distribution to evaluate the pipeline. Our results showed a notable reduction in solar interference. This is evidenced by the improved image quality, reduction in RMS and pixel distribution values, and consistent peak flux measurements after applying the pipeline. SolarKAT has not only improved the data quality but also demonstrated to be a valuable tool in producing high-quality solar images, which can be a helpful resource for solar physics and space weather forecasts. This study showcases the potential of the SolarKAT pipeline in enabling high-quality radio interferometric observations, even in the presence of solar interference. Unlike conventional methods that often discard corrupted visibilities (e.g. flagging), our approach focuses on recovering them. Additionally, the SolarKAT pipeline naturally delivers detailed images of the Sun. Our findings contribute to advancing the field of radio interferometry, providing a valuable tool for researchers seeking to enhance the accuracy of their observations and conduct studies in solar physics and space weather. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Physics and Electronics, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-10-11
- Authors: Samboco, Victória da Graça Gilberto
- Date: 2024-10-11
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/465102 , vital:76573
- Description: Solar interference poses a significant challenge in radio interferometric observations, particularly with the increasing sensitivity of modern new-generation telescopes. This thesis presents the SolarKAT pipeline, a novel approach designed to mitigate solar interference in MeerKAT observations. The pipeline incorporates a series of steps, including self-calibration (second generation calibration or 2GC), precise determination of the Sun’s position, phase centre adjustments, creation of region-based masks, deconvolution, prediction, solar model subtraction, and peeling. We applied the SolarKAT pipeline to three datasets that feature the Sun in different conditions (frequency band and angular distance from the Sun to the telescope pointing position). These observations were obtained from three MeerKAT telescope surveys: ThunderKAT, MIGHTEE and LADUMA. We compared the visual images, peak fluxes, flux density, RMS and pixel distribution to evaluate the pipeline. Our results showed a notable reduction in solar interference. This is evidenced by the improved image quality, reduction in RMS and pixel distribution values, and consistent peak flux measurements after applying the pipeline. SolarKAT has not only improved the data quality but also demonstrated to be a valuable tool in producing high-quality solar images, which can be a helpful resource for solar physics and space weather forecasts. This study showcases the potential of the SolarKAT pipeline in enabling high-quality radio interferometric observations, even in the presence of solar interference. Unlike conventional methods that often discard corrupted visibilities (e.g. flagging), our approach focuses on recovering them. Additionally, the SolarKAT pipeline naturally delivers detailed images of the Sun. Our findings contribute to advancing the field of radio interferometry, providing a valuable tool for researchers seeking to enhance the accuracy of their observations and conduct studies in solar physics and space weather. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Physics and Electronics, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-10-11
The private collection: aura, the cult of celebrity and, the construct of value in saleable works of art
- Authors: Ellis, Yvette Tamsin
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Aura , Celebrities , Consumerism , Art and society , Computer art , AI art , Value
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434574 , vital:73086
- Description: A tenet of the twenty-first century is the monetisation of everything due to commercialisation. The effects of this commercialisation have crept into every aspect of our lives, and although in the art world it has mostly been underhanded in its adoption, the traces of commercialisations touch are still evident in its functioning. Due to this underhandedness there hasn't been much thought put into what 'the monetisation of everything' truly implies for the industry, or how the value of the art object devoted to commercialisation may look like. The Private Collection (exhibition title of the practical component for submission in MFA completion) addresses the concept of object value and, more specifically, how that value is created within the art world through mechanisms of commercialisation that include celebrity cult, functioning of possession (through collecting), and taste. Research into Walter Benjamin's theory of the authenticity of the work of art, and in particular his concept of "aura," has helped inform the creation of a marketing strategy propelled by value driven mechanisms found within the Art Market for The Private Collection. Particular emphasis is placed on how brand value drives sales in this thesis. Thus, The Private Collection: Aura, the Cult of Celebrity, and the Construct of Value in Saleable Works of Art, defines The Private Collection as a tailored system built expressly for engagement with economic forces inside the art industry. As a result, the position of this study is based on the marketability of the object through particular driving forces that have seeped into the value system of the saleable work of art. The position of this thesis is that in this commercialist system, driving forces of value can be sustained within instances of the multiple. The project additionally supports this in maintaining that interaction from a fine art perspective would be limited if restricted to orthodox approaches (a gallery showing, and one print works), which is why a more economically interactive approach (e-commerce) was decided on for the exhibition component. The Private Collection offers an observation that the worth of a saleable work of art has become a warped representation of the commercial context we find ourselves in and that value is only awarded through particular kingmakers of the system. The practical component of this submission can be viewed online by clicking the image below. Please note that the website is not optimised for phone or tablet use, please instead view it on a computer (preferably a desktop) in full screen mode. , Thesis (MFA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Fine Art, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Ellis, Yvette Tamsin
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Aura , Celebrities , Consumerism , Art and society , Computer art , AI art , Value
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434574 , vital:73086
- Description: A tenet of the twenty-first century is the monetisation of everything due to commercialisation. The effects of this commercialisation have crept into every aspect of our lives, and although in the art world it has mostly been underhanded in its adoption, the traces of commercialisations touch are still evident in its functioning. Due to this underhandedness there hasn't been much thought put into what 'the monetisation of everything' truly implies for the industry, or how the value of the art object devoted to commercialisation may look like. The Private Collection (exhibition title of the practical component for submission in MFA completion) addresses the concept of object value and, more specifically, how that value is created within the art world through mechanisms of commercialisation that include celebrity cult, functioning of possession (through collecting), and taste. Research into Walter Benjamin's theory of the authenticity of the work of art, and in particular his concept of "aura," has helped inform the creation of a marketing strategy propelled by value driven mechanisms found within the Art Market for The Private Collection. Particular emphasis is placed on how brand value drives sales in this thesis. Thus, The Private Collection: Aura, the Cult of Celebrity, and the Construct of Value in Saleable Works of Art, defines The Private Collection as a tailored system built expressly for engagement with economic forces inside the art industry. As a result, the position of this study is based on the marketability of the object through particular driving forces that have seeped into the value system of the saleable work of art. The position of this thesis is that in this commercialist system, driving forces of value can be sustained within instances of the multiple. The project additionally supports this in maintaining that interaction from a fine art perspective would be limited if restricted to orthodox approaches (a gallery showing, and one print works), which is why a more economically interactive approach (e-commerce) was decided on for the exhibition component. The Private Collection offers an observation that the worth of a saleable work of art has become a warped representation of the commercial context we find ourselves in and that value is only awarded through particular kingmakers of the system. The practical component of this submission can be viewed online by clicking the image below. Please note that the website is not optimised for phone or tablet use, please instead view it on a computer (preferably a desktop) in full screen mode. , Thesis (MFA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Fine Art, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
Investigating the anti-inflammatory effect of blueberry-AuNP on microglial cells and obese rat brains
- Authors: Ngwato, Anacia
