The leadership style of Richard Branson: a psychobiography
- Authors: Fourie, Megan
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Leadership -- South Africa , Psychology -- Biographical methods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50557 , vital:42221
- Description: Transformational leadership (TFL) is a leadership theory that describes how leaders create change through their ability to inspire and motivate followers toward self-improvement and innovation that benefits the individual, the group, and the organisation as a whole.This psychobiographical research study explored the leadership style of Richard Branson by using Bass’s theory of transformational leadership. An exploratory-descriptive design was utilised to examine Branson’s life history. He was selected for the study through non-probability purposive sampling based on his history as an extraordinary leader and entrepreneur. Primary and secondary sources of historical and biographical data were used in the data collection process. The data was then processed using thematic analysis against the theoretical framework of transformational leadership. From an ethical perspective, the researcher took care to avoid the misrepresentation of the subject, thus balancing objective research with respect for the psychobiographical content and minimising the risk of doing harm. The findings demonstrated that Branson’s leadership style consists of, and corresponds to a large extent, to the four major components of TFL.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Fourie, Megan
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Leadership -- South Africa , Psychology -- Biographical methods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50557 , vital:42221
- Description: Transformational leadership (TFL) is a leadership theory that describes how leaders create change through their ability to inspire and motivate followers toward self-improvement and innovation that benefits the individual, the group, and the organisation as a whole.This psychobiographical research study explored the leadership style of Richard Branson by using Bass’s theory of transformational leadership. An exploratory-descriptive design was utilised to examine Branson’s life history. He was selected for the study through non-probability purposive sampling based on his history as an extraordinary leader and entrepreneur. Primary and secondary sources of historical and biographical data were used in the data collection process. The data was then processed using thematic analysis against the theoretical framework of transformational leadership. From an ethical perspective, the researcher took care to avoid the misrepresentation of the subject, thus balancing objective research with respect for the psychobiographical content and minimising the risk of doing harm. The findings demonstrated that Branson’s leadership style consists of, and corresponds to a large extent, to the four major components of TFL.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The meanings selected Rhodes University student-fans of hip-hop make of the gendered scenarios portrayed in designated South African commercial hip-hop music videos
- Mtengwa, Tamuka Phumelela Msawenkosi Misheck
- Authors: Mtengwa, Tamuka Phumelela Msawenkosi Misheck
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Hip-hop -- South Africa , Misogyny -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Rap (Music) -- South Africa , Rap (Music) -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Hip-hop -- Influence , Violence in music , Women -- Violence against -- South Africa , Rape culture -- South Africa , Rap music fans-- South Africa -- Makhanda , Misogyny in music , #RapeCultureMustFall , #RUReferenceList
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/148305 , vital:38728
- Description: Hip-hop is frequently linked to misogyny and other forms of violence. This link, in many instances, is often presented outside of a critical understanding of complex underlying societal and gender dynamics. South Africa’s high rates of violence against women make it necessary to understand how hip-hop videos interact with society, as hip-hop, in its commercial form, has become a growing music genre in South Africa. Rhodes University, which has a notable student following of hip-hop, has experienced concerning levels of gender-based tensions as evidenced by the rise of the “fallist” movement’s #RapeCultureMustFall, #RUReferenceList and the suicide of Khensani Maseko, at the instigation of an alleged incident of rape, perpetrated by her boyfriend and fellow student. It is therefore of interest to investigate how a select group of Rhodes University student-fans of hip-hop make meaning out of selected South African commercial hip-hop music videos. The hip-hop music videos chosen for the study, hence Pitbull Terrier (Die Antwoord), Pearl Thusi (Emtee), Dlala ka yona (L’Tido), All eyes on me (AKA featuring Burna Boy, Da L.E.S and JR) and Ragga Ragga (Gemini Major featuring Casper Nyovest, Riky Rick and Nadia Nakai), were selected on the strength of their popularity and uniquely gendered scenarios. This study draws on qualitative research methods, thus qualitative thematic content analysis, focus group and in-depth interviews. The study establishes that despite gender being a contentious issue at Rhodes University, students make meaning out of the gendered portrayals based on their own experiences, socialisation, cultural values and level of submission to the discourse of hip-hop. This study seeks to understand how selected student-fans of hip-hop read the gendered portrayals of the music videos, based on their own experiences, socialisation, cultural values, and level of submission to the discourse of hip-hop.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mtengwa, Tamuka Phumelela Msawenkosi Misheck
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Hip-hop -- South Africa , Misogyny -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Rap (Music) -- South Africa , Rap (Music) -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Hip-hop -- Influence , Violence in music , Women -- Violence against -- South Africa , Rape culture -- South Africa , Rap music fans-- South Africa -- Makhanda , Misogyny in music , #RapeCultureMustFall , #RUReferenceList
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/148305 , vital:38728
- Description: Hip-hop is frequently linked to misogyny and other forms of violence. This link, in many instances, is often presented outside of a critical understanding of complex underlying societal and gender dynamics. South Africa’s high rates of violence against women make it necessary to understand how hip-hop videos interact with society, as hip-hop, in its commercial form, has become a growing music genre in South Africa. Rhodes University, which has a notable student following of hip-hop, has experienced concerning levels of gender-based tensions as evidenced by the rise of the “fallist” movement’s #RapeCultureMustFall, #RUReferenceList and the suicide of Khensani Maseko, at the instigation of an alleged incident of rape, perpetrated by her boyfriend and fellow student. It is therefore of interest to investigate how a select group of Rhodes University student-fans of hip-hop make meaning out of selected South African commercial hip-hop music videos. The hip-hop music videos chosen for the study, hence Pitbull Terrier (Die Antwoord), Pearl Thusi (Emtee), Dlala ka yona (L’Tido), All eyes on me (AKA featuring Burna Boy, Da L.E.S and JR) and Ragga Ragga (Gemini Major featuring Casper Nyovest, Riky Rick and Nadia Nakai), were selected on the strength of their popularity and uniquely gendered scenarios. This study draws on qualitative research methods, thus qualitative thematic content analysis, focus group and in-depth interviews. The study establishes that despite gender being a contentious issue at Rhodes University, students make meaning out of the gendered portrayals based on their own experiences, socialisation, cultural values and level of submission to the discourse of hip-hop. This study seeks to understand how selected student-fans of hip-hop read the gendered portrayals of the music videos, based on their own experiences, socialisation, cultural values, and level of submission to the discourse of hip-hop.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The mediating effect of financial literacy on the relationship between financial behavior and financial well-being on budget intentions
- Authors: Msakatya, Sakhumzi Mcgregor
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Financial literacy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49736 , vital:41786
- Description: Financial literacy concerns the understanding of those concepts related to finances. Financial literacy is globally recognised as an essential life skill since people must be able to differentiate among a wide range of products, services and providers of financial products to manage their finances successfully. Individuals make daily financial decisions about expenditures and savings. In environments where resources are scarce poor financial decisions have high impact on the quality of life and future access to resources. People are not adequately educated with regards to finance and wealth creation, save too little for retirement, overspend and tend to purchase items that are not prioritised for the household. Due to limited empirical research, it is clear that new research into the effect of financial literacy on the relationship between financial behaviour and financial well-being on budget intentions is required. This study was anchored to two theories, namely the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), intended to explain all behaviors in which people have the ability to exert self-control and the Trans-Theoretical Model of Behaviour Change (TTM) that could be used to change people’s financial behaviour. The problem being explored is that the mismanagement of funding for beneficiaries at higher education institutions. NSFAS has begun to increasingly make cash payouts available to beneficiaries yet there is not enough empirical evidence to suggest that the beneficiaries possess adequate personal finance management skills or they are financially literate to being able to better manage their finances. When the beneficiaries are not adequately skilled regarding personal finance management skills, they could misuse such funds and this could result in these beneficiaries failing to complete their studies. This study contributed to the identified knowledge gap by investigating the mediating effect of financial literacy on the relationship between financial behaviour and financial well-being on budget intentions among South African university students. This study included quantitative research methods and questionnaires were used as the primary means of collecting the data. The sample included 204 participants from the University of Fort Hare. The final sample yielded a total response rate of 81.6%. A cross sectional research design was used for this study. Convenience sampling was used in this study. The researcher made use of student leaders to distribute and collect questionnaires. This study included 14 hypotheses. The dependent variables included Budget Intentions and Financial Literacy. The independent variables included Financial Well-being and Financial Behaviour. Self-control as a financial behaviour predicted university students’ budget intentions. Individuals with better self-control were more likely to forgo indulgences and focus on the long-term goals, thereby sticking to a budget. Optimism significantly predicted budget intentions of university learners. People who tend to engage in deliberate thinking more often are more likely to better manage their personal finances through budgeting. Individuals who have more positive financial attitude were more satisfied with their financial situation implying that they undertake planning and budgeting as far as finance issues are concerned. Financial socialisation from a parental perspective significantly influenced university students’ financial behaviour, namely, financial teaching, monitoring and modelling. People with better self-control are more likely to practise saving in almost every income flowing to them. Financial behaviour, particularly, deliberating thinking significantly predicted financial literacy. Positive financial behaviours such as being financial literate such as a reduction in day-to-day expenses were found to be associated with lower financial anxiety levels. Financial behaviours including positive financial attitude significantly predicted financial literacy. Individuals who had their financial issues monitored by parents for the purpose of earning advice and tips on financial matters were positively behaving pointing to the notion that they were financial literate and knowledgeable. The implication of the study is that management of institutions of higher learning should encourage students to practise self-control behaviour regarding their finances in order to improve budget intentions. It is also recommended that the Universities management should design short courses where students can be trained on or made aware of the importance of self-control as much as good financial behaviour is concerned.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Msakatya, Sakhumzi Mcgregor
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Financial literacy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49736 , vital:41786
- Description: Financial literacy concerns the understanding of those concepts related to finances. Financial literacy is globally recognised as an essential life skill since people must be able to differentiate among a wide range of products, services and providers of financial products to manage their finances successfully. Individuals make daily financial decisions about expenditures and savings. In environments where resources are scarce poor financial decisions have high impact on the quality of life and future access to resources. People are not adequately educated with regards to finance and wealth creation, save too little for retirement, overspend and tend to purchase items that are not prioritised for the household. Due to limited empirical research, it is clear that new research into the effect of financial literacy on the relationship between financial behaviour and financial well-being on budget intentions is required. This study was anchored to two theories, namely the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), intended to explain all behaviors in which people have the ability to exert self-control and the Trans-Theoretical Model of Behaviour Change (TTM) that could be used to change people’s financial behaviour. The problem being explored is that the mismanagement of funding for beneficiaries at higher education institutions. NSFAS has begun to increasingly make cash payouts available to beneficiaries yet there is not enough empirical evidence to suggest that the beneficiaries possess adequate personal finance management skills or they are financially literate to being able to better manage their finances. When the beneficiaries are not adequately skilled regarding personal finance management skills, they could misuse such funds and this could result in these beneficiaries failing to complete their studies. This study contributed to the identified knowledge gap by investigating the mediating effect of financial literacy on the relationship between financial behaviour and financial well-being on budget intentions among South African university students. This study included quantitative research methods and questionnaires were used as the primary means of collecting the data. The sample included 204 participants from the University of Fort Hare. The final sample yielded a total response rate of 81.6%. A cross sectional research design was used for this study. Convenience sampling was used in this study. The researcher made use of student leaders to distribute and collect questionnaires. This study included 14 hypotheses. The dependent variables included Budget Intentions and Financial Literacy. The independent variables included Financial Well-being and Financial Behaviour. Self-control as a financial behaviour predicted university students’ budget intentions. Individuals with better self-control were more likely to forgo indulgences and focus on the long-term goals, thereby sticking to a budget. Optimism significantly predicted budget intentions of university learners. People who tend to engage in deliberate thinking more often are more likely to better manage their personal finances through budgeting. Individuals who have more positive financial attitude were more satisfied with their financial situation implying that they undertake planning and budgeting as far as finance issues are concerned. Financial socialisation from a parental perspective significantly influenced university students’ financial behaviour, namely, financial teaching, monitoring and modelling. People with better self-control are more likely to practise saving in almost every income flowing to them. Financial behaviour, particularly, deliberating thinking significantly predicted financial literacy. Positive financial behaviours such as being financial literate such as a reduction in day-to-day expenses were found to be associated with lower financial anxiety levels. Financial behaviours including positive financial attitude significantly predicted financial literacy. Individuals who had their financial issues monitored by parents for the purpose of earning advice and tips on financial matters were positively behaving pointing to the notion that they were financial literate and knowledgeable. The implication of the study is that management of institutions of higher learning should encourage students to practise self-control behaviour regarding their finances in order to improve budget intentions. It is also recommended that the Universities management should design short courses where students can be trained on or made aware of the importance of self-control as much as good financial behaviour is concerned.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The role of elephants in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park: Perceived versus measured effects on woody vegetation