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Anti-inflammatory agents , Brain -- Anatomy , Brain -- Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64266 , vital:73670
- Description: Nanotoxicology is a field of study that investigates how nanomaterials interact with biological systems. It focuses on understanding the correlation between the physicochemical properties of nanomaterials, such as size and stability, and their potential toxic effects. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), for instance, have a variety of applications in the biological sciences. Therefore, there is a great deal of attention given to evaluating their toxicity to ensure their safe and effective use in biological systems. Anti-inflammatory AuNPs have shown to be a desirable application in obesity treatments since obesity is associated with systematic inflammation. Thus, the study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of BE-AuNPs on C8-B4 microglial cell lines and, to validate the results, the grey matter of brain tissue of obese rats treated with BE-AuNPs. Following the synthesis and characterization of BE-AuNPs, C8-B4 microglial cells were treated with the BE-AuNPs and were evaluated through MTT, HRTEM imaging, qPCR, and ROS. LPS was used to activate the cells. Concentration-dependent toxicity of BE-AuNPs and cellular uptake was observed. The qPCR results showed that the BE-AuNPs decreased the LPS-induced inflammation in the cells. The BE-AuNPs were shown to reduce ROS in inflammatory conditions in the cells. Rat brain tissue analysis through qPCR and ROS demonstrated that BE-AuNPs reduce HFD-induced inflammation and had no ROS effects on the brain, respectively. Thus, leading to a conclusion the BE-AuNPs used in this study are anti-inflammatory. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Ngwato, Anacia
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Anti-inflammatory agents , Brain -- Anatomy , Brain -- Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64266 , vital:73670
- Description: Nanotoxicology is a field of study that investigates how nanomaterials interact with biological systems. It focuses on understanding the correlation between the physicochemical properties of nanomaterials, such as size and stability, and their potential toxic effects. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), for instance, have a variety of applications in the biological sciences. Therefore, there is a great deal of attention given to evaluating their toxicity to ensure their safe and effective use in biological systems. Anti-inflammatory AuNPs have shown to be a desirable application in obesity treatments since obesity is associated with systematic inflammation. Thus, the study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of BE-AuNPs on C8-B4 microglial cell lines and, to validate the results, the grey matter of brain tissue of obese rats treated with BE-AuNPs. Following the synthesis and characterization of BE-AuNPs, C8-B4 microglial cells were treated with the BE-AuNPs and were evaluated through MTT, HRTEM imaging, qPCR, and ROS. LPS was used to activate the cells. Concentration-dependent toxicity of BE-AuNPs and cellular uptake was observed. The qPCR results showed that the BE-AuNPs decreased the LPS-induced inflammation in the cells. The BE-AuNPs were shown to reduce ROS in inflammatory conditions in the cells. Rat brain tissue analysis through qPCR and ROS demonstrated that BE-AuNPs reduce HFD-induced inflammation and had no ROS effects on the brain, respectively. Thus, leading to a conclusion the BE-AuNPs used in this study are anti-inflammatory. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
The development of a plate-based assay to detect the activation status of ARF1 GTPase in Plasmodium falciparum parasites
- Authors: Du Toit, Skye Carol
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: ARF1 , GTPase , Plasmodium falciparum , Malaria , Drug resistance , Drug targeting , Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay , Proteins
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424654 , vital:72172
- Description: The exponential rise in antimalarial drug resistance in the most infectious malaria species, Plasmodium falciparum, has emphasised the urgency to identify and validate novel drug targets that decrease parasite viability upon inhibition. In addition to several publications indicating that the regulation of human Arf1 GTPase activity (mediated by ArfGEFs and ArfGAPs) serves as a pertinent drug target for cancer research, the identification of Arf1 and its regulatory proteins in Plasmodium falciparum led to the question whether these protein homologs could be exploited as drug targets for anti-malarial drug therapies. To investigate this prospect, the establishment of a novel in vitro colorimetric ELISA-based assay was needed to be able to detect changes in the activation status of P. falciparum Arf1 (PfArf1) in parasite cultures exposed to potential Arf1 inhibitors. By exploiting the selective protein interaction that occurs between active GTP-bound Arf1 and its downstream effector, GGA3, an assay protocol was established that could be used to detect the activation status of purified, truncated PfArf1 obtained from E. coli and endogenous PfArf1 sourced from parasite lysates. The assay relies on the use of anti-Arf1 antibodies to detect the binding of active PfArf1 in the lysates of inhibitor-exposed cultured parasites to GST-GGA3 immobilised in glutathione-coated plates. The results from chemical validation experiments conducted using the novel assay developed in this study, using the known ArfGEF inhibitor brefeldin A (BFA) and ArfGAP inhibitors Chem1099 and Chem3050, yielded the anticipated results: decrease in active PfArf1 after parasite incubation with the ArfGEF inhibitor, and increased active PfArf1 after ArfGAP inhibition. The results confirmed PfArf1 as a potential anti-malarial drug target and encourages the further development of this assay format for the identification of subsequent inhibitors in library screening campaigns. Additional pilot experiments were conducted to further explore whether the assay could detect the activation status of human Arf1 using HeLa cell lysates and to provide further evidence that the assay could be exploited as a tool in the identification of Arf1 GTPase inhibitors with BFA and the known ArfGAP inhibitor, QS11. The results suggested that, while the assay can detect the increase in active cellular Arf1 due to the inhibition of human ArfGEF following BFA treatment, subsequent treatment with QS11 showed no evidence of a reduction in active human Arf1 due to ArfGAP inhibition. Further experimentation is required to investigate the ability the assay to confirm inhibition of human Arf1 deactivation by ArfGAP inhibitors and develop the assay as a useful tool to support cancer drug discovery, in addition to antimalarial drug discovery projects aimed at Arf1. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Du Toit, Skye Carol
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: ARF1 , GTPase , Plasmodium falciparum , Malaria , Drug resistance , Drug targeting , Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay , Proteins
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424654 , vital:72172
- Description: The exponential rise in antimalarial drug resistance in the most infectious malaria species, Plasmodium falciparum, has emphasised the urgency to identify and validate novel drug targets that decrease parasite viability upon inhibition. In addition to several publications indicating that the regulation of human Arf1 GTPase activity (mediated by ArfGEFs and ArfGAPs) serves as a pertinent drug target for cancer research, the identification of Arf1 and its regulatory proteins in Plasmodium falciparum led to the question whether these protein homologs could be exploited as drug targets for anti-malarial drug therapies. To investigate this prospect, the establishment of a novel in vitro colorimetric ELISA-based assay was needed to be able to detect changes in the activation status of P. falciparum Arf1 (PfArf1) in parasite cultures exposed to potential Arf1 inhibitors. By exploiting the selective protein interaction that occurs between active GTP-bound Arf1 and its downstream effector, GGA3, an assay protocol was established that could be used to detect the activation status of purified, truncated PfArf1 obtained from E. coli and endogenous PfArf1 sourced from parasite lysates. The assay relies on the use of anti-Arf1 antibodies to detect the binding of active PfArf1 in the lysates of inhibitor-exposed cultured parasites to GST-GGA3 immobilised in glutathione-coated plates. The results from chemical validation experiments conducted using the novel assay developed in this study, using the known ArfGEF inhibitor brefeldin A (BFA) and ArfGAP inhibitors Chem1099 and Chem3050, yielded the anticipated results: decrease in active PfArf1 after parasite incubation with the ArfGEF inhibitor, and increased active PfArf1 after ArfGAP inhibition. The results confirmed PfArf1 as a potential anti-malarial drug target and encourages the further development of this assay format for the identification of subsequent inhibitors in library screening campaigns. Additional pilot experiments were conducted to further explore whether the assay could detect the activation status of human Arf1 using HeLa cell lysates and to provide further evidence that the assay could be exploited as a tool in the identification of Arf1 GTPase inhibitors with BFA and the known ArfGAP inhibitor, QS11. The results suggested that, while the assay can detect the increase in active cellular Arf1 due to the inhibition of human ArfGEF following BFA treatment, subsequent treatment with QS11 showed no evidence of a reduction in active human Arf1 due to ArfGAP inhibition. Further experimentation is required to investigate the ability the assay to confirm inhibition of human Arf1 deactivation by ArfGAP inhibitors and develop the assay as a useful tool to support cancer drug discovery, in addition to antimalarial drug discovery projects aimed at Arf1. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