- Authors: Mbongwa, Siphesihle
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Woody plants -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48467 , vital:40879
- Description: Elephants were successfully reintroduced into the 900 km2 fenced Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP) from 1981 onwards and their population has increased exponentially since. Their initial reintroduction was motivated by the need to control bush encroachment and to maintain ecosystems such as grassland and open woodland, and to restore ecological processes offered by elephants. The subject of the HiP elephant population and their impact on vegetation in the Park has become controversial; with some concerns being raised that the population is too high and is negatively affecting the vegetation. An absence of a vegetation monitoring programme in protected areas with elephants creates uncertainty leading to an ‗elephant impact‘ debate. This study aimed to compare the perceptions of stakeholders regarding the issue of elephant impact in HiP with measured elephant impact on the vegetation in the Park. The perceptions and concerns of stakeholders regarding the effects of elephants on vegetation in HiP were investigated using a questionnaire. Stakeholders reported that elephants and fire were the main factors shaping vegetation change in HiP over the past decade. Sclerocarya birrea, Senegalia burkei and Schotia brachypetala were reported as the most negatively affected species. Also reported that they are concerned about the effects of elephants on the number of tall trees in the park, tree mortality and elephant‘s effect on rare indigenous vegetation. Most interestingly, the results showed that the groups of stakeholders had different perceptions of the level of elephant impact on the vegetation in the park; except for researchers and tourists whose were not significantly different from each other. Managers had the most respondents that reported that the level of elephant impact is unacceptable, while most researchers and tourists reported that the level of elephant impact is at an acceptable level. Vegetation plots that had been surveyed in 1999, 2003 and 2007, were resurveyed in this study during 2017 to assess elephant impact on vegetation over time. Comparison between the years sampled showed that there was a decrease in the density of tall trees, while the density of trees in 0.5-2 and 2-4 m height classes increased over the same period. Elephants had a strong preference for utilizing tall trees (>4 m) and a strong avoidance for trees in the height range from 0.5-2m tall (Jacobs selection index 0.56 and -0.69, respectively). This trend was apparent for all sample periods. In addition, elephants also showed a strong preference for some rare species including S. brachypetala and Sideroxylon inerme. Between 1999 and 2017, the density of preferred species has decreased while the density of avoided species has increased. I conclude that elephants are having a noticeable impact on the vegetation at HiP by changing vegetation structure to a shrub dominated vegetation, and causing a shift in species composition towards avoided species. The findings of this study show that the perceptions of stakeholders on the effects of elephants and the level of elephant impact on vegetation match the results from measured elephant impact - vegetation survey. However, Thresholds of Potential Concern (TPCs) should be outlined in the elephant management plan and are required to determine whether the levels of elephant impact at HiP have exceeded an acceptable level or not. This study conforms to previous research that an uncontrolled elephant population can have substantial impacts in fenced reserves. This study shows the importance for long-term and continuous vegetation monitoring programme to obtain reliable data to determine trends in vegetation changes over time.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mbongwa, Siphesihle
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Woody plants -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48467 , vital:40879
- Description: Elephants were successfully reintroduced into the 900 km2 fenced Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP) from 1981 onwards and their population has increased exponentially since. Their initial reintroduction was motivated by the need to control bush encroachment and to maintain ecosystems such as grassland and open woodland, and to restore ecological processes offered by elephants. The subject of the HiP elephant population and their impact on vegetation in the Park has become controversial; with some concerns being raised that the population is too high and is negatively affecting the vegetation. An absence of a vegetation monitoring programme in protected areas with elephants creates uncertainty leading to an ‗elephant impact‘ debate. This study aimed to compare the perceptions of stakeholders regarding the issue of elephant impact in HiP with measured elephant impact on the vegetation in the Park. The perceptions and concerns of stakeholders regarding the effects of elephants on vegetation in HiP were investigated using a questionnaire. Stakeholders reported that elephants and fire were the main factors shaping vegetation change in HiP over the past decade. Sclerocarya birrea, Senegalia burkei and Schotia brachypetala were reported as the most negatively affected species. Also reported that they are concerned about the effects of elephants on the number of tall trees in the park, tree mortality and elephant‘s effect on rare indigenous vegetation. Most interestingly, the results showed that the groups of stakeholders had different perceptions of the level of elephant impact on the vegetation in the park; except for researchers and tourists whose were not significantly different from each other. Managers had the most respondents that reported that the level of elephant impact is unacceptable, while most researchers and tourists reported that the level of elephant impact is at an acceptable level. Vegetation plots that had been surveyed in 1999, 2003 and 2007, were resurveyed in this study during 2017 to assess elephant impact on vegetation over time. Comparison between the years sampled showed that there was a decrease in the density of tall trees, while the density of trees in 0.5-2 and 2-4 m height classes increased over the same period. Elephants had a strong preference for utilizing tall trees (>4 m) and a strong avoidance for trees in the height range from 0.5-2m tall (Jacobs selection index 0.56 and -0.69, respectively). This trend was apparent for all sample periods. In addition, elephants also showed a strong preference for some rare species including S. brachypetala and Sideroxylon inerme. Between 1999 and 2017, the density of preferred species has decreased while the density of avoided species has increased. I conclude that elephants are having a noticeable impact on the vegetation at HiP by changing vegetation structure to a shrub dominated vegetation, and causing a shift in species composition towards avoided species. The findings of this study show that the perceptions of stakeholders on the effects of elephants and the level of elephant impact on vegetation match the results from measured elephant impact - vegetation survey. However, Thresholds of Potential Concern (TPCs) should be outlined in the elephant management plan and are required to determine whether the levels of elephant impact at HiP have exceeded an acceptable level or not. This study conforms to previous research that an uncontrolled elephant population can have substantial impacts in fenced reserves. This study shows the importance for long-term and continuous vegetation monitoring programme to obtain reliable data to determine trends in vegetation changes over time.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The Role of the Mnquma Local Municipality in Addressing Xenophobic Tensions between Foreign Shop Owners and Local Community Members in South Africa: A case study of Butterworth; 2010-2012
- Authors: Ndinisa, Sibongile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Xenophobia Foreign workers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc (Political Science)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18221 , vital:42243
- Description: The study examines the role played by the Mnquma Local municipality in addressing xenophobic violence in Butterworth between 2010 and 2012 and subsequent sporadic tensions. The study also examines the causes as well as the sporadic recurrence of xenophobic tensions between foreign shop owners and local community members in Butterworth. Due to the nature of the study, ethnographic fieldwork was considered the most practical and suitable method in getting necessary responses regarding the study. The data collection instruments used were in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Participants comprised 15 foreign shop owners, 15 local community members. In addition, three interviews were conducted with relevant Mnquma Local Municipality officials who had been involved in addressing xenophobic tensions in Butterworth. In order to understand the dynamics of xenophobic tensions in Butterworth, the study employed two theories; the Scapegoating theory and Relative Deprivation theory. The study established that the causes of xenophobic tensions were largely due to the poor socio-economic situation in the Mnquma Municipality, which resulted in high rates of poverty, unemployment and competition for resources and business opportunities. Furthermore, misinformation on media platforms about foreign nationals and the inadequate opportunities for interaction also exacerbated tensions. Moreover, it was uncovered that the Mnquma Local Municipality did not have effective mechanisms to address xenophobic tensions. The study recommends that the municipality addresses service delivery needs of both locals and foreign nationals as this will create a safe and peaceful environment for foreign nationals to coexist with locals in Butterworth. x The study further urges the Mnquma Local Municipality to formulate an antixenophobia unit that can detect and combat any sign of xenophobia in all communities in Butterworth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Ndinisa, Sibongile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Xenophobia Foreign workers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc (Political Science)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18221 , vital:42243
- Description: The study examines the role played by the Mnquma Local municipality in addressing xenophobic violence in Butterworth between 2010 and 2012 and subsequent sporadic tensions. The study also examines the causes as well as the sporadic recurrence of xenophobic tensions between foreign shop owners and local community members in Butterworth. Due to the nature of the study, ethnographic fieldwork was considered the most practical and suitable method in getting necessary responses regarding the study. The data collection instruments used were in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Participants comprised 15 foreign shop owners, 15 local community members. In addition, three interviews were conducted with relevant Mnquma Local Municipality officials who had been involved in addressing xenophobic tensions in Butterworth. In order to understand the dynamics of xenophobic tensions in Butterworth, the study employed two theories; the Scapegoating theory and Relative Deprivation theory. The study established that the causes of xenophobic tensions were largely due to the poor socio-economic situation in the Mnquma Municipality, which resulted in high rates of poverty, unemployment and competition for resources and business opportunities. Furthermore, misinformation on media platforms about foreign nationals and the inadequate opportunities for interaction also exacerbated tensions. Moreover, it was uncovered that the Mnquma Local Municipality did not have effective mechanisms to address xenophobic tensions. The study recommends that the municipality addresses service delivery needs of both locals and foreign nationals as this will create a safe and peaceful environment for foreign nationals to coexist with locals in Butterworth. x The study further urges the Mnquma Local Municipality to formulate an antixenophobia unit that can detect and combat any sign of xenophobia in all communities in Butterworth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The spatiotemporal aspects of predation on the Cape gannet Morus capensis population at the Lambert’s Bay gannet colony, Western Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Schoeman, Zanri
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Sea birds -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47656 , vital:40262