Which Black Lives matter? : a decolonial interrogation of xenophobia on Black South African Twitter
- Authors: McBrown, Anima
- Date: 2023-03-30
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/408930 , vital:70538
- Description: Thesis embargoed. To be released in 2025. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Journalism and Media Studies, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-03-30
- Authors: McBrown, Anima
- Date: 2023-03-30
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/408930 , vital:70538
- Description: Thesis embargoed. To be released in 2025. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Journalism and Media Studies, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-03-30
Cloning, expression, partial characterisation and application of a recombinant GH10 xylanase, XT6, from Geobacillus stearothermophilus T6 as an additive to chicken feeds
- Authors: Sithole, Tariro
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Chicken feed industry , Chickens Feeding and feeds , Bacillus (Bacteria) , Xylanases , Polysaccharides , Geobacillus stearothermophilus
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/292693 , vital:57007
- Description: Monogastric animal farming has largely been sustained by feeding animals with grain feedstocks containing non-starch polysaccharides (NSPs) and anti-nutritive factors, which cause adverse effects, such as increased digesta viscosity and entrapment of nutrients, which leads to the inaccessibility of nutrients. These effects have been linked to a reduction in nutrient digestion and absorption, which results in a decreased feed conversion ratio, energy metabolism and animal growth. Monogastric animals do not produce enzymes that can hydrolyse these NSPs. The application of exogenous enzymes as supplements to animal feeds has been implemented to reduce viscosity and increase nutrient absorption in poultry and pigs over the past few decades. The aim of this study was to clone, express, partially characterise and apply a glycoside hydrolase (GH) family 10 xylanase (XT6), derived from Geobacillus stearothermophilus T6, as an additive to locally produced chicken feeds. The xt6 gene (1,236 bp) was subcloned and expressed in Escherichia coli DH5α and BL21(DE3) cells, respectively. Upon expression, XT6 had a molecular weight of 42 kDa and was partially purified by Ni-NTA chromatography and ultrafiltration. The purification step resulted in a yield of 66.7% with a 16.8-fold increase in purification. XT6 exhibited maximal activity when incubated at a pH and temperature of pH 6.0 and 70°C, respectively, with a high thermostability over a broad range of pH (2–9) and temperature (30–90 °C). The specific activities of XT6 on extracted soluble and insoluble wheat flour arabinoxylans were 110.9 U/mg and 63.98 U/mg, respectively. Kinetic data showed that XT6 displayed a higher catalytic activity and affinity (Vmax = 231.60 μmol/min/mg and KM = 2.759 mg/ml) for soluble wheat arabinoxylan, compared to insoluble wheat arabinoxylan (Vmax = 99.02 μmol/min/mg and KM = 5.058 mg/ml). High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis showed that the enzyme hydrolysed wheat flour, arabinoxylan and chicken feeds, producing a range of xylooligosaccharides (XOS), with xylotetraose and xylopentaose being the predominant XOS species. Hydrolysis of both soluble and insoluble wheat flour arabinoxylans by XT6 led to a significant reduction in substrate viscosity. The effects of simulated gastrointestinal fluid contents, such as proteases, bile salts and mucins, on XT6 stability were also studied. Exposure of XT6 to pepsin did not significantly reduce its activity; however, the inhibitory effect of trypsin and mucin on XT6 was much greater. The presence of gut-derived bile salts had no iii | P a g e significant effect on XT6 activity. Finally, it was shown that the XOS produced from the hydrolysis of chicken feeds (starter and grower feeds) by XT6 significantly enhanced the growth of the probiotic bacteria B. subtilis, while there was no significant improvement in the growth of S. thermophilus and L. bulgaricus. In conclusion, the recombinantly produced XT6 demonstrated efficient hydrolysis of starter and grower feeds, and produced XOS that showed prebiotic activity on selected probiotic bacteria. In addition, the pH, temperature and simulated gastric juice content stability of XT6 renders it an attractive candidate as an additive for chicken feeds. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Sithole, Tariro
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Chicken feed industry , Chickens Feeding and feeds , Bacillus (Bacteria) , Xylanases , Polysaccharides , Geobacillus stearothermophilus
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/292693 , vital:57007
- Description: Monogastric animal farming has largely been sustained by feeding animals with grain feedstocks containing non-starch polysaccharides (NSPs) and anti-nutritive factors, which cause adverse effects, such as increased digesta viscosity and entrapment of nutrients, which leads to the inaccessibility of nutrients. These effects have been linked to a reduction in nutrient digestion and absorption, which results in a decreased feed conversion ratio, energy metabolism and animal growth. Monogastric animals do not produce enzymes that can hydrolyse these NSPs. The application of exogenous enzymes as supplements to animal feeds has been implemented to reduce viscosity and increase nutrient absorption in poultry and pigs over the past few decades. The aim of this study was to clone, express, partially characterise and apply a glycoside hydrolase (GH) family 10 xylanase (XT6), derived from Geobacillus stearothermophilus T6, as an additive to locally produced chicken feeds. The xt6 gene (1,236 bp) was subcloned and expressed in Escherichia coli DH5α and BL21(DE3) cells, respectively. Upon expression, XT6 had a molecular weight of 42 kDa and was partially purified by Ni-NTA chromatography and ultrafiltration. The purification step resulted in a yield of 66.7% with a 16.8-fold increase in purification. XT6 exhibited maximal activity when incubated at a pH and temperature of pH 6.0 and 70°C, respectively, with a high thermostability over a broad range of pH (2–9) and temperature (30–90 °C). The specific activities of XT6 on extracted soluble and insoluble wheat flour arabinoxylans were 110.9 U/mg and 63.98 U/mg, respectively. Kinetic data showed that XT6 displayed a higher catalytic activity and affinity (Vmax = 231.60 μmol/min/mg and KM = 2.759 mg/ml) for soluble wheat arabinoxylan, compared to insoluble wheat arabinoxylan (Vmax = 99.02 μmol/min/mg and KM = 5.058 mg/ml). High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis showed that the enzyme hydrolysed wheat flour, arabinoxylan and chicken feeds, producing a range of xylooligosaccharides (XOS), with xylotetraose and xylopentaose being the predominant XOS species. Hydrolysis of both soluble and insoluble wheat flour arabinoxylans by XT6 led to a significant reduction in substrate viscosity. The effects of simulated gastrointestinal fluid contents, such as proteases, bile salts and mucins, on XT6 stability were also studied. Exposure of XT6 to pepsin did not significantly reduce its activity; however, the inhibitory effect of trypsin and mucin on XT6 was much greater. The presence of gut-derived bile salts had no iii | P a g e significant effect on XT6 activity. Finally, it was shown that the XOS produced from the hydrolysis of chicken feeds (starter and grower feeds) by XT6 significantly enhanced the growth of the probiotic bacteria B. subtilis, while there was no significant improvement in the growth of S. thermophilus and L. bulgaricus. In conclusion, the recombinantly produced XT6 demonstrated efficient hydrolysis of starter and grower feeds, and produced XOS that showed prebiotic activity on selected probiotic bacteria. In addition, the pH, temperature and simulated gastric juice content stability of XT6 renders it an attractive candidate as an additive for chicken feeds. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
An employer's ability to substitute a disciplinary hearing sanction
- Authors: Hlwatika, Siphile
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Employees--Dismissal of--Law and legislation , Labor discipline--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55690 , vital:53407