- Description: Seabirds are one of the most threatened groups of birds with 29% of seabird species at some risk of extinction. As a result of multiple human-induced threats, seabird species including the Cape gannet Morus capensis which is endemic to southern Africa population experience significant declines and is now classified as Endangered. The Cape gannet faces predation threats from a variety of different species. The current predators of concern at Lambert’s Bay gannet colony are both the Cape fur seal Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus and the Kelp gull Larus dominancus. The former predates on fledglings and the latter predates on eggs. In the 2005/06 breeding season the entire Cape gannet population deserted the Lambert’s Bay gannet colony due to predation by the Cape fur seal. Although the Cape gannets have subsequently recovered to approximately 8000 pairs, seal predation on Cape gannet fledglings continues, together with predation by Kelp gulls. This has caused concern over the impact of predation on this species at the Lambert’s Bay colony, particularly given the species’ conservation status, its small breeding range and its current population trend. CapeNature, the conservation agency involved at this colony has been monitoring and managing the predation on Cape gannets and are interested in evaluating the success of their efforts. Therefore the aim of this study was to determine the spatial and temporal aspects of predation on the Cape gannet population at Lambert’s Bay gannet colony. When examining the influence of fish availability on predation intensity, we found that in years with an increase in fish biomass there was a decrease in predation probability by Cape fur seals. This increase in fish biomass not only led to decreased predation on the fledglings it also led to increased breeding success of the Cape gannets. In determining the effect of predation within the Cape gannet breeding colony we found that the probability of predation by Kelp gulls decreased in years with increased adult gannet density. Indirectly, Cape gannet population growth should lead to a decrease in Kelp gull predation as a higher gannet density increases the risk of injury to the Kelp gulls. This suggests that if Cape gannet populations continue to decline, they may become increasingly vulnerable to Kelp gull predation which can result in a further population decline. In terms of past management actions, the selective culling of predatory Cape fur seals and Kelp gulls, was evaluated. It was found that in the years in which culling of Cape fur seals and Kelp gulls was implemented, a decrease in predation was observed. This indicated that culling reduced predation in the short-term. Predation is inevitable, but due to the Cape gannet’s conservation status we suggest that additional, long-term, and more sustainable methods to reduce predation should be explored. Our research emphasises the need for improving food availability to Cape gannets as food security is paramount to their long-term survival and population growth. Colony management in isolation from other management strategies, is not efficient for conserving a species. We therefore suggest that sound management of predation at the terrestrial habitats are required but that effective management of fisheries are also required for the successful conservation of the Cape gannet. Food security for Cape gannets could be improved by, for example, establishing some ways that we suggest improving the food security for Cape gannets would be to establish Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) with dynamic boundaries around Cape gannet colonies, and to have locate the MPAs close to breeding and foraging hotspots where these areas are closed to fishing thus reducing the competition between commercial fisheries and marine predators, such as the Cape gannet. Another way to improve food security for the gannets are to promote the efforts of focussing on developing and implementing an ecosystem approach to fisheries management in which fishing quotas account for the needs of marine predators. The findings of this study have not only aided the understanding of the dynamics of predation on the Cape gannets and highlighted the extent that predation takes place on them but can also guide future management decisions regarding predation on this endemic and endangered species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Schoeman, Zanri
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Sea birds -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47656 , vital:40262
- Description: Seabirds are one of the most threatened groups of birds with 29% of seabird species at some risk of extinction. As a result of multiple human-induced threats, seabird species including the Cape gannet Morus capensis which is endemic to southern Africa population experience significant declines and is now classified as Endangered. The Cape gannet faces predation threats from a variety of different species. The current predators of concern at Lambert’s Bay gannet colony are both the Cape fur seal Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus and the Kelp gull Larus dominancus. The former predates on fledglings and the latter predates on eggs. In the 2005/06 breeding season the entire Cape gannet population deserted the Lambert’s Bay gannet colony due to predation by the Cape fur seal. Although the Cape gannets have subsequently recovered to approximately 8000 pairs, seal predation on Cape gannet fledglings continues, together with predation by Kelp gulls. This has caused concern over the impact of predation on this species at the Lambert’s Bay colony, particularly given the species’ conservation status, its small breeding range and its current population trend. CapeNature, the conservation agency involved at this colony has been monitoring and managing the predation on Cape gannets and are interested in evaluating the success of their efforts. Therefore the aim of this study was to determine the spatial and temporal aspects of predation on the Cape gannet population at Lambert’s Bay gannet colony. When examining the influence of fish availability on predation intensity, we found that in years with an increase in fish biomass there was a decrease in predation probability by Cape fur seals. This increase in fish biomass not only led to decreased predation on the fledglings it also led to increased breeding success of the Cape gannets. In determining the effect of predation within the Cape gannet breeding colony we found that the probability of predation by Kelp gulls decreased in years with increased adult gannet density. Indirectly, Cape gannet population growth should lead to a decrease in Kelp gull predation as a higher gannet density increases the risk of injury to the Kelp gulls. This suggests that if Cape gannet populations continue to decline, they may become increasingly vulnerable to Kelp gull predation which can result in a further population decline. In terms of past management actions, the selective culling of predatory Cape fur seals and Kelp gulls, was evaluated. It was found that in the years in which culling of Cape fur seals and Kelp gulls was implemented, a decrease in predation was observed. This indicated that culling reduced predation in the short-term. Predation is inevitable, but due to the Cape gannet’s conservation status we suggest that additional, long-term, and more sustainable methods to reduce predation should be explored. Our research emphasises the need for improving food availability to Cape gannets as food security is paramount to their long-term survival and population growth. Colony management in isolation from other management strategies, is not efficient for conserving a species. We therefore suggest that sound management of predation at the terrestrial habitats are required but that effective management of fisheries are also required for the successful conservation of the Cape gannet. Food security for Cape gannets could be improved by, for example, establishing some ways that we suggest improving the food security for Cape gannets would be to establish Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) with dynamic boundaries around Cape gannet colonies, and to have locate the MPAs close to breeding and foraging hotspots where these areas are closed to fishing thus reducing the competition between commercial fisheries and marine predators, such as the Cape gannet. Another way to improve food security for the gannets are to promote the efforts of focussing on developing and implementing an ecosystem approach to fisheries management in which fishing quotas account for the needs of marine predators. The findings of this study have not only aided the understanding of the dynamics of predation on the Cape gannets and highlighted the extent that predation takes place on them but can also guide future management decisions regarding predation on this endemic and endangered species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The use of ritual as physical and spiritual medium and its documentation in Buhlebezwe Siwani’s contemporary visual arts performance
- Authors: Lila, Philiswa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Arts and religion , Ritual -- South Africa , Performance art -- Religious aspects -- South Africa , Women performance artists -- South Africa , Siwani, Buhlebezwe, 1987-
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MFA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/166160 , vital:41334
- Description: This thesis is motivated by my experience of Inzilo: Ngoba ngihlala kwabafileyo, a live performance by South African visual artist Buhlebezwe Siwani. The performance took place at Michaelis Galleries, University of Cape Town (UCT), as part of a group exhibition Between Subject and Object: human remains at the interface of art and science (2014), which accompanied the Medical Humanities in Africa Conference (from 28 – 29 August 2014). As an entry into my discussion, I describe how Siwani’s performance makes use of death and burial ritual in what seems to be an intention to make art that is (re)presenting an activity of reality to invade and control the sphere of feelings, emotions and a sense of ceremony that is dependent on both ritual and rites of the performance. I grapple with the fact that I experienced a ritual performance in a gallery space. Furthermore, I question how walking out of the performance I thought of the lines between art and/or life. The role of ritual in my thesis explores the symbolic meanings, powers and intentions of ritual rites in Africa. This reflection maps out historical locations that are relevant to the major debates, definitions, themes and the experiences of ritual as part of academic research. From Siwani’s practice as an artist and isangoma to other expressions in the fields of history, sociology, religion, feminism, to mention a few, my thesis is an enquiry that engages ritual and performance art theory and scholarship. Through a qualitative analysis, my methodology rejects a chronological, thematic and discipline centered research. Rather, I use a multidisciplinary approach based on critical visual analysis as knowledge creation in the visual arts, for example archives, documentation, performance, text, video, installation, painting, sculpture, etc. The findings suggests that the role of ritual in performance art is not a singular exploration, nor is it based on separating ritual and performance art. The results further reveal that ritual in performance art is not a reenactment of patterns and human behaviours, nor is the notion of reenactment used to denote the myriad meanings and functions of re-performing historical ritual events into performance art. Throughout, my thesis provides a focus that demonstrates the significance of how ritual in performance art has a profound subjective (personal or individual) and collective holistic way of serving human and spiritual needs, and that of creating an environment that is open to the content and context of art as it relates with traditional African religious practices, beliefs and knowledges. Focus is given to three major themes that make up the three chapters of my research: firstly, I reflect on death as personified by Siwani’s performance Inzilo: Ngoba ii ngihlala kwabafileyo and her role as isangoma. Here death is used to draw specific attention to the body in process of embodied presence and absence of physical and spiritual worlds. Secondly, drawing on Siwani’s concept of secrecy and boundaries of concealing and revealing rituals meanings and powers as isangoma, I question the role of secrets, which highlights the significance of bodies (human and natural sites of ritual) in ritual performance. Finally, the idea of a trace is explored. The intersecting use of a trace as the thinking-making-doing of ritual in performance articulates a connected thread that sets in motion the trace of ritual (installation, image and marked space pf ritual) as an afterlife that offers a continued space of processual ceremony for multiple effective encounters and movements..
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Lila, Philiswa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Arts and religion , Ritual -- South Africa , Performance art -- Religious aspects -- South Africa , Women performance artists -- South Africa , Siwani, Buhlebezwe, 1987-
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MFA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/166160 , vital:41334
- Description: This thesis is motivated by my experience of Inzilo: Ngoba ngihlala kwabafileyo, a live performance by South African visual artist Buhlebezwe Siwani. The performance took place at Michaelis Galleries, University of Cape Town (UCT), as part of a group exhibition Between Subject and Object: human remains at the interface of art and science (2014), which accompanied the Medical Humanities in Africa Conference (from 28 – 29 August 2014). As an entry into my discussion, I describe how Siwani’s performance makes use of death and burial ritual in what seems to be an intention to make art that is (re)presenting an activity of reality to invade and control the sphere of feelings, emotions and a sense of ceremony that is dependent on both ritual and rites of the performance. I grapple with the fact that I experienced a ritual performance in a gallery space. Furthermore, I question how walking out of the performance I thought of the lines between art and/or life. The role of ritual in my thesis explores the symbolic meanings, powers and intentions of ritual rites in Africa. This reflection maps out historical locations that are relevant to the major debates, definitions, themes and the experiences of ritual as part of academic research. From Siwani’s practice as an artist and isangoma to other expressions in the fields of history, sociology, religion, feminism, to mention a few, my thesis is an enquiry that engages ritual and performance art theory and scholarship. Through a qualitative analysis, my methodology rejects a chronological, thematic and discipline centered research. Rather, I use a multidisciplinary approach based on critical visual analysis as knowledge creation in the visual arts, for example archives, documentation, performance, text, video, installation, painting, sculpture, etc. The findings suggests that the role of ritual in performance art is not a singular exploration, nor is it based on separating ritual and performance art. The results further reveal that ritual in performance art is not a reenactment of patterns and human behaviours, nor is the notion of reenactment used to denote the myriad meanings and functions of re-performing historical ritual events into performance art. Throughout, my thesis provides a focus that demonstrates the significance of how ritual in performance art has a profound subjective (personal or individual) and collective holistic way of serving human and spiritual needs, and that of creating an environment that is open to the content and context of art as it relates with traditional African religious practices, beliefs and knowledges. Focus is given to three major themes that make up the three chapters of my research: firstly, I reflect on death as personified by Siwani’s performance Inzilo: Ngoba ii ngihlala kwabafileyo and her role as isangoma. Here death is used to draw specific attention to the body in process of embodied presence and absence of physical and spiritual worlds. Secondly, drawing on Siwani’s concept of secrecy and boundaries of concealing and revealing rituals meanings and powers as isangoma, I question the role of secrets, which highlights the significance of bodies (human and natural sites of ritual) in ritual performance. Finally, the idea of a trace is explored. The intersecting use of a trace as the thinking-making-doing of ritual in performance articulates a connected thread that sets in motion the trace of ritual (installation, image and marked space pf ritual) as an afterlife that offers a continued space of processual ceremony for multiple effective encounters and movements..
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The weight of a tooth
- Authors: Perros, Robyn Helen
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/144192 , vital:38319
- Description: My thesis is a fragmented, non-linear novella, comprised predominantly of experimental prose- poetry and fiction short-stories. I have chosen this approach in form to further explore my interest in ancestry and trauma, death and image-making, “reality” and fantasy, and the tension these invisible barriers create between the inner and outer worlds in which we simultaneously navigate, remember and forget. This thesis has been influenced both in form and content by the works of Eduardo Galeano, Osama Alomar, Lidia Yuknavitch, Susan Steinberg, Claudia Rankine, Lance Olsen, and Yasunari Kawabata, among others.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Perros, Robyn Helen
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/144192 , vital:38319
- Description: My thesis is a fragmented, non-linear novella, comprised predominantly of experimental prose- poetry and fiction short-stories. I have chosen this approach in form to further explore my interest in ancestry and trauma, death and image-making, “reality” and fantasy, and the tension these invisible barriers create between the inner and outer worlds in which we simultaneously navigate, remember and forget. This thesis has been influenced both in form and content by the works of Eduardo Galeano, Osama Alomar, Lidia Yuknavitch, Susan Steinberg, Claudia Rankine, Lance Olsen, and Yasunari Kawabata, among others.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The workload of flight attendants during short-haul flight operations: a system analysis
- Authors: Bennett, Chloe Kayla
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Flight attendants -- Health and hygiene , Employees -- South Africa -- Workload
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123431 , vital:35437
- Description: Background and aim: Flight attendants forms a significant part in 24-hour aviation industry. Flight attendant fatigue is a significant problem in the aviation industry as it continues to jeopardize the ability to fulfil important safety and security roles which is critical in performance duty of a flight attendant. However, little attention has been accomplished to the workload, working conditions and fatigue of flight attendants crew in transport aircraft. In addition, there is currently less research that have also embraced the problematic of smaller regional/commercial operation (short-haul flight operations) inducing fatigue among short-haul flight attendants as the nature of this operation are often characterised with high productivity expectations in a demanding environment with high time pressures resulting in high workloads and fatigue. Thus, flight attendant fatigue and workload is a worldwide challenge in this operational environment and less attention has been given to the determining factors. Therefore, the aim of the study was to determine the workload factors contributing to flight attendant fatigue during short-haul flight operations. Methods (System analysis): To achieve the research aim, the work system analysis, based on the Smith and Carayon-Sainfort model was chosen as the main research approach which was conducted in two ways; based on existing literature and secondly based on expert interviews. This method provided a systemic aspect to understand the whole work system of flight attendants work during short-haul operations in order to identify all the contributing factors to flight attendant fatigue and workload. Results: The literature analysis and the data from the expert interviews highlighted significant findings to flight attendant fatigue and workload. The reasons for flight attendant fatigue operating short-haul flights can be found at organizational, task, individual, environmental levels and tools and technologies and due to the interaction of the factors. The main factors of flight attendants’ fatigue are thought primarily as a function of scheduling due to irregular, mixed schedules with early starts and late finishes, extended duty days (long working hours), as well as high workload, due to the short turnaround flights, the number of sectors flown in a single duty period and duty length and high jobs demands. In addition, flight duty and rest regulations, confined work space in the cabin, vibrations, noise and lighting, sleeping in an unfamiliar environment, family responsibilities all add to additional stress placed on the body which can influence workload and sleep and consequently influencing fatigue. Conclusion: Overall the study determined that flight attendant fatigue is a significant problem in modern industry of short-haul operations. Using this systematic approach (work system analysis based on the framework of the work system model developed by Smith and Carayon-Sainfort (1989) allowed for an accurate representation of the complexity of flight attendant work environment in short-haul aviation industries, thus contributed to an increased understanding of fatigue and risk factors that span the entire work system and aid in identifying the patterns in combination of work system variables that are associated with increased risk to flight attendant fatigue. Overall flight attendant fatigue is a product of interactions with the short-haul environment. It can have a negative impact on safety, performance and well-being. Therefore, it needs to be managed and dealt with in the near future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Bennett, Chloe Kayla
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Flight attendants -- Health and hygiene , Employees -- South Africa -- Workload
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123431 , vital:35437
- Description: Background and aim: Flight attendants forms a significant part in 24-hour aviation industry. Flight attendant fatigue is a significant problem in the aviation industry as it continues to jeopardize the ability to fulfil important safety and security roles which is critical in performance duty of a flight attendant. However, little attention has been accomplished to the workload, working conditions and fatigue of flight attendants crew in transport aircraft. In addition, there is currently less research that have also embraced the problematic of smaller regional/commercial operation (short-haul flight operations) inducing fatigue among short-haul flight attendants as the nature of this operation are often characterised with high productivity expectations in a demanding environment with high time pressures resulting in high workloads and fatigue. Thus, flight attendant fatigue and workload is a worldwide challenge in this operational environment and less attention has been given to the determining factors. Therefore, the aim of the study was to determine the workload factors contributing to flight attendant fatigue during short-haul flight operations. Methods (System analysis): To achieve the research aim, the work system analysis, based on the Smith and Carayon-Sainfort model was chosen as the main research approach which was conducted in two ways; based on existing literature and secondly based on expert interviews. This method provided a systemic aspect to understand the whole work system of flight attendants work during short-haul operations in order to identify all the contributing factors to flight attendant fatigue and workload. Results: The literature analysis and the data from the expert interviews highlighted significant findings to flight attendant fatigue and workload. The reasons for flight attendant fatigue operating short-haul flights can be found at organizational, task, individual, environmental levels and tools and technologies and due to the interaction of the factors. The main factors of flight attendants’ fatigue are thought primarily as a function of scheduling due to irregular, mixed schedules with early starts and late finishes, extended duty days (long working hours), as well as high workload, due to the short turnaround flights, the number of sectors flown in a single duty period and duty length and high jobs demands. In addition, flight duty and rest regulations, confined work space in the cabin, vibrations, noise and lighting, sleeping in an unfamiliar environment, family responsibilities all add to additional stress placed on the body which can influence workload and sleep and consequently influencing fatigue. Conclusion: Overall the study determined that flight attendant fatigue is a significant problem in modern industry of short-haul operations. Using this systematic approach (work system analysis based on the framework of the work system model developed by Smith and Carayon-Sainfort (1989) allowed for an accurate representation of the complexity of flight attendant work environment in short-haul aviation industries, thus contributed to an increased understanding of fatigue and risk factors that span the entire work system and aid in identifying the patterns in combination of work system variables that are associated with increased risk to flight attendant fatigue. Overall flight attendant fatigue is a product of interactions with the short-haul environment. It can have a negative impact on safety, performance and well-being. Therefore, it needs to be managed and dealt with in the near future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Towards realising the benefits of citizen participation in environmental monitoring: a case study in an Eastern Cape natural resource management programme
- Authors: Mtati, Nosiseko
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Tsitsa Project , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Environmental monitoring -- South Africa -- Tsitsa River , Environmental monitoring -- Citizen participation -- South Africa -- Tsitsa River , Water supply, Agricultural -- South Africa -- Tsitsa River , Environmental education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/167562 , vital:41492
- Description: The Tsitsa Project focusses on land use management and rural livelihoods in the Tsitsa River catchment in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It is funded by the Department of Environmental Affairs and the environmental monitoring initiative is implemented by Rhodes University, where I am employed as the catchment coordinator. This study explores the environmental monitoring initiative within the bigger Tsitsa Project. Community members in the catchment monitor sediment transportation in the Tsitsa River and its tributaries, which originally became of interest because it is proposed that a dam (Ntabelanga Dam) be established here. This study aims to understand citizen environmental monitoring in the Tsitsa Project; what the project managers regarded as benefits; and how the monitors themselves perceived benefits of participating as monitors. A realist approach was followed, in order to understand the connections between the context and the mechanisms in the project, and how these combined to result in the outcomes observed. Realist research emphasises the importance of context in shaping outcomes such as the achieved benefits of citizen monitoring. Data was collected using a case study method, where each individual monitor and their particular context, was regarded as a case. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 17 monitors and five Tsitsa Project staff; this was supported by field notes and the reviewing of project documents including field reports. The realist analysis looked at the context of the monitors in general and the mechanisms applied by the project in recruiting, training and managing the monitors. A second layer of mechanisms was identified as those responses from the monitors to what the project was introducing to them. Outcomes were both positive and negative, including how long monitors remained in the initiative, what benefits they derived from the process, and what potential benefits they did not achieve. This included lost opportunities to provide recognition for skills and experience gained. Recommendations are made regarding the recruitment, training and management of monitors, to optimise benefits for the monitors, the host institution and the initiative’s staff. The study is significant because of its particular yet representative characteristics and it will assist both the Tsitsa Project, which aims to expand its citizen environmental monitoring initiative, as well as wider Natural Resource Management Programmes in South Africa. It is also hoped that it will contribute to the literature on environmental monitoring as a little researched form of citizen science globally.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mtati, Nosiseko
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Tsitsa Project , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Environmental monitoring -- South Africa -- Tsitsa River , Environmental monitoring -- Citizen participation -- South Africa -- Tsitsa River , Water supply, Agricultural -- South Africa -- Tsitsa River , Environmental education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/167562 , vital:41492
- Description: The Tsitsa Project focusses on land use management and rural livelihoods in the Tsitsa River catchment in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It is funded by the Department of Environmental Affairs and the environmental monitoring initiative is implemented by Rhodes University, where I am employed as the catchment coordinator. This study explores the environmental monitoring initiative within the bigger Tsitsa Project. Community members in the catchment monitor sediment transportation in the Tsitsa River and its tributaries, which originally became of interest because it is proposed that a dam (Ntabelanga Dam) be established here. This study aims to understand citizen environmental monitoring in the Tsitsa Project; what the project managers regarded as benefits; and how the monitors themselves perceived benefits of participating as monitors. A realist approach was followed, in order to understand the connections between the context and the mechanisms in the project, and how these combined to result in the outcomes observed. Realist research emphasises the importance of context in shaping outcomes such as the achieved benefits of citizen monitoring. Data was collected using a case study method, where each individual monitor and their particular context, was regarded as a case. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 17 monitors and five Tsitsa Project staff; this was supported by field notes and the reviewing of project documents including field reports. The realist analysis looked at the context of the monitors in general and the mechanisms applied by the project in recruiting, training and managing the monitors. A second layer of mechanisms was identified as those responses from the monitors to what the project was introducing to them. Outcomes were both positive and negative, including how long monitors remained in the initiative, what benefits they derived from the process, and what potential benefits they did not achieve. This included lost opportunities to provide recognition for skills and experience gained. Recommendations are made regarding the recruitment, training and management of monitors, to optimise benefits for the monitors, the host institution and the initiative’s staff. The study is significant because of its particular yet representative characteristics and it will assist both the Tsitsa Project, which aims to expand its citizen environmental monitoring initiative, as well as wider Natural Resource Management Programmes in South Africa. It is also hoped that it will contribute to the literature on environmental monitoring as a little researched form of citizen science globally.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Towards understanding how exploitation influences the wild energetic response of marine fish to temperature variability