- Description: It is common practice for employers to appoint external disciplinary hearing chairpersons to preside over a disciplinary hearing which has been convened for purposes of investigating allegations of misconduct against an employee. The external chairperson is ordinarily mandated to decide on guilt, and to the extent that there is a guilty finding, to recommend or impose the appropriate disciplinary sanction. Employers often tend to have expectations that the external chairperson will, after having found the employee guilty of the alleged misconduct, impose a sanction of dismissal. The expected outcome of dismissal, however, does not always occur. An external chairperson may impose a sanction short of dismissal after considering an disciplinary sanction may result in the employer instituting an internal review process to review the external chairperson employers may resort to unilaterally substituting the external disciplinary sanction with a sanction of dismissal. or the collective agreement regulating the disciplinary procedure in the workplace may or may not make provision for the substitution of the disciplinary sanction. In circumstances where there is no provision for the substitution of the disciplinary sanction, t questions regarding the applicability of the double jeopardy principle which means, in an employment context, that an employee should not be subjected to more than one disciplinary hearing on disciplinary charges arising from the same set of facts. It is, however, a well-established principle that employers who are classified as organs of state can review their own decisions. This includes decisions of chairpersons who are appointed preside over disciplinary hearings and decide on the appropriate disciplinary sanction. In the latter case, and in circumstances where the organ of state is dissatisfied with the disciplinary sanction, it may institute review proceedings in the Labour available to organs of state and not private-sector employers. This research seeks to determine whether it is permissible for an employer to substitute an external , and, if so, the circumstances under which an employer is allowed to do so and the procedure which should be followed in such an instance. , Thesis (LMM) -- Faculty of Law, Mercantile Law, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Hlwatika, Siphile
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Employees--Dismissal of--Law and legislation , Labor discipline--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55690 , vital:53407
- Description: It is common practice for employers to appoint external disciplinary hearing chairpersons to preside over a disciplinary hearing which has been convened for purposes of investigating allegations of misconduct against an employee. The external chairperson is ordinarily mandated to decide on guilt, and to the extent that there is a guilty finding, to recommend or impose the appropriate disciplinary sanction. Employers often tend to have expectations that the external chairperson will, after having found the employee guilty of the alleged misconduct, impose a sanction of dismissal. The expected outcome of dismissal, however, does not always occur. An external chairperson may impose a sanction short of dismissal after considering an disciplinary sanction may result in the employer instituting an internal review process to review the external chairperson employers may resort to unilaterally substituting the external disciplinary sanction with a sanction of dismissal. or the collective agreement regulating the disciplinary procedure in the workplace may or may not make provision for the substitution of the disciplinary sanction. In circumstances where there is no provision for the substitution of the disciplinary sanction, t questions regarding the applicability of the double jeopardy principle which means, in an employment context, that an employee should not be subjected to more than one disciplinary hearing on disciplinary charges arising from the same set of facts. It is, however, a well-established principle that employers who are classified as organs of state can review their own decisions. This includes decisions of chairpersons who are appointed preside over disciplinary hearings and decide on the appropriate disciplinary sanction. In the latter case, and in circumstances where the organ of state is dissatisfied with the disciplinary sanction, it may institute review proceedings in the Labour available to organs of state and not private-sector employers. This research seeks to determine whether it is permissible for an employer to substitute an external , and, if so, the circumstances under which an employer is allowed to do so and the procedure which should be followed in such an instance. , Thesis (LMM) -- Faculty of Law, Mercantile Law, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
In-vitroevaluation of bridelia ferruginea extract gold nanoparticles for the treatment of colon cancer
- Zosela, Itumeleng, Davids, Hajierah
- Authors: Zosela, Itumeleng , Davids, Hajierah
- 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/10948/54124 , vital:46311
- Description: Colorectal cancer (CRC) has become a health burden, being the third common cancer worldwide. Treatment of colorectal cancer is very important to manage the high prevalence rate of this disease. The available treatments for CRC have their drawbacks and side effects. Available treatments of colon cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Due to the side effects associated with these treatments, alternative treatments that pose less side effects are being developed worldwide. Nanotechnologies have gained global consideration due to their potential to improve the current standards and techniques for the diagnosis and treatment. The use of plants for synthesis of gold nanoparticles has opened a new venture of synthesizing environmentally friendly and cost-effective nanoparticles which possess great properties for CRC treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the use of green synthesized AuNPs from Bridelia ferruginea for potential cancer treatment. In this work study gold nanoparticles were synthesized utilizing Bridelia ferruginea stem bark extract. The nanoparticles were characterized using UV–Vis spectroscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM). The in vitroanti cancer activity of the AuNPs was investigated using Presto Blue assay, cellular morphology, caspase 3/7 assay on the human colon cancer cell line at different times to assess the optimum time for cell death. The cellular uptake and localization of AuNPs was investigated using HRTEM to assess uptake and location of the AuNPs within the cell. Results obtained from this study showed that the AuNP synthesis from Bridellia ferrugenia was successful. The Presto Blue cell viability results showed that the AuNPs reduced cell viability (%) significantly (p<0.05) after 24 h. The optimum treatment time of HT-29 cells with AuNPs was determined to be 24 h. The apoptotic effects of the AuNPs were assessed using Cell Event reagent, and the results from this assay indicated that caspase 3/7 was activated with treatment with AuNPs which induced cell death via apoptosis. The HRTEM results indicated that there was no uptake of AuNP targeting in HT-29 therefore localization could not be determined. It can be concluded that the AuNPs synthesized from Bridellia ferrugenia have anti-cancer properties and are able to induce cell death through apoptosis. Furthermore, this study revealed that optimization of the AuNPs for cellular uptake is needed to further understand the interaction between the nanoparticles and the cells. This will provide more insight on how cellular death is induced by the nanoparticles. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology (including Physiology), 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Zosela, Itumeleng , Davids, Hajierah
- 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/10948/54124 , vital:46311
- Description: Colorectal cancer (CRC) has become a health burden, being the third common cancer worldwide. Treatment of colorectal cancer is very important to manage the high prevalence rate of this disease. The available treatments for CRC have their drawbacks and side effects. Available treatments of colon cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Due to the side effects associated with these treatments, alternative treatments that pose less side effects are being developed worldwide. Nanotechnologies have gained global consideration due to their potential to improve the current standards and techniques for the diagnosis and treatment. The use of plants for synthesis of gold nanoparticles has opened a new venture of synthesizing environmentally friendly and cost-effective nanoparticles which possess great properties for CRC treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the use of green synthesized AuNPs from Bridelia ferruginea for potential cancer treatment. In this work study gold nanoparticles were synthesized utilizing Bridelia ferruginea stem bark extract. The nanoparticles were characterized using UV–Vis spectroscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM). The in vitroanti cancer activity of the AuNPs was investigated using Presto Blue assay, cellular morphology, caspase 3/7 assay on the human colon cancer cell line at different times to assess the optimum time for cell death. The cellular uptake and localization of AuNPs was investigated using HRTEM to assess uptake and location of the AuNPs within the cell. Results obtained from this study showed that the AuNP synthesis from Bridellia ferrugenia was successful. The Presto Blue cell viability results showed that the AuNPs reduced cell viability (%) significantly (p<0.05) after 24 h. The optimum treatment time of HT-29 cells with AuNPs was determined to be 24 h. The apoptotic effects of the AuNPs were assessed using Cell Event reagent, and the results from this assay indicated that caspase 3/7 was activated with treatment with AuNPs which induced cell death via apoptosis. The HRTEM results indicated that there was no uptake of AuNP targeting in HT-29 therefore localization could not be determined. It can be concluded that the AuNPs synthesized from Bridellia ferrugenia have anti-cancer properties and are able to induce cell death through apoptosis. Furthermore, this study revealed that optimization of the AuNPs for cellular uptake is needed to further understand the interaction between the nanoparticles and the cells. This will provide more insight on how cellular death is induced by the nanoparticles. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology (including Physiology), 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