- Authors: Skeeles, Michael Richard
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Chrysoblepus laticeps -- Climatic factors , Sparidae -- Genetics , Sparidae -- South Africa -- Climatic factors
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/145133 , vital:38411
- Description: Exploitation of fish populations can exacerbate the effects of climate change, yet our understanding of their synergistic effects remains limited. As fish are increasingly exposed to temperatures on the edges of their optimal thermal performance window, their physiological response is expected to shape their future performance. It is therefore concerning that exploitation can select for specific physiological phenotypes, as this may affect fished populations’ physiological response to temperature change. A recent laboratory study revealed fewer high-performance metabolic-scope phenotypes in an exploited population of the marine Sparid Chrysoblepus laticeps across a range of experimental temperatures in comparison to an unexploited population. This suggested that individuals in exploited populations may have less available energy for aerobic performance at thermal extremes, which may reduce the resilience of the population to changes in temperature. However, since laboratory experiments exclude numerous other variables that fish encounter in the wild, it was necessary to test this finding in a natural setting. This thesis aimed to further develop the laboratory study by assessing whether exploitation effects the wild energetic response of C. laticeps to thermal variability. To achieve this, the field metabolic rate of C. laticeps, a resident and endemic South African fish, from a near-pristine population (Tsitsikamma National Park) and a heavily exploited population (Port Elizabeth) was compared using acoustic accelerometry. A laboratory-based study using a swim-tunnel respirometer and accelerometer transmitters was conducted to develop a model to predict metabolic rate from acceleration data at temperatures from 10 to 22⁰C. Acceleration, temperature, mass and population (exploited/unexploited) were found to be the best predictors of the metabolic rate of C. laticeps and were incorporated into the model to estimate the field metabolic rate of fish tagged with acoustic accelerometers in the wild. To examine the combined effects of temperature and exploitation on the field metabolic rate of C. laticeps in their natural state, two fine-scale telemetry arrays with temperature loggers were used to assess the acceleration of the fish across different temperatures in the wild for three months during a period of high thermal variability. Ten fish from the exploited and unexploited populations were caught, surgically implanted with accelerometer transmitters and released back into the wild. Close to 500 000 and 400 000 acceleration estimates were recorded from wild exploited and unexploited fish, respectively. The field metabolic rate of both populations was estimated by combining the field acceleration and temperature data with the laboratory calibration model. The field metabolic rate of C. laticeps from the exploited population was constrained near cold and warm extremes compared to no constraints observed in the unexploited population. This was attributed to reduced inter-individual variability in the field metabolic rate-temperature relationship within the exploited population. There appeared to be a greater proportion of individuals that maintained a high field metabolic rate at extreme temperatures in the unexploited population. In contrast, all but one fish from the exploited population did not maintain a high field metabolic rate at extreme temperatures. These findings aligned with the laboratory-based metabolic-scope study on both populations of C. laticeps and demonstrate that passive-fishing may be removing thermally tolerant individuals and rendering exploited populations less resilient to thermal change. These findings are discussed in the context of fisheries management and particularly on the role that marine protected areas could play in maintaining physiological diversity, and therefore the resilience of fish in the Anthropocene. This study highlights the importance of applied conservation physiology in understanding the consequences of fisheries-induced evolution in an increasingly variable climate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Skeeles, Michael Richard
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Chrysoblepus laticeps -- Climatic factors , Sparidae -- Genetics , Sparidae -- South Africa -- Climatic factors
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/145133 , vital:38411
- Description: Exploitation of fish populations can exacerbate the effects of climate change, yet our understanding of their synergistic effects remains limited. As fish are increasingly exposed to temperatures on the edges of their optimal thermal performance window, their physiological response is expected to shape their future performance. It is therefore concerning that exploitation can select for specific physiological phenotypes, as this may affect fished populations’ physiological response to temperature change. A recent laboratory study revealed fewer high-performance metabolic-scope phenotypes in an exploited population of the marine Sparid Chrysoblepus laticeps across a range of experimental temperatures in comparison to an unexploited population. This suggested that individuals in exploited populations may have less available energy for aerobic performance at thermal extremes, which may reduce the resilience of the population to changes in temperature. However, since laboratory experiments exclude numerous other variables that fish encounter in the wild, it was necessary to test this finding in a natural setting. This thesis aimed to further develop the laboratory study by assessing whether exploitation effects the wild energetic response of C. laticeps to thermal variability. To achieve this, the field metabolic rate of C. laticeps, a resident and endemic South African fish, from a near-pristine population (Tsitsikamma National Park) and a heavily exploited population (Port Elizabeth) was compared using acoustic accelerometry. A laboratory-based study using a swim-tunnel respirometer and accelerometer transmitters was conducted to develop a model to predict metabolic rate from acceleration data at temperatures from 10 to 22⁰C. Acceleration, temperature, mass and population (exploited/unexploited) were found to be the best predictors of the metabolic rate of C. laticeps and were incorporated into the model to estimate the field metabolic rate of fish tagged with acoustic accelerometers in the wild. To examine the combined effects of temperature and exploitation on the field metabolic rate of C. laticeps in their natural state, two fine-scale telemetry arrays with temperature loggers were used to assess the acceleration of the fish across different temperatures in the wild for three months during a period of high thermal variability. Ten fish from the exploited and unexploited populations were caught, surgically implanted with accelerometer transmitters and released back into the wild. Close to 500 000 and 400 000 acceleration estimates were recorded from wild exploited and unexploited fish, respectively. The field metabolic rate of both populations was estimated by combining the field acceleration and temperature data with the laboratory calibration model. The field metabolic rate of C. laticeps from the exploited population was constrained near cold and warm extremes compared to no constraints observed in the unexploited population. This was attributed to reduced inter-individual variability in the field metabolic rate-temperature relationship within the exploited population. There appeared to be a greater proportion of individuals that maintained a high field metabolic rate at extreme temperatures in the unexploited population. In contrast, all but one fish from the exploited population did not maintain a high field metabolic rate at extreme temperatures. These findings aligned with the laboratory-based metabolic-scope study on both populations of C. laticeps and demonstrate that passive-fishing may be removing thermally tolerant individuals and rendering exploited populations less resilient to thermal change. These findings are discussed in the context of fisheries management and particularly on the role that marine protected areas could play in maintaining physiological diversity, and therefore the resilience of fish in the Anthropocene. This study highlights the importance of applied conservation physiology in understanding the consequences of fisheries-induced evolution in an increasingly variable climate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Understanding of biological teleology from a naturalistic perspective
- Authors: Abrahams, Sanaa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Teleology , Biology -- Philosophy , Evolution (Biology) -- Philosophy
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140534 , vital:37896
- Description: To the extent that teleological thinking is metaphysically suspect, many theorists attempt to shift the stigma of functional explanations by reducing function ascriptions, and aim thus to de-legitimise an appeal to teleological causal relations in an analysis of function. The point is to dispel the mystery which envelops the application of function concepts by reformulating biological functional explanations so as to dispense with teleology. My project is to interrogate the success with which teleological explanations have thus been eliminated in the biological sciences, and, over the course of this thesis, I conclude that a kind of teleological causation nevertheless remains the most adequate explanatory ground of natural products. My proposal is that functional explanations are causal explanations for the presence and maintenance of self-reproducing systems. I contend that, insofar as the attribution of function presupposes the valuation of a function-bearing system as a causal necessity for its constituent parts, functional explanation references distinct and irreducible holistic properties. Using Kantian metaphysics to frame the discussion, this thesis aims first to explore critically the subject of functional characterisations of biological phenomena, and second, the metaphysical basis of modern science. Its chief contributions to the philosophical function debate reside in proposing novel arguments in justification of what I consider is an improved formulation of an attempted definition of biological function, in which teleological causal powers are explicitly recognised and accommodated in functional explanation. Moreover, this thesis attempts a naturalistic reconstruction of the metaphysical entailments of the real causality of a whole
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Abrahams, Sanaa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Teleology , Biology -- Philosophy , Evolution (Biology) -- Philosophy
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140534 , vital:37896
- Description: To the extent that teleological thinking is metaphysically suspect, many theorists attempt to shift the stigma of functional explanations by reducing function ascriptions, and aim thus to de-legitimise an appeal to teleological causal relations in an analysis of function. The point is to dispel the mystery which envelops the application of function concepts by reformulating biological functional explanations so as to dispense with teleology. My project is to interrogate the success with which teleological explanations have thus been eliminated in the biological sciences, and, over the course of this thesis, I conclude that a kind of teleological causation nevertheless remains the most adequate explanatory ground of natural products. My proposal is that functional explanations are causal explanations for the presence and maintenance of self-reproducing systems. I contend that, insofar as the attribution of function presupposes the valuation of a function-bearing system as a causal necessity for its constituent parts, functional explanation references distinct and irreducible holistic properties. Using Kantian metaphysics to frame the discussion, this thesis aims first to explore critically the subject of functional characterisations of biological phenomena, and second, the metaphysical basis of modern science. Its chief contributions to the philosophical function debate reside in proposing novel arguments in justification of what I consider is an improved formulation of an attempted definition of biological function, in which teleological causal powers are explicitly recognised and accommodated in functional explanation. Moreover, this thesis attempts a naturalistic reconstruction of the metaphysical entailments of the real causality of a whole
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Understanding of the underlying resistance mechanism of the Kat-G protein against isoniazid in Mycobacterium tuberculosis using bioinformatics approaches
- Authors: Barozi, Victor
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Mycobacterium tuberculosis , Isoniazid , Drug resistance in microorganisms , Proteins -- Microbiology
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146592 , vital:38540
- Description: Tuberculosis (TB) is a multi-organ infection caused by rod-shaped acid-fast Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The World Health Organization (WHO) ranks TB among the top 10 fatal infections and the leading the cause of death from a single infection. In 2017, TB was responsible for an estimated 1.3 million deaths among both the HIV negative and positive populations worldwide (WHO, 2018). Approximately 23% (roughly 1.7 billion) of the world’s population is estimated to have latent TB with a high risk of reverting to active TB infection. In 2017, an estimated 558,000 people developed drug resistant TB worldwide with 82% of the cases being multi-drug resistant TB (WHO, 2018). South Africa is ranked among the 30 high TB burdened countries with a TB incidence of 322,000 cases in 2017 accounting for 3% of the world’s TB cases. TB is curable and is clinically managed through a combination of intensive and continuation phases of first-line drugs (isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide). Second-line drugs which include fluoroquinolones, injectable aminoglycoside and injectable polypeptides are used in cases of first line drug resistance. The third-line drugs include amoxicillin, clofazimine, linezolid and imipenem. These have variable but unproven efficacy to TB and are the last resort in cases of total drug resistance (Jilani et al., 2019). TB drug resistance to first-line drugs especially isoniazid in M. tuberculosis has been attributed to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the catalase peroxidase enzyme (katG), a protein important in the activation of the pro-drug isoniazid. The SNPs especially at position 315 of the katG enzyme are believed to reduce the sensitivity of the M. tuberculosis to isoniazid while still maintaining the enzyme’s catalytic activity - a mechanism not completely understood. KatG protein is important for protecting the bacteria from hydro peroxides and hydroxyl radicals present in an aerobic environment. This study focused on understanding the mechanism of isoniazid drug resistance in M. tuberculosis as a result of high confidence mutations in the katG through modelling the enzyme with its respective variants, performing MD simulations to explore the protein behaviour, calculating the dynamic residue network analysis (DRN) of the variants in respect to the wild type katG and finally performing alanine scanning. From the MD simulations, it was observed that the high confidence mutations i.e. S140R, S140N, G279D, G285D, S315T, S315I, S315R, S315N, G316D, S457I and G593D were not only reducing the backbone flexibility of the protein but also reducing the protein’s conformational variation and space. All the variant protein structures were observed to be more compact compared to the wild type. Residue fluctuation results indicated reduced residue flexibility across all variants in the loop region (position 26-110) responsible for katG dimerization. In addition, mutation S315T is believed to reduce the size of the active site access channel in the protein. From the DRN data, residues in the interface region between the N and C-terminal domains were observed to gain importance in the variants irrespective of the mutation location indicating an allosteric effect of the mutations on the interface region. Alanine scanning results established that residue Leucine at position 48 was not only important in the protein communication but also a destabilizing residue across all the variants. The study not only demonstrated change in the protein behaviour but also showed allosteric effect of the mutations in the katG protein.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Barozi, Victor
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Mycobacterium tuberculosis , Isoniazid , Drug resistance in microorganisms , Proteins -- Microbiology
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146592 , vital:38540
- Description: Tuberculosis (TB) is a multi-organ infection caused by rod-shaped acid-fast Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The World Health Organization (WHO) ranks TB among the top 10 fatal infections and the leading the cause of death from a single infection. In 2017, TB was responsible for an estimated 1.3 million deaths among both the HIV negative and positive populations worldwide (WHO, 2018). Approximately 23% (roughly 1.7 billion) of the world’s population is estimated to have latent TB with a high risk of reverting to active TB infection. In 2017, an estimated 558,000 people developed drug resistant TB worldwide with 82% of the cases being multi-drug resistant TB (WHO, 2018). South Africa is ranked among the 30 high TB burdened countries with a TB incidence of 322,000 cases in 2017 accounting for 3% of the world’s TB cases. TB is curable and is clinically managed through a combination of intensive and continuation phases of first-line drugs (isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide). Second-line drugs which include fluoroquinolones, injectable aminoglycoside and injectable polypeptides are used in cases of first line drug resistance. The third-line drugs include amoxicillin, clofazimine, linezolid and imipenem. These have variable but unproven efficacy to TB and are the last resort in cases of total drug resistance (Jilani et al., 2019). TB drug resistance to first-line drugs especially isoniazid in M. tuberculosis has been attributed to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the catalase peroxidase enzyme (katG), a protein important in the activation of the pro-drug isoniazid. The SNPs especially at position 315 of the katG enzyme are believed to reduce the sensitivity of the M. tuberculosis to isoniazid while still maintaining the enzyme’s catalytic activity - a mechanism not completely understood. KatG protein is important for protecting the bacteria from hydro peroxides and hydroxyl radicals present in an aerobic environment. This study focused on understanding the mechanism of isoniazid drug resistance in M. tuberculosis as a result of high confidence mutations in the katG through modelling the enzyme with its respective variants, performing MD simulations to explore the protein behaviour, calculating the dynamic residue network analysis (DRN) of the variants in respect to the wild type katG and finally performing alanine scanning. From the MD simulations, it was observed that the high confidence mutations i.e. S140R, S140N, G279D, G285D, S315T, S315I, S315R, S315N, G316D, S457I and G593D were not only reducing the backbone flexibility of the protein but also reducing the protein’s conformational variation and space. All the variant protein structures were observed to be more compact compared to the wild type. Residue fluctuation results indicated reduced residue flexibility across all variants in the loop region (position 26-110) responsible for katG dimerization. In addition, mutation S315T is believed to reduce the size of the active site access channel in the protein. From the DRN data, residues in the interface region between the N and C-terminal domains were observed to gain importance in the variants irrespective of the mutation location indicating an allosteric effect of the mutations on the interface region. Alanine scanning results established that residue Leucine at position 48 was not only important in the protein communication but also a destabilizing residue across all the variants. The study not only demonstrated change in the protein behaviour but also showed allosteric effect of the mutations in the katG protein.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Understanding the links between smallholder farmers and retailers of meat and vegetables in Mthatha, Mqanduli, Port St Johns and Tsolo, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Qaula, Nyaniso
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Farms, Small
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Agric
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18823 , vital:42811
- Description: It is commonly accepted that one of the challenges faced by smallholder farmers is lack of ‘access to markets’. This is especially so against the backdrop of the supermarket revolution, which is widely understood to give advantage to large-scale farmers at the expense of smallholder farmers. Given that supermarkets are now well established even within South Africa’s former homelands, it would seem that even smallholders based in these areas are at a disadvantage. The purpose of this study is to delve deeply into the market access of smallholder farmers, and to do so specifically across a large area of the former Transkei where supermarkets are well established and where there are also a range of other types of retailers. The study seeks to understand the links between smallholder farmers and diverse kinds of food retailers of meat and vegetables in and around the towns of Mthatha, Mqanduli, Port St Johns and Tsolo in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. For each of these sites, the study estimates the share of purchased fresh vegetables and meat that ultimately originates from smallholder farmers within the former Transkei, as opposed to large-scale farmers further afield. The findings suggest that smallholder farmers account for about 24% to 40% of fresh vegetables, and 3% to 13% of meat. The difference between vegetables and meat seems to relate to the fact that smallholder farmers account for a reasonably large share of the fresh vegetables sold by at least some supermarkets, whereas smallholder livestock farmers are largely unable to sell to abattoirs, whether because of the standards imposed by these abattoirs (including the one in Mthatha), or because of the cost of transport. The differences between sites appear to be a function of several factors, including differential market size and resource endowments. The study further sought to identify the advantages and disadvantages that the different types of retailers experience in procuring from smallholder farmers, and also identify the advantages and disadvantages that smallholder farmers experience in supplying different types of retailers. The advantage of working with smallholder farmers is that smallholder farmers can even deliver on Sundays, unlike other suppliers that refuse to work during weekends. The disadvantage is that smallholder farmers are not producing consistently therefore it is hard to rely on smallholder farmers for supply of produce. The advantage that smallholder farmers experience in supplying different types of retailers is that they get their cash right away after delivering the produce. The challenge that smallholder farmers experience when supplying food retailers is that some of the supermarkets will see the sample and order large quantity, however on the day of delivery they will complain and say it is not the good quality so the farmers must reduce the selling price. The study suggests the strategy that could be used by farmers to access the market, which is to enhance knowledge of market skills and negotiation skills.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Qaula, Nyaniso
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Farms, Small
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Agric
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18823 , vital:42811
- Description: It is commonly accepted that one of the challenges faced by smallholder farmers is lack of ‘access to markets’. This is especially so against the backdrop of the supermarket revolution, which is widely understood to give advantage to large-scale farmers at the expense of smallholder farmers. Given that supermarkets are now well established even within South Africa’s former homelands, it would seem that even smallholders based in these areas are at a disadvantage. The purpose of this study is to delve deeply into the market access of smallholder farmers, and to do so specifically across a large area of the former Transkei where supermarkets are well established and where there are also a range of other types of retailers. The study seeks to understand the links between smallholder farmers and diverse kinds of food retailers of meat and vegetables in and around the towns of Mthatha, Mqanduli, Port St Johns and Tsolo in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. For each of these sites, the study estimates the share of purchased fresh vegetables and meat that ultimately originates from smallholder farmers within the former Transkei, as opposed to large-scale farmers further afield. The findings suggest that smallholder farmers account for about 24% to 40% of fresh vegetables, and 3% to 13% of meat. The difference between vegetables and meat seems to relate to the fact that smallholder farmers account for a reasonably large share of the fresh vegetables sold by at least some supermarkets, whereas smallholder livestock farmers are largely unable to sell to abattoirs, whether because of the standards imposed by these abattoirs (including the one in Mthatha), or because of the cost of transport. The differences between sites appear to be a function of several factors, including differential market size and resource endowments. The study further sought to identify the advantages and disadvantages that the different types of retailers experience in procuring from smallholder farmers, and also identify the advantages and disadvantages that smallholder farmers experience in supplying different types of retailers. The advantage of working with smallholder farmers is that smallholder farmers can even deliver on Sundays, unlike other suppliers that refuse to work during weekends. The disadvantage is that smallholder farmers are not producing consistently therefore it is hard to rely on smallholder farmers for supply of produce. The advantage that smallholder farmers experience in supplying different types of retailers is that they get their cash right away after delivering the produce. The challenge that smallholder farmers experience when supplying food retailers is that some of the supermarkets will see the sample and order large quantity, however on the day of delivery they will complain and say it is not the good quality so the farmers must reduce the selling price. The study suggests the strategy that could be used by farmers to access the market, which is to enhance knowledge of market skills and negotiation skills.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Unravelling the replication biology of Providence virus in a cell culturebased model system
- Authors: Jarvie, Rachel Anne
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Virology -- Research , RNA viruses , Viruses -- Reproduction , Providence virus
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/142339 , vital:38071