An ergonomics study of orthotics and prosthetics workshops in the Eastern Cape of South Africa
- Authors: Mgibantaka, Aviwe Sihle
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Orthopedic apparatus industry South Africa Eastern Cape Administration , Prosthesis industry South Africa Eastern Cape Administration , Prosthetists Health and hygiene South Africa Eastern Cape , Prosthetists Job stress South Africa Eastern Cape , Work environment Psychological aspects , Industrial hygiene South Africa Eastern Cape , Human engineering South Africa Eastern Cape , Industrial safety South Africa Eastern Cape , Posture Health aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/192108 , vital:45196
- Description: The South African healthcare system is under pressure due to inequalities inherited from the Apartheid system of the past, as well as more recent maladministration. These problems are particularly evident in the Eastern Cape province, which is considered the second poorest province in the country. Furthermore, the rehabilitation sector within healthcare is struggling for recognition in both the public and private healthcare sectors. Orthotists and prosthetists (O&Ps) form an important service in the greater rehabilitation sector since they provide an essential service for people living with disabilities, thus enabling them to function independently. Limited literature and anecdotal evidence suggest that O&Ps perform strenuous physical work under sub-optimal environmental conditions. Furthermore, it is hypothesized that the contextual influences of a struggling healthcare system such as lack or resources, poor referral systems, staff shortages and poor working environments may create a lot of challenges for O&Ps that can impact O&P’s health and well-being and work performance. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the systemic challenges and enablers facing orthotists and prosthetists working in the Eastern Cape of South Africa and thus also evaluate the impact on their health and well-being as well as their job performance. Furthermore, this thesis aimed to compare the work system of O&Ps working in the public with that of O&Ps in the private sector. Methods: A quantitative research method was chosen for this study. Data were collected using a descriptive questionnaire-based approach aimed at identifying the socio-technical interactions in the work systems of O&Ps in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. This study was approved by the Rhodes University Ethical Standards Committee. The questionnaire was created in Google forms and the link to the online form was sent to Medical O&Ps and Orthopaedic Footwear Technicians using instant messaging (WhatsApp). Two hard copies were also handed out. Data were analysed using StatSoft Statistica Software (version 13.4.0.14 by TIBCO Software Inc.). Descriptive, parametric, content and correlation analyses were conducted. Significant findings were identified at p<0.05. Results: The study received 43 respondents working in both the public and private health sectors, of which 53.5% were males and 46.5% females. The mean age of the respondents was 34.38 years with a coefficient of variation of 19.45%. Majority of respondents (68.9%) worked in the public sector, with the remainder working in the private sector, or sharing their time between both healthcare sectors. Generally, respondents were satisfied with the organizational structure of their workplaces and their work environments. Work demands were identified by respondents from both sectors as an area of concern as tasks performed by O&Ps entailed physical strength, prolonged standing, awkward postures, and repetitive movements. Furthermore, there were some concerns about lighting and noise being unfavourable in some of the workshops. For all the system components, the standard deviations had a low dispersion of less than 1.0 from the mean. The lowest dispersion was 0.63 and the highest dispersion from the mean was 0.99. The analysis using the general linear models option revealed a significant difference between the scores of the work system components (p=0.03). The subsequent Tukey post-hoc test revealed a significant difference in the mean rating scores between the “Environment” and “Work demands”, with a p-value of 0.03. There was discontentment from respondents working in both sectors with their work productivity as the public health sector respondents were 64.52% content; private sector respondents were 68.89% content, and respondents working in both sectors were only 56.67% content. When comparing the responses between O&Ps working in the different sectors, respondents working both sectors were unhappy with the provision of tools, machines, and materials, with 56.25% of the respondents working in the public health sector being less happy than the 61.11% working in the private health sector and the 63.19% working in both the private and public health sectors. Respondents had concerns regarding health and well-being with 60.60% of respondents working in both the public and private health sectors and experiencing more challenges than the 61.05% in the public and 67.24% in the private health sectors, respectively. Correlation analyses revealed very high positive correlations between the system components and the system outcomes. Conclusion: The biggest issue emerging from this study was work demands as O&Ps work is physically demanding. O&Ps had to do a lot of manual handling, heavy load lifting, endure repetitive and vibration movements, prolonged standing and bending in awkward postures to complete tasks. The results from this study indicate that the private health sector is better equipped in terms of the work environment, machines than the public healthcare sector. The finding from this study can be used to improve the factors that enable O&Ps’ job performance and come up with possible solutions to the challenges O&Ps face in their jobs. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Mgibantaka, Aviwe Sihle
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Orthopedic apparatus industry South Africa Eastern Cape Administration , Prosthesis industry South Africa Eastern Cape Administration , Prosthetists Health and hygiene South Africa Eastern Cape , Prosthetists Job stress South Africa Eastern Cape , Work environment Psychological aspects , Industrial hygiene South Africa Eastern Cape , Human engineering South Africa Eastern Cape , Industrial safety South Africa Eastern Cape , Posture Health aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/192108 , vital:45196
- Description: The South African healthcare system is under pressure due to inequalities inherited from the Apartheid system of the past, as well as more recent maladministration. These problems are particularly evident in the Eastern Cape province, which is considered the second poorest province in the country. Furthermore, the rehabilitation sector within healthcare is struggling for recognition in both the public and private healthcare sectors. Orthotists and prosthetists (O&Ps) form an important service in the greater rehabilitation sector since they provide an essential service for people living with disabilities, thus enabling them to function independently. Limited literature and anecdotal evidence suggest that O&Ps perform strenuous physical work under sub-optimal environmental conditions. Furthermore, it is hypothesized that the contextual influences of a struggling healthcare system such as lack or resources, poor referral systems, staff shortages and poor working environments may create a lot of challenges for O&Ps that can impact O&P’s health and well-being and work performance. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the systemic challenges and enablers facing orthotists and prosthetists working in the Eastern Cape of South Africa and thus also evaluate the impact on their health and well-being as well as their job performance. Furthermore, this thesis aimed to compare the work system of O&Ps working in the public with that of O&Ps in the private sector. Methods: A quantitative research method was chosen for this study. Data were collected using a descriptive questionnaire-based approach aimed at identifying the socio-technical interactions in the work systems of O&Ps in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. This study was approved by the Rhodes University Ethical Standards Committee. The questionnaire was created in Google forms and the link to the online form was sent to Medical O&Ps and Orthopaedic Footwear Technicians using instant messaging (WhatsApp). Two hard copies were also handed out. Data were analysed using StatSoft Statistica Software (version 13.4.0.14 by TIBCO Software Inc.). Descriptive, parametric, content and correlation analyses were conducted. Significant findings were identified at p<0.05. Results: The study received 43 respondents working in both the public and private health sectors, of which 53.5% were males and 46.5% females. The mean age of the respondents was 34.38 years with a coefficient of variation of 19.45%. Majority of respondents (68.9%) worked in the public sector, with the remainder working in the private sector, or sharing their time