- Description: There has been an increase in the number of viral outbreaks in the last decade; the majority of these are attributed to insect-human or animal-human transfer. Despite this awareness, there is limited understanding of the replication biology of the viruses causing the outbreaks and there are few model systems that are available to study RNA virus replication and viral persistence. In this study, we describe a Providence (PrV)-based model system to study virus replication biology. PrV is a single-stranded RNA virus that can cross Kingdom boundaries; it is capable of establishing a productive infection in insect and mammalian cell culture and it is also capable of replicating in plants. Only one other virus has been reported to infect a similar host range - the Nodavirus, Flock House virus (FHV). First, we performed a bioinformatic analysis of the PrV genome and validated the tools that were currently available to work with this model system in mammalian cells. Our data indicate that PrV infection of human cervical cancer (HeLa) cells results in the production of p130, p104/p40 and VCAP, albeit at low levels. While PrV replication in insect cells is associated with the Golgi apparatus and secretory vesicles, in HeLa cells, PrV replication is associated with the mitochondria. It is interesting to note that FHV replication factories are located on the outer mitochondrial membrane. In an attempt to study PrV virus replication in vitro, we adapted the BioID system reported by Roux et al. (2012). Here a promiscuous biotin ligase enzyme (BirA) was fused to a protein of interest and the expression of the fusion protein in mammalian cells resulted in the proximitybased biotinylation of proteins associated with the protein of interest. Using p40 as the protein of interest, we studied the fusion protein (BirA-p40) in transiently transfected HeLa cells and in a stable cell line, using western blot analysis and confocal microscopy. We faced challenges comparing the data collected using the two antibody-based detection techniques and the lack of BirA-p40 detection when using western analysis was attributed to the associated of p40 with detergent resistant membranes. BirA-p40 was subsequently expressed using in vitro coupled transcription/translation reactions, in the presence of excess biotin. While BirA-p40 was robustly expressed under these conditions, biotinylation of BirA-p40 was not detected. We attributed this to the conditions used in the experiments and given additional time, we would extend the duration of biotinylation, in vitro. PrV replication in mammalian cells was detectable using confocal microscopy however the levels of fluorescence were relatively low. The knowledge that p40 was associated with detergent resistant membranes led us to question the impact of detergent treatment of live cells on the detection of PrV replication. PrV-infected HeLa cells were treated with detergents with varying biochemical characteristics and the impact of these treatments on the detection of PrV replication were evaluated. We observed that linear and non-ionic detergents, namely NP-40 and Triton X-100, were most effective at enhancing the detection of viral replication in PrV-infected HeLa cells. Our data confirm that detergent treatment results in enhanced detection, and not enhanced PrV replication, in HeLa cells. Using the stable BirA-p40 expressing HeLa cell line, we showed that the protein is associated with membranes in vitro, and that the enhanced expression of BirA-p40 results in the formation of greater volumes of detergent-resistant membranes. In addition, detergent treatment of unfixed PrV-infected HeLa cells revealed the presence of the PrV p40 protein in the nucleoli of the cells. This is the first report of PrV proteins, which are translated in the cytosol of the mammalian cells, occurring in the nucleus. Our study has resulted in a deeper understanding of PrV replication in mammalian cell lines. A ‘simple RNA virus’ with only three predicted open reading frames has exhibited high levels of complexity within its elegant simplicity. This study has also highlighted the challenges associated with studying RNA virus replication biology in vitro. Looking forward, the identification of detergent-based enhancement for the detection of PrV replication provides the opportunity to perform more targeted PrV replication studies. The PrV-based model system can also be applied to the identification and analysis of potential broad-spectrum antiviral drugs in vitro. The latter application is particularly relevant considering the increase in the number of viral outbreaks over the last decade.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Jarvie, Rachel Anne
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Virology -- Research , RNA viruses , Viruses -- Reproduction , Providence virus
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/142339 , vital:38071
- Description: There has been an increase in the number of viral outbreaks in the last decade; the majority of these are attributed to insect-human or animal-human transfer. Despite this awareness, there is limited understanding of the replication biology of the viruses causing the outbreaks and there are few model systems that are available to study RNA virus replication and viral persistence. In this study, we describe a Providence (PrV)-based model system to study virus replication biology. PrV is a single-stranded RNA virus that can cross Kingdom boundaries; it is capable of establishing a productive infection in insect and mammalian cell culture and it is also capable of replicating in plants. Only one other virus has been reported to infect a similar host range - the Nodavirus, Flock House virus (FHV). First, we performed a bioinformatic analysis of the PrV genome and validated the tools that were currently available to work with this model system in mammalian cells. Our data indicate that PrV infection of human cervical cancer (HeLa) cells results in the production of p130, p104/p40 and VCAP, albeit at low levels. While PrV replication in insect cells is associated with the Golgi apparatus and secretory vesicles, in HeLa cells, PrV replication is associated with the mitochondria. It is interesting to note that FHV replication factories are located on the outer mitochondrial membrane. In an attempt to study PrV virus replication in vitro, we adapted the BioID system reported by Roux et al. (2012). Here a promiscuous biotin ligase enzyme (BirA) was fused to a protein of interest and the expression of the fusion protein in mammalian cells resulted in the proximitybased biotinylation of proteins associated with the protein of interest. Using p40 as the protein of interest, we studied the fusion protein (BirA-p40) in transiently transfected HeLa cells and in a stable cell line, using western blot analysis and confocal microscopy. We faced challenges comparing the data collected using the two antibody-based detection techniques and the lack of BirA-p40 detection when using western analysis was attributed to the associated of p40 with detergent resistant membranes. BirA-p40 was subsequently expressed using in vitro coupled transcription/translation reactions, in the presence of excess biotin. While BirA-p40 was robustly expressed under these conditions, biotinylation of BirA-p40 was not detected. We attributed this to the conditions used in the experiments and given additional time, we would extend the duration of biotinylation, in vitro. PrV replication in mammalian cells was detectable using confocal microscopy however the levels of fluorescence were relatively low. The knowledge that p40 was associated with detergent resistant membranes led us to question the impact of detergent treatment of live cells on the detection of PrV replication. PrV-infected HeLa cells were treated with detergents with varying biochemical characteristics and the impact of these treatments on the detection of PrV replication were evaluated. We observed that linear and non-ionic detergents, namely NP-40 and Triton X-100, were most effective at enhancing the detection of viral replication in PrV-infected HeLa cells. Our data confirm that detergent treatment results in enhanced detection, and not enhanced PrV replication, in HeLa cells. Using the stable BirA-p40 expressing HeLa cell line, we showed that the protein is associated with membranes in vitro, and that the enhanced expression of BirA-p40 results in the formation of greater volumes of detergent-resistant membranes. In addition, detergent treatment of unfixed PrV-infected HeLa cells revealed the presence of the PrV p40 protein in the nucleoli of the cells. This is the first report of PrV proteins, which are translated in the cytosol of the mammalian cells, occurring in the nucleus. Our study has resulted in a deeper understanding of PrV replication in mammalian cell lines. A ‘simple RNA virus’ with only three predicted open reading frames has exhibited high levels of complexity within its elegant simplicity. This study has also highlighted the challenges associated with studying RNA virus replication biology in vitro. Looking forward, the identification of detergent-based enhancement for the detection of PrV replication provides the opportunity to perform more targeted PrV replication studies. The PrV-based model system can also be applied to the identification and analysis of potential broad-spectrum antiviral drugs in vitro. The latter application is particularly relevant considering the increase in the number of viral outbreaks over the last decade.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Using HIV/AIDS interventionist research in a university context to improve women’s sexual and reproductive health awareness
- Authors: Kidia, Nitasha
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: HIV infections -- Prevention -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Health education (Higher) -- South Africa , Sex instruction -- South Africa , College students -- Sexual behavior -- South Africa , Sex instruction for women -- South Africa , Women college students -- Psychology -- South Africa , Women -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa , Women -- Diseases -- Prevention -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/165743 , vital:41277
- Description: Background: Young women in South Africa are a vulnerable group, with HIV prevalence almost twice that of men, limited preventive behaviour, and many challenges in negotiating sex. However, there is a paucity of in-depth research to understand how these challenges play out and what can be done to promote positive sexual and reproductive health in this population. Methods: To understand the effects of the Auntie Stella Activity card intervention (developed and used in Zimbabwe), this study used a mixed methods participatory action research design. Five focus group discussions among female Rhodes University students between the ages of 18- 23 were conducted with the activity cards as a basis for engagement. Additionally, pre-and postintervention sexual and reproductive health awareness levels were also measured by a customized questionnaire. Based on participants’ responses to the cards and post-exposure reflections on their learning, possible impacts on behaviour change were explored. Thematic analysis of transcripts was used to draw out major themes in the qualitative data. Results and conclusions: Themes that emerged were: 1) women’s self-esteem; 2) lack of knowledge; 3) peer pressure and male dominance; and 4) alcohol and substance use. Results of the pre- and post- intervention questionnaire found a positive change in knowledge and behaviour amongst the participants. However, the intervention in its current format focused too much on teenage rather than adult scenarios. To make it more useful for this population, further modifications that account for the target age group are needed. Overall, the challenges in sexual and reproductive health faced by university-aged women in South Africa are deeply concerning, but this study’s findings show that an intervention like the ASAC has the potential to be used widely in Southern Africa, if appropriately tailored.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kidia, Nitasha
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: HIV infections -- Prevention -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Health education (Higher) -- South Africa , Sex instruction -- South Africa , College students -- Sexual behavior -- South Africa , Sex instruction for women -- South Africa , Women college students -- Psychology -- South Africa , Women -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa , Women -- Diseases -- Prevention -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/165743 , vital:41277
- Description: Background: Young women in South Africa are a vulnerable group, with HIV prevalence almost twice that of men, limited preventive behaviour, and many challenges in negotiating sex. However, there is a paucity of in-depth research to understand how these challenges play out and what can be done to promote positive sexual and reproductive health in this population. Methods: To understand the effects of the Auntie Stella Activity card intervention (developed and used in Zimbabwe), this study used a mixed methods participatory action research design. Five focus group discussions among female Rhodes University students between the ages of 18- 23 were conducted with the activity cards as a basis for engagement. Additionally, pre-and postintervention sexual and reproductive health awareness levels were also measured by a customized questionnaire. Based on participants’ responses to the cards and post-exposure reflections on their learning, possible impacts on behaviour change were explored. Thematic analysis of transcripts was used to draw out major themes in the qualitative data. Results and conclusions: Themes that emerged were: 1) women’s self-esteem; 2) lack of knowledge; 3) peer pressure and male dominance; and 4) alcohol and substance use. Results of the pre- and post- intervention questionnaire found a positive change in knowledge and behaviour amongst the participants. However, the intervention in its current format focused too much on teenage rather than adult scenarios. To make it more useful for this population, further modifications that account for the target age group are needed. Overall, the challenges in sexual and reproductive health faced by university-aged women in South Africa are deeply concerning, but this study’s findings show that an intervention like the ASAC has the potential to be used widely in Southern Africa, if appropriately tailored.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Using sound localization to gain depth perception for the visually impaired through sensory substitution
- Authors: De Klerk, James Carmichael
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: People with visual disabilities Directional hearing--Physiological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50779 , vital:42674
- Description: The visually impaired do not have the visual ability to localize objects in three-dimensional space, rather, they rely on their other senses to gain depth perception. Sensory substitution is the concept of substituting one sense for another, normally substituting an impaired sense with a functioning sense. Visual-to-auditory sensory substitution substitutes an impaired visual sense with a functioning auditory sense. This research aimed to investigate and develop techniques for visualto-auditory sensory substitution – using sound localization as a sensory substitution for depth perception. The research started by investigating the characteristics of human audition with a particular focus on how humans localize sounds. It then looked at existing visual-to-auditory sensory substitution systems and the techniques they used. From the existing systems, a system known as MeloSee was chosen as a baseline for developing and evaluating further sensory substitution prototypes. The baseline prototype (𝑃0) was then implemented and a preliminary study performed. Based on the knowledge gained from the preliminary study, baseline implementation and the background research, a set of improvement recommendations were generated. The next iteration – Prototype 1 (𝑃1) – was then developed based on the recommendations. A comparative study between 𝑃0 and 𝑃1 was then performed. Based on the study, another set of improvement recommendations were generated. From the recommendations, a final prototype was developed – Prototype 2 (𝑃2). The last comparative study was then performed between 𝑃0 and 𝑃2, with a third set of recommendations being generated as a result. From the studies it was found that participants using 𝑃0 were able to identify when they were approaching large objects such as walls. 𝑃1 built on that, improving the ability to identify the quadrant of a nearby isolated object. 𝑃2 built on 𝑃0 and 𝑃1, achieving similar results to 𝑃1 for identifying the quadrant of nearby isolated objects, and improving on 𝑃0 and 𝑃1 with regard to depth discrimination – especially for navigation tasks where there were no obstacles. Based on the three sets of recommendations and what was learnt over the course of the research, a set of visual-to-auditory sensory substitution techniques were presented. The techniques aim to be useful for implementing visual-to-auditory sensory substitution systems, which would provide the visually impaired with the visual ability to localize objects in three-dimensional space through sound.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: De Klerk, James Carmichael
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: People with visual disabilities Directional hearing--Physiological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50779 , vital:42674
- Description: The visually impaired do not have the visual ability to localize objects in three-dimensional space, rather, they rely on their other senses to gain depth perception. Sensory substitution is the concept of substituting one sense for another, normally substituting an impaired sense with a functioning sense. Visual-to-auditory sensory substitution substitutes an impaired visual sense with a functioning auditory sense. This research aimed to investigate and develop techniques for visualto-auditory sensory substitution – using sound localization as a sensory substitution for depth perception. The research started by investigating the characteristics of human audition with a particular focus on how humans localize sounds. It then looked at existing visual-to-auditory sensory substitution systems and the techniques they used. From the existing systems, a system known as MeloSee was chosen as a baseline for developing and evaluating further sensory substitution prototypes. The baseline prototype (𝑃0) was then implemented and a preliminary study performed. Based on the knowledge gained from the preliminary study, baseline implementation and the background research, a set of improvement recommendations were generated. The next iteration – Prototype 1 (𝑃1) – was then developed based on the recommendations. A comparative study between 𝑃0 and 𝑃1 was then performed. Based on the study, another set of improvement recommendations were generated. From the recommendations, a final prototype was developed – Prototype 2 (𝑃2). The last comparative study was then performed between 𝑃0 and 𝑃2, with a third set of recommendations being generated as a result. From the studies it was found that participants using 𝑃0 were able to identify when they were approaching large objects such as walls. 𝑃1 built on that, improving the ability to identify the quadrant of a nearby isolated object. 𝑃2 built on 𝑃0 and 𝑃1, achieving similar results to 𝑃1 for identifying the quadrant of nearby isolated objects, and improving on 𝑃0 and 𝑃1 with regard to depth discrimination – especially for navigation tasks where there were no obstacles. Based on the three sets of recommendations and what was learnt over the course of the research, a set of visual-to-auditory sensory substitution techniques were presented. The techniques aim to be useful for implementing visual-to-auditory sensory substitution systems, which would provide the visually impaired with the visual ability to localize objects in three-dimensional space through sound.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Visualising Chinese presence: an analysis of the contemporary arts of Zambia and Zimbabwe
- Authors: Zhang, Lifang
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Art, Modern -- 21st century , Art, Modern -- 21st century -- Chinese influences , China -- Relations -- Zambia , China -- Relations -- Zimbabwe , Art and society -- Zambia , Social practice (Art) -- Zambia , Art and globalization -- Zambia , Art and society -- Zimbabwe , Social practice (Art) -- Zimbabwe , Art and globalization -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146618 , vital:38542
- Description: With the revival and rapid growth of relations between China and African countries in the present century, the “China-Africa relationship” has become a topic of close attention globally and the media and politicians have been dominating the mainstream discourses with dichotomised narratives. China-Africa engagement has also spurred academic research, most of which is oriented toward large-scale economic, political, and strategic concerns. In this context, it is significant to conduct in-depth research exploring specific engagement between Chinese and African people on the ground. Contemporary artists based in Africa have started to represent, through artworks and performances, their experiences and expressions of relations between China and various African countries. However, an examination of twenty-first century connections between Africa and China in relation to the contemporary visual arts is a new area of study and only a limited number of scholarly works exist. To contribute to the research in this area, this thesis explores the ways in which artists engage with specific realities and lived-experiences of Chinese presence through their artistic practices, with a focus on a selection of artists from Zambia and Zimbabwe. Through visual analysis, interviews and field work, this thesis provides a systematic investigation of contemporary arts of Zambia and Zimbabwe in relation to Africa- China encounters, engaging with four aspects: the discursive field, the material presence, individual experiences of encounters, and the broader relational connections within the arts. This thesis argues that, motivated by the histories and realities of African societies, artists from Zambia and Zimbabwe, through their artistic practices, form part of the Africa-China engagement and insert their agencies in the south-south relations between Africans and Chinese. Therefore, this thesis demonstrates the value in approaching the broader discussion on Africa-China engagements from the perspective of contemporary art, arguing that, with the social concerns of the artists and the expressive capacity of creative forms, visual arts are able to embrace diversity, dynamics, complexities and contradictions, and, therefore, can develop the topic beyond the stereotypical narratives about Africa-China relations to a more nuanced understanding of African-Chinese encounters in specific contexts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Zhang, Lifang
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Art, Modern -- 21st century , Art, Modern -- 21st century -- Chinese influences , China -- Relations -- Zambia , China -- Relations -- Zimbabwe , Art and society -- Zambia , Social practice (Art) -- Zambia , Art and globalization -- Zambia , Art and society -- Zimbabwe , Social practice (Art) -- Zimbabwe , Art and globalization -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/146618 , vital:38542
- Description: With the revival and rapid growth of relations between China and African countries in the present century, the “China-Africa relationship” has become a topic of close attention globally and the media and politicians have been dominating the mainstream discourses with dichotomised narratives. China-Africa engagement has also spurred academic research, most of which is oriented toward large-scale economic, political, and strategic concerns. In this context, it is significant to conduct in-depth research exploring specific engagement between Chinese and African people on the ground. Contemporary artists based in Africa have started to represent, through artworks and performances, their experiences and expressions of relations between China and various African countries. However, an examination of twenty-first century connections between Africa and China in relation to the contemporary visual arts is a new area of study and only a limited number of scholarly works exist. To contribute to the research in this area, this thesis explores the ways in which artists engage with specific realities and lived-experiences of Chinese presence through their artistic practices, with a focus on a selection of artists from Zambia and Zimbabwe. Through visual analysis, interviews and field work, this thesis provides a systematic investigation of contemporary arts of Zambia and Zimbabwe in relation to Africa- China encounters, engaging with four aspects: the discursive field, the material presence, individual experiences of encounters, and the broader relational connections within the arts. This thesis argues that, motivated by the histories and realities of African societies, artists from Zambia and Zimbabwe, through their artistic practices, form part of the Africa-China engagement and insert their agencies in the south-south relations between Africans and Chinese. Therefore, this thesis demonstrates the value in approaching the broader discussion on Africa-China engagements from the perspective of contemporary art, arguing that, with the social concerns of the artists and the expressive capacity of creative forms, visual arts are able to embrace diversity, dynamics, complexities and contradictions, and, therefore, can develop the topic beyond the stereotypical narratives about Africa-China relations to a more nuanced understanding of African-Chinese encounters in specific contexts.
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- Date Issued: 2020
Visualising the Psyche: Perspectives on mental health in the medium of comics
- Authors: Solomon, Tayla Shan
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Spiegelman, Art -- Maus , Kelly, Joe, 1971- -- I kill giants , Niimura, J M Ken -- I kill giants , Brosh, Allie -- Hyperbole and a half , Comic books, strips, etc. -- Psychological aspects , Comic books, stripa, etc. -- Therapeutic use
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MFA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/148413 , vital:38737
- Description: The field of Psychology is constantly shifting in its understanding of mental health. Scholars have been critiquing Psychology’s narrow perspective of what constitutes ‘normal’. Many dealing with mental health issues fear that they will be misunderstood and are confronted with systems and institutions that they find unempathetic. This mini-thesis conceptualises creative empathy as a solution to these problems. It is based on the idea that every experience is unique and therefore cannot be wholly understood without engaging in an imaginative process. The appropriateness of the comics medium as a tool for promoting this strategy is explored with a focus on the use of visual imagery to tell stories of distressing experiences. It looks at Tayla Shan Solomon’s The Adventures of Apparently-Anyone-Can-Do-It-If-TheyJust-Try Bug! (2019), Art Spiegelman’s Maus (I & II) (1986), Joe Kelly and JM Ken Niimura’s I Kill Giants (2011), and Allie Brosh’s Hyperbole and a Half: unfortunate situations, flawed coping mechanisms, mayhem, and other things that happened (2013). This mini-thesis analyses various techniques employed by comics artists to create compelling stories of idiosyncratic experiences, including the use of symbolic imagery and framing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Solomon, Tayla Shan
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Spiegelman, Art -- Maus , Kelly, Joe, 1971- -- I kill giants , Niimura, J M Ken -- I kill giants , Brosh, Allie -- Hyperbole and a half , Comic books, strips, etc. -- Psychological aspects , Comic books, stripa, etc. -- Therapeutic use
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MFA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/148413 , vital:38737
- Description: The field of Psychology is constantly shifting in its understanding of mental health. Scholars have been critiquing Psychology’s narrow perspective of what constitutes ‘normal’. Many dealing with mental health issues fear that they will be misunderstood and are confronted with systems and institutions that they find unempathetic. This mini-thesis conceptualises creative empathy as a solution to these problems. It is based on the idea that every experience is unique and therefore cannot be wholly understood without engaging in an imaginative process. The appropriateness of the comics medium as a tool for promoting this strategy is explored with a focus on the use of visual imagery to tell stories of distressing experiences. It looks at Tayla Shan Solomon’s The Adventures of Apparently-Anyone-Can-Do-It-If-TheyJust-Try Bug! (2019), Art Spiegelman’s Maus (I & II) (1986), Joe Kelly and JM Ken Niimura’s I Kill Giants (2011), and Allie Brosh’s Hyperbole and a Half: unfortunate situations, flawed coping mechanisms, mayhem, and other things that happened (2013). This mini-thesis analyses various techniques employed by comics artists to create compelling stories of idiosyncratic experiences, including the use of symbolic imagery and framing.
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- Date Issued: 2020
Whatever you say
- Authors: Campbell, Laura
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140993 , vital:37935
- Description: This document consists of two (2) parts : Part A: Thesis (Creative Work) ; Part B: Portfolio
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- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Campbell, Laura
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140993 , vital:37935
- Description: This document consists of two (2) parts : Part A: Thesis (Creative Work) ; Part B: Portfolio
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020