between both healthcare sectors. Generally, respondents were satisfied with the organizational structure of their workplaces and their work environments. Work demands were identified by respondents from both sectors as an area of concern as tasks performed by O&Ps entailed physical strength, prolonged standing, awkward postures, and repetitive movements. Furthermore, there were some concerns about lighting and noise being unfavourable in some of the workshops. For all the system components, the standard deviations had a low dispersion of less than 1.0 from the mean. The lowest dispersion was 0.63 and the highest dispersion from the mean was 0.99. The analysis using the general linear models option revealed a significant difference between the scores of the work system components (p=0.03). The subsequent Tukey post-hoc test revealed a significant difference in the mean rating scores between the “Environment” and “Work demands”, with a p-value of 0.03. There was discontentment from respondents working in both sectors with their work productivity as the public health sector respondents were 64.52% content; private sector respondents were 68.89% content, and respondents working in both sectors were only 56.67% content. When comparing the responses between O&Ps working in the different sectors, respondents working both sectors were unhappy with the provision of tools, machines, and materials, with 56.25% of the respondents working in the public health sector being less happy than the 61.11% working in the private health sector and the 63.19% working in both the private and public health sectors. Respondents had concerns regarding health and well-being with 60.60% of respondents working in both the public and private health sectors and experiencing more challenges than the 61.05% in the public and 67.24% in the private health sectors, respectively. Correlation analyses revealed very high positive correlations between the system components and the system outcomes. Conclusion: The biggest issue emerging from this study was work demands as O&Ps work is physically demanding. O&Ps had to do a lot of manual handling, heavy load lifting, endure repetitive and vibration movements, prolonged standing and bending in awkward postures to complete tasks. The results from this study indicate that the private health sector is better equipped in terms of the work environment, machines than the public healthcare sector. The finding from this study can be used to improve the factors that enable O&Ps’ job performance and come up with possible solutions to the challenges O&Ps face in their jobs. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
The use of African languages in traditional courts: a Luyengweni case study
- Authors: Nyakambi, Ntombizethu
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: African languages South Africa Eastern Cape , Forensic linguistics South Africa Eastern Cape , Linguistic rights South Africa Eastern Cape , Communication in law South Africa Eastern Cape , Language planning South Africa Eastern Cape , Language policy South Africa Eastern Cape , Court interpreting and translating South Africa Eastern Cape , Customary law South Africa Eastern Cape , Customary law courts South Africa Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188810 , vital:44788
- Description: Forensic linguistics is a relatively new field in South Africa. This field which forms part of the applied linguistic discipline seeks to look at the application of linguistic knowledge, methods and insights to the forensic context of the law. This is a forensic linguistic study that seeks to look at the use of African languages in the traditional courts. The researcher explored the traditional courts of Luyengweni, a rural area situated in KwaBhaca at Mount Frere in the Eastern Cape. The concept of African languages usage is explored within the boundaries of customary laws as outlined in Section 6 of the South African Constitution of 1996. To fully elicit the use of African languages in the traditional courts of Luyengweni this study employed an exploratory qualitative research design method. This research method allows for data to be collected from the participants using semi-structured interviews, observation and other qualitative methods of data instrumentation. Relevant community members of Luyengweni such as Chiefs and their councillors, ordinary members of the community and the court secretary were interviewed by the researcher and the data was translated, transcribed and analysed. The thesis made use of a thematic analysis. These themes showed that the use of African languages in traditional courts is still relevant, however, the imbalances of language use in both common and customary law need to be addressed. The study revealed that the traditional courts still serve as law institutions that people trust to bring about justice, therefore language use as one of the pivotal tools in the justice system needs to be considered for effective justice to be carried out. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Nyakambi, Ntombizethu
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: African languages South Africa Eastern Cape , Forensic linguistics South Africa Eastern Cape , Linguistic rights South Africa Eastern Cape , Communication in law South Africa Eastern Cape , Language planning South Africa Eastern Cape , Language policy South Africa Eastern Cape , Court interpreting and translating South Africa Eastern Cape , Customary law South Africa Eastern Cape , Customary law courts South Africa Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/188810 , vital:44788
- Description: Forensic linguistics is a relatively new field in South Africa. This field which forms part of the applied linguistic discipline seeks to look at the application of linguistic knowledge, methods and insights to the forensic context of the law. This is a forensic linguistic study that seeks to look at the use of African languages in the traditional courts. The researcher explored the traditional courts of Luyengweni, a rural area situated in KwaBhaca at Mount Frere in the Eastern Cape. The concept of African languages usage is explored within the boundaries of customary laws as outlined in Section 6 of the South African Constitution of 1996. To fully elicit the use of African languages in the traditional courts of Luyengweni this study employed an exploratory qualitative research design method. This research method allows for data to be collected from the participants using semi-structured interviews, observation and other qualitative methods of data instrumentation. Relevant community members of Luyengweni such as Chiefs and their councillors, ordinary members of the community and the court secretary were interviewed by the researcher and the data was translated, transcribed and analysed. The thesis made use of a thematic analysis. These themes showed that the use of African languages in traditional courts is still relevant, however, the imbalances of language use in both common and customary law need to be addressed. The study revealed that the traditional courts still serve as law institutions that people trust to bring about justice, therefore language use as one of the pivotal tools in the justice system needs to be considered for effective justice to be carried out. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
Knowledge, Attitudes and Perceptions Towards HIV Testing Among IsiXhosa-Speaking Men in The Zithulele Catchment Area of The Rural Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Scotcher, Philippa Claire
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/6842 , vital:51017
- Description: BACKGROUND South Africa carries the largest burden of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in the world, with over 7.9 million people infected and over 70 000 HIV-related deaths in 2019. Men are 25% more likely to die from Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) compared to women, even though women are more likely to be infected. Despite these numbers, only 24.1% of HIV-positive men compared to 64.8% of HIV-positive women were aware of their status. Statistics indicate that men in South Africa are not testing for HIV until it is too late. In order to focus efforts on the prevention of HIV transmission, there is a need to understand why men are not accessing HIV testing and treatment services earlier. This study aims to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards HIV testing of isiXhosa-speaking men in the Zithulele catchment area of the rural Eastern Cape. METHODS This was a qualitative study using the phenomenological approach. It was conducted among a purposive sample of isiXhosa-speaking men from the Zithulele catchment area, in the OR Tambo district of the Eastern Cape Province. Ten semi-structured interviews and one focus group were conducted in isiXhosa. Interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed, and translated into English. The interviews were thematically analysed using an inductive approach. RESULTS Participants from the study had a good understanding of HIV and HIV transmission. They perceived HIV infection as a death sentence, a consequence of immoral behaviour and an indication of failure as man. Reluctance to test for HIV was due to the perception that testing hastens the onset of symptoms and death, whereas disclosure of an HIV-positive status was described as difficult due to the fear of stigmatization. Some of the barriers to accessing HIV testing services included masculine norms, the belief that sickness is equated with weakness, a perceived lack of confidentiality at health facilities and how female-dominated clinics were not male-friendly spaces. Suggestions to improve HIV testing among men included improving targeted education, home-based testing services and utilizing traditional meetings to address men. CONCLUSION The findings of this study may suggest that healthy men in the Zithulele catchment area of the rural Eastern Cape are not accessing HIV testing and treatment services. The reasons behind this reluctance include false beliefs around HIV and testing, the fear of discrimination, disruption of masculine norms and reluctance to access care at female-dominated health facilities. Further research is needed to explore ways to reach, educate and encourage men to test earlier for HIV. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
- Authors: Scotcher, Philippa Claire
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/6842 , vital:51017
- Description: BACKGROUND South Africa carries the largest burden of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in the world, with over 7.9 million people infected and over 70 000 HIV-related deaths in 2019. Men are 25% more likely to die from Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) compared to women, even though women are more likely to be infected. Despite these numbers, only 24.1% of HIV-positive men compared to 64.8% of HIV-positive women were aware of their status. Statistics indicate that men in South Africa are not testing for HIV until it is too late. In order to focus efforts on the prevention of HIV transmission, there is a need to understand why men are not accessing HIV testing and treatment services earlier. This study aims to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards HIV testing of isiXhosa-speaking men in the Zithulele catchment area of the rural Eastern Cape. METHODS This was a qualitative study using the phenomenological approach. It was conducted among a purposive sample of isiXhosa-speaking men from the Zithulele catchment area, in the OR Tambo district of the Eastern Cape Province. Ten semi-structured interviews and one focus group were conducted in isiXhosa. Interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed, and translated into English. The interviews were thematically analysed using an inductive approach. RESULTS Participants from the study had a good understanding of HIV and HIV transmission. They perceived HIV infection as a death sentence, a consequence of immoral behaviour and an indication of failure as man. Reluctance to test for HIV was due to the perception that testing hastens the onset of symptoms and death, whereas disclosure of an HIV-positive status was described as difficult due to the fear of stigmatization. Some of the barriers to accessing HIV testing services included masculine norms, the belief that sickness is equated with weakness, a perceived lack of confidentiality at health facilities and how female-dominated clinics were not male-friendly spaces. Suggestions to improve HIV testing among men included improving targeted education, home-based testing services and utilizing traditional meetings to address men. CONCLUSION The findings of this study may suggest that healthy men in the Zithulele catchment area of the rural Eastern Cape are not accessing HIV testing and treatment services. The reasons behind this reluctance include false beliefs around HIV and testing, the fear of discrimination, disruption of masculine norms and reluctance to access care at female-dominated health facilities. Further research is needed to explore ways to reach, educate and encourage men to test earlier for HIV. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10
The impact of export commodity prices on emerging markets economic growth: a case of South Africa’s mineral exports.
- Authors: Moodley, Shiven
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Economic development
- Language: English
- Type: Master's/ theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20462 , vital:45668
- Description: Despite South Africa being a mineral resource-rich country, it has experienced low economic growth post-democracy era. The available literature suggests that fluctuations in global demand for commodities have harmed the production process of tradeable and non-tradable goods. Based on this, this dissertation examines the impact of export commodity price on GDP per capita in South Africa using quarterly data beginning from Q2 (April-June) 1990 to Q4 (Oct-Dec) 2018. The Johansen co-integration technique and the Vector Error Correction Method (VECM) were utilised to examine both the long and short-run relationships between the variables of interest. The outcome of the examination has revealed that export commodity price and government expenditure have a positive relationship with GDP per capita in the long run. However, net capital flows have a negative effect on GDP per capita in South Africa. In the short run, the empirical results also reveal that both net capital flows and government expenditure are negatively related to GDP per capita. Furthermore, policy action should be directed towards structural investment for the development of sustainable infrastructure projects within the commodity export sector based on the long-run relationship between commodity export prices and GDP per capita. , Thesis (MCom) (Economics) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
- Authors: Moodley, Shiven
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Economic development
- Language: English
- Type: Master's/ theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20462 , vital:45668
- Description: Despite South Africa being a mineral resource-rich country, it has experienced low economic growth post-democracy era. The available literature suggests that fluctuations in global demand for commodities have harmed the production process of tradeable and non-tradable goods. Based on this, this dissertation examines the impact of export commodity price on GDP per capita in South Africa using quarterly data beginning from Q2 (April-June) 1990 to Q4 (Oct-Dec) 2018. The Johansen co-integration technique and the Vector Error Correction Method (VECM) were utilised to examine both the long and short-run relationships between the variables of interest. The outcome of the examination has revealed that export commodity price and government expenditure have a positive relationship with GDP per capita in the long run. However, net capital flows have a negative effect on GDP per capita in South Africa. In the short run, the empirical results also reveal that both net capital flows and government expenditure are negatively related to GDP per capita. Furthermore, policy action should be directed towards structural investment for the development of sustainable infrastructure projects within the commodity export sector based on the long-run relationship between commodity export prices and GDP per capita. , Thesis (MCom) (Economics) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-09
Creating shared value through innovating business models: a case study of the Mapela Water Project
- Authors: Moyo, Bonnie
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Business planning -- South Africa , Strategic planning -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa , Mineral industries -- South Africa , Mapela Water Project , Hourglass Model
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177135 , vital:42793
- Description: Shared value creation is a contemporary concept that aims to address the strained relationship between business and society through business models that expand the competitive advantage of business while addressing societal challenges in the business environment. Being a novel concept, studies on how value is created and shared are limited, especially where the unit of analysis is a specific project. This paper investigates how value is created and shared among stakeholders using a water project case study reported as a shared value initiative. The investigation is considered under the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund, Massa, Bocken, Brent and Musango, 2016) as a guiding framework. This sustainable business model is suggested as a business model that creates shared value. The study uses a qualitative research approach to investigate the inputs into the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund et al., 2016) in the form of capitals, briefly considers the business models of specific stakeholders and then analyses the value created, missed and destroyed for each stakeholder through their value creation mechanisms. In the findings, six different capitals are identified from the participating stakeholders, and the value created, destroyed, and missed is discussed in the context of shared value principles. The findings show that capitals are used as inputs into the Hourglass Model and are consumed, created, and regenerated. There is also the realisation from the findings that different stakeholders required different and varying amounts of the six capitals identified. The interconnectedness of the capitals is shown in the study, and the findings show that the context of the environment within which a project operates contributes to the creation of shared value. As with the six capitals, the findings show that multiple stakeholders create shared value confirming stakeholder theory's guiding principles regarding stakeholder salience, which are relevant for creating shared value. Some stakeholders are identified as being more important to creating shared value in the project than others. Trade-offs are then required for value creation from a finite pool of capitals and stakeholders to consider the capitals and stakeholders' long and short-term impacts. Identifying stakeholders and the capitals allowed the researcher to consider the value created, destroyed and missed in the project. This assessment of shared value generated forms part of the findings on business models' outcomes for shared value, summarised for the project. Based on these areas where the outcomes are missing or destroying value, recommendations are made to address these opportunities, and an area of further research is identified. Drawing on these outcomes, developing clusters as per the value creation avenues of shared value would be the most appropriate avenue for this project. The study adds to the shared value body of knowledge by operationalising the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund et al., 2016) and illustrating how the Model can be used to consider shared value creation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Moyo, Bonnie
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Business planning -- South Africa , Strategic planning -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa , Mineral industries -- South Africa , Mapela Water Project , Hourglass Model
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177135 , vital:42793
- Description: Shared value creation is a contemporary concept that aims to address the strained relationship between business and society through business models that expand the competitive advantage of business while addressing societal challenges in the business environment. Being a novel concept, studies on how value is created and shared are limited, especially where the unit of analysis is a specific project. This paper investigates how value is created and shared among stakeholders using a water project case study reported as a shared value initiative. The investigation is considered under the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund, Massa, Bocken, Brent and Musango, 2016) as a guiding framework. This sustainable business model is suggested as a business model that creates shared value. The study uses a qualitative research approach to investigate the inputs into the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund et al., 2016) in the form of capitals, briefly considers the business models of specific stakeholders and then analyses the value created, missed and destroyed for each stakeholder through their value creation mechanisms. In the findings, six different capitals are identified from the participating stakeholders, and the value created, destroyed, and missed is discussed in the context of shared value principles. The findings show that capitals are used as inputs into the Hourglass Model and are consumed, created, and regenerated. There is also the realisation from the findings that different stakeholders required different and varying amounts of the six capitals identified. The interconnectedness of the capitals is shown in the study, and the findings show that the context of the environment within which a project operates contributes to the creation of shared value. As with the six capitals, the findings show that multiple stakeholders create shared value confirming stakeholder theory's guiding principles regarding stakeholder salience, which are relevant for creating shared value. Some stakeholders are identified as being more important to creating shared value in the project than others. Trade-offs are then required for value creation from a finite pool of capitals and stakeholders to consider the capitals and stakeholders' long and short-term impacts. Identifying stakeholders and the capitals allowed the researcher to consider the value created, destroyed and missed in the project. This assessment of shared value generated forms part of the findings on business models' outcomes for shared value, summarised for the project. Based on these areas where the outcomes are missing or destroying value, recommendations are made to address these opportunities, and an area of further research is identified. Drawing on these outcomes, developing clusters as per the value creation avenues of shared value would be the most appropriate avenue for this project. The study adds to the shared value body of knowledge by operationalising the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund et al., 2016) and illustrating how the Model can be used to consider shared value creation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The application and outcomes of action research as a team development intervention
- Authors: Kloppers, Paul
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Teams in the workplace , Teams in the workplace|xTraining of , Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51721 , vital:43366
- Description: An action research design was used to develop a team development intervention to determine the effect of the team development intervention on team functioning, as considered within a postmodern paradigm. A team of nine members agreed to participate in this study. For the purpose of this study, the researcher targeted an existing (intact) team who was already operating as a team within the work context. Therefore, convenience sampling (purposive) was used to select the relevant team. Data was collected using focus group sessions. The initial intention was to record these sessions to allow for collecting verbatim data that would aid the process of data analysis. However, due to participant concerns regarding confidentiality, the researcher suggested introducing a co-facilitator who would record proceedings by making process notes. The additional benefit of this approach included observation data that was obtained during the focus group sessions. A nine-step model was used as a guideline to conduct the focus group discussion and an intervention in the form of a team workshop was designed. The workshop, consisting of three integrated sessions, was implemented and the effect thereof determined by conducting a follow-up session with the team. The data collected from the focus group session before as well as after the workshop was processed and interpreted using thematic analysis. Issues of trustworthiness and data authenticity was dealt with during the focus group sessions by means of reciprocal feedback loops. The teambuilding workshop that was informed by the focus group input, focused on creating awareness around communication (interpersonal), behaviours driven by team values (interpersonal), as well as managing focus and energy (team processes). The team reported that the style and content of the workshop was apt and that the process was a good learning experience. This seems to support research suggesting that team building has a positive effect on developing interpersonal relationships, which could then benefit organisational performance. The results are discussed in relation to theory and suggestions are proposed for future research. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Industrial Psychology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Kloppers, Paul
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Teams in the workplace , Teams in the workplace|xTraining of , Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51721 , vital:43366
- Description: An action research design was used to develop a team development intervention to determine the effect of the team development intervention on team functioning, as considered within a postmodern paradigm. A team of nine members agreed to participate in this study. For the purpose of this study, the researcher targeted an existing (intact) team who was already operating as a team within the work context. Therefore, convenience sampling (purposive) was used to select the relevant team. Data was collected using focus group sessions. The initial intention was to record these sessions to allow for collecting verbatim data that would aid the process of data analysis. However, due to participant concerns regarding confidentiality, the researcher suggested introducing a co-facilitator who would record proceedings by making process notes. The additional benefit of this approach included observation data that was obtained during the focus group sessions. A nine-step model was used as a guideline to conduct the focus group discussion and an intervention in the form of a team workshop was designed. The workshop, consisting of three integrated sessions, was implemented and the effect thereof determined by conducting a follow-up session with the team. The data collected from the focus group session before as well as after the workshop was processed and interpreted using thematic analysis. Issues of trustworthiness and data authenticity was dealt with during the focus group sessions by means of reciprocal feedback loops. The teambuilding workshop that was informed by the focus group input, focused on creating awareness around communication (interpersonal), behaviours driven by team values (interpersonal), as well as managing focus and energy (team processes). The team reported that the style and content of the workshop was apt and that the process was a good learning experience. This seems to support research suggesting that team building has a positive effect on developing interpersonal relationships, which could then benefit organisational performance. The results are discussed in relation to theory and suggestions are proposed for future research. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Industrial Psychology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